making a difference for the young people of

annual report 2013-14 the peak body for the youth sector in Tasmania vision contents a Tasmania where young people are actively engaged Chair’s Report 4 Youth Ethics Framework for Tasmania 18 in community life and have YNOT Members 6 YNOT AGM and Sector Forum 19 access to the resources needed Supporters and Sponsors 7 to develop their potential. TYF Policy and Project Officer’s Report 20 Board Members 8 All About TYF 21 CEO’s Report 9 mission Volunteers 10 TYF Members and Volunteers 21 Working with TYF 22 to work with young people, Statewide Youth Collaborative (SYC) Group 11 the Tasmanian Youth Sector, TYF ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’ Statewide Forum 23 the community and all levels Youth Action Priorities (YAP) 12 of government to increase the Northern Youth Coordinating TYF ‘Y Your Vote participation and contribution Committee (NYCC) 12 Counts’ Statewide Forum 24 of young people in the state. North West Action for Youth (NWAY) 13 National Youth Week in Tasmania 25 Collaborations, Policy, Advocacy Youth Homelessness and Communications 14 Matters Day 2014 26 YNOT Youth Affairs Policy Platform 18 Other Opportunities with TYF 27 Chair’s Report The Greek philosopher Heraclitus is credited with the quote “change is the only constant in life”. It is a particularly apt quote to describe the last twelve months in Tasmania. In September last year we swore in a Federal Government after seven years in opposition along with a contingent of Palmer United Party members. In March we saw an end to the Labor-Green accord as Tasmanians voted in a majority Liberal Government for the first time since 1998. We are seeing the potential for significant changes to income support, a reduction in funding to homelessness services, proposed significant reform of the delivery of employment services to young people and the de-funding of the Australian Youth Affairs Coalition (AYAC). In the midst of this – in the eye of the storm so to speak – a remarkably stable Youth Network of Tasmania (YNOT) Matt Durose, YNOT Chair team continued to advocate for the needs of all young Tasmanians.

As I reflected on the past year I was again – gave the opportunity for around 100 • The expanding influence of YNOT as a struck by the amazing work that the small young people to engage directly with voice for Tasmania’s young people – team at YNOT produces under the dynamic local politicians. The second forum clearly the key role of a peak body is to leadership of CEO, Joanna Siejka. was not without some challenges ably represent the needs and desires of To highlight just a few of YNOT’s but offered up some impressively its constituents. YNOT, I believe, fulfils achievements this year: intelligent questioning from the its role with increasing effectiveness young people who attended. Thank with each passing year. It has been • The breadth of subject matter addressed you to Nick McKim MP, Elise Archer particularly pleasing to see the value when advocating for Tasmania’s MP and Alderman Sharon Carnes for placed on YNOT’s work from members young people – this year alone YNOT contributing your time and energy to of all political persuasions and also to contributed to consultations ranging make the forum a great success. see YNOT increasingly contacted by from police searches to reproductive local media outlets to provide comment health to body art to working • The YNOT Youth Affairs Policy Platform on youth issues in Tasmania – both with vulnerable people checks to – the Policy Platform has been a major are testament to the success of YNOT multicultural policy. I am very proud of piece of work over the past year. YNOT as the peak body representing young the team’s ability to pull together quality developed platforms relating to 26 key people in Tasmania and a reflection of submissions on such wide ranging issues facing young people in Tasmania. Jo’s leadership of the organisation and topics – a truly impressive effort. YNOT was able to elicit some great input influence at a local and national level. from young people and our community • Tasmanian Youth Forums (TYF) – two partners in developing each policy TYF forums were delivered this year. platform and I thank all who contributed The first – ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go’ to the process. I would also like to pass examined the issue of young people my particular thanks to Rebekka Gale leaving Tasmania and identified for her outstanding commitment to factors surrounding employment and bringing this project to completion – education as being key influencers on well done Rebekka! the decision-making of young people. The second forum – ‘Y Your Vote Counts’

4 YNOT annual report 2013/14 Finally I would like to thank all our valued partners in this work (and apologies in advance for those I may miss). YNOT Members I will begin by thanking our most valued partners – the young people who have 21 Associate members volunteered their time and efforts for YNOT this year – Alice Clarke, Amelia Anderson, 16 Individual members Brett Maryniak, Briar Walker, Caitlin Frost, Chelsea Griggs, Chris Edwards, Codie 39 Organisational members Graham, Dakoda Leary, Danis Chong, Danni Murfet, Dean Wyman, Dylan Jarvis, 8 Reciprocal members Farah Ashikin, Georgie Baines, Griffin Blizzard, Hani Provan, Holly Shephard, Jacinta Schweimann, Juliah Fraser, Kate Lynch, Kimberley Scanlan, Laura Kay, Lisa Clarke, Lydia Gorniak, Megan Lennon, Metika Claxton, Naomi Marsh, Naomi Searle, Thank you all! Together we can make a Natasha Harback, Rebekka Gale, Rob Hortle, Suzzane Clarke, Tait Fraser, Taylor Mart, difference and together we are making a Tom Bain, Tom Marshall, Zac Lockhart, Zeinab Eldayar, and Zoë Jay. difference for the young people of Tasmania – I would like to thank both the former Minister for Community Development, even in the midst of ever-changing times… Cassy O’Connor MP and current Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier, Guy Barnett MP for their active and ongoing members Alysha House (Board member the Chair’s role throughout this year and done commitment to the future of young people since 2010), and Cedrick Malumba (Board an excellent job. YNOT could not function, in Tasmania. I would also like to thank our member since 2012) for their significant let alone succeed, without the significant partners from Communities, Sport and contributions to the Board and their tireless contributions each of you make to our work. Recreation Tasmania in the Department of work for YNOT. Your passion, time and effort Premier and Cabinet, Director Nick Evans, Thank you all! Together we can make a given to the work of YNOT has been greatly Anthony King and Georgie Hill for your difference and together we are making a appreciated. Change brings challenges but willingness to work with us to continue the difference for the young people of Tasmania also opportunity and we were pleased to valuable work of YNOT. – even in the midst of ever-changing be able to welcome Zoë Jay, Griffin Blizzard times… Thank you to our YNOT members and and Matt Hill to the Board over the course the many others who work with us and of the year. Matt Durose alongside us to advocate for a better future YNOT Chair And finally thank you to the team – Jo, Tegan, for Tasmania’s young people. Dean, Rebekka, Brett, Sophie and Jess, my We have had some changes at the Board fellow Board members and my Vice Chair, level and I would like to thank exiting Ann Davie, who has regularly stepped into

