Young voices shake up decades-old format

The captivating roundtable discussion hosted by the Legislative Assembly Economy and Infrastructure Committee put the spotlight on what matters most to the state’s youth when they transition from school, vocational education and training or higher education into the workforce.

From factors influencing student career choices, to the quality of school career development/advice, perceptions of VET, barriers to further study and providing support for students, no issue was off limits.

“ ‘I think it’s really important for young people to be here in Parliament speaking directly with MPs who are making decisions on our behalf.’ ”

Youth Associate Matilda Ryan

In the lead up to the roundtable, the young adults aged 18-27 spoke to their peers in various parts of the state and gathered evidence directly related to the inquiry’s terms of reference.

Each of the Youth Associates compiled a report summarising the results of their consultations.

They presented their findings to Committee MPs during a live two-hour broadcast which allowed both the politicians and their young constituents to delve deeper with questions and answers.

“ ‘It was very meaningful for me to advocate for other young people with disability.’ ”

Youth Associate Dylan McBurney

“ 'The MPs had a lot of questions and insight into our reports, and I hope this brings some new ideas to the table.' ”

Youth Associate Sienna Seychell

Healthcare, social assistance and construction are among several industries already identified as in demand and the Committee learned of the supports women in particular could benefit from when they enter male-dominated sectors.

‘I conducted my research with Aboriginal and CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) women specifically in the construction industry,’ Youth Associate Bianca Baldwin said.

‘I found cultural safety is a really big part as to why women aren’t progressing more in their career. I’m hoping from these discussions we had there can be better mental health and culturally diverse training.’

The Committee also heard about reasons as to why some students aren’t completing their tertiary qualifications, including due to course cost and inaccessibility because of location.

‘I found this experience really exciting and really reassuring because I got to understand how parliamentary inquiries work and I found it really comforting that MPs listen to student voices and youth voices as much as all the voices of the experts as well,’ Youth Associate Atharva Nerlikar said.

Go to the Committee’s website to read all of the Youth Associates’ final reports.