Robert heyward
Byron Shire Council is calling on passionate young people to help shape the future, launching a recruitment drive for its brand-new Byron Youth Council, set to begin in early 2026.
The Council is inviting 15 young people aged 12 to 17 to take part in establishing the Youth Council from the ground up over the next 12 months. The aim is to give young people a genuine platform to influence decisions, raise issues that matter to them and contribute to projects that affect the broader community.
Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said the initiative represents a new approach to youth involvement in local government.
“We’re not just inviting young people to the table — we’re building the table with them,” she said. “The Youth Council will ensure young voices are represented across a huge range of issues.”
Participants will have opportunities to share ideas, develop leadership skills, learn how local government works, and collaborate directly with councillors and senior staff.
To recognise their time and contributions, each Youth Council member will receive a $30 gift voucher per meeting. Meetings and activities will begin in early 2026.
Young people interested in applying can complete the Expression of Interest form on Council’s website by Monday 8 December. Support is available through Council’s Social and Cultural Planning Team.
