Ballarat Youth Advisory Group: Real Voices, Real Impact
They might meet just once a month, but the impact of the Ballarat Youth Advisory Group (YAG) reaches far beyond the walls of a meeting room. Made up of young people from all walks of life, cultures, and interests, the Ballarat YAG is helping shape the future of youth work in the region—one conversation, one event, and one idea at a time.
Backed by the Centre for Multicultural Youth (CMY), the YAG gives young people aged 12–25 the chance to influence programs, raise the issues that matter most, and show that they’re not just participants in their communities—they’re leaders.
Each year, new members are welcomed into the group. In 2025, that includes voices like Puhan, a 24-year-old from China studying social work after completing a degree in broadcasting and hosting. You’ll also find Poppy, 18, who’s on a gap year and passionate about gender equity and justice for Palestine; and Bonnie, 15, whose mixed heritage (Croatian, Seychellois, Scottish, and English) is as rich as her musical talent—she plays drums, guitar, and sings.
The group’s youngest members are just as impressive. Sarah, 14, from Tanzania, balances school, sport, art, and leadership as a Girl Guide and performer. Amalia, 14, brings theatre flair, handmade jewellery, and makeup design into the mix. Miriam, also 14, is into volunteering, badminton, and long sleep-ins. Samara, 13, a proud First Nations and Indian young person, captains her netball team and is part of an Aboriginal girls group. And Mercy, 13, from the Torres Strait Islands, finds joy in singing, the ocean, and time with friends.
Together, they reflect the true diversity of Ballarat—and they’re using their voices to speak up on issues that matter: mental health, inclusive spaces, climate action, safety, and representation.
“Since I joined the Youth Advisory Group I have participated in many fun activities such as the YAG camp, which was a great opportunity for me to meet new people and make new friends. I also was apart of a Youth Cook up which was such a great way for me to meet other young people and get to know them more. Being a part of the Youth Advisory Group has been an incredible experience – I have grown, connected and found my voice.” – Miriam, Ballarat YAG member
YAG doesn’t stop at discussion. Last year, many members helped create Thrive Cast, an award winning youth-led podcast about identity and belonging. Some even received the City of Ballarat Youth Awards, with Mercy and Miriam now serving as 2025 Youth Awards Ambassadors. Members have represented Ballarat youth at the United Nations Youth Consult and helped lead workshops like Democracy in Action with the Victorian Electoral Commission.
“The YAG helps young people to gain confidence, learn new skills, and speak up on issues that are important to them. Cultural diversity in leadership is so important – and our YAG are the future leaders of Australia!” says Briana, Senior Multicultural Youth Worker at CMY.
Coming up next: a Youth Cook Up for Refugee Week, where food, culture, and connection take centre stage.
“We know that, across cultures, many stories, good times and secret family recipes are shared over a stove or fire. We look forward to creating a similar vibe together at the Youth Cook Up.” – Shiree, Team Leader, CMY
If you’re between 12 and 25 and want to be part of something meaningful (and fun), there’s a place for you here. Volunteer opportunities, events, and programs run year-round—and the next YAG intake opens early each year.
Real change starts when young people lead it—and in Ballarat, they already are.