The YMCA South Australia Youth Parliament is a non-partisan program designed to offer young people aged 15-25 years old a platform to voice their opinion on important topics.

It aims to foster the development of leadership skills, enhance parliamentary understanding, and strengthen engagement with democracy.

Emphasising personal growth, the program empowers young people to drive positive change by bridging youth voices and opinions with political leaders and decision-makers. A program run by young people for young people, it is an unmissable opportunity to express their views on issues they are passionate about, develop confidence and leadership skills, and explore new opportunities in a safe and supportive environment.


YP is a program run by young people for young people, it's an unmissable opportunity for under 25 to express their views on issues they are passionate about, develop confidence and leadership skills, and explore new opportunities in a safe and supportive environment.

Participants take part in a two (2) day Training Weekend where they learn essential parliamentary and leadership skills to use during the six (6) day Parliament Week in July.

KEY DETAILS

WHEN: March to July 2026 (Training Weekend: 25 - 26 April 2026; Residential Week: 12 - 17 July 2026)

WHERE: Nunyara Conference Centre & Parliament of South Australia
WHO CAN APPLY: South Australian residents aged 15 - 25 years old
COST: A participation fee of $550 per person which covers meals, accommodation and transport during Parliament Week
SPONSORSHIP: Participants can receive assistance in the program to seek external sponsorship for participant fees
RURAL & REGIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS: Travel Scholarships Available to assist with the additional transport costs

Applications open: 1 January 2026

#YP2026 #makeyourmark

Still have a question? Drop us a line at youth@ymcasa.org.au or give us a buzz on 0406 201 069.

For insight into the purpose and passion that Youth Parliament affords young people, download and read the 2025 closing speech from 30th Youth Governor, Edward Mickan.

Youth Parliament Archive

Powerful experiences and great memories

What previous participants have to say . . .

"I’m so proud to be a part of a program like this, and to have my voice empowered in a safe, supportive, encouraging and respectful environment."

- 2025 Youth Parliamentarian


"It was such a life changing week!" - 2025 Youth Parliamentarian"Overall, the program was amazing. It was so well organised and supportive. Every Taskie was so approachable and very very supportive."

- 2025 Youth Parliamentarian

Contact Us

For more information please contact the YMCA South Australia Youth Empowerment team on 0406 201 069 or youth@ymcasa.org.au