Gunnedah youth deserve a seat at the table

PCYC Gunnedah club manager Jess Blair says young people have a voice and deserve a seat at the table to help steer the future direction of our local community.

The comments follow the recent formation of the Youth Working Group in Gunnedah.

Ms Blair is one of 17 members from across the community confirmed for the Gunnedah Shire Council-led working group.

Its objectives include raising “awareness of the aspirations and needs of young people across Gunnedah shire” and working “toward development of a Youth Council”.

As club manager of the PCYC –a youth charity dedicated to empowering young people and building stronger, healthier communities – Ms Blair said the youth group was a chance to share the “positive experiences” of working with young people.

“I wanted to join the Youth Working Group because I’m passionate about creating opportunities for young people to have a voice and be actively involved in decisions that affect them,” she said.

“As the club manager at PCYC Gunnedah, I am in a unique position to witness firsthand the positive experiences and benefits that come from working directly with young people.

“I believe youth bring fresh ideas, energy, and unique perspectives that can help shape more inclusive and relevant programs and policies.

“This group provides a platform for young people to share their ideas, concerns, and solutions, while also building confidence and leadership through real involvement in decision-making. It also connects us with mentors, community leaders, and like-minded peers—creating valuable opportunities for personal growth, learning, and making a meaningful impact in our community.”

She said the best way to engage with youth was to include them directly in the decision-making process at all levels in the community.

“By giving young people a seat at the table in local councils, community groups, and organisational planning, we ensure their ideas and perspectives help shape the policies and programs that directly affect them,” Ms Blair said.

“Youth should be engaged through meaningful decision-making opportunities, leadership and skill-building programs, and access to inclusive spaces where they feel safe and supported.

“Communities must also recognise and celebrate their efforts through awards, media features, and public events, which builds confidence and inspires wider participation.

“Ultimately, when we support youth-led initiatives, encourage volunteering, and actively listen to their feedback, we empower young people to be confident, connected, and impactful members of the community.”

She said giving “a voice” to Gunnedah youth in matters of direct relevance to their peers, should be the priority moving forward.

“Youth prioritise having a voice in decisions that affect them – access to mental health support, quality education and employment opportunities, safe and inclusive spaces, PCYC youth programs, services, and stronger community connection,” Ms Blair said.

The Youth Working Group anticipated more members would be added to its ranks in the coming weeks.

More than 40 voting members are scheduled to be recruited to the group under its terms of reference. This would include 10 community organisation or agency representative appointments, 12 school or training provider representative appointments, four each of community representative and First Nations organisation appointments, as well as 10 youth representative appointments.

The working group has been established to provide feedback, input, and advice to council.

Council will retain the responsibility for all budgetary considerations.