Young voices heard at federal parliament

Thirty-one students from the Parkes electorate joined the Raise Our Voice in Parliament campaign, with three selected as outstanding entries.

Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey MP said it was wonderful to see students from across the electorate so engaged in federal parliament and taking leadership roles.

“I would like to thank all of the 31 students who took the time to tell decision-makers what matters most to them, what they want us to understand, and what they think needs to change,” Mr Chaffey said.

“It is incredibly important to hear from the people who are just starting their journey into leadership, and who are often impacted by the decisions made in

Canberra. This campaign allows young people a direct conduit to the people who represent them.

“It was an honour to receive 31 articulate, well-considered submissions, and it would have been wonderful to read each and every one of them in Parliament during Youth Voice in Parliament Week … but unfortunately, parliamentary speaking times do not allow for this.

“Three students – 12-year-old Kian from Coonamble, 12-year-old Lilah from Gunnedah, and 16-year-old Molly from Dubbo – sent me outstanding submissions about their thoughts for the future.”

All three selected students received an official mention in a speech Mr Chaffey delivered earlier this month.

“I want young people to have a decent life where they have a unit,” Lilah said in her submission.

“Parliament, if you are reading this speech, I want you to make an impact on our young civilians’ lives and make a change.”

Mr Chaffey congratulated all students who submitted a speech, and to the organisers of the Raise Our Voice in Parliament campaign.

The Raise Our Voice in Parliament campaign is run by volunteers to mobilise young people to contribute to and transform policy and politics.