We want youth voices for our youth vision

The City of Ballarat is developing a brand-new Youth Strategy and is looking for help from the young people of Ballarat.  

The new Youth Strategy is being created by a diverse and enthusiastic group of 12 young people who will act as ‘Co-designers’ with City of Ballarat staff. 

These young people are passionate about being involved in their local community, contributing, and representing the views, ideas and needs of young people in the Ballarat area. 

To help formulate the strategy, the City of Ballarat wants to hear directly from the young people of Ballarat to make sure it is delivering the services and support needed. 

Three surveys are now online for the city's youth and broader community to have their say on what matters to them for young people aged 12-25. 

“We want to know your ideas on activities, programs, events and hear your thoughts on the issues of importance to young people in Ballarat,” City of Ballarat Deputy Mayor, Cr Amy Johnson said. 

“This is an important opportunity for all of Ballarat to have their voices and ideas heard of how to make Ballarat an even better place for young people.” 

The three surveys are: 

Youth Survey, for young people aged 12-25 who live, work, study or play within the City of Ballarat 

Community Survey, for parents, carers, guardians, elders, volunteers, coaches etc 

Youth Sector Survey, for community organisations/agencies, case management, mental health, education etc 

Cr Johnson said the Generation NOW! Youth Voice, Youth Vision aims to empower the voice of young people in the City of Ballarat’s five-year Youth Strategy. 

“We want to know what the young people of Ballarat want around them in their broader community,” she said. 

“This will be a far-reaching document that will last for five years, and we need it to really reflect what the youth want from the City of Ballarat. 

“Our future leaders are passionate about our city, and we want to make sure the City of Ballarat is set for a future where our young people are heard, and their ideas are reflected.” 

The surveys are available until Friday 8 April on the City of Ballarat MySay page.