The Commission’s newly formed Young People Advisory Group will meet for the first time in January 2012.
The Advisory Group, made up of 12 young people from six schools across NSW, is an exciting opportunity for young people to be heard and to influence decisions that affect young people throughout NSW.
Back row: Oliver and Angus. Seated: The Commissioner, Megan Mitchell; Lauren; Sarah; Abbey; Nami; Jaida, and Evanna. Front row: Joel; Christopher; Brandon, and Lachlan.
During 2012, Advisory Group members will participate in five weekend meetings, and spend time throughout the year researching and obtaining the views of other children and young people.
The Commissioner, Ms Megan Mitchell, will use the advice provided by the Advisory Group to inform the recommendations she makes whilst advocating for the children and young people of NSW.
One of the Commission’s main roles is to listen to children and young people, and to promote their interests and their participation in decisions that affect them.
The Advisory Group will give the Commissioner a chance to gain further insights into issues that are important to children and young people in NSW and, of course, it also provides young people with an opportunity to change the way adults perceive the world and to influence decisions that are made about their lives.
Members of the Advisory Group will also develop their leadership skills and increase their knowledge of research, policy and the workings of government.
One of the most important things about this model of ongoing consultation with young people is the increased support the Commission can provide Advisory Group members, made possible through closer engagement with schools. The Commission has worked closely with the Department of Education and the peak bodies from the independent and Catholic sectors in NSW to identify the six schools. So a big thanks to all who have helped bring about this exciting initiative.
