Young people to help shape region’s future
Published on 27 May 2026
Young people across the Fraser Coast will have more opportunities to shape Council decisions under a new Youth Engagement Framework endorsed by Fraser Coast Regional Council.
The Framework will help Council better understand what matters to young people and use those insights to inform future planning.
This includes issues such as education, job opportunities, housing, recreation and broader lifestyle factors that influence whether young people choose to stay and build a future on the Fraser Coast.
Youth spokesperson Cr Sara Diana Faraj said young people should have a stronger voice in decisions that affect their future.
“Young people are the future of our region, and we need to understand what matters to them if we want to create a Fraser Coast where they choose to stay, work and build a life,” Cr Faraj said.
“We want to create more opportunities for young people to share their views and make sure those views help shape Council planning and priorities.
“Listening to young people helps us make better decisions about the future of our region, from employment and education to lifestyle, recreation and community services.”
The Framework was developed following a motion raised by Cr Faraj seeking ways to better understand the priorities and aspirations of young people aged approximately 12 to 24 years.
The Framework proposes several ways to better understand the needs and priorities of young people, including:
- Dedicated youth engagement activities;
- Ongoing feedback through existing Council interactions;
- Research into social and economic trends; and
- Stronger partnerships with organisations working with young people.
Information gathered through the Framework will help shape Council planning, advocacy, and future programs, as well as annual work priorities.
Cr Faraj said the aim was to ensure young people’s feedback leads to practical outcomes.
“This is about turning what we learn into actions that respond to the needs of young people and help create a region where they can thrive,” she said.