Saturday, June 21, 2025

Call for Cairns Youth Council members

Following the success of its first term, the Cairns Youth Council is returning, with nominations now open for young people aged 13–17 who live in the Cairns Local Government Area.

The Youth Council is part of the national Young Mayors program, delivered in Cairns through a partnership between the Cairns Regional Council and the Foundation for Young Australians (FYA).

The initiative empowers young people to take part in local decision-making and shape policies that affect their lives.

Formed through a democratic election process led by young people, the Youth Council provides a platform to identify priorities, develop projects, and advise Cairns Regional Council.

Mayor, Amy Eden said the continuation of the program highlights the Council’s commitment to youth involvement.

“We’re proud to be entering the second term of the Youth Council,” Mayor Eden said.

“The ideas, enthusiasm, and leadership shown by the inaugural group demonstrated that young people love Cairns and understand the challenges we face.

“We want to help give them a voice, express their concerns and hopes, and put forward ideas to guide the city’s future.”

FYA’s Young Mayors Program Director, Erin Neavley, praised Cairns as only the second Council in Australia to reach a second term in the program.

“The Young Mayors program opens the door for young people to have their own representation at the local government level,” she said.

“The first term saw the Cairns Youth Council make key progress on improving safety and wellbeing for young people using public transport. I can’t wait to see what is achieved next.”

Antonije Dimitrijevic, Mayor of the inaugural Cairns Youth Council, encouraged young people to get involved.

“This program has opened the door to countless opportunities,” he said.

“It helped us gain essential life skills, build meaningful connections, and grow as individuals. If you’re ready to challenge yourself and make a real difference, nominate and take that first step.”

Nominations are now open. Learn more or apply at: https://www.fya.org.au/young-mayors-cairns.

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