Get ready for Youth Week 2003

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Larry Anthony, today officially launched the fourth National Youth Week on board the Young Endeavour in Sydney Harbour.

He joined celebrities including Leah Purcell, Shakaya, SELWYN and Rosie Beaton of Triple J to kick-off Australia’s largest celebration for young people that will run from 5 to 13 April.

“National Youth Week is a joint Commonwealth, State, Territory and local Government initiative. This year’s theme for the week is ‘to celebrate and recognise the contribution young people make to their communities.’

“Run by young people for young people, National Youth Week provides a real opportunity for young Australians to express themselves and get involved. There is no shortage of things to do right around the country.

“The week will involve awards, sporting activities, dance parties, community projects, conferences and debates, exhibitions and expos, festivals and forums, live performances, youth charters and surveys.

“Australia has almost 4 million young Australians aged 12 to 25 years, approximately 2,500 high schools and around 600,000 young Australians at over 300 universities and TAFE colleges. I hope as many young people as possible get involved and express their interests, creativity and enthusiasm by participating in any of the 2,500 live and online events taking place,” Mr Anthony said.

While on board the Young Endeavour, Mr Anthony also presented the ‘Spirit of Young Endeavour’ emblem, to the crew member who contributes the most to the success of the voyage and displays qualities of teamwork, resourcefulness, a sense of responsibility, courage and determination.

National Youth Week runs from 5 to 13 April. To find out more about National Youth Week events contact the National Youth Week Project Team on 1300 663 500 or email Youth Week (youthweek@facs.gov.au)