The Y NSW Calls for Young Changemakers to Join the 2026 Youth Parliament Program

The Y NSW is calling for passionate young people from across New South Wales to apply for the 2026 Youth Parliament program, now open to students in Years 10 to 12 across NSW.

As NSW’s premier youth leadership program operating for over 20 years by the Y NSW (formerly YMCA), Youth Parliament offers young people the opportunity to debate in NSW Parliament, create Youth Bills on issues for change, and have their voices and recommendations heard by Members of Parliament.

Young people in Years 10, 11 and 12 (or equivalent age) in all NSW state electorates are invited to apply. The Youth Parliament program is designed to be safe and inclusive for all young people, and the Y NSW encourages applications that contribute to a diverse and representative cohort.

Youth Parliamentarians receive specialised training through a series of camps and online workshops, as well as parliamentary education and experience. Participants also gain opportunities for community engagement and advocacy, all designed to nurture their skills in creating social impact and positive change.

The Y NSW CEO Rob Kennaugh commented that the Youth Parliament program provides an important platform to ensure young people’s voices are heard.

“We are calling on all thought leaders, change-makers and inspired young people to apply for the 2026 Youth Parliament program so we can continue to provide a stage for their voices to be heard and their skills developed to lead our local communities,” said Mr Kennaugh.

“Each year I am amazed by the immense passion, intelligence and insight participants bring to Youth Parliament as they speak on issues that are important to them.”

“Young people are the focus of everything we do at the Y NSW, so it’s incredibly exciting watching participants flourish as they are empowered to engage with civic leadership, policy development and democratic parliamentary debate,” he added.

Youth Parliament promotes equal access to political participation for all. In particular, it aims to address social exclusion, marginalisation, or disadvantage that prevent young people from participating meaningfully in civic or democratic life.

It strives to relieve social and civic disadvantage among young Australians who face barriers to public participation — including those from low-income, regional, or culturally diverse backgrounds.

The 2026 Youth Parliament program stands as a beacon for youth empowerment, ensuring that every young voice in NSW has the chance to shape the future.