Apply now for National Indigenous Youth Parliament: McCormack

FEDERAL Member for Riverina, Michael McCormack, has encouraged local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people aged between 16 and 25 to apply for the National Indigenous Youth Parliament.

"The National Indigenous Youth Parliament is a week-long event in Canberra which will provide young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with training in how government works, how laws are made, public speaking and engaging with the media," Mr McCormack said. 

The National Indigenous Youth Parliament was started in 2012 on the 50th anniversary of Indigenous people being granted the right to vote in federal elections in Australia. 

"The Riverina is part of the proud Wiradjuri nation. I encourage local people who are interested to apply and speak their mind on the issues which affect them. 

"The Indigenous Parliament will bring 50 young people from around the country to Canberra to debate bills, meet with Members of Parliament as well as the press gallery, public servants and academics," Mr McCormack said. 

Successful motions from the National Indigenous Youth Parliament will be presented to the Federal Parliament for consideration. 

"It would be great to have a voice from the Riverina in this important discussion about issues affecting Indigenous youth nation-wide," Mr McCormack said. 

This year’s Indigenous Youth Parliament will be held in Canberra from 28 May to 3 June 2014. Applications to join close on Monday 10 March 2014 and can be accessed using http://www.aec.gov.au/indigenous/files/niyp-2014-application-form.pdf

Cristy Houghton