YNOT annual report 2013/14 5 YNOT Members 2013-14

A Fairer World – The Tasmanian Cr James (Migloo) Graham Speak Out Association of Tasmania Inc. Centre for Global Learning The Hon Julie Collins MP Tasmania Police & Citizens Youth Clubs Andrew Verdouw Karinya Young Women’s Service Tasmanian Academy – Don College Anglicare Tasmania Inc. (North) Kentish Council Tenants Union of Tasmania Inc. Ann Davie Kingborough Council The Link Youth Health Service Anna Reynolds MP Theresa Moore Annie Kenney Young Women’s Latrobe Council Verity Tunevitsch Emergency Accommodation Service Launceston City Council Volunteering Tasmania Australian Red Cross Launceston City Mission West Tamar Council Baptcare Family and Community Services Lisa Amerikanos Whitelion Inc. Burnie City Council The Hon Matthew Groom MP Working It Out Burnie Youth Accommodation Service The Hon Michael Ferguson MP Youth Action & Policy Association NSW Inc. Chris Edwards Migrant Resource Centre Youth Affairs Council of South Circular Head Council (YACSA) Migrant Resource Centre (North) Clarence City Council Youth Affairs Council of Inc. (YACVic) The Hon Mike Gaffney MLC Colony 47 Inc Youth Affairs Council of Mission Australia Communities, Sport and Recreation (YACWA) Tasmania, Department of Premier Mission Australia (TYSS) Youth Affairs Network of and Cabinet (Formerly Community Inc. (YANQ) Development Division) Oak Tasmania Youth and Family Focus Inc. Cornerstone Youth Services Inc. Pathways Tasmania – Launch Youth Youth Coalition of the ACT Darren Robinson Peer Support Foundation Ltd Youth Futures Debbie Hindle The Hon Peter Gutwein MP Zoë Jay Derwent Valley Council Pulse Youth Health Devonport City Council Rebecca White MP Dianne Bester Relationships Australia Tasmania Dick Adams Richard Muir Wilson Dorset Council Robert Meredith Family Planning Tasmania Inc. Sandra French Glenorchy City Council Scott Bacon MP Griffin Blizzard Senator Girl Guides Tasmania Senator Healthy House Senator David Bushby Hellyer College Shelter Tasmania Inc Hobart City Council Sorell Council The Hon Jacquie Petrusma MP Southern Midlands Council

6 YNOT annual report 2013/14 Supporters and Sponsors 2013-14 Special thanks go to Communities, Sport and Recreation Tasmania, in the Department of Premier and Cabinet as the major funding body for YNOT, TYF and the Tasmanian Youth Conference.

Ald Sharon Carnes Mission Australia Anglicare Tasmania Inc. Nick McKim MP Andrew Wilkie MP Pathways Tasmania – Launch Youth Australian Clearinghouse Pulse Youth Health South for Youth Studies Rosebery Community House Australian Youth Affairs Coalition Rural Health Tasmania Inc. Beacon Foundation Tasmanian Council of Social Service Colony 47 The Link Youth Health Service/Headspace Cassy O’Connor MP Senator Ann Urquhart Cr. James (Migloo) Graham Senator Carol Brown Dick Adams Senator Christine Milne Digital Ink Senator the Hon Eric Hutchinson MP Senator The Hon Elise Archer MP Senator the Hon Flourish Mental Health – Rebecca White MP Action in Our Hands Inc. Youth, Family and Community Connections Hobart City Council Homelessness Australia The Hon Jacquie Petrusma MP Launceston City Council National Job Link – Youth Connections

YNOT annual report 2013/14 7 Board Members

Matt Durose Ann Davie Mark Joseph Ros Atkinson Chair Vice Chair Treasurer Youth, Family and Mission Australia Australian Clearinghouse for Hobart City Council Community Connections Youth Studies

Alysha House Lisa Amerikanos Griffin Blizzard Zoë Jay Circular Head Council National Job Link TYF Member UN Youth Tasmania/TYF Member

Dianne Bester Cedrick Mulumba Matt Hill Individual member TYF Member Derwent Valley Council

8 YNOT annual report 2013/14 CEO’s Report In the past year there has been much discussion about the high levels of vulnerability within Tasmania’s population, particularly among our young people. Much of what is reported and discussed in the mainstream community and media points to a high likelihood of poor education and employment outcomes for Tasmanian young people. There have also been extensive reporting and discussion about the many policy changes that have been proposed or which have already occurred, and the related impacts on young people, such as the proposed changes to the welfare system and the reintroduction of Work for the Dole. Joanna Siejka, YNOT CEO

The Youth Network of Tasmania’s (YNOT) Platform is for all of us to use and draw Along with our YNOT members, TYF role is to recognise and promote the upon, including workers, decision makers members, volunteers and students, the valuable and considerable work that is and the wider community sector. We have YNOT Board must be recognised for their done by the youth sector workforce in already found it to be an invaluable resource commitment to supporting the strategic Tasmania, and to improve the outcomes and we thank you for your support in its vision and oversight of the organisation. for young Tasmanians, as well as increase development. In the past year we have enjoyed the the contribution that young Tasmanians assistance of YNOT Research Officer, make to our community. YNOT’s role is Rebekka Gale, whose legacy is the YNOT to also raise these concerns in forums, YNOT benefits from a Youth Affairs Platform and the work consultations, the media, policy submissions wide membership base, a she completed to promote the Youth and with decision makers. To do this we Ethics Framework for Tasmania. Rebekka draw on sector experience, the voice of large group of dedicated also completed many submissions and young people through the Tasmanian Youth supporters and many responses in her six months with us. Forum (TYF), and evidence based research. individuals who donate We believe we have done this effectively We have also welcomed Tegan Pearce to but know we have more work to do, and their time to assist us in the role of TYF Policy and Project Officer. it is through the youth sector workforce’s achieving our goals for Tegan has brought new connections in support of YNOT that we are able to identify addition to her fresh approach to the and contribute solutions, whilst continuing young people. statewide youth forums, and enthusiasm to to raise awareness of our concerns. make a difference.

