Applications are now open for the 31st year of the Y WA's Youth Parliament, inviting young people aged 15-25 from across Western Australia to one of the state's leading youth leadership and civic engagement programs.

A four-month program that replicates many State Parliament processes, WA Youth Parliament aims to build leadership and collaboration skills, while giving young people a glimpse into how laws are made.

Running since 1995 and delivered by Y WA, participants each represent an electorate and develop and debate bills. They also take part in a residential camp, in-person training days and weekly online meetings.

At the program's completion, bills are presented to key State Government figures - including the Governor, Premier and leader of the Opposition.

It's one way for young people to get their opinions and issues that matter to them in front of lawmakers, and familiarise themselves with the political system.

Last year's 59 participants tackled issues including artificial intelligence, recycling and electoral reform.

Run by the Y WA, the non-partisan Youth Parliament program empowers young people to have a voice in Parliament and their local communities, providing a unique opportunity to engage directly with the democratic process while developing leadership, advocacy and public speaking skills.

Y WA is this year encouraging more First Nations participation, after the recent success of participants.

In 2024 Wyndham's Tremane Baxter-Edwards, then 17, represented the Kalgoorlie electorate in the program.

As the sole Indigenous candidate, Mr Baxter-Edwards said being selected was an honour that meant a lot to him.

"It made me feel so proud because it's almost as if I'm breaking down a stigma that Aboriginal people aren't interested in the political and legal system, which is not true," he said.

Throughout the program, young people are encouraged to draw on their lived experience, passions and ideas, ensuring youth perspectives are heard by policymakers and community leaders.

Y WA chief executive Tim McDonald said the program played a vital role highlighting the value of youth voices in shaping public policy.

"The Y WA Youth Parliament empowers young people to speak up on issues that matter to them while building leadership, confidence and a strong understanding of civics and democracy," Dr McDonald said.

"Young West Australians have powerful ideas and perspectives. This program creates a space for them to learn, connect and lead — and to be taken seriously in decision-making processes."

Representation from all 59 WA electoral districts is sought, with the program committed to inclusivity, welcoming applications from young people of all genders, abilities, cultures, religions and sexual orientations.

The program culminates in July 2026, when youth members attend Parliament House and participate in a formal Parliamentary debate in the chamber.

Over the past three decades, Youth Parliament has demonstrated its impact, with several youth-developed bills later reflected in state legislation.

Previous Youth Parliament bills addressed issues including coercive control, environmental sustainability, housing affordability, health access, education, and youth justice... often years before similar reforms were introduced by government.

"When we look at legislation that has since been adopted by state governments, it's clear that young people are often ahead of the curve," Dr McDonald said.

"This is why it's so important that we continue to listen to youth voices and invest in programs like the Y WA's Youth Parliament."

The Y WA Youth Parliament is delivered by a dedicated team of young people, including volunteers and former participants, with support from the Department of Communities.

Applications for the 2026 Y WA Youth Parliament close February 19. More information is available online.