Early each year the Youth Council is required to establish an annual list of priorities that will guide its strategic direction during that year. The Youth Council have identified three broad priority areas for 2026 that directly relate to young people. The three priority areas are: Equity and Diversity, Access and Participation, and Environment and Public Infrastructure.

Each priority area has a working group with three to eight Youth Councillors as members and is chaired by a Youth Councillor. The role of each working group is to explore and develop options for consideration by the Youth Council.

Priority One: Equity and Diversity

The Equity and Diversity Working Group encompasses advocacy regarding Greater Bendigo’s diverse communities, feeling safe and welcome, social justice, and access and inclusion for all members of the community.

Priority Two: Access and Participation

The Access and Participation Working Group encompasses advocacy regarding access to Greater Bendigo’s educational, economic, and social opportunities for young people in Greater Bendigo.

Priority Three: Environment and Public Infrastructure

The Environment and Public Infrastructure Working Group encompasses advocacy regarding Greater Bendigo’s natural environment, people’s connection to natural resources and open spaces, and public infrastructure.

To read the full statement, click the link below. 

Youth Council Priorities Statement