Role of young people in developing future political policy vital

Document Type

Media Release

Publication Date

Fall 5-4-2012

Publisher Name

The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle

Publication Place

Fremantle

Abstract

The voices of young people in political decision making today can impact on the future of educational, financial and social policy in Australia, proposes Notre Dame student Conrad Liveris.

Mr Liveris is studying a Bachelor of Laws at The University of Notre Dame Australia’s Fremantle Campus. His passion for education, health and industrial relations reform led him to join the national not-for-profit group, Left Right Think-Tank.

“Left Right Think-Tank is a non-partisan organisation which aims to encourage and assist young people to become involved in public policy. It also helps them research and develop political theory on issues which affect the wider community,” explains Mr Liveris.

In his role as the WA State Director, he recently addressed an audience of academics, students and members of the public at The Value of Young People in Decision Making conference held at Curtin University.

At the conference, Mr Liveris discussed the economic and social challenges young people currently face and why their input today can help shape a more prosperous future for all Australians.

“There is a lot of media coverage about young people being disengaged with Australian politics. I believe one reason is that the people involved in the political arena often don’t relate well with younger generations,” Mr Liveris said.

“We need to offer more opportunities to train young people to be effective decision makers in both their career and public environments. It is vital that we can promote knowledge of the Australian political system to future generations so they are able to engage with issues affecting them and their communities.

“Young people don’t realise just how powerful their voices can be. The influence young people have in decision making today will go a long way to guiding the policy development of the future.”

Left Right Think-Tank has produced several policies with recommendations on subjects including economic sustainability, improving energy efficiency in Australia and the transparency of Government in Australia.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Michelle Ebbs: Tel (08) 9433 0610; Mob 0408 959 138
Leigh Dawson: Tel (08) 9433 0569; Mob 0405 441 093

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