A DRAFT Youth Action Plan has been developed by young residents of Coffs Harbour local government area and Coffs Harbour City Council.

It is now displayed publicly until 15 August.

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Young people in and around Coffs Harbour have worked productively with CHCC and are keen to see the collaboration bring the Youth Sector Action Plan to fruition.

This is the latest development in CHCC’s youth-led research program, inaugurated in 2016.

Council is now asking the community to comment on this important draft plan for shaping the future of Coffs Harbour by participating in the survey.

“We’re keen to hear what people of all ages think of the draft Strategy,” Nikki Greenwood, Council’s Group Leader Community and Cultural Services told News Of The Area.

“Please encourage the young people in your life to take a look and share their feedback too.”

The Strategy outlines Council‘s aspirations to address key issues identified by local young people and the youth sector and develop a Youth Sector Action Plan.

“Providing better and more opportunities for our youth is vitally important,” said Coffs Harbour Mayor Councillor Paul Amos.

“The draft Strategy recognises that our region has historically had some of the highest levels of youth unemployment in the country – a fact that I know concerns all levels of government.

“Plus, the impacts of COVID-19 have had a disproportionately damaging effect on young people both in education and looking to enter the workforce,” Paul said.

“Housing insecurity is also a major challenge.

“I’m very encouraged that so many of our youth have enthusiastically worked with us in the development of this Strategy.

“They are the experts on their own life experiences, but we all need to work together as a community to help give our young people the future they deserve,” he said.

“I’d urge everyone to please take the time to read and provide feedback on the draft Strategy so that we can move forward positively on the Action Plan.”

Feedback reported by the young people working with CHCC reported key issues including the following:

Impact of covid on mental and physical health;

Pressures from school, home and finances compounding each other (schooling, food, rent, transport, parents’ low wages);

Racism exists and adds to all the other stresses of life;

Not enough education at school about Gumbaynggirr culture;

Inability to access support and resources to gain meaningful employment;

Concerns about belonging, diversity and acceptance of different cultures;

Access to community-based activities that help connect young people from diverse backgrounds;

Concerns about ability to access and afford rental or long-term housing;

Concerns for impact of climate change on future;

Lack of action addressing environmental protection and climate change impacts;

Listening to younger voices;

Engaging with youth on their terms and;

Inadequate customer service in government agencies, particularly for refugees.

Following the exhibition period and consideration of the submissions, the Youth Strategy will be returned to Council for adoption.

See: https://haveyoursay.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/draft-youth-strategy-2022-2025

By Andrea FERRARI