Listening to youth

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Larry Anthony, today met with 200 Sydney high school students at the Secondary School Youth Summit as part of his ongoing consultation with young Australians.

“What I’ve been doing since I took on responsibility for the Youth Affairs portfolio is make sure that I get a clear understanding of what the Coalition Government can do to deliver even more for our young people.

“We’re currently celebrating National Youth Week and presents a good opportunity to acknowledge how well most of our young Australians are doing.”

Mr Anthony said the Coalition was strongly committed to helping young people to stay connected to their families, communities, education and employment.

“Whenever I speak to young people, the clear message I get is that we need to nurture the skills of young people, develop their self-esteem, and provide opportunities for them to succeed in life.

“The Coalition is delivering to meet these aims. The introduction of Youth Allowance has encouraged many more young people to stay on at school or to return to education and training.

“Our investment of $4.8 million over three years for the Mentor Marketplace is giving many young people vital advice, guidance, care and friendship from an older mentor.

“The Coalition also funds the Green Corps, Australian Defence Force Cadets and Work for the Dole, just to name a few, which provide opportunities for young people to develop a range of practical and life skills.

“The key for young people is to grasp their opportunities and participate. I’m glad to see young people attend forums such as these where they can learn the life skills which will see them become confident, capable and happy adults,” Mr Anthony said.