Kristy McBain MP with Eden Marine High School student Euan Osten at Parliament House. Photo: Kristy McBain MP.
Whether they’re passionate about education, employment, mental health or climate change, young people in the Eden-Monaro region have an opportunity to have their voices heard in Federal Parliament next month.
Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain has committed to reading a speech written by a young local on the floor of parliament and is encouraging people aged under 21 to get involved.
The campaign is an initiative of Raise Our Voice Australia, a social enterprise providing training, mentoring and opportunities in politics and policy for young, diverse female and non-binary Australians.
Eden Marine High School student Euan Osten recently completed work experience with Ms McBain and she read out a speech written by the teenager in parliament.
She says Eden-Monaro’s young leaders are passionate, full of ideas and this is a chance for their voice to be heard during the Youth Voice in Parliament week.
“When I was 18, I was passionate about educational and career opportunities for regional people, what our country’s future looked like and social issues to provide a level playing field, but to be honest I didn’t see people I identified with in politics and I definitely didn’t feel heard by our policy makers,” Ms McBain said.
“This is why I eagerly joined this campaign.
“I want to let young people know that their voice is important, and it is being heard.”
Young people have until September 21 to submit a 90 second speech on the topic: What is your vision for Australia in 20 years?
“Raising their voice is about the issues that are important to our young people, especially those in regional areas who often have less opportunities to be heard than their city counterparts,” Ms McBain said.
“I’m really looking forward to reading the submitted speeches and getting more of an understanding of what our young people care about, whether it be education, employment, mental health support, climate change or access to opportunities. Everything is on the table.
“More than anything, I hope this campaign encourages young people to learn about and get involved in politics and shaping our future.”
Successful speeches will be presented to the Australian Parliament and public during the Youth Voice in Parliament week, which runs from October 18 to 22.
For further information, or to submit a speech, visit www.raiseourvoiceaustralia.com/youthvoice
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