Youth Council Meeting Update - 27 August 2026

Here is an overview of the outcomes from Thursday afternoon’s Youth Council meeting:

• Julia Day from the University of New England (UNE) presented to the Youth Council on her role as an academic based in Tamworth and her involvement with the Merryl Williams Foundation. Discussion focused on potential opportunities for collaboration between the Youth Council and UNE, including academic mentoring for Youth Councillors and senior students, leadership development programs, and support for students interested in pursuing tertiary education. Further exploration of partnership opportunities will consider mentorship, leadership training, and the development of skills to support tertiary study pathways.
• Youth Councillors met with Tamworth Regional Council’s Interim Director Liveable Communities, David Clarke to discuss their experiences on the Youth Council, including their motivations for joining and the factors that kept them engaged throughout their tenure. As the current cohort prepares to transition out of the program to pursue university studies and other opportunities, the discussion provided an opportunity to reflect on their achievements, personal growth, and the value of youth leadership and community involvement.
• Jason Duda, Department Head of Urban Design at ADW Johnson, presented to the Youth Council on the Tamworth Regional Council Scenic Landscapes Strategy. The presentation provided an overview of the strategy's objectives, highlighting the importance of protecting, enhancing and celebrating the region’s unique landscapes. Youth Councillors were given the opportunity to learn about the planning process, share their perspectives, and discuss how young people can contribute to shaping the future visual character and environmental sustainability of the Tamworth Region.
• Applications for the 2027 Youth Council remain open, with interviews scheduled to commence from Tuesday 1 September and continue over a two-week period. The recruitment process aims to identify passionate young people who are eager to represent the voices of youth across the Tamworth Region and contribute to initiatives that benefit the local community. Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their applications while applications remain open.
• A motion was passed to consolidate the remaining three Youth Council meetings into a single meeting on 26 November. The decision was made to minimise conflicts with HSC examinations and other school and study commitments, ensuring Councillors can balance their Youth Council responsibilities with their academic priorities.