Throughout 2013-14 the consultations that The YNOT Budget Submission to Treasury Dean Cooper, our Finance and IT officer, members have contributed to, formally and for 2013-14 included the views of continues to provide reliable and steady informally, through attendance at regional many of you in the sector. Many of the support to YNOT and TYF. sector groups has meant that YNOT has recommendations made in this submission YNOT benefits from a wide membership been able to provide a voice for the sector were drawn upon by political parties during base, a large group of dedicated supporters in this complex and changing environment. the 2014 Tasmanian State Government and many individuals who donate their time Your contributions have led to the election, and resulted in funding to projects to assist us in achieving our goals for young development of the YNOT Youth Affairs such as the extension of the Youth Health people. Thank you to all of you for your Policy Platform, a platform stating our Nurse Project and the Tasmanian Youth ongoing support. position on 26 key issues affecting Suicide Prevention Strategy and Plan. Joanna Siejka Tasmanian young people. This Policy CEO

YNOT annual report 2013/14 9 Volunteers

Alice Clarke Alphonse Toussaint Amelia Anderson Anthony King Ben Waterworth Blake Tatafu Brett Maryniak Briar Walker Caitlin Frost Carol Swards Cathy McClure Cedrick Mulumba L-R Tait Fraser, Dakoda Leary, Tom Spaulding, Dean Wyman, Danis Chong Chelsea Griggs Georgie Baines Metika Claxton Chris Edwards Georgie Newton Codie Graham Naomi Marsh Griffin Blizzard Dakoda Leary Naomi Searle Hani Provan Danis Chong Natasha Harback Holly Shephard Danni Murfet Rebekka Gale Isabelle Crompton David Perez Rick Marton Jacinta Schweimann Dean Wyman Rob Hortle James Graham Darren Robinson Sebrina Brennan Jas Dunn Dylan Jarvis Simone Zell Jill Chisholm Farah Ashikin Steven Park Juliah Fraser Fiona Richardson Susan Dickson Kate Lynch Gary McMurtrie Suzzane Clarke Kate Wilson Gavin Riley Tait Fraser Kim Johnson Geoff Holloway Tali Auliitia Kimberley Scanlan Taylor Mart Kelly Elliot Laura Kay Tom Bain Lisa Amerikanos Tom Marshall Lisa Clarke Wendy Newton Lydia Gorniak Zac Lockhart Matt Hill Zeinab Eldayar Megan Lennon Zoë Jay

10 YNOT annual report 2013/14 Statewide Youth Collaborative (SYC) group

The Statewide Youth Collaborative Group (SYC) is a forum for cross-sector collaboration that responds to issues affecting young people’s health and wellbeing in Tasmania. SYC is co-chaired by Population Health Services – Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the Youth Network of Tasmania (YNOT).

The Statewide Youth Collaborative group has continued to meet quarterly in 2013 – 2014. We have had good representation from a number of Government agencies and the community sector. Guest speakers have included Petrina Nettlefold, Project Officer Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug Directorate, Tony Kemp, Deputy Secretary for Children of Children and Youth Services, Mercia Bresnehan, Deputy Secretary Disability, Housing and Community Services, and Christy Measham, Senior Education SYC’s Top Ten Tips: A Guide for Consultation poster and brochure and Health Promotion Officer with Family Planning Tasmania. understanding of what they need to know SYC also provided a comprehensive In September 2013 we launched the Top response to the Personal Searches of Young 10 SYC Tips for Young People involved in when participating in a consultation. The People in Custody in Custodial Premises Consultation at Parliament House with Top 10 Tips is the second in a series and consultation paper in November 2013. Jacquie Petrusma MP, now the Minister follows on from Top Ten Tips: SYC’s Guide for for Human Services. The Top 10 Tips will consulting with Young People, which was Kat Fraser assist young people to gain a greater launched in 2012. SYC Secretariat

YNOT annual report 2013/14 11 Youth Action Northern Youth Coordinating Priorities (YAP) Committee (NYCC)

Youth Action Priorities (YAP) The Northern Youth Coordinating continues to provide a valuable Committee (NYCC) is a special forum for youth services from committee of Council as defined southern Tasmania to network in the Local Government Act across the region, identify (TAS) 1993, s. 24. resources, goals and issues The primary purpose of NYCC is to provide that have an impact on the an opportunity for Federal, State and Local lives of young people and to Government and Non-Government youth advocate on behalf of their service providers to come together to achieve a more coordinated approach to youth issues communities. across Northern Tasmania. It aims to provide a way for services to work cooperatively Facilitated by Hobart City Council’s on youth issues in order that agencies can Community Inclusion Unit, YAP activities share resources to provide the best range of and discussions are driven by members appropriate services to young people. who include representatives from health, With an annual budget of $2,500, NYCC social, educational, recreational and During the 2013-14 financial year, NYCC provided funding towards several key cultural organisations at a community, membership grew to approximately 130 member projects over the year, including: Local and State Government level. members. Chaired by Alderman Danny Gibson and convened by the City of • $900 to Fusion for the Uluru Pilgrimage. Along with NYCC and NWAY in the Launceston’s Youth and Community Officer, This funding supported three Brooks North and North West, YAP provides an Wendy Newton, NYCC held five regular High School students towards opportunity for YNOT to identify patterns meetings, two special National Youth their airfare. The project develops across the state and to coordinate Week meetings, and three further special ambassadors for reconciliation as they responses accordingly. meetings to respond to the Department continue to build future young leaders This included providing valuable of Health and Human Services Discussion for northern Tasmania; feedback in the development of the City Paper A Continuum of Care to Prevent Youth of Hobart’s Youth Strategy as well as • $500 to the Young Aboriginal Drug Offending and Re Offending, to respond to and Alcohol Service for Art Attack. This providing comment on YNOT’s Budget the State Government Consultation Paper, Submission. New YAP members for 2014 project involved working with young Personal Searches of Young People in Custody at-risk Aboriginal clients to develop art include representatives from National in Custodial Premises, and to determine Joblink, Oak Youth Pathways as well as works, jewellery and multimedia pieces potential impacts on youth services and addressing current social trends, self- a number of individuals working with young people due to the Federal Budget. young people and communities. perception and cultural disconnection In addition, NYCC provided a response to within the northern Tasmanian Mark Joseph the Youth Network of Tasmania’s Sector Aboriginal community; YAP Chair Policy Platform. • $600 to National Joblink to engage NYCC was successful in receiving a regional 12 young people in the Tas Mud Run. National Youth Week grant of $5,000 Young people who are currently towards the Eyes up, Eric! project. The disengaged from education and campaign likens the danger of mobile employment engaged in activities phone distraction while driving to other that include fitness, socialisation, team risky situations, such as surfing with building and motivation, increasing sharks, juggling fire and tightrope walking. awareness of issues that affect young Students created the character Eric to people and greater connection to the communicate the message about risk and Launceston community; and to encourage each other to make a pledge not to use their phones while driving. • $500 to Fusion for their Youth Leadership Program. Wendy Newton NYCC Chair

12 YNOT annual report 2013/14 North West Action for Youth (NWAY)

The North West Action for Youth Group (NWAY) continues to be a solid platform for information sharing and a sounding board for all things Youth related. The group focuses on networking and collaboration opportunities for youth service providers across the North West Coast. A number of topics were raised for discussion at NWAY meetings this year, with particular focus on impacts of social media on young people, and sexual health. NWAY workers at the YNOT AGM NWAY is involved in organising the National Youth Week Regional Expo which is available to all Year 9 Students who live on Devonport Councils. The Expo gave the Special thanks must go to Alderman Sandra the North West Coast. Over 700 students students an opportunity to engage with the French for her continued support of NWAY from the area participated in the Expo many diverse Youth related organisations as the Chairperson. which was held in Ulverstone. The event from across the regions and focused on Katie Smith is delivered through collaboration and topics including mental health, drugs and NWAY Secretary assistance from Circular Head, Waratah- alcohol, sexual health and general health Wynyard, Burnie, Central Coast, Kentish and and wellbeing.

