This week, the Hunter’s young people voiced their opinions about the region’s future as they participated in the youth component of RDA Hunter’s new engagement project, Viewpoint.

Viewpoint gives Hunter young people, defined by the Foundation for Young Australians as being aged between 15 and 29 years, the opportunity to share their vision for the future, their thoughts on ideal careers and any barriers they see to building their futures in the Hunter region, during a series of discussions arranged by RDA Hunter.

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Facilitated by FYA’s social enterprise, YLab in partnership with University of Newcastle’s all indigenous-staffed unit, Wollotuka, RDA Hunter ran three workshops – one for school students aged 15 – 17, one for higher education students and one for young professionals. The sessions are helping inform the development of a set of regionally-representative priorities that, in line with the RDA national charter, will be communicated to all levels of government to influence decision-making.

“We are very excited to give the Hunter’s young people a voice in their own futures,” said RDA Hunter’s Director of Regional Development and Executive Officer Mr Trevor John.

“Our role is to engage widely with Hunter business, industry and the community and report to the Australian government on issues affecting our region. Young people have an important role in the growth and development of our region and we are pleased to offer them a platform to share their opinions.” Mr John continued.

The workshops are taking place at Novotel Newcastle Beach on Wednesday 20th and Thursday 21st November. Each workshop includes up to 20 participants.

“The aim of the workshops is to invite a range of young people from a range of locations, backgrounds and industries to give us their opinions. We want them to speak freely and be honest about what they’re hoping the future holds, whether they think they can make it happen in the Hunter, and if not, why not,” said Director, Special Projects, Kate O’Mara.