National Youth Parliament 2026
What happens when 150 young Australians are given the opportunity to experience democracy from inside Parliament?
For five days in August 2026, 150 young people from across Australia came together in Canberra for the inaugural National Youth Parliament, gaining firsthand experience of parliamentary debate, policymaking and civic participation. With over 40 years of experience in facilitating Youth Parliament programs, the Y was chosen to deliver the program in partnership with the Department of the House of Representatives.
“Over the coming days, you will have the opportunity to develop skills, test your ideas and hopefully; build lasting connections with peers from across our country.”
The Hon. Milton Dick, MP
The week was all about learning through immersion and action. National Youth Parliament gave young people ages 16-17 the opportunity to step into the roles of parliamentarians; debating legislation, engaging and meeting with political leaders and exploring the issues shaping Australia’s future.
Youth Members approach Parliament House
Young people want to be heard taking part in