Youth Action Group membership

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Overview

The Campaspe Shire Youth Action Group (YAG) provides young people in the Campaspe Shire with an opportunity to shape local decisions, represent youth perspectives, and build new skills through various leadership, training, and community engagement activities.

The Campaspe Youth Action Group: 

  • Comprises up to 12 young people aged 13 - 24 who reside in Campaspe Shire.If you are under 18 years, you will require parent/guardian permission.
  • Offers leadership training, skill-building sessions, and opportunities to participate in community projects.
  • Holds monthly formal meetings and skill-building workshops on youth issues and community projects.

Apply Now

Applications for the 2025 Youth Action Group are now open. Applications close 5pm, Monday, 3 February 2024. 

Before you apply, please read the Youth Action Group Guidelines(PDF, 113KB).

Apply here

Application criteria and process

The Youth Action Group is open to young people aged 13-24 who live, work, study or play in the Campaspe Shire. We aim to include diverse voices, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities.

Members will commit to regular monthly meetings and development sessions. The selection process, which includes an in-person meet and greet, will take place in January.

Successful applicants aged 18+ must complete a Working with Children Check. New members will be formally introduced to the YAG at induction training in February.

Do you have what it takes to be a part of the Campaspe Youth Action Group? Apply by Monday 20 January!

Objectives

Youth Action Group members will:

  • Engage actively with Campaspe Shire Council and advocate for young people’s interests.
  • Promote positive representation of young people and raise public awareness on youth issues.
  • Collaborate on community projects, set clear goals, and work towards impactful outcomes for the wider community.
  • Regularly attend meetings, participate in discussions, and help plan youth events, projects, and initiatives.

Membership

The Youth Action Group will consist of up to 12 members aged 13-24. Members turning 25 within the term may continue until the end of that year.

Members are appointed for a one-year term, with a minimum attendance requirement for each meeting. Positions, such as chair and secretary will be appointed by vote from YAG members, offering leadership opportunities within the group.

YAG Chair

  • Chairs meetings, ensures everyone has a voice, and represents YAG in public and Council settings.

YAG Deputy Chair

  • Supports the YAG Lead, fulfills their role in their absence, and helps represent the group as needed.

YAG Secretary

  • Prepares meeting agendas, records minutes, and reports decisions made by YAG members.

YAG Members

  • Represent youth perspectives, plan events, and communicate with peers to gather feedback and ideas.

 

Meeting Schedule

The dates below are proposed for 2025.

Formal Meetings
Meetings are held on the first Monday of each month from 4 - 6pm but this will be agreed by consensus by the 2025 YAG members.

  • 17 February (Induction)
  • 24 February (Induction, Councillor Meet & Greet)
  • 3 March 
  • 31 March
  • 5 May
  • 2 June
  • 7 July
  • 4 August
  • 1 September
  • 6 October
  • 3 November
  • 1 December

Upskilling Development Sessions
Held on the third Wednesday of each month from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm, focusing on skills such as public speaking, governance, and event management.

  • 19 March 
  • 16 April (Full-day first aid training)
  • 21 May
  • 18 June
  • 16 July
  • 20 August
  • 17 September
  • 15 October
  • 19 November

End-of-Year Celebration
YAG will hold an end-of-year celebration to recognise members' contributions on Wednesday, 17 December.

Meeting Proceedings

YAG operates on a consensus basis, giving each member an equal voice. Formal meetings are held monthly, and a quorum is required for decisions.

For more information, please read the Youth Action Group Terms of Reference.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Youth Action Group?

YAG is a youth council where members represent young voices in Campaspe, influencing local decisions and leading youth-oriented projects.

Who can join the Youth Action Group?
Young people aged 13-24 who live, study or work in Campaspe Shire can apply.

How can I become a member?
Complete the application form and have an informal chat to our youth development officer as part of the selection process.

What is the purpose of YAG?
YAG amplifies youth voices in decision-making, organises events, and advocates for issues important to young people in the shire.

How much time will YAG take up?
YAG holds monthly formal meetings and skill-building sessions, designed to be manageable alongside other commitments.

Each month YAG members will meet for 2 hours in person and have a 1 hour online meeting. Sometime YAG members may participated in other activities but these are voluntary.

Will I have the chance to share my own ideas?
Yes! YAG is all about empowering young people to make their voices heard on issues that matter to them.

How are projects chosen?
YAG members collaborate to select projects they’re passionate about, from organising youth events to addressing community health.

What are the benefits of joining YAG?
Gain leadership skills, project experience, community impact, and a platform to express your opinions.

Can I make new friends in YAG?
Absolutely! YAG brings together like-minded young people who share your interests and values.

Contact

If you would like further information or require assistance in completing your application, please contact Youth Community Development Officer on 1300 666 535 or via [email protected].