Youth Engagement

Two people on a community stand, one holding a sign that says Pyrenees Shire Youth Census

Supporting young people to feel heard, valued, and connected is important to us. Pyrenees Shire Council runs programs for young people aged 10 to 24 to help them build skills, share their ideas, and take part in community life.

We create safe and inclusive opportunities where young people can:

  • Have a voice in decisions that affect them
  • Build confidence and leadership skills
  • Connect with others in their community
  • Learn skills for life, study, and work

Council also:

  • Works with young people to create opportunities to connect and contribute
  • Supports skill-building for careers and everyday life
  • Provides spaces to celebrate young people’s talents and achievements
  • Works with local partners to improve skill in engaging with local young people

Our Programs include:

  • Youth participation programs
  • Youth-led project planning
  • Youth development training
  • Youth recognition events
  • TAC L2P Program (delivered in partnership support to Central Grampians LLEN)

Who Are Our Young People?

There are around 938 young people living in the Pyrenees Shire, making up 12% of the population.

Young people in Pyrenees value:

  • A strong sense of community
  • Social connection
  • Freedom and safety
  • The comfort of knowing people in their town

They want their ideas, needs, and goals to be recognised and included in the community.

Council conducted a Youth Census in 2025 and will soon release a Youth Profile. This report will help build awareness and understanding of the needs and priorities identified by young people, and support stronger advocacy across the community.

For more information, please contact Council’s Youth Engagement Officer. You can also check this page for updates when the Youth Profile becomes available.

 

Engage! Youth Program

A group of young people looking down into the camera
          

Our youth Engage! Program is funded by the Victorian Government and is open to young people aged 12 to 25.

This program gives young people the chance to:

  • Get involved in their community
  • Build leadership and life skills
  • Explore future career pathways
  • Improve their health and wellbeing

 

What’s Included?

  • School Holiday Programs
  • Youth Engagement Outreach
  • Emerging Leaders Program (ages 15–19)
  • A hands-on leadership program that helps young people build confidence, develop skills, and step into leadership roles at school and in the community.
  • EPIC (Empowering. Pyrenees. Inspiring. Change) (ages 12–15) A series of interactive workshops combining leadership development with real-world experiences.

Get involved to learn more, contact our Youth Engagement team on Elizabeth.Hardiman@pyrenees.vic.gov.au

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