The Golden Plains Youth Activation Committee (YAC) has transitioned to the Golden Plains Shire Youth Council. This change, approved by Golden Plains Shire Council in July 2025, formalises the group’s role as an advisory body to Council.
The YAC was formed in 2022 to give young people in the community a platform for leadership and training to help them shape future plans and advocate on youth issues.
In 2024, YAC members proposed the change to a formal Youth Council to better represent the collective voice of young people aged 12 to 25 years who live, study, work, access services or have a significant connection to Golden Plains Shire. The new Youth Council will function as an advisory group, providing a direct channel for young residents, workers and students to share their perspectives.
The Youth Council’s Terms of Reference (TOR), developed by youth members themselves, outlines its governance and operational model. The TOR was adopted by Councillors at the July Council Meeting.
Golden Plains Shire Mayor Cr Owen Sharkey said the change responds to the unique characteristics of the Golden Plains Shire area and its young people.
The Youth Council gives young people a voice at Council. Youth Councillors have the opportunity to now attend councillor briefings twice a year to present on projects, achievements, challenges and opportunities that are important to them, Cr Sharkey said.
Officially establishing the Youth Council means young people are supported to have their voices, lived experience and proposed solutions heard.
To view the Youth Council TOR, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au.
Council is also inviting young people interested in joining the Youth Council to contact Council’s Youth Development team at [email protected] or call 5220 7111 to learn more.
Pictured top to bottom: Miranda Pisani, Declan Davidson, Lilie Knee-Pavis, Kenzie Dawber.