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About the Youth Advisory Council

The NSW Youth Advisory Council (YAC) plays an important role in advising the NSW Government on issues that are relevant to young people across the state.

Membership of the YAC is open to all children and young people between 12 and 24 years of age residing in NSW. Applications are sought from diverse locations, backgrounds and life experiences.

The 12 member YAC provides a direct avenue of communication between young people and the NSW Government.

The YAC meets regularly throughout the year to provide advice to the Minister responsible for Youth, the Hon. Rose Jackson and to myself as the Advocate for Children and Young People on issues, policies and laws that affect children and young people in NSW.

Membership of the YAC provides an opportunity for children and young people to contribute to the work of the NSW Government.

Part four of the The Advocate for Children and Young People Act 2014 sets out the Council’s responsibilities and main function.

Click here to learn more about applying.


To ensure you are invited to apply next year and be invited to take part in many other ongoing opportunities, click here.

What members do

  • Advise the Minister and the Advocate on the planning, development, integration and implementation of government policies and programs concerning young people.
  • Consult with young people, community groups and government agencies on issues and policies concerning young people.
  • Monitor and evaluate legislation and government policies and programs concerning young people and recommend changes if required.
  • Conduct forums, approved by the Minister, on issues of interest to young people.
  • Collect, analyse and provide the Minister and the Advocate with information on issues and policies concerning young people.

How to become a member of the Youth Advisory Council

Part four of The Advocate for Children and Young People Act 2014 details that the Minister appoints members of the Youth Advisory Council. Members must have such experience, skills and qualifications as the Minister considers necessary for them to make a contribution to the work of the Council.