Assistant Minister for Youth and Employment Services and Federal Member for Petrie Luke Howarth joined Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP as part of the most recent Bonner Youth Advisory Council (BYAC).

The Zoom meeting saw four year 11 and 12 students representing Moreton Bay College, Redeemer Lutheran College and Churchie hear from Mr Vasta and Mr Howarth on the importance of leadership as well as Mr Howarth’s assistant ministerial duties.

Mr Vasta said BYAC was not only about giving local students a platform to have their voices and opinions heard, but to also provide insight on the inner workings of the Government.

“The last 18 months hasn’t been easy for our students, from lockdowns impacting their studies to the cancellation of extracurricular activities like sport and music, but they continue to step up and tackle all the obstacles that come their way,” said Mr Vasta.

“Our local students are natural born leaders and that was so clearly demonstrated by those participating in this BYAC meeting. Luke was able to encourage them, reminding the students that being a voice for change doesn’t just have to happen in the walls of Parliament House, it can happen amongst your school peers, your friends and your family.”

“I was very proud of these students who were eager to participate in conversation and raise the issues that are important to them right now, including topics such as social media and the environment.”

Mr Howarth said, “Being a guest as part of this BYAC was a privilege. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in the potential of our young people.

“What goes hand in hand with being a good leader is listening and recognising the value of new ideas. I strongly encourage these students and their peers to keep speaking up and being advocates for positive change.”

“BYAC participants can be chosen by their school or they can self-nominate for the chance to be the youth voice of their peers,” Mr Vasta said.

If you would like to be part of the 2021 BYAC, contact your school and email your nomination to ross.vasta.mp@aph.gov.au.