Regional sector group members 130 Workers on the NYCC group 96 Workers on the YAP group 80 Workers on the NWAY group

YNOT annual report 2013/14 13 Collaborations, Policy, Advocacy and Communications

NYCH members, April 2014

Sector Collaborations YNOT is the Tasmanian representative and with TasCOSS, the TCSPN provided input the current Chair on the National Youth into the development of the Community It has been a challenging year for the Coalition for Housing (NYCH), which is the Sector Workforce Development Audit. national youth affairs peak body, the peak youth homelessness group in Australia. The TCSPN also meets regularly with Australian Youth Affairs Coalition NYCH participation includes biannual Government through the Peaks Network (AYAC), with a period of uncertainty face to face meetings, teleconferences, and Government Strategic Forum. During regarding its funding. This was followed participation in Homelessness Australia 2013-14, the Partnerships Agreement by defunding in the Federal Budget, policy development, and coordination of between the Community Sector and State which resulted in the development of, and the national awareness raising campaign Government provided considerable focus subsequent move to, a new organisational Youth Homelessness Matters Day (for more for the work of the group, including the first model. Despite these challenges, AYAC information on this event please refer to Annual Report Card on the Partnerships has continued to be an active voice with a page 24). YNOT participates in the group Agreement and a number of working national perspective, and at a time when led by Shelter Tasmania, the Tasmanian groups worked to progress the priority areas the youth sector and young people need it Youth Housing and Homelessness Group identified in the Partnerships Agreement. most. In the past year, AYAC has developed (TYHHG), as well as consulting with youth a national definition of youth work, enabled sector stakeholders throughout the year Policy and Consultations national discussion on a national code of to represent their concerns, and the needs ethics, launched a crowdsourcing campaign of young homeless people at NYCH. YNOT During 2013-14 there has been considerable and held a national three day conference for is also a member of the Homelessness consultation on issues affecting young the wider youth sector. Throughout 2013- Australia Board, which provides an people at both a State and Federal level. 14, YNOT contributed information about additional mechanism for Tasmanian youth YNOT has a policy development process Tasmanian youth and the youth sector sector and young people to have input into which involves consultation with young through AYAC’s Policy Advisory Council, and national policy development processes. people and the youth sector in addition in the development of submissions, reports to research on each issue. With reference and policy positions. YNOT is also an AYAC YNOT continued to be involved in the to the time allowed for each submission Board member, and has supported AYAC Tasmanian Community Sector Peaks process, YNOT’s consultation processes can through the changes in the past year. Network (TCSPN). Through this network, involve online surveys, phone interviews, This has involved assisting with media, YNOT can collaborate with a broader range meetings, the collection of written the supervision of the workplan and with of community sector organisations that submissions and face to face forums. planning for the organisation’s future. deliver services to young people. Partnering As such, YNOT has conducted a number of

14 YNOT annual report 2013/14 Some of the headlines from media articles YNOT has featured in during 2014

consultations with young people and the • YNOT letter raising concerns regarding YNOT CEO and NYCH Chair, Joanna Siejka, with youth sector across Tasmania during the proposed changes to the Amendments NYCH Vice Chair, Michael Coffey, December 2013 past year. to the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 In the past year, YNOT conducted formal • YNOT letter raising concerns regarding • YNOT Submission to the Personal consultations for the development of the the defunding of Youth Connections Searches of Young People: In Custody YNOT Budget Submission to Treasury • YNOT letter regarding the Transition into and in Custodial Premises for 2014-15 and for the development of Independent Living Allowance the YNOT Youth Affairs Policy Platform • Letter to Tasmanian candidates on youth (for more information please refer to • YNOT Policy Platform Consultation housing and homelessness needs, with page 24). YNOT also facilitated a variety Outcomes Paper Shelter Tasmania of consultation opportunities for the • YNOT Submission to the Legislative • Contribution to AYAC’s Commission of wider youth sector and young people, Amendment Review Reference Audit Submission to encourage contributions to policy Committee for Advocacy for Children and development throughout the year. YNOT • Contribution to AYAC’s TAFE Submission. Youth in Tasmania - Consultation Paper also coordinated policy information YNOT also participated in a considerable briefings for the sector, including sessions • YNOT Response to the Tasmanian number of meetings, public forums, outlining the proposed changes in the Government Framework for Community consultation sessions and media interviews Federal Budget and the potential impacts of Engagement to further these important issues. these changes for Tasmanian young people. • YNOT letter raising concerns to the changes to the Transitioning to Presentations Submissions Independent Living Allowance ‘Youth Homelessness Matters’ (Australian In 2013-14 YNOT contributed a significant • YNOT Submission to the ‘Review of the Youth Affairs Coalition national conference, number of submissions in response Liquor Licensing Act 1990’ Discussion ) to consultations as part of the policy Paper 2013 ‘Advocacy and youth affairs’ (presentation development processes for community • YNOT Submission to the Tasmanian to youth work students) organisations and the State and Federal Legislative Council Reproductive Health Governments, on behalf of the Tasmanian ‘Youth Ethics’ (Presentation to youth work (Access to Terminations) Bill 2013 youth sector and young people. YNOT was students) also responsive and proactive in raising • YNOT Response to the Working with ‘Youth Homelessness’ (Presentation to issues of concern to the youth sector and Vulnerable People (Background Youth Homelessness Matters Day youth young people through the development Checking) Bill 2013 ambassadors) of position papers. These submissions and • YNOT Budget Submission to Treasury for papers include: 2014-15 Forums, committees and • Migrant Youth Advocacy Network • YNOT Response to the Police Offences advisory groups (MYAN) Youth Settlement Framework Amendment Bill 2013 – Tattooing, Body • AYAC’s National Definition of Youth Work • YNOT letter advocating for the extension Piercing & Body Modification of Youth Lockdown of the National Partnerships Agreement • YNOT Submission to “Many Voices” – • Australian Youth Affairs Policy Advisory Homelessness A Discussion Paper on the Tasmanian Group Multicultural Policy

