Empowering the Next Generation of NSW Leaders
For over two decades, the Y NSW Youth Parliament has provided high school students (Years 10–12) with a powerful, non-partisan platform to debate issues, draft real legislation, and ensure young voices are heard in the halls of power.
Why Youth Parliament Matters
For Young People
Youth Parliament is more than a civic program – it’s a transformative leadership journey. Participants gain confidence in public speaking, master parliamentary debate, write legislative bills on issues they care about, and form lifelong connections with peers across NSW.
For New South Wales
Young people aren’t just the leaders of tomorrow – they are decision-makers today. Every Youth Bill created during the program is officially submitted to NSW Members of Parliament and Government Ministers, directly influencing state policy and community reform.
Program Structure & Key Dates
Electorate Representation & Training
- Selected participants represent their local state electorate or act as Legislative Council members.
- Virtual training sessions cover public speaking, bill drafting, and policy creation.
Training Camp & Committee Work
- Participants collaborate in committee groups (e.g., Education, Environment, Mental Health, Justice) to write legislation.
Parliamentary Sitting Week & Residential Camp
- A week-long residential program where Youth MPs sit in the chambers of NSW Parliament House, debate their bills, and vote on legislation under real parliamentary rules.
Key Dates
Invest in Youth Leadership
To create a truly representative parliament, background or financial status should never be a barrier to participation. Through our Access & Equity Scholarship Fund, donor and corporate support enables young people from regional, remote, Indigenous, and low-income backgrounds to attend free of charge.
Help a Young Person Have a Voice
Equip a young person with the tools and materials they need to engage confidently in Youth Parliament.
Support a Delegate Throughout Parliament Week
Help to cover accommodation, meals and activities during the program’s flagship parliamentary experience.
Change a Life Through Youth Parliament
Sponsor a participant’s complete journey through the Youth Parliament program.
Get Involved
High School Students (Years 10–12)
Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? Applications open annually for students across all 93 NSW state electorates.
Apply for Youth ParliamentAlumni & Young Adults (Ages 18–25)
Youth Parliament is run by youth, for youth. Join our Youth Taskforce to mentor high school participants, facilitate parliamentary sessions, and lead event operations.
Join the Youth TaskforceResources for Future Youth Parliamentary Leaders
Previous Youth Bills
Every year, Youth Bills are developed during Youth Parliament, from young people across the state who debate issues that matter to them and the communities they represent.
View Youth BillsTaskforce Information
Want to be a Taskforce Member? The program design and delivery is supported by a group of volunteers aged 18 years and older – this is our Volunteer Taskforce (Taskies).
Find out more & applyYouth Parliament FAQs
Get answers to the most common questions about Youth Parliament – who can participate, how it works, the application process, nominations, and more.
View FAQsThank You to Our Partners
