National Youth Parliament convenes 150 students in Canberra

One hundred and fifty secondary school students from across Australia have gathered in Canberra for the 2026 National Youth Parliament program. Representing one student from each federal electorate, the participants are engaging in mock sittings of the House of Representatives, panels, and sessions at Parliament House and the Museum of Australian Democracy.

The program is designed to provide young Australians with a deeper understanding of the legislative process, including how bills are drafted, debated, and passed into law. Speaker of the House of Representatives Milton Dick noted the importance of the initiative in inspiring future leaders and connecting youth with the nation’s democratic system.

Recent research from Y Australia indicates that 79 percent of young Australians express high interest in democracy and social issues, though 22 percent report uncertainty regarding how to become involved in the political process. Participants in the program are expected to prepare and deliver speeches on various community issues to gain first-hand experience in parliamentary debate.