Xander is interested in philosophy, politics, and economics, with a passion for social justice and advocacy. He is a facilitator for NYAC, having participated as a member of the council last year. He says getting to know other young people from a range of perspectives has been an amazing experience and encourages anyone passionate about their community or politics to get involved.
In July 2025, the United Kingdom government announced plans to lower the electoral voting age to 16, and of course, debate quickly spread to Australia, where the voting age of 18 has remained the same since 1973.
Now, whilst the government holds no current plans to lower the voting age to 16, many young people remain frustrated with the government on various issues, including youth representation.
Australian climate activist Anjali Sharma last year pressured the government to pass reform that would see a duty of care for the government to protect the environment in the interests of current and future generations.
The reform remains largely unsupported in Canberra, but more locally, initiatives continue to arise as opportunities for young people to express their political views in a safe, private, and meaningful way.
One such opportunity is the Nudgee Youth Advisory Council (NYAC), open to 16 – 25-year-olds.
Hosted by the state Member for Nudgee, Leanne Linard, NYAC is run annually, consisting of four meetings.
In these meetings, members of the council plan and discuss topics which are relevant to them, providing valuable, real-life advice and personal perspectives on these topics.
Ms Linard started NYAC in 2021, following the 2020 Voices of Hope: Growing Up in Queensland survey which revealed only 23 per cent of young people feel heard by their communities.
The Shadow Minister has been vocal about her support for young people in politics.
“My youth advisory council is deeply important to me. It provides an opportunity to connect with, hear, and amplify the voices of young people in our community. To hear directly of their concerns and their ideas for the future,” Ms Linard said.
Whilst the Council’s intent in terms of legislation is clear, an equally important aspect of the group is the experience provided to young people.
For many members of NYAC, being able to see eye-to-eye with a policymaker and representative for their community is greatly empowering.
It is also an excellent opportunity to meet and work with other young people from a diverse range of backgrounds, including members of the Bulimba Youth Advisory Panel, hosted by state Member for Bulimba Di Farmer.
One former member of NYAC said: “Being part of the Nudgee Youth Advisory Council was a really positive experience… [it was] really interesting to hear everyone’s different perspectives and learn about the challenges that mattered most to them.”
The 2025 NYAC is almost over, but applications to be a member of the 2026 Nudgee Youth Advisory Council can be expected to open in early 2026.
