Minister for Citizenship and Communities Victor Dominello, who has responsibility for Youth Affairs, is encouraging young people to get involved in the hundreds of unique events taking place across Youth Week (4–13 April 2014).

Youth Week is the largest annual youth participation event in Australia and the NSW Government has provided over $240,000 this year to assist local councils to stage Youth Week activities, Mr Dominello said.

“This year’s theme is ‘Our Voice – Our Impact’ and the event is an opportunity to celebrate young people’s achievements, aspirations and ability to be leaders in our community.

“The range and scale of events organised to celebrate Youth Week shows young people’s creativity, imagination, and commitment to expressing their ideas and making a contribution to their communities.

“It gives young people the opportunity to make a contribution and connect with their local communities – one of the NSW Government’s 2021 goals.

“I am proud to note that in 2013, with a third of nation’s youth population, NSW had more than 52% of national Youth Week participants and hosted 56% of the activities.

“My message to young people is that you don’t have to be 52 years old and US President to make a difference in the world – you can effect powerful change right now,” Mr Dominello said.

Youth Week kicks off today with events including a Battle of the Bands Competition in Tweed Heads, a Youth Leadership Forum in Picton and a Young Snappers Photo Competition in Coonabarabran.

“Activities are indoors and outdoors, across sports, arts, culture, education, and welfare, highlighting the breadth of interests, skills and engagement of young people aged 12 to 25,” he said.

  connect, contribution, opportunity