Greater Bendigo Mayor Andrea Metcalf said the city was looking for local young people to fill vacancies on the youth council and who want to represent young people and their views on a range of matters.

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"The youth council is an initiative to engage with local young people in the decision-making process for the future. It is also a key action of the City's Youth Strategy," she said.

"The first three years of the youth council have been very successful with youth councillors providing input into over 30 city plans, strategies, policies and projects, including the Council Plan 2021-2025, Healthy Greater Bendigo 2021-2025 plan and the Kangaroo Flat Skate Park project.

"They have also represented young people on over ten advisory and steering committees including the Creative City of Gastronomy Advisory Committee, the Bendigo Safe Community Forum and the City's Economic Development Strategy."

Cr Metcalf said the council represented the views of young people.

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She said they also represent young people at civic events and activities.

Greater Bendigo's 2021 Youth Mayor Jack Smith said it has been a rewarding experience providing advice on the City's policies, plans, strategies and projects and advocating for issues that are important to young people.

"As a Youth Councillor you get to have a say on important issues in the community," he said.

"It's also a great opportunity for young people to meet others with similar interests and ideas, build our leadership skills and develop the knowledge and abilities to influence change.

"We've had the chance to develop knowledge in team work, meeting processes, organising projects, public speaking, advocating for change and consulting with our peers.

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"I encourage young people to apply as they will learn so much and have the opportunity to be involved in some really great projects."

The city is looking for up to four young people aged from 14 to 24 to participate for a one-year term. Applications close midnight Sunday December 12, 2021.

To complete an application form or for more information visit here or contact the youth development team on 5434 6401 or by email to YoBendigo@bendigo.vic.gov.au

The new Youth Councillors will undertake induction and training in January, meet the Mayor and Councillors and attend their first meeting in February 2022.

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