Seven young people under the age of 17 were announced as the successful candidates of Horsham's 2023 Youth Council elections.
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The announcement was the culmination of an election campaign as part of Young Mayors, a program run by the Foundation for Young Australians (FYA) in partnership with councils to back young people to make change through active participation in local government.
A total of 616 votes were cast by young people under 17, for 10 candidates in polling stations in schools and community spaces over the past week.
The 2023 Horsham Youth Council are:
- Liam Carracher
- William Schache
- Ryder Reid
- Logan Henskes
- Tom Luke
- Shivanash Bhutani
- Charlie Murray
Horsham Rural City Council mayor Robyn Gulline said the young people in Horsham had shown the community that they weren't disengaged in politics or their community.
"When empowered with a platform to have their say, they make it count," she said.
"Congratulations to all who campaigned, and to those who have been elected - Horsham Rural City Council is looking forward to working with you all.
"The newly elected Youth Council will champion the needs and views of all young people in Horsham.
"They will ensure young people they serve have a voice in the community in improving services, and positively influencing key decisions on local issues."
Read also: Yes or no? How will you vote on the Voice
FYA's Young Mayors Director, Tahlia Azaria said the young people had voted and the Youth Council had a mandate to engage with young people beyond those in the room.
"This is particularly important given the limited diversity around the table."
"Issues of diversity are a national issue.
"A key goal of the pilot across the country will be to trial new approaches to strengthen gender inclusion over the next year and ensure that all young people feel empowered to put their hand up, and make their voices heard."