YNOT annual report 2013/14 15 • Australian of the Year Awards Panel • Child Rights Taskforce Consultations • City of Hobart Social Inclusion Strategy consultation 16 Sector consultations • Community Housing Forum 5 Sector surveys • Consultation with the National Commissioner for Children 179 Workers completed • Consultation on Overcoming Indigenous surveys Disadvantageous and Indigenous Expenditure Reports • DHHS Purchasing Outcomes Framework Workshops • Disability Care Australia not for profit Roundtable Communications Media Releases • Expert Reference Group of the Review for Advocacy for Children and Young People YNOT released 8 media releases during Sector newsletter in Tasmania 2013-14: • Human Rights Week Steering Committee YNOT prepares and distributes a Sector Why do young people leave Tasmania? Update at the beginning of each month. Statewide survey launched, 9 October 2013 • National Children Youth and Law Centre Sector Updates information is reported Community peaks urge Tasmanians to enrol to consultation against the YNOT Strategic 2013-16 goal vote, TasCOSS and YNOT joint release areas of youth participation, youth issues, • National Rural Law and Justice Alliance 30 Jan 2014 professionalisation of the workforce, strong • National Youth Housing Coalition peak body, community and government. Engaging vulnerable kids in education must • National Youth Week Awards Panel be a political priority, Colony 47, TasCOSS and • Royal Commission into Institutional Social media YNOT joint release, March 2014 Responses to Child Sexual Abuse Forum Social media provides an additional way The voice of young Tasmanians makes an • Southern Cross Young Achiever Awards for YNOT to communicate with members impact, 4 April 2014 Panels and young people about opportunities, YNOT congratulates youth award winners, • TasCOSS Regional Council consultations, information, news and events. 4 April 2014 This year YNOT has continued to increase its Launch of New Youth Consultation Resource, • Tasmanian Medicare Local Consultation reach on social media platforms which has 7 April 2014 regarding access to health services for grown to: young people Young people unfairly targeted by Federal • 531 likes on the Youth Network of Budget, 14 May 2014 • Telecommunications Industry Tasmania Facebook page Ombudsman Consumer Services Young people asked for their solutions on Consultation • 1,318 friends on the Tasmanian Youth youth unemployment, 30 June 2014. Forum Facebook profile • Trinity Hill Design Workshop Media mentions • Tasmanian Community Sector Peaks • 450 twitter followers. Network This includes people from other parts of These 33 media stories are just some of the stories that YNOT has been involved in • Tasmanian Community Sector Peaks Australia and other countries who engage during 2013-14: Network and Government Strategic with YNOT’s social media platforms. YNOT Forum has active followers across these platforms Women in business recognised for contribution with tweets and posts actively clicked on to Tasmania’s future, The Mercury, • Tasmanian Youth Housing and up to 85 times for each tweet. This level of 12 September 2013 Homelessness Group engagement allows YNOT to have a greater Should I stay or should I go? Question faces • Youth Parliament Reference Group reach with members and young people most Tasmanians as they finish school or by providing them with opportunities to • Youth Positive Mental Health Group study, The Mercury, 11 October 2014 (through SYC) contribute to consultations and provide feedback to inform the work of YNOT. Forum throws spotlight on Tasmania’s youth • Youth Suicide Prevention Strategy exodus, ABC, 22 October 2013 Steering Committee.

16 YNOT annual report 2013/14 Call for more appropriate care for our kids, with no teen mental health unit in the state, Advocacy The Mercury, 1 Nov 2013 Housing prices pushing youth into 33 Media mentions homelessness, ABC Radio, December 2013 Youth aim to leave ‘for work options’, 16 Forums, committees The Examiner, 6 December 2014 and advisory groups Response to age report, ABC, 12 Dec 2013 Issues affecting young people, The Mercury, 39 Submissions January 2014 8 Presentations Happiness and Boys, ABC 936, January 2014 Sex Education, The Examiner, January 2014 Community peaks urge Tasmanians to have your say, enrol to vote, The Examiner, 30 January 2014 The Tasmanian State Election 2014: Young Youth unemployment and welfare, ABC South Voters, ABC 936, 26 Feb 2014 Australia Radio, 8 May 2014 OECD Report, ABC 936, February 2014 Youth unemployment, ABC 936, March 2014 Youth unemployment and underemployment, The ageing population and youth ABC Northern Tasmania, 13 May 2014 opportunities, ABC 936, February 2014 Y Your Vote Counts, ABC 936, 13 March 2014 Tassie youth disillusioned by formal politics, Budget no help to young people, TYF ‘Y Your Vote Counts’ Forum promotion, The Examiner online, May 15 2014 ABC 936, February 2014 The Examiner, March 14 2014 Five minutes with...Joanna Siejka, PM defends tough youth welfare measures in Y Your Vote Counts, Edge Radio, Tasmania, The World Today, 22 May 2014 12 February 2014 Homelessness Australia, 25 March 2014 Billions in budget cuts may ‘destroy’ social Lowering the voting age, ABC 936, Premier-elect opens slimmer Liberal Cabinet, The Mercury, 31 March 2014 safety net, ACOSS warns, ABC news, 19 February 2014 May 23 2014 First time voters prepare to have their say, National Youth Week promotion, ABC 936, April 2014 Billions in budget cuts may ‘destroy’ social The Examiner, 19 February 2014 safety net, ABC News Online, 23 May 2014 Parties Pledge to pursue anti-bullying laws Youth gear up to make an impact, The Examiner, 2 April 2014 PM comments on young people in Tasmania after March 15 Poll, The Mercury online, should move for employment, The Mercury, 21 February 2014 National Youth Week promotion, Edge Radio, May 24 2014 8 April 2014 McKim cops an earful, The Mercury, Abbott’s remarks on youth attacked, 22 February 2014 Youth Homelessness Matters Day, National The Examiner online, May 24 2014 Media, 9 April 2014 A day in the life of Nick McKim, The Mercury, Friday Forum, ABC 936, 25 May 2014 22 February 2014 Youth Homelessness Matters Day, The Examiner, 10 April 2014 Job-shy Yoof reluctant to leave their comfort Youth Jobs Crisis: Push for Young People to be zone, The Examiner, 29 May 2014 given a go, The Examiner, 24 Feb 2014 Launch of New Youth Consultation Resources, School Nurses to return under Libs, Local Government Association of Tasmania, The Examiner online, 26 Feb 2014 11 April 2014

