THE Department of the House of Representatives and the Y Australia are pleased to announce Expressions of Interest are officially open for the National Youth Parliament 2026.
Through the program, young people from all walks of life will engage directly with civics and the Parliament.
The program aims to equip 16-17-year-olds with the knowledge, confidence and skills to actively participate in Australia’s democratic and parliamentary system.
Through hands-on learning experiences, including simulated parliamentary debates, workshops with political leaders, and real-world policy challenges, students will gain a deeper understanding of how Parliament works and the process by which bills are drafted, debated and passed into law.
Youth Members will travel to Canberra for a five-day program held across Australia’s Parliament House and the Museum of Australian Democracy, Old Parliament House.
All costs associated with the program including travel and accommodation are covered by the program.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Honourable Milton Dick MP, said the establishment and delivery of a National Youth Parliament program was a major priority.
“I am proud to be giving young Australians a brand-new opportunity to learn about civics and our parliamentary system,” Mr Dick said.
“The future of Australia’s great democracy is in the hands of our young Australians, and this is one way they will be able to shape it for future generations.”
The Department of the House of Representatives is working with experienced Youth Parliament program provider, Y Australia to deliver the program. The Y has been running Youth Parliament programs for over four decades.
Y Australia CEO, Alexandra Ash, said learning how parliament works is important for young people. “We don’t just want young people to vote when they turn 18, we want them to understand why their vote matters, how decisions are made, and how they can influence them,” Ms Ash said.
“Education in civics and democracy is key to that, and we’re thrilled to work with the Department of the House of Representatives on this initiative.”
Why it matters
Research shows young Australians are increasingly disengaged from traditional politics yet remain deeply passionate about social issues.
Civics education has been declining in curriculum focus, leaving many young people unaware of how laws are made or how Parliament functions.
The program helps close that gap by giving students real opportunities to see behind the scenes and learn how the system works.
Expressions of interest are now open.
Young people who will be aged 16 or 17 in August, 2026 are encouraged to submit an EOI at Home – National Youth Parliament.
No prior political experience is required – just curiosity, commitment, and a desire to learn.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply, as are young people from rural and regional areas or those from marginalised backgrounds.
