Australian Capital Territory

National Youth Participation Requirement

• The ACT Education Act 2004 was amended so that from 1 January 2010 a compulsory education age replaced the former compulsory school age. This amendment requires young people to remain in education until achieving Year 10 and then participate full-time in education, training or employment until completing Year 12 or equivalent, or reaching age 17, whichever occurs first. In order to implement these changes the ACT Department of Education has amended existing policies and developed new policies. These polices will guide consistent and transparent decision-making and clearly outline roles and responsibilities and the approach the Department is taking in applying the changed legislative requirements.
• Information about policies supporting the changes to the ACT Education Act 2004 and frequently asked questions is available at ACT Department of Education .
• Further information on the implementation of the ACT activity regarding the Compact with Young Australians can be requested by emailing ACTYouthCommitment@act.gov.au.

Education/training entitlement for 15 to 24 year olds

• Young people aged between 16 to 24 years of age are guaranteed a government subsidised place at the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) and admitted to a program subject to entry requirements and program availability.
• 20 to 24 year olds are also able to access HECS-supported places at universities in the ACT, subject to entry requirements and program availability.