Pictured at the Cowra Civic Centre are the 60 plus students and members of Parliament who attended the Parliament of NSW Regional Roadshow Forum.
The Parliament of NSW Regional Roadshow was in Cowra on Wednesday, 17 June, bringing together students from across the region to engage with the democratic process.
Now in their third year, the Regional Roadshows are an initiative of the NSW Legislative Council designed to give young people meaningful opportunities to engage with the democratic process, share their perspectives and connect directly with Members of Parliament.
Regional centres host Roadshows throughout the year, with years 10 to 12 students travelling from surrounding areas to participate in a Public Speaking Competition and Youth Forum.
Over 60 student leaders from across the Central West, the Riverina and the wider region participated in the forum. The event allowed student leaders to speak directly to Members of Parliament and other senior figures on issues that matter to them such as: cost of living and financial stress, employment opportunities and future pathways, cost and accessibility of university or TAFE, housing affordability, mental health and wellbeing.
The Youth Forums gave young people the opportunity to discuss issues of importance to them, exchange ideas and contribute to conversations about their communities and their future, while the Public Speaking Competition provided students with a platform to showcase their communication skills and confidence.
Winners from each Public Speaking Competition round will be invited to compete in the State Final, to be held in the Legislative Chamber at Parliament House in December.