The South Australian Government has opened the floor for young people aged 15 to 25, youth-led organisations, and support networks to offer their thoughts on the draft Youth Action Plan 2024-2027. This opportunity allows the state’s youth to directly influence policies and initiatives aimed at addressing the unique needs and aspirations of young South Australians. Set to launch in April 2025, the plan promises to prioritise fairness and equity by ensuring more accessible opportunities, resources, and support for young people across the state.
Over several rounds of consultation, the Department of Human Services (DHS) has worked closely with young South Australians to craft the plan. These consultations have ensured that the voices of the youth were heard and integrated into the plan, making it as relevant and impactful as possible. More than 1,000 young people have already provided input, and now, the government is inviting even more to contribute before the final version of the plan is rolled out.
At the core of the Youth Action Plan are six themes, which were identified by young people themselves. These themes reflect the most pressing issues that today’s youth face, including mental health, access to local services, and greater support in navigating post-school pathways. This plan is designed to tackle these challenges head-on, with clear actions and a focus on providing young people with the tools and resources they need to thrive.
One of the most critical areas highlighted by the youth involved in the consultations is mental health. For many young South Australians, access to mental health services remains a major concern, particularly for those living in remote or regional areas. This concern has been recognised by the state government, which has already provided funding to support local mental wellbeing initiatives. The government allocated $180,000 in grants to 14 South Australian organisations, allowing them to implement targeted mental health programmes for young people in need. The aim is to address the mental health crisis head-on, providing support to those who need it most.
Another area in need of improvement is the connection to services and activities within the local community. For many young people, knowing where to go for help or how to access vital services can be confusing and overwhelming. The Youth Action Plan seeks to make it easier for young people to find the services they need, whether it’s related to healthcare, housing, or employment. By streamlining these processes and ensuring that information is easily accessible, the government hopes to empower young people to take control of their futures and pursue opportunities with confidence.
Equally important is the call for increased access to affordable and accessible sports and recreational activities. Many young South Australians have expressed the desire for more opportunities to engage in sports, whether for health, social, or personal development reasons. The plan will aim to address these needs, offering greater access to age-appropriate activities and helping to foster a culture of physical wellbeing across the state. By encouraging young people to take part in these activities, the government aims to support their overall development and wellbeing.
The Youth Action Plan also places a significant focus on post-school pathways, recognising that many young people feel uncertain about their future after completing their education. The plan outlines specific actions to ensure that young people are equipped with the skills they need to navigate life beyond school, including learning practical life skills such as budgeting, cooking, and managing their personal wellbeing. With these tools in hand, young people will be better prepared to take on the challenges of adulthood, whether it’s finding a job, pursuing further education, or managing their own living arrangements.
Access to housing is another critical issue for young South Australians. Many young people struggle to find affordable, stable accommodation, particularly in the current housing market. The Youth Action Plan will include provisions to ensure that young people have greater access to housing and rental options, helping to reduce the stress and uncertainty that comes with finding a place to live. This will help young people feel more secure and able to focus on their studies, careers, and personal growth without the added burden of housing instability.
Perhaps one of the most exciting aspects of the draft Youth Action Plan is its emphasis on inclusion and ensuring that young people are actively involved in decision-making. The plan itself was created with young people in mind, with their feedback directly shaping its contents. The government has made it clear that it wants to continue this level of engagement, ensuring that young people have a voice in shaping the policies that affect their lives. This commitment to inclusion is a sign of the government’s dedication to empowering young people and creating a future that truly reflects their needs and aspirations.
The final Youth Action Plan will be launched during SA Youth Week in April 2025, and will work alongside existing programmes designed to support and empower young people. In addition to the feedback provided during consultations, the government is keen to hear from even more young people before the draft plan is finalised. The consultation period remains open until 17 January 2025, giving young people, youth organisations, and anyone who works with young people the opportunity to have their say.
Nat Cook, the Minister for Human Services, has expressed a strong commitment to ensuring that the voices of young South Australians are central to the development of policies that affect them. “We want to hear from anyone aged 15 to 25, particularly those with diverse needs, such as those with disability, LGBTIQA+ young people, those from multicultural communities, Aboriginal Peoples, and young carers,” she said. She stressed the importance of inclusivity in the consultation process, urging young people to step forward and make their voices heard.
Cook further noted the significant impact the Youth Minister’s Advisory Council had on shaping the draft plan. The council, made up of young South Australians, has played a key role in ensuring the plan reflects the true needs of the community. Their participation has been invaluable in ensuring that the plan is not only practical but also inclusive and representative of all young people in the state.
The Youth Action Plan represents a forward-thinking initiative that not only addresses the current issues faced by young South Australians but also empowers them to take control of their futures. It is a direct response to the needs of the community, and the government is eager to continue this dialogue, listening to feedback and adjusting the plan to ensure it has the maximum positive impact.
As the consultation period continues, young people across South Australia are encouraged to visit the Department of Human Services website to learn more about the draft Youth Action Plan and share their thoughts. This is an exciting opportunity for young people to have a direct say in shaping the policies that will affect their lives for years to come. By participating in the consultation process, they can ensure that the final plan is a true reflection of their needs and aspirations.
The Youth Action Plan 2024-2027 has the potential to make a lasting difference in the lives of young South Australians, and with the continued engagement of the youth community, it is set to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
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