YNOT annual report 2013/14 17 YNOT Youth Affairs Policy Platform

Finally, after many months of research, consultation and drafting, YNOT has a Policy Platform Youth Affairs Policy Platform! Development The Youth Network of Tasmania’s Youth Affairs Policy Platform was developed to 150 Emails outline YNOT’s views and opinions on key issues affecting the interests of young people, and the 36 Survey responses youth sector, in Tasmania. The two year process to develop the YNOT Youth Affairs Policy 29 Phone consultations Platform included: 26 Policy platforms A forum to consult with young people about the issues they felt should be included; The completed YNOT Youth Affairs Policy Platform and updated accordingly. • Consulting with youth sector workers and consists of 26 individual policy platforms, each organisations about specific issues affecting YNOT would like to acknowledge the young focusing on a specific issue or cohort, combined young people; people, youth sector workers and organisations in one document, to guide and inform the work • Research regarding the impact of issues who assisted in the development of the YNOT of YNOT. It is also hoped that other organisations Youth Affairs Policy Platform and thank them for and best practice to inform the policy will find the platform useful in their work with their contributions and ideas. development; young people. The YNOT Youth Affairs Policy Platform is now • Analysis of the content and structure The YNOT Youth Affairs Policy Platform is a living of policy platforms guiding other states; and available on the website: www.ynot.org.au/ document based on research, consultation policy-and-publications • Surveys and submission feedback from and best practice. In order to best reflect the young people and the youth sector before a changing needs of young people and the youth Rebekka Gale draft was finalised. sector it will be reviewed on a biannual basis YNOT Policy and Research Officer Youth Ethics Framework for Tasmania in 2013-14

The Youth Ethics Framework in the form of surveys and interviews for Tasmania was launched in that many youth sector workers support the framework but are unsure of how to December 2012 in Hobart. implement and use it in their daily work. YNOT received 57 survey responses and of these 63% YNOT have now been conducting research were YNOT members. into potential training options which would promote the use of the Youth Ethics Of these, 73% had heard of the Framework, Framework throughout Tasmania. As a 90% believe it is relevant to their work and 79% result of this research a training plan is being wanted to know more about it. YNOT has been Rebekka Gale, YNOT Policy and Research Officer developed. working to encourage youth sector workers and policy makers to use the Youth Ethics YNOT have been consulting with organisations The Youth Ethics Framework for Tasmania was Framework for Tasmania to inform their work and individuals regarding the requirements devised by a group of sector representatives, with, or on behalf of, young people. This is still of a training package and have developed a led by YNOT, from all across Tasmania and who a priority for YNOT, however it has now been communication and implementation plan for a represent various parts of the youth sector. paired with the task of developing a training training package for the Youth Ethics Framework The framework aims to support the role of package to accompany the Youth Ethics for Tasmania within the future. Stay tuned! workers in meeting the needs of young people Framework for Tasmania to better inform and in Tasmania. Since the launch it has been support the Tasmanian youth sector in using Rebecca Gale indicated through feedback and consultation the framework. YNOT Policy and Research Officer

18 YNOT annual report 2013/14 YNOT AGM and Sector Forum

During November 2013 YNOT held its annual AGM and Sector Forum in Launceston. It was pleasing to have many YNOT members and representatives from the wider youth sector workforce able to attend the annual AGM and Sector Forum this year, and to be involved in welcoming new YNOT Board members Griffin Blizzard, Matt Hill and Zoë Jay.

This year YNOT was fortunate to have YNOT Chair, Matt Durose with YNOT member Jill Chisolm Aaron Garth, Director of Operations, Ultimate Youth Worker, run a workshop for participants. Aaron shared his knowledge of and experiences in the youth sector and spoke about the importance of self care in the profession. Self care as a concept was explored in depth, and linked to the Youth Ethics Framework for Tasmania. The Australian Youth Affairs Coalition (AYAC) Executive Director, Gabi Rosenstreich, also spoke about the new national definition of youth work and the work being done by other peak bodies around Australia, in addition to AYAC’s priorities.

L-R AYAC Executive Director, Gabi Rosenstreich, Commissioner for Children, Elizabeth Daly, and YNOT Board member, Griffin Blizzard

YNOT annual report 2013/14 19 TYF Policy and Project Officer’s Report

Young people have continued to past year we have had ‘Should I Stay or demonstrate over the past year Should I Go’ and ‘Y Your Vote Counts’ which generated a lot of discussion and ideas. that they want their voice heard We have developed surveys to run in by key decision makers. At a time conjunction with the Forums so that more when there is a lot of discussion young people get to have their say. We have also created a new way of about the vast range of issues reporting on the Forums and surveys to that affect young people, young make it easier to communicate the key people have been discussing findings to young people and key decision makers. These reports have received some Tegan Pearce, TYF Policy and Project Officer what can be done and how we great feedback from young people, and can move forward. key decision makers are continuing to refer to the reports months after they have been Once again, TYF has had great support from the YNOT Board and staff who continue to This year, TYF has benefited from an released. ensure that young people can get involved increasing amount of young people who have This year we have been fortunate enough to with TYF and that their ideas are passed on been keen to get involved and share their have a number of young people volunteer to key decision makers. TYF is very grateful ideas. I would like to thank all of the young with TYF through internships, placements for this ongoing commitment to support people who have contributed their ideas over and other volunteer opportunities. These young people in Tasmania. the past year through consultations, surveys young people help to support the work that and in particular, the TYF Forums. TYF does at events, at forums and behind Thanks to everyone who have made it such a great year for TYF! The TYF Forums are continuing to grow the scenes. All of the hard work that they in size and we are constantly working to have put in over the past year has been Tegan Pearce make them bigger and better. Over the greatly appreciated. TYF Policy and Project Officer Engaging young people 8 young people completed placements with YNOT 4 events and launches 2 TYF Statewide Forums 245 young people attended TYF Forums 450 young people completed surveys 48 areas of Tasmania were represented at TYF Statewide Forums

20 YNOT annual report 2013/14 All About TYF

The Tasmanian Youth Forum Once the Forums are finished, (TYF) provides young people with a communiqué is written and the opportunity to get involved distributed to people that can and have a say on topical issues act upon the ideas of the young that affect them and their people, including politicians and communities. Held twice a year, youth workers. the Forums cover a diverse TYF is a fantastic experience for any range of topics with past topics young person; it provides them with a including health and wellbeing, forum in which they can engage with climate change, transport, and other young people who share a passion for their community, and their futures. study and stress. Young people I was a discussion facilitator at the latest Brett Maryniak come to the Forums knowing that Forum and the enthusiasm, and ideas, their opinions and ideas will be that came from the young people, was indicative of their appreciation for having valued, and that they are actively the opportunity to express how they felt contributing to their community. about issues that were relevant to them. Brett Maryniak TYF Volunteer

TYF Members and Volunteers

TYF has received lots of support over 2013-14 from young volunteers across Tasmania.

We would like to acknowledge our volunteers who have worked hard to make sure the voice of young people is heard by key decision makers. These TYF volunteers are: Alice Clarke, Amelia Anderson, Brett Maryniak, Briar Walker, Caitlin Frost, Chelsea Griggs, Chris Edwards, Codie Graham, Dakoda Leary, Danis Chong, Danni Murfet, Dean Wyman, Dylan Jarvis, Farah Ashikin, Georgie Baines, Griffin Blizzard, Hani Provan, Holly Shephard, Jacinta Schweimann, Juliah Fraser, Kate Lynch, Kimberley Scanlan, Laura Kay, Lisa L-R TYF Members Metika Claxton, Briar Walker and Kate Lynch Clarke, Lydia Gorniak, Megan Lennon, Metika Claxton, Naomi Marsh, Naomi Searle, Natasha Harback, Rebekka Gale, Rob Hortle, Suzzane Clarke, Tait Fraser, Taylor Mart, Tom Bain, Tom Marshall, Zac Lockhart, Zeinab Eldayar, and Zoë Jay.

YNOT annual report 2013/14 21 Working with TYF

“As a young person, I was very excited to “My internship for Term 3,2013 is at the “I myself am interested in youth work, hair be able to attend one of the TYF Forums Youth Network of Tasmania, or YNOT. I have and beauty and owning my own business. this year. At the Forum I was able to work had supportive mentors in my previous Big Picture has helped me to get a better directly with young people in a discussion placements but I have never had such understanding of what goals I need to set group as a facilitator and found their encouraging mentors than I have at YNOT. myself as a learner if I’m planning to make enthusiasm and willingness to engage was The environment is calm, welcoming and one of these my career in the near future. remarkable. Given that young people are supportive. I do spend most of my day at Being able to set up an internship (work often excluded from conversations about a computer, but the day is broken up by placement) in an area of which I’m interested their future I found that their appreciation discussing topics with Rebekka, Tegan and in, is allowing me to get a feel of what it to YNOT for allowing them to participate Jo. During a typical day I have done a range may be like if someday this does become and contribute was almost tangible. of different tasks and duties. I have not had my career. a moment where I am left with nothing to do. The past six months since I’ve been I’m excited to continue my placement next I’m currently still at YNOT – Youth Network volunteering at the Youth Network have term; this is my first placement that of Tasmania...It has really helped me get a gone by very quickly. It has proven to be a I have really enjoyed over my time in the Big better understanding of what it is like to fantastic place to work. The team, is hard Picture Program.” be out in the workforce. Being able to go working, passionate, and determined in their out on an internship gives you a sense of advocacy. I congratulate them on everything Kate Lynch independence; I’m so grateful for being able they have achieved in the past year, and Big Picture Intern and TYF Volunteer to do this, and especially being at YNOT for thank them wholeheartedly for presenting my first ever internship. The people here are me with the opportunity to gain experience, so lovely and I enjoy every moment of it.” skills and more importantly, the seamless nature by which they let me assimilate into Lydia Gorniak their staff.” Big Picture Intern and TYF Volunteer

Brett Maryniak TYF Volunteer

22 YNOT annual report 2013/14 TYF ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’ Statewide Forum

The TYF ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’ Forum took place on October 22, 2013 at the Door of Hope in Launceston. This forum gave young people the opportunity to share their ideas and thoughts about the future of Tasmania by discussing what they thought about living in Tasmania and whether they had thought about leaving Tasmania, and why. Participants at the TYF ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’ Forum Over 150 young people from all around the State attended on the day. In addition to made suggestions relating to more the forum, an online survey was available shopping centres, increased training and to ensure that young people who could not job opportunities and having more varied attend the forum could still have their say. university courses available in the State. The day began with a positioning activity Each group was asked to present one main where participants could indicate whether idea to the other participants then everyone they wanted to stay in Tasmania or leave. voted on which idea they would most like The majority of young people indicated that to see happen. The ideas with the highest they are considering leaving Tasmania but votes included having sister cities in other that they also want to return someday. parts of the world to promote Tasmania, education courses available closer to home, Participants then had the opportunity to and increased support for young people to form small working groups to brainstorm continue studying in their hometown. the positive and negative points about Tasmania. Participants also identified the Rick Marton of Coyote Special Events biggest factors impacting their decision was a guest speaker and spoke about his TYF Volunteer, Dean Wyman to stay or go and had the opportunity to experience as a young social entrepreneur suggest what changes would encourage in Tasmania and encouraged young people them to want to stay in Tasmania or want to create opportunities for themselves to return in the future. within Tasmania. YNOT and TYF would like to thank Communities, Sport and Recreation Ten discussion tables were set up and Tasmania in the Department of Premier participants could choose which topic and Cabinet (formerly the Community to work on to discuss their vision for the Development Division) and Launceston City future of Tasmania in relation to that topic. Council who made the Forum possible. Participants came up with several ideas related to their topic and shared what Rebekka Gale it meant for them. Many young people YNOT Policy and Research Officer

Forum poster

YNOT annual report 2013/14 23 TYF ‘Y Your Vote Counts’ Statewide Forum The TYF ‘Y Your Vote Counts’ Forum was held on 18 February 2014 and gave young people the opportunity to quiz candidates and enrol to vote in the lead up to the Tasmanian State Election.

The event aimed to explain why each vote counts in an election and how the Y Your Vote Counts poster electoral system works. We had candidates The whole event ran for about two hours. from Labor, the Liberals and the Greens The event was aimed more at people aged attend so that we could ask questions over 16, as they will be voting in the near about issues important to us. Adam future, but anyone aged 12 to 25 years was Pulford, who was the 2013 Australian Youth welcome to attend. An online survey was Representative to the United Nations, was run in the lead up to the Forum so that any the guest speaker who talked about the young person in Tasmania could have a say making your vote count and being informed on what issues they were most concerned when voting. Representatives from the about in the lead up to the election. In Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) March, a communiqué was released that also attended so we could enrol to vote or gave a summary of the questions and update our details if we needed to. The AEC answers from the Forum and what people also worked with TYF prior to the Forum had said in the survey. This was sent to to promote the importance of enrolling to young people at the forum, decision makers vote and giving young people the chance and other workers in the community sector. to do so. All in all, it was a good event. The hard At the Forum, Ben Waterworth from Edge work and preparation that goes into an Radio, helped run the Q and A panel event like this is phenomenal and should with the candidates. It was my role to get be recognised more. The facilitators, hosts, questions that audience members had volunteers and special guests deserve great written on a piece of paper to him. From recognition for their great effort. Thank you there, Ben read out the questions and to Alderman Sharon Carnes, Elise Archer candidates answered them. Questions MP and Nick McKim MP who sat on were asked about a variety of issues our Q and A panel. Also thank you to including education, volunteering, housing, Communities, Sport and Recreation Adam Pulford, Australian Youth Representative environment and transport. Tasmania in the Department of Premier to the UN for 2013, talking to participants at the and Cabinet (formerly the Community Forum Development Division) and Hobart City Council for supporting the forum. Tait Fraser TYF Member

