Fifty-nine young people from across Western Australia make up the diverse group participating in the 2024 Y WA Youth Parliament program. The program will culminate in members attending Parliament House, during NAIDOC Week, on 8, 9 and 11 July, to participate in a live debate in the chamber.
Seventeen-year-old Tremane Baxter-Edwards from Wyndham has been handpicked to represent the Kalgoorlie electorate and Indigenous youth. Tremane is currently in his last year at Aquinas College and holds the prestigious title in the Y WA Youth Parliament as Deputy Leader of the Opposition.
Eight committees with varying government portfolios have been formed, each researching a specific policy area and working together to draft a bill they feel tackles important issues. Tremane is particularly passionate about WA's juvenile detention system Bill being put forward by the Police and Justice Committee.
“I am hoping that our Justice and Policing Reform Omnibus Bill 2024 will pass in the Y WA Youth Parliament. This bill aims to raise awareness about the ongoing issues within the criminal justice system in Western Australia. All members of the Police and Justice Committee are deeply passionate about addressing this pressing situation. We have crafted a bill that is both modern and morally sound.
“As a young Aboriginal man from the Kimberley region, I am very much aware of the dire state of youth crime and its impact on my community and across Western Australia. We aspire for all members of the Y WA Youth Parliament to collaborate with us in passing this bill, which seeks to improve the juvenile justice system and benefit everyone involved in our criminal justice system.”
Tremane hopes for a future in federal politics where he can effectively represent those in regional and remote areas across Australia. “I envision myself continuing to make a significant impact in my community, advocating for everyone who calls the Kimberley home. I take immense pride in being a Wyndham boy and representing the interests of all residents, especially the youth, in Wyndham. I see my future in politics and as a dedicated community advocate.”
The four-month program, run by the Y, offers a unique opportunity for young people to actively participate in the democratic process and have their voice heard by policy makers.
CEO of the Y WA Dr Tim McDonald said, “The Y WA Youth Parliament program, now in its 29th year, offers young people an insight into the workings of government and policy development. What makes it so special is that it aims to be truly representative of the views and concerns of the state’s next generation of community leaders.”
At the conclusion of the program all bills are presented to the governor and the state government for review and consideration with several previously presented bills leading to real changes in state legislation
The Y WA believes in empowering young people and offering them a platform to have their voices heard. Y WA Youth Parliament is an impactful program making a real difference through providing people with the opportunity to reach their full potential.
By Hearts and Minds
