By Beth Parkin
ARE YOU:
• A young Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person?
• Aged 16 to 25?
• Interested in learning about government and how laws are made?
• Passionate about issues affecting your community and your country?
• Willing to Stand Up! Talk Hard! And Be Heard!
Then the National Indigenous Youth Parliament is for you!
WHAT IS THE NATIONAL INDIGENOUS YOUTH PARLIAMENT?
The National Indigenous Youth Parliament is the first of its kind in Australia. This exciting program, run by the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) in
partnership with the YMCA, is an opportunity for 48 young Indigenous Australians to Stand Up, Talk Hard, and Be Heard.
You will have the opportunity to speak on issues that affect your community and country, learn about how laws are made and how you can get involved and have your say.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
In a team of six, you will be mentored through the process of writing a Bill (draft law) on a training weekend. You will then attend a 7 day residential program in Canberra, during which you will present and debate the merits of your Bill in the chambers of Old Parliament House.
You will meet with Members of Parliament and watch them at work. You will also hear guest speakers and participate in activities designed to challenge and inspire you.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
Any Indigenous Australian aged 16 – 25.
You don’t have to have any special skills or experience to get involved. If you’re the kind of person who wants to have a say in what’s going on in your community and your country, we want you!
SELECTION
Selection will be based on applicants’ community involvement, their ideas and interest in Government and the parliamentary process.
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
Travel to and from Canberra
The opportunity for you to have your say on issues that affect you
Make new friends and build networks
Access to an experienced mentor for the duration of the program
A training weekend, including full catering and accommodation (if required)
A 7 day residential program
WHEN IS IT?
A training weekend will be held in April 2012 – you will be advised of the dates once you have been offered a place. It will be held in your capital city with the rest of your team.
The National Indigenous Youth Parliament will be held in Canberra commencing 23 May 2012 and returning home on 29 May 2012.
WHAT DOES IT COST?
A participant fee of $200 is payable if you are offered a place. This fee can come from sponsorship. Information and assistance will be provided on how to obtain sponsors, if required.
HOW DO I APPLY?
You can download an application pack from our website: www.aec.gov.au/niyp or call on (02) 6271 4709 for a pack to be sent out to you.
Applications close on Friday 30 March 2012.
For more information contact:
NIYP Project Officer
Beth Parkin
On (02) 6271 4709 or visit our website: www.aec.gov.au/niyp