YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament

Since 1996, the QLD government has partnered with YMCA to deliver the Queensland Youth Parliament, where young people aged 15-25 from across Queensland have the opportunity to represent the issues of young people in their electorate while learning about government processes in a mock parliament context.

The program is apolitical, which means political views don't play any part in the way it is run.

You must be 15 to 25 years old to apply. You don't need to know about parliament as you will be taught everything you need to know.

As the program is a reflection of our state's democratic process, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply so that every voice is heard.

One place is offered for each Queensland electorate.

Dates

Youth Parliament runs every year from April to October. To find out more visit the YMCA Youth Parliament website.

Program structure

As part of the program, youth members attend a 3-day forum during April in Brisbane and meet the other youth members to form committees and discuss ideas. A welcome event is held at Queensland Parliament House.

After the forum, committees meet either in person, or catch up by phone or internet to write a Bill and design and implement community action plans.

The Bills will be debated at Queensland Parliament House when all youth members come to Brisbane for a week during the September–October mid-semester break.

More information

Queensland Indigenous Youth Leadership Program

The Queensland Indigenous Youth Leadership Program also has a Youth Parliament component. Find out more about the Queensland Indigenous Youth Leadership Program including eligibility details, how to apply, success stories and photos of last year's participants.

Youth councils

Get involved in your local youth council to have your voice heard on issues affecting young people in your region.

Visit the Local Government Association of Queensland website or call (07) 3000 2216 for more information.

Last updated:: 1 March 2023