Applications for the 2026 program are now open!
For nearly 40 years, Youth Parliament has empowered young people to speak up, lead and create real change. This is where your voice can make a lasting impact.
There are numerous ways to get involved. You can:
- Participate in Youth Parliament as a Youth Parliamentarian
- Volunteer for Youth Parliament by joining the Taskforce
Learn more about these opportunities and apply below.
Participate in Youth Parliament
Participants can apply for the program in teams of six. You don't need to have a complete team when you apply as team members can be confirmed at a later date.
Each team is represented by a Resource Person (usually a teacher, youth worker or highly organised participant), who also handles the application process.
Applications are very competitive and limited spaces are available – apply today to avoid missing out!
Team applications will close 5:00pm Sunday 14 September 2025.
Volunteer for Youth Parliament
Do you have exceptional organisational and managerial skills? Are you passionate about supporting young people and ensuring their voices are heard?
Join the Youth Parliament Taskforce!
The Taskforce is a team of young volunteers who develop, deliver and evaluate the Youth Parliament program. It's made up of the:
- Executive Taskforce, who act as managers and aid the Program Director
- General Taskforce, who support the Executive team.
Applications to join the Executive Taskforce have now closed.
Applications for the General Taskforce are now open and will close 11:59pm Sunday 14 September.
Want to learn more before you apply?
You can read more about what's involved in Youth Parliament by visiting our Participating in Youth Parliament and Volunteering for Youth Parliament pages.
There, you can download our application packs which contain key information about the 2026 program including:
- Youth Parliament overview
- Residential dates
- Location
- Cost
- Funding assistance
- Eligibility to participate
- How to apply
- and more!
For any questions regarding the application process, please email our Program Director Kaitlin (Sheepy) Woolford at youthparliament.vic@ymca.org.au
FAQs
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Who can apply to Victorian Youth Parliament?
The program is open to young people aged 16–25 across Victoria, whether you're a student, part of a community organisation, or simply passionate about making a difference.
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What’s the commitment like?
The program runs over several months, ending in an exciting week-long camp and debates at Parliament House.
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What happens after I apply?
If you've applied to participate in the Youth Parliament program, we'll carefully assess your application based on a uniform criteria and notify successful applicants via a Letter of Offer.
If you've applied to join the Taskforce as a volunteer, the next stage will be to attend an interview.
Successful applicants will have the opportunity to attend an information night before the program begins.
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What types of Bills can we propose?
Any topic that matters to you. Past topics include climate action, education reform, and social equity.
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What makes Youth Parliament unique?
Legislation that changes lives
Over the years, more than 60 Bills debated in Youth Parliament have become law, including banning single-use plastic bags and introducing free public transport for under-18s starting in 2026.
Leadership built for the future
Youth Parliament equips young people with skills in public speaking, teamwork, and problem-solving, helping you become a changemaker in your community.
A community that inspires
Join 120 passionate peers representing diverse regions and backgrounds from across Victoria. Together, you’ll shape solutions for the challenges that matter to you.