The Federal Member for Hinkler David Batt MP has joined the Department of the House of Representatives and the Y Australia to announce Expressions of Interest are officially open for the National Youth Parliament 2026.
The program gives young people from all walks of life a chance to engage directly with civics and the Parliament.
It will equip 16 to 17 year-olds with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to actively participate in Australia’s democratic and parliamentary system.
In August 2026, Youth Members from each Federal electorate will travel to Canberra for a five-day (four-night) program held across Australian Parliament House and the Museum of Australian Democracy, Old Parliament House.
David Batt has sent letters to all secondary schools across the Hinkler electorate to invite students to nominate.
“When young people understand how the system works, they are better equipped to hold it accountable — and improve it,” said Mr Batt.
“This isn’t just good for them. It’s good for our whole community. I know ‘Hinkler’ will deliver an exceptional representative.
Having served in local, state and now Federal Government it is a priority of mine to improve civics education and this is one way of doing that.”
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Honourable Milton Dick MP said the establishment and delivery of a National Youth Parliament program is an important initiative.
“I am proud to be giving young Australians a brand-new opportunity to learn about civics and our parliamentary system. The future of Australia’s great democracy is the hands of our young Australians, and this is one way they will be able to shape it for future generations.”
The Department of the House of Representatives is working with experienced Youth Parliament program provider, Y Australia, to deliver the program.
Through hands-on learning experiences, including mock parliamentary debates, workshops with political leaders, and real-world policy challenges, students will gain a deeper understanding of how Parliament works and the process by which bills are drafted, debated and passed into law.
The Y has been running Youth Parliament programs across Australia for over four decades. CEO of Y Australia, Alexandra Ash wants young people to understand why their vote matters, how decisions are made, and how they can influence them.
“Education in civics and democracy is key to that, and we’re thrilled to partner with the Department of the House of Representatives on this initiative.”
All costs associated with the program including travel and accommodation are covered.
- Research shows that young Australians are increasingly disengaged from traditional politics yet remain deeply passionate about social issues.
- Civics education has been declining in curriculum focus, leaving many young people unaware of how laws are made or how Parliament functions.
- This program helps close that gap by giving students real opportunities to see behind the scenes and learn how the system works.
- By investing in civics education and leadership development for young people, the National Youth Parliament aims to strengthen the democratic process itself.
- Expressions of interest are now open.
- Young people are encouraged to submit an EOI at Home – National Youth Parliament
- No prior political experience is required – just curiosity, commitment, and a desire to learn. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply, as are young rural and regional Australians or those from marginalised backgrounds.
- Applications will close at 11:59pm on the 21st November, 2025. Applications submitted after this time will not be considered.