Applications open for 2024 The Y WA Youth Parliament, with South West residents urged to apply

Young people across the South West are being asked to put their hands up for this year’s The Y WA Youth Parliament.

Applications have opened for the four-month program, in which people aged 15 to 25 come together from across the State to gain an insight into the world of politics.

Bunbury’s Daisy Pilsworth took part in last year’s Youth Parliament and described the program as “incredible”.

“It’s just such an invigorating experience and everyone there is so welcoming and so supportive,” she said.

As part of the program, participants spend three days inside State Parliament debating draft laws they wrote alongside spending time at a camp getting to know other attendees.

There are 59 young people selected to do the program each year, with each representing an electorate within the State.

Ms Pilsworth said the most important thing she learnt from the program was listening to both sides of the argument.

“We debated some very heavy topics last year and you do really learn to sit down and listen to the opposition,” she said.

“No matter what your beliefs are, everyone is very respectful of each side.”

The Y WA chief executive Tim McDonald said the program was looking for young people passionate about issues and representing their communities.

“You’ll learn to work with a diverse range of people, gain deeper knowledge of political systems including how to create your own legislation and write speeches, and you will develop lifelong friendships and networks,” he said.

Ms Pilsworth had simple advice to anyone considering applying before the March 24 deadline.

“Do it. I had so much fun and I have made the best friends out of it,” she said.