Youth representatives meet for the first time in Canberra

A group of young happy people from the Youth Advisory group standing out the front of the Australian Parliament House

This story was first published on Friday 14 April 2023. If you wish to use this content, please contact media@education.gov.au to confirm that the information is still current.

The Youth Advisory Groups and Youth Steering Committee travelled from across Australia to meet in Canberra on 29 March.

It was the inaugural meeting for the Youth Advisory Groups, whose members were announced on 28 March. A fully stacked 3-day agenda saw members meet with various portfolio staff and ministers including the Minister for Youth Dr Anne Aly.

Minister Aly meeting with the Youth Advisory Groups at Parliament house

Minister Aly meeting with the Youth Advisory Groups at Parliament house

The advisory groups began with a run-down on the Australian Government’s functions and how their advisory role fits within it. They also met with senior public servants from their portfolio agencies who provided an overview of the initiatives or policies they will be working on this year.  

The steering committee’s first day saw them at Parliament House where their co-chairs led a discussion with Minister Aly. It was an opportunity for the steering committee to seek advice on how to effectively establish the Youth Engagement Strategy.  

On day 2 the advisory groups attended Parliament House to meet Minister Aly, where she shared her vision for youth engagement. Members also met with their respective portfolio ministers for the first time. Meanwhile, the steering committee received training from the Australian Youth Affairs Coalition (AYAC) on conducting effective consultations and workshops with young people.

A group of first nations people standing in front of Australian parliament house

First Nations Advisory Group at Parliament House Canberra

Day 3 was focused on reflection and forward planning for both the steering committee and advisory groups. In the afternoon, the advisory groups and steering committee members travelled to Questacon to meet the team and explore the centre.

These 3 jam-packed days of learning, networking and planning were pulled off by the hard-working team from the Office for Youth with support from AYAC.

Throughout the year, the steering committee will continue to plan and implement the Youth Engagement Strategy, while the advisory groups kick off national consultations in May.

Find out more about the Office for Youth

A group of youths standing in a courtyard looking up at the camera

Members of the Youth Advisory Groups, Steering Committee, and staff from the Office for Youth and AYAC.


Correct at time of publication.