Foundation for Young Australians Young Mayors Program
The Young Mayors program, delivered by the Foundation for Young Australians (FYA), is a civic leadership initiative that embeds young people into local government decision-making through democratically elected youth councils. The program is designed for young people aged approximately 11–17 years (ages vary slightly by council context) who live in participating council areas in Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales, with plans to expand to other states.
Young people nominate to run for election, campaign within their communities and are voted in by their peers. Once elected, Youth Council members serve a 12–24-month term during which they consult widely with young constituents to identify priority issues and then work with their local council to design, implement and advocate for projects, events and policy responses that reflect the needs and aspirations of local young people. These priorities have included mental health awareness, transport safety, employment and recreation opportunities, environmental actions and life-skills programming. Support for participants includes campaign workshops, induction training, a structured curriculum, access to resources and mentoring from experienced staff, local council officials and electoral commissions.
The model aims to go beyond token youth consultation by equipping young people with real mandates, platforms and resources to act; funds are provided to support locally-driven campaigns and projects. Safeguarding, accessibility and inclusion measures are integrated into the program, including well-being planning and compliance with child safety standards. The intended outcomes are enhanced civic engagement, developed leadership skills and tangible, youth-led community impact.
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Application / Nomination Dates and Requirements
Council-specific nomination deadlines and key dates are determined locally; prospective candidates must consult local pages or contact FYA for current timelines.
Start Dates / Program Terms
• Elected Youth Councils serve a 12–24 month term working with their council to implement projects and decisions.
• Exact start dates for terms vary by council and cohort (set after elections conclude).
• If not yet open in a council area, interested young people can sign up for updates to be notified when nominations open.Time Commitment / Meetings
• Youth Councillors are expected to participate in regular meetings (frequency varies by council, often fortnightly). -
Applicant status
• Open to young people in the community; not restricted to students or graduates.
• Applicants must be able to stand for election and represent local young people.Age requirements
• Generally open to young people aged approximately 11–17 years.
• Specific age brackets are set by each participating council and must be met at the time of nomination.Location
• Applicants must live, study, or have a strong connection to a participating local government area.
• Eligibility is limited to councils currently running the program (across parts of Queensland, Victoria, and New South Wales).Citizenship or visa status
• Australian citizenship is not explicitly required.
• Applicants must have the legal ability to participate in local youth programs within their council area.Field or background
• No specific academic discipline, skills, or prior leadership experience required.
• Interest in community issues, youth representation, and local decision-making is expected.Language requirements
• Sufficient English proficiency to participate in meetings, consultations, and council processes.
• No formal language testing requirements stated.Other conditions
• Willingness to campaign during the election period and engage with peers.
• Ability to commit to regular meetings and activities over a 12–24 month term.
• Parental or guardian consent required for participants under 18.
• Compliance with child safety, wellbeing, and conduct requirements set by councils and Foundation for Young Australians.