Muswellbrook Shire Council has celebrated a successful first year of its Youth Council, awarding $5,500 in funding to support projects across 10 local schools.
Established in 2026, the Youth Council brings together student representatives from 12 primary and secondary schools, giving young people a platform to raise issues and contribute to local decision-making. Its final gathering for the year was held on Friday 6 November and began with an Extraordinary Council Meeting, where students presented proposals for grants of up to $500.
Proposals included a buddy program to help Year 6 students transition to high school, an accessible stage ramp, a cultural yarning circle, improvements to school gardens and playgrounds, and support for students experiencing financial hardship. Councillors unanimously approved the funding, with nine schools receiving $500 each and Muswellbrook South Public School awarded $1,000 for its proposal to support students facing disadvantage.
Mayor Jeff Drayton praised the students’ confidence and thoughtful proposals.
“I was extremely impressed with the way our young people presented themselves and spoke about what matters to their schools and fellow students,” he said.
“It’s important that we don’t just make decisions for young people, but that we listen to them and give them a genuine opportunity to have their say.”
Youth Council Chair Harpa Cavanagh, from Muswellbrook High School, said the inaugural year had been rewarding.
“It’s been great to see our opinions taken seriously and know that we’re helping shape the community we’ll one day lead,” she said.
Council will build on the program in 2027.
