People under the age of 18 cannot vote so their needs are easy to ignore when politicians are planning policy and expenditure. Glenorchy City Council in Tasmania takes seriously the need to provide services for its youth. At a time when there is high youth unemployment and disillusionment is common, the need to direct the energy and potential of young people in a productive way is essential.
The Glenorchy Youth Task Force was established in 1994 and is recognised as a Special Committee under the Local Government Act. Members of the Task Force are drawn from a local schools, colleges and the wider youth community including some who, while not residing in Glenorchy spend a lot of time in the City. This arrangement gives youth direct input and responsibility for the program.
Since its inception the Task Force has made significant inroads, identifying gaps in the provision of services and facilities for young people in the district. Liaising with police, providing peer education programs, plus running youth and community summits are just some of the Task Force’s activities to date. It also gained Council approval to establish and fund a new Youth Resource Centre.
In an extensive survey conducted by the Task Force, it was established that youth needed somewhere they could meet in comparative safety to socialise, relax, learn new skills and liaise with youth officers and other service providers.
The subsequent establishment of the Youth Resource Centre has provided a focal point for meeting these needs. Operating since February this year, and averaging over 400 participants per month, the Centre plans to expand its activities to involve as many young people in the district as possible.
The success of the Task Force can be attributed to the direct participation and responsibility it gives Glenorchy’s young people.
For further information contact Ross Park, Youth Development Officer, on (002) 74 0780.
