NATIONAL YOUTH PARLIAMENT

From the 16th to the 21st of August, I was lucky enough to attend the inaugural National Youth Parliament in Canberra. Over 2,200 applicants had applied for this program and only one person per electorate was selected, making it 150 attendees total. I was honoured to be representing the Herbert electorate at this significant, groundbreaking program which provided a unique opportunity for me to develop my understanding of Parliament, public policy and democratic participation.

Throughout the program, we debated mock bills in a simulated parliament. These bills were Intergenerational Fairness and Commissioner Bill and Artificial Intelligence: Transparency, Safety and Education Bill. I also had the opportunity to meet Members of Parliament, saw the Speaker of the House of Representatives, saw the Prime Minister and met the Governor General.

My favourite part of this program was meeting young people from all around Australia. From discussing issues within communities, to participating in trivia and group karaoke, the support everyone provided was endless, and it was these people who made this experience unforgettable.

Claire Hudson

STUDENT