Thursday, 20 November 2025

 Ros SPENCE (Kalkallo – Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Community Sport, Minister for Carers and Volunteers) (09:50): I rise today to acknowledge and thank the 2025 Kalkallo Youth Advisory Council for their outstanding contribution throughout this year. The youth advisory council plays an important role in empowering young people across the Kalkallo electorate to represent community interests, develop leadership skills and gain a deeper understanding of policymaking processes. Through their projects, members address issues that matter most to them and their peers, creating meaningful change at a local level.

This year their flagship initiative, the ‘Becoming independent’ information flyer and website, responds to a common concern among young people: the lack of clear, accessible information as they transition to adulthood. This resource brings together practical tools and guidance designed to help their peers build essential life skills. It focuses on three key areas: understanding workplace rights, managing personal finances and navigating civic responsibilities. By tackling these topics the council has provided a valuable platform that supports independence and confidence for young people in our community.

I would like to acknowledge and thank Aarav, Ammar, Aneeta, Ashlyn, Athena, Chenaab, Divjot, Eshaal, Gabrielle, Gurshaan, Hafsa, Harkirat, Harnoor, Husain, Maryam, Nadya, Nathaniel, Navpreet, Shannon, Sukhman, Vrishab and Uthish for their creativity, dedication and collaborative spirit. The year ended with the presentation of their work to the Minister for Youth in Parliament, and I thank the minister for taking the time to hear from and chat with youth council members who attended. This year also marks a significant milestone of 10 years of the youth council.