Nominations to open for second term of Cairns Youth Council

• Nominations open 9 June for ages 13–17
• Youth Council part of national Young Mayors program
• Members work with Council to drive real change

Empowering local youth to shape the region's future

Following the success of its first term, the Cairns Youth Council is returning, with nominations opening Monday 9 June for young people aged 13–17 who live in the Cairns Local Government Area.

The Youth Council is part of the national Young Mayors program, delivered in Cairns through a partnership between the Cairns Regional Council and the Foundation for Young Australians (FYA).

The initiative empowers young people to take part in local decision-making and shape policies that affect their lives.

Youth voice at the heart of decision-making

Formed through a democratic election process led by young people, the Youth Council provides a platform to identify priorities, develop projects, and advise Cairns Regional Council.

Mayor Amy Eden said the continuation of the program highlights the Council’s commitment to youth involvement.

“We’re proud to be entering the second term of the Youth Council,” Cr Eden said.

“The ideas, enthusiasm, and leadership shown by the inaugural group demonstrated that young people love Cairns and understand the challenges we face.

We want to help give them a voice, express their concerns and hopes, and put forward ideas to guide the city’s future.”

National recognition and local impact

FYA’s Young Mayors Program Director, Erin Neavley, praised Cairns as only the second Council in Australia to reach a second term in the program.

“The Young Mayors program opens the door for young people to have their own representation at the local government level,” she said.
“The first term saw the Cairns Youth Council make key progress on improving safety and wellbeing for young people using public transport. I can't wait to see what is achieved next.”

A platform for growth and change

Antonije Dimitrijevic, Mayor of the inaugural Cairns Youth Council, encouraged young people to get involved.

“This program has opened the door to countless opportunities,” he said.

“It helped us gain essential life skills, build meaningful connections, and grow as individuals.
If you're ready to challenge yourself and make a real difference, nominate and take that first step.”

Nominations open 9 June. Learn more or apply at: https://www.fya.org.au/young-mayors-cairns.