Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has reminded young people in the Cootamundra electorate to apply to join the NSW Government’s first ever Regional Youth Taskforce before applications close on Monday August 5, 2019.
Ms Cooke said there had been an enthusiastic response to the call for applications to join the 18-member Taskforce, which gives young people a chance to have their say on local issues.
“Taskforce members will meet with the Minister for Regional Youth Bronnie Taylor four times per year and give advice on the key issues which affect young people in their region,” Ms Cooke said.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to present your ideas to decision-makers, share your opinions on issues which affect you where you live, to represent your friends and peers, and help shape decisions to drive change in your community.
“Employment and mental health are examples of some of the issues facing young people here and the Taskforce will work to address these with the NSW Government.
“If you are aged 12 to 24 and have ideas to improve our area, then put in an application as soon as you can. Alternatively, if you know someone in this age group who would be a perfect fit for the Taskforce, please encourage them to apply now before applications close.”
Ms Taylor said the NSW Government is already working to tackle issues facing youth in regional NSW through a series of initiatives and programs, including the Stronger Country Communities Fund from which $50 million will be available for regional youth-related projects.
“I am delighted that the NSW Government founded the first ever Office of Regional Youth, and we will work with the Taskforce on finalising the State’s first Regional Youth Strategy to address challenges in regional NSW,” Ms Taylor said.
“I encourage young people to find out more and apply for the Taskforce before the August 5 deadline, to help us to ensure our regional youth are at the forefront of the NSW Government’s decision-making process.”
Applicants must live in regional areas (outside Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong) and be aged between 12 and 24 years old.
To find out more or submit an application, visit www.nsw.gov.au/RegionalYouthTaskforce.
