Tamworth Regional Council Youth Advisory Committee

Future Meeting Dates

All YAC meetings take place at The Youthie at 4pm

Thursday 25th August 2009

Thursday 24th September 2009

Thursday 22nd October 2009

Thursday 19th November 2009

YOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE

INFORMATION FOR MEMBERS

Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) meetings are relaxed as possible so that everyone is comfortable in sharing their views and ideas.

The process is formal because the Committee is a formal part of Tamworth Regional Council and there is legislation that requires certain processes be followed. It is also important that all issues the Committee considers are recorded for public information (minutes).

YAC is the perfect forum for young people to raise issues/concerns, and present ideas that the committee may be interested in pursuing.

All school holiday activities that take place at the Youthie are canvassed at YAC meeting.

For young people wanting to be involved in the organisation and running of youth events in the Tamworth Region, YAC meetings an excellent opportunity.

YAC is your youth committee - get involved.

Why involve young people in Council decision making?

• To obtain a better understanding of youth issues and needs.

• To give young people opportunities to develop their skills and experience.

• To acknowledge that participation is a fundamental right for all people, regardless of age.

• Council policies, programs and other initiatives are more likely to have a positive impact if those affected by them, such as young people have input into them.

Provides a means of challenging negative stereotypes held about young people.

Good practice for youth participation

• Enjoyable, challenging and fun.

• Related to issues perceived as relevant by young people.

• Involve induction program, training and skills development.

• Provide young people with a sense of belonging and ownership in relation to decisionmaking and the committee as a whole.

• Provide young people with a sense of security that their participation is valued.

• Acknowledge the contribution of young people - certificates, food provided at meetings.

• Based on careful recruitment and selection processes.

• Ensures that Youth Services, Councillors and Council divisions give young people ongoing support in their decision-making role.