The National Indigenous Youth Parliament (NIYP) is your chance to come to Canberra, meet Australia’s leaders, learn about democracy and have your say on important issues. Fifty young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people will be selected, six from each state and territory and two from the Torres Strait, to come to Canberra for the week-long program.

Who can apply?

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people aged 16 to 25 years who are willing to stand up and speak about important issues, work as part of a team, travel to new places, meet new people and learn.

How do I apply?

Complete and submit the online application form below. Applications close Friday 3 March 2017.

Please contact us if you do not receive an email confirmation of your application within 3 days. The AEC accepts no responsibility for lost, damaged or late applications.

All information you provide in your application is managed and stored appropriately in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988.

Letter of support

All applications must include a letter of support from your teacher or tutor, employer, coach, youth worker, community leader, family friend or other referee. The letter of support should support the claims made in your application and explain why you are suitable for the NIYP.

Tips for completing this form

• Write your answers on a document saved to your computer first in case your connection is lost.
• Have a scanned copy of your letter of support ready to upload with your application.
• Contact us if you don’t receive an email confirmation within 3 days of submitting this form to make sure we received it.

What can I expect?

If you are offered a place in NIYP 2017, you will:

• attend a training day in your state or territory in April 2017
• attend the residential program in Canberra 23–29 May 2017
• enhance your leadership skills
• meet young leaders from around the country
• meet Members of Parliament, Indigenous leaders and academics
• learn about Australia’s democracy
• debate issues in the House of Representatives in Old Parliament House
• learn about the media.

What does it cost to participate?

The participation fee is $200. You do not need to pay this yourself – we will help you to seek sponsorship from organisations or community leaders. All costs for meals, accommodation, workshops, travel and planned recreational activities are included.

Who runs the NIYP?

The NIYP is run by the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) in collaboration with the YMCA and the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House (MoAD), supported by a taskforce of staff and volunteers, including former NIYP participants.

Terms and conditions

By submitting your application for NIYP 2017, you agree to:

• uphold the values of the NIYP (if selected) including respect for others, responsible behaviour and commitment to a tobacco, alcohol and drug free event
• prepare for and participate in all program events
• accept the AEC’s selection of participants as final
• discuss your participation with your parent or guardian if you are under 18 (you will require parent/guardian permission if you are offered a place)
• enrol to vote before the program commences (you can enrol to vote from age 16)
• be available to attend the training day on 22 or 29 April 2017 and residential program from 23 to 29 May 2017
• your personal information being used by the AEC and the YMCA to select participants and notify applicants.

Need help?

Contact the NIYP Taskforce on 1300 103 183 or email Indigenous@aec.gov.au

Our partners

The AEC would like to acknowledge and thank the YMCA and the Museum of Australian Democracy.

Highlights video, NIYP 2014

Highlights video, NIYP 2012