24 YNOT annual report 2013/14 National Youth Week in Tasmania

National Youth Week (NYW) There were a large number of NYW is the largest celebration of activities that happened across Tasmania including the North West Regional Expo young people aged 12 to 25 hosted by the North West Action for in Australia. The theme for Youth (NWAY) and the ‘Eyes Up, Eric!’ Youth NYW 2014 was ‘Our Voice. Our Road Safety Launch hosted by the Northern Youth Coordinating Committee (NYCC). Impact.’ and the event ran from You can read more about these events on 10 April to 19 April. NYW gives pages 12 and 13. young people the chance to TYF also supported other NYW events participate in creating events, such as Light Up the Lane, which showcased movies and digital art from express their ideas, celebrate young people on the sides of buildings, their achievements, and attend and Alive on the Green. different entertainment and TYF member, Dakoda Leary, shares his events throughout the week. experience of being involved with Alive on the Green: Young people are provided with The Glenorchy Youth Task Force (GYTF) held opportunities to help with the organisation NYW event Light Up the Lane poster of NYW. This year, Ebony Abblitt was the the Alive on the Green for our NYW event Tasmanian Youth Representative on the this year. This event is held on the Claremont National Planning Group for NYW and Village Green and we invite schools from the attended NYW events and promoted NYW area to attend. We also invite many different through the media. Zoë Jay was a youth services to come along each year and as representative on the judging panel for always, they were all happy to attend. Some NYW grant applications. of the services that came along included Pulse Youth Heath Centre, Colony 47, Club TYF was heavily involved with NYW this Create and Anglicare. There were some sports year with Youth Homelessness Matters Day activities and other games put on by the event (YHMD). TYF ran a social media and services. There were some free driving lessons advocacy workshop for young people who to be won and some great artwork created wanted to be ambassadors for YHMD which by young people with a disability. As always, you can read about on page 24. TYF was we had some fantastic music courtesy of also involved with launching the Statewide Claremont College. We even had a snake pit Youth Collaborative (SYC) Group’s Top Ten this year! All in all it was a huge success and Tips: A Guide for Consultation for Young People we at the GYTF will all be looking forward to which you can read more about on page 11. hosting the event again next year. Dakoda Leary TYF Member

YNOT annual report 2013/14 25 Youth Homelessness Matters Day 2014

One of the many tweets from the YHMD online campaign

This year the campaign achieved an online reach of nearly 500,000 people on social media with well known Australians such as Father Bob and Jessica Watson participating in the campaign.

Zac Lockhart, TYF Volunteer To align with the focus of the YHMD campaign, YNOT ran a social media and Youth Homelessness Matters Day advocacy workshop for young people to (YHMD) is a national awareness become youth ambassadors for YHMD. The workshop helped ambassadors to develop campaign run during National their skills in using social media as an Youth Week by the peak for advocacy tool which they put into practice youth homelessness in Australia, in the lead up to YHMD 2014. It also covered information about youth homelessness and the National Youth Coalition how it is possible to break down stereotypes for Housing (NYCH). YNOT is and barriers for young people experiencing the Tasmanian representative homelessness. and current Chair for NYCH. You Zac shares his experience of being a YHMD Meme created by youth ambassadors for the can read more about NYCH and Youth Ambassador: YHMD campaign YNOT’s involvement on page 14. In April 2014 I was a Youth Homelessness Matters Day (YHMD) Ambassador, I was YHMD 2014 built upon the 2013 campaign provided training in the use of promoting such by having an increased focus on an causes on social media as well as statistics online campaign to raise awareness and and relevant information about Youth support for young people experiencing Homelessness. I was also interviewed for a homelessness. newspaper article with The Examiner and overall the experience was awesome! The YHMD campaign encourages people to ‘like, share and act’ on social media. YHMD is a chance to get out there in the Hundreds of young people, organisations community and reduce the stigma around and politicians showed their support for youth homelessness. I would encourage YHMD by becoming ambassadors and liking anyone willing to do so to become a YHMD and sharing tweets and posts on social Ambassador in 2015, it’s an amazing media to generate awareness and challenge opportunity and learning experience! stereotypes. People were also challenged Zac Lockhart to ‘act’ which could range from getting YHMD Youth Ambassador involved with the campaign and talking to people about it, to hosting an event for YHMD in their local community.

26 YNOT annual report 2013/14 Other opportunities with TYF

Young people are encouraged to get involved through TYF and take on other opportunities throughout the year with the support of the TYF Policy and Project Officer.

TYF encourages young people to be involved with a variety of consultations to ensure that the voice of young people is heard by key decision makers. Over the past year these consultations have included discussions with the Australian Youth Affairs Coalition, the YNOT Budget Submission Youth sector representatives and TYF members meeting with Australian Youth Representative to the to the State Government and the Mission UN, Laura John Australia Annual Youth Survey. The 2014 Australian Representative to the TYF provides young people with the United Nations, Laura John, visited Tasmania opportunity to take on leadership roles. TYF supports young people in June to find out what issues young This year we had young people speak at people are most concerned about. YNOT to be advocates for issues events, such as the launch of the Statewide and TYF hosted Laura for part of her time Youth Collaborative group’s Top Ten Tips on they are passionate about in the State which included a consultation Counsultation: A Guide for young people and with young people and the youth sector. by sharing their ideas in International Women’s Day events. Zoë Jay the media. This year, young TYF is also represented on a number of also represented TYF on the judging panels advisory groups including the Department for the Southern Cross Young Achiever people have shared their of State Growth Student Transport User’s Awards for 2014 and the National Youth thoughts and ideas about Group and the Colony 47 Education and Week 2014 Grants Panel. TYF also supports Training Advisory Board, to ensure that young people to develop their skills and employment, homelessness young people are represented in these become work ready by participating in and education with the discussions. TYF was also represented at the internships and work placements at YNOT . Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drugs Counci media to ensure that the Young people are also acknowledged Conference on a panel session and has been voice of young people through TYF for their outstanding involved this year with the redevelopment contributions. TYF would like to is included in these of the Multicultural Youth Advisory Network congratulate Laura Kay for winning the Tasmania by providing input to developing discussions. Youth and Angus Downie Print Journalism consultations with young people. Human Rights Awards for 2013 and being TYF also supports the work that youth-led a finalist in the Southern Cross Young Young people can also interact with TYF organisations do and encourages young Achiever Awards for 2014, and Ebony Abblitt on social media through the TYF facebook people to become involved with these for being the Tasmanian National Youth page, twitter and email lists. This enables organisations and their projects. This Week Representative for 2014. them to share their ideas or find out about includes UN Youth Tasmania, Oaktree, Youth other opportunities that they can take on. Parliament and VGen.

YNOT annual report 2013/14 27 Suite 4a, Mayfair Plaza 236 Sandy Bay Road Sandy Bay 7005 Tasmania p 03 6223 5511 f 03 6223 2255 [email protected] www.ynot.org.au

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