Youth Development Strategy and Action Plan
Overview
The Shire’s Youth Development Strategy and Action Plan is all about creating opportunities, supporting young people, and ensuring they have a voice in shaping their community. It intends to set out a clear vision to help those aged under 24 feel empowered, connected, and able to thrive in a safe and inclusive environment.
The Strategy lays out the big-picture goals. Things like advocating for improved access to employment, recreation, social opportunities and health support. The Action Plan turns these ideas into real, achievable steps, with programs, events, and initiatives that young people can be part of. Whether it's creating youth spaces, supporting leadership opportunities, or amplifying youth voices, this plan aims to provide a roadmap for making meaningful change.
Young people aren't just participants in this plan - they’re at the heart of it. Their ideas, energy, and input are essential, and the Shire is committed to making sure they are actively involved in shaping the future.
Project Status
- Review of existing community feedback and formal data from state and federal sources underway
- Contact with community representatives has begun and will continue throughout June
Project Timeline
- June 2025 – Community Consultation
- July 2025 – Data analysis & creation of draft strategy and plan
- August 2025 – Internal review and public feedback of draft strategy and plan
- September 2025 – Final edits and design
- October 2025 – Presented to Council for endorsement
Relevant Documents
FAQs
- How can young people get involved in shaping the plan?
- Young people are at the heart of this strategy, and their voices matter. There will be opportunities to provide feedback, share ideas, and participate in direct conversations, surveys, and youth forums. Whether through formal consultation processes or casual discussions, we want young people to actively shape the future of youth development in the Shire.
- Can organisations or groups who work with Youth be involved?
- Absolutely! Community organisations, schools, and youth-focused groups play a crucial role in delivering initiatives that support young people. The Shire invites groups to contribute their ideas and expertise, partner on projects, and engage in discussions to ensure the plan meets the needs of young people.
- How can I provide my ideas, input and feedback?
- Please reach out to Gemma Bovington, Project Manager, to find the best way to discuss your ideas. Gemma can be contacted via email or mobile (shown below)
- We will also be conducting various forms of consultation including one-on-one conversations, visiting identified community groups, public surveys, online polls and questionnaires.
- Will there be opportunities for youth leadership or volunteering?
- Yes, the plan intends to support opportunities for youth leadership, skill development, and volunteering. Programs will be designed to empower young people, giving them the chance to lead initiatives, take part in decision-making, and contribute to their community in meaningful ways.
- Will there be events or programs created for young people?
- Identifying preferred events, activities, and programs will be a key part of designing the action plan, focusing on recreation, social connection, and personal development. These initiatives will be tailored to the needs and interests of young people identified by York’s youth, ensuring there’s something for everyone to get involved in.
- Will there be improvements to youth spaces and recreational areas?
- Improving youth-friendly spaces is an important part of the plan. The strategy aims to support spaces where young people can gather, connect, and feel welcome. Let us know what this should look like to you!
- Who is responsible for delivering the actions in the plan?
- The Shire will work closely with community partners, local organisations, and young people themselves to implement the action plan. While the Shire will coordinate efforts, successful delivery will rely on collaboration across different groups who share a commitment to youth development including different levels of government and private investment.
- Will the community have an opportunity to review the strategy and action plan before it is presented to Council and implemented?
- Community input is vital, and there will be opportunities to review and provide feedback before the final plan is adopted by Council. Consultation processes will ensure the strategy aligns with the real needs and aspirations of young people, giving everyone a chance to be heard.
- Once the strategy and action plan are finalised, how will updates be shared with the community?
- The community will be kept informed through regular updates on the Shire’s website, social media channels, newsletters and community newspaper. There will also be opportunities for young people and stakeholders to stay engaged through community meetings and project updates.
- Will the intent of this plan evolve based on feedback from youth and the wider community?
- Yes! This process is designed to be responsive to changing needs. Regular feedback will be encouraged, and adjustments can be made to ensure the plan reflects the priorities of young people and the broader community.