Council launches Youth Charter and Updated Youth Policy
Published on 11 December 2025
Following the 10 December Council meeting, Southern Grampians Shire Council has launched a new Youth Charter and updated Youth Policy. These will aim to reinforce Councils commitment to giving young people a strong voice in shaping the social, cultural, economic, and recreational life of the Shire.
The Youth Charter reflects Council’s dedication to ensuring young people aged 12 to 25 feel heard, valued, and actively included in decision-making.
It is built around five guiding principles: Collaboration, Listening, Empowerment, Advocacy, and Respect (CLEAR) which together ensure that young people’s ideas are given space to influence policies, programs, and services across the Shire.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said the Charter represents a major step forward in Council’s engagement with young people.
“Earlier this year, we conducted a Youth Survey that gave us some terrific feedback that we’ve been able to use already,” said Cr Heslin. “Over 200 young people contributed, sharing their thoughts on what matters most to them and how Council can support their participation in community life.
“From mental health and friendships to sport, music, and leadership opportunities, their insights have shaped the Youth Charter and Policy.
“The Spring School Holiday program already incorporated a lot of these ideas coming directly from the Youth Survey.”
The updated Youth Policy will guide Council’s decisions and programs for the next three years, ensuring young people not only have access to services, events, and initiatives that meet their needs, but are also provided with opportunities to engage and have their voices heard on issues that impact them.
It also commits Council to creating opportunities for young people to develop skills, confidence, and leadership potential, and to actively participate in planning and community projects.
The Youth Charter and Policy were developed following wide reaching consultation, including the Youth Survey, Youth Council Plan engagement, and participation in youth programs.
Council has secured funding through the State Government’s Amplify program to support youth events and activities until December 2028. Further initiatives, including leadership development programs and youth advisory groups, will be considered in future budgets.
To read more about the Youth Policy and Youth Charter, head to our website. To keep up with all things Council, subscribe to our monthly newsletter.
-Ends-