Each year, up to 16 members who are representative of the geographic, cultural and ethnic diversity of the Northern Territory are selected to take part in the Youth Round Table.

Members consult and advise various government departments, community groups and other organisations on key initiatives and strategies, and have the chance to lead a community project throughout their 12-month term.

Territory Families Chief Executive Officer Ken Davies said it was important to ensure young people’s voices are heard and listened to.

“At Territory Families, we recognise the part young people play in helping us to build stronger and safer communities, making it vital for youths to have a seat at the table when making government decisions.”

On Sunday 3 December, 14 Youth Round Table members presented their community-based Projects to government at Parliament House. Round Table members presented on the following project topics:

• Time to Talk: Giving youth a voice in Alice Springs (Alice Springs)
• Spark: An enterprise skill development and learning project (Darwin and Katherine)
• Keep Talking NT: To educate the community of Katherine about the LGBT+ community and make it safer and easier for people to be themselves and feel welcome (Katherine)
• Let’s Have a Conversation: Exploring how young Territorians can best change the narrative of young people (Darwin)
• Bridging the Cultural Gap amongst Northern Territory Youth (Nhulunbuy).

The members of the 2017 Round Table come from across the Territory including Darwin, Nhulunbuy, Katherine, Arlparra and Alice Springs.

Christopher Teng, a Darwin based Youth Round Table member has really enjoyed his time on the Youth Round Table.

“The best part about being on the Round Table has been participating in a youth-focused platform that connects young Territorians from all across the diverse regions of the Territory.

“I learnt that the NT Government, many local community groups and other stakeholders are wholly committed to improving the livelihoods of young people.

“Another great aspect of the Round Table has been making friends with members who are passionate about issues that range from anti-bullying, LGBTQI rights and education.”

Phoebe Hooper, a Katherine based Youth Round Table member enjoyed building new skills.

"The best part about the Round Table was building skills in public speaking, leadership and organisation. I have been able to find something I am passionate about and the Round Table has resulted in many career opportunities."

The NT Youth Round Table is an important program that helps to facilitate discussion between young Territorians and the NT Government.

Throughout the year, Round Table members have also participated in activities such as:

• youth consultations, where they discussed issues and heard the suggestions and opinions of young people across the Territory
• delivered community based projects including the inaugural Rural Pride events in Katherine and Enterprise skill development workshops throughout Darwin and Katherine
• community engagement, where they participated in committees and activities across the NT
• provided advice to the Government on important and topical issues
• media activities promoting the achievements and successes of young Territorians.

For more information about the Youth Round Table visit the Office of Youth Affairs website www.youth.nt.gov.au

Please contact the Territory Families media team on 0475 953 571 to organise an interview with a 2017 Youth Round Table member.