Two young people from the New England will represent the region on a solutions-focussed taskforce aimed at tackling the issues facing the youth of today.
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Minister for Regional Youth Bronnie Taylor launched the first Regional Youth Taskforce recently, in an effort to give regional youth a voice "to help shape NSW Government policy and service delivery at both state and local levels."
The Taskforce will consist of 18 people aged between 12 and 24, two from each of the nine regions, who will meet twice a year in person, and twice a year via skype to discuss youth issues, services and support.
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"Regional youth will be given a voice to express their concerns and propose solutions to tackle the issues important to them, such as getting a job, transport, mental health, housing and homelessness," Ms Taylor said.
"Regional NSW is home to a third of our State's youth. I want young people in our regions to know that this is your chance to be heard, to champion your local causes, represent your friends and classmates, and be involved in the decisions that help to create change in your hometown."
To apply to be on the taskforce the youths will have to submit a 300 word pitch to solve an issue from there area, as well as name the top three issues facing youth in their area. Submissions close August 5.
Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the taskforce gives local youth "the chance to be heard, to voice your opinion and represent your mates and peers to help make decisions to drive change in our local community.
"Unemployment and mental health are just some of the challenges in our area and we will be working to address these with the help of the Taskforce," he said.
"Our young people of today will become the leaders of tomorrow which is why we want to ensure our regional youth are front and centre throughout the decision-making process."
