The Australian Youth Affairs Coalition is a great example of an organisation that provides a platform for creating a new model of participation. This model is essential for developing national policies that are beneficial to the community and young people, both now and in the future. Studies conducted in Australia and the United Kingdom have shown how organisational and funding models can help young people, adults, youth services and the government to collaborate in policy development. Unfortunately, the Australian Youth Forum (AYF) has not been successful in encouraging the participation of young Australians or vertical links with policy makers.
However, there are some innovative strategies being used in Australia to increase youth involvement. These strategies are being used to improve organisational governance, social enterprise, service delivery and promotion. The Australian Youth Climate Coalition and the Oaktree Foundation have between 80,000 and 150,000 members each. For more than 50 years, youth workers, youth-serving organisations and major youth organisations have been supporting young people - particularly those who are marginalised - to participate in their communities, express their views on issues that matter to them and connect them to government. If you are interested in getting involved in policy development with an Australian youth organisation, there are a few steps you can take. Firstly, you should research organisations that are actively involved in policy development.
You can find out more about these organisations by visiting their websites or attending events they host. Secondly, you should consider joining one of these organisations as a member. This will give you access to resources and information about policy development initiatives. Finally, you should look for opportunities to volunteer or intern with an organisation that is involved in policy development.
This will give you valuable experience and insight into how policy is developed.
