Education and mental health emerged as the key issues for young people across the region as twelve youth leaders joined an honest and open roundtable discussion with Federal Minister for Youth, Dr Anne Aly, and the Member for Corangamite, Libby Coker.

Minister Aly and Ms Coker said they were keen to hear what local young people believed were the top issues the Albanese Government should address, along with how the Government could best engage with the nation’s youth.

Ms Coker added that the relaxed and comfortable roundtable discussion was an ideal opportunity for the region’s young leaders to raise their issues of importance, with education and mental health emerging as top priorities.

“Too many young people feel disengaged with the political process – discussions like this one are about addressing that and ensuring young people across our region have a say,” said Ms Coker.

“A lot of the discussion centred around the effect of COVID on education, mental health, and how young people cope in social settings – the Minister and I took this feedback onboard,” said Ms Coker.

“The discussion was a good opportunity for our local young people to speak directly with the Minister and I to share their experiences and ideas.”

“While the Minister is meeting young people across the country, I believe that some of the ideas and concerns raised were unique to our region’s young leaders.”

The City of Greater Geelong’s Youth Council was represented by Kirrily McConachy and Maximillian Thompson.

Maxmillian said he welcomed the chance to speak with Ms Coker and the Minister in a relaxed, informal roundtable meeting.

“They had a genuine interest in listening to our thoughts, ideas, and experiences and considered our voices on the things that are important to us,” Maximillian said.

“It was exciting for the two of us (Youth Council Members) to share our thoughts on these important issues, along with helping Dr Aly understand how we believe the government could best connect with young people.

“We also really appreciate the opportunity to learn more about leadership in the community and the role that government plays in serving community members and addressing our concerns.”

The discussion was framed in light of the National Youth Survey that was launched earlier this year. The survey is open to young people aged 12 – 25, to inform the Government's youth engagement strategy.

Young people are invited to participate in the online survey at youth.gov.au, or contact Ms Coker’s office for further information on how to get involved in future youth roundtable discussions.