Members of the 2024 Ipswich Youth Advisory Council (IYAC) have been recognised for their service, contributing their voices on Ipswich City Council policies and projects.
Speaking at the group’s recent end of year event, Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said this year’s emerging leaders made great strides as they provided invaluable input on community matters.
“This year, 30 IYAC members provided fresh and unique perspectives on a number of community projects, including the future of River Heart Parklands, council’s Active and Healthy programs, Studio 188, Ipswich Film Festival for Youth, the Western Resource Recovery Centre and the Get Ready Queensland program,” Mayor Harding said.
“The group also learnt how to petition Parliament and collaborated with the Australian Red Cross to learn how to strengthen resilience and prepare for disasters.
“I was very proud to see our youth full of enthusiasm as they spoke on their experiences throughout the year, from rap battles to conversations on homelessness.”
Community and Sport Committee Chairperson Councillor Jacob Madsen said IYAC offered young Ipswich residents a unique chance to be part of council’s decision-making processes.
“I commend each participant for getting out of their comfort zone and showing such passion in their pursuit to make Ipswich a better place for all. They have created real-life change for generations to come,” Cr Madsen said.
“Ipswich has a young population, with the median age of 33 – five years lower than the state and national median. It’s vital that we listen to our young residents as we shape the future of Ipswich together.
“Applications are currently open for those who wish to make their voices heard in the 2025 IYAC, with applications closing on 13 December 2024.
“I encourage any young person living in Ipswich with an interest in making our city a better place to put their hand up.”
IYAC member Amanda Euta, 18, said being part of the council had expanded her horizons and given her new opportunities.
“IYAC provided a safe forum for youth to express concerns and encouraged advocacy. It was refreshing to have bright and passionate conversations with fellow members about climate change or homelessness in Ipswich,” Ms Euta said.
Noah Springall, 18, who has been part of IYAC for the past two years, encouraged the young people of Ipswich to take hold of the opportunity.
“IYAC taught me to listen to my peers and gave me a voice to have direct influence on important projects that influence young people. My goal is to create positive change in the lives of young people by fully engaging with the Ipswich community,” Mr Springall said.
IYAC comprises young people aged between 13 to 18 years who come together to raise issues and share ideas. IYAC aims to achieve the following:
- Increase civic participation by our youth community
- Develop young people’s knowledge of the issues that affect them at a Federal, State, and Local Government level
- Provide an opportunity to work collaboratively in a team with other young people to affect real change
- Provide a voice for young people in relation to council issues, strategies and plans
- Establish strong connections with the Ipswich City Council and elected officials
- Extend the leadership potential of young people in Ipswich through collaboratively learning
- Provide an increased understanding of community issues, planning, policy and decision-making processes to young people.
The IYAC team meets monthly, with members serving an initial one-year term. Members can then seek re-appointment for a subsequent term.
For more information and to apply for the 2025 term, visit ipswich.qld.gov.au/iyac
