The report advocates for embedding young people’s needs and priorities into public policy. It highlights the disconnect between youth and government, with 86% of young Australians feeling unrepresented. The report outlines four key policy mechanisms to address this: national youth strategies, youth impact assessments, national youth parliaments, and youth quotas.
National youth strategies offer a coordinated, cross-sectoral framework to ensure youth voices shape policy. Youth impact assessments (YIAs) evaluate how policies affect young people, promoting inclusivity and better resource use. National youth parliaments provide platforms for civic engagement and legislative influence, while youth quotas aim to increase age diversity in political representation.
The report draws on international best practices, including models from Estonia, New Zealand, Wales, and Peru, and stresses the importance of robust data, political commitment, and systematic monitoring and evaluation. It calls for a whole-of-government approach and strategic partnerships with youth organisations, especially those representing marginalised communities.
Ultimately, AYAC urges Australia to seize the current momentum to build a more inclusive democracy where young people are respected, empowered, and meaningfully involved in shaping their future.
