Joint Media Release with the Salvation Army
In partnership with the Salvation Army, the Australian Government is reaching out to young Australians, including many facing disadvantage and other significant challenges.
The Australian Government is committed to being a Government for all Australians – and that includes young Australians and people facing serious challenges in their life.
The ‘youTHINK: Your Say’ event brought together around 1000 young Australians, contributing to four themes: youth homelessness, the impact of the global recession on young people, the Compact with Young Australians and access to government services.
Utilising the national network of the Salvation Army, the event was held in more than 40 locations across Australia, with the main event taking place in Melbourne Town Hall.
The event encourages young people to speak out on important issues and engage in conversations about practical solutions. This event is the newest initiative of the Government’s Australian Youth Forum (AYF), established to provide genuine engagement and outcomes for young Australians.
“The experiences and opinions of young people will help shape Government policy and we want to engage with as many young Australians as possible, right across the country,” Ms Ellis said.
“In these difficult economic times, we know that young people can often be the hardest hit and we want to ensure that we are in touch with the challenges facing young Australians right around the country” she added.
The event was organised in partnership with The Salvation Army, which worked with other community organisations to reach as many young people as possible, from a range of backgrounds and locations.
The Salvation Army is recognised for its important work around the country to support disadvantaged Australians and this event provides a real avenue for young adults to have access to decision makers and have their say.
“We in The Salvation Army continue to hear from young Australians, particularly those who face great challenges, as we engage with them on a daily basis,” said Major Brad Halse, Communications Director. “Their opinions are important and need to be heard by our policy makers, and for this reason we think these forums have the potential to provide really important information.”
For more information visit: http://www.youth.gov.au/ayf/home.htm