Young Mayors Mackay

A democratically elected council of young people aged 11-17 in the Mackay region.

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Meet Mackay’s Youth Council!

Elected in August 2024 and serving a 18 month term in office, the Youth Council are delivering projects, campaigns and events based on a priority agenda they will develop together. If you have an issue you’d like the Mackay Youth Council to consider, contact savannah.vella@fya.org.au.

About the 2024-25 Youth Council

What type of projects and campaigns will the Mackay Youth Council run?

The Youth Council priorities are developed in response to the needs and dreams of young people in Mackay. 

The Mackay Youth Council current priority agenda can be viewed here. You can also view the priority agendas of youth councils in Horsham and Wollongong.

During the Term in Office, the Youth Council will be expected and supported to regularly consult with their constituents to make sure their work is meeting the needs of young people in the community. Consultation will happen in different ways, including connecting with other youth advisory groups, speaking at schools and community events.

Projects run by youth councils and forums around the world have covered a range of issues, including: 

  • Campaigns for mental health, LGBTIQ+ equality, poverty reduction, sustainability, safety and tourism
  • Youth homelessness support projects
  • Lowering the age of travel concessions
  • New inclusive council programs for young people with disabilities
  • Forums that bring young people together with local, state, and federal decision makers
  • New sports competitions, music programs, and art exhibitions

How often and where do the Youth Council meet, and what’s the time commitment?

Youth Council meet once a fortnight, alternating between in-person meetings at the Jubilee Centre, and online via zoom. Meetings are 1.5 to 2 hours on a weekday after school.

As well as fortnightly meetings, Youth Council may have the chance to go to MRC meetings and other events, which are decided as the Term in Office rolls out.

Are Youth Councillors paid?

Youth Councillors are paid a quarterly stipend of $250 ($1000 across the Term in Office) to recognise that costs might come up as a part of being involved (eg. transport).

Food is provided for meetings with all dietary requirements catered to.

Does the Youth Council work with the Mackay Regional Councillors and Mayor?

The Youth Council have opportunities to meet with and provide recommendations to MRC Councillors and the Mayor throughout their Term in Office.

What suburbs and towns are in the Mackay Regional Council area?

Check out a locality map here.