The Nationals Senator for Victoria Bridget McKenzie and the Shadow Minister for Regional Communications, Youth and Sport Luke Hartsuyker have met with youth leaders in Bendigo, to discuss the importance of connecting young people to the community.
Lead On Australia, Youth Foundation Eaglehawk, the Bendigo Student Association, and local students and graduates from La Trobe University all contributed to the forum.
Senator McKenzie said the Lead On program, which helps deliver practical projects and activities for young people, was an excellent initiative.
“The model highlights the importance of community connections for Bendigo youth, and developing authentic leadership opportunities.
“Many reported the chance to become an active board member for a local organisation enhanced their career path, and the boards were keen to recruit them for their well-rounded skill sets.”
Senator McKenzie said she was also impressed by the service provided by the Youth Foundation.
“The programs offered help keep secondary students, who may be less ambitious, engaged with their community.
“These young people are often the majority and it’s important they have similar opportunities to be active members of society.”
Mr Hartsuyker said it was important government partnered with organisations such as Lead On and its Youth Foundation.
“Government is good at broad-brush policy, but a better outcome is to support those people on the ground, who are leading the way with innovative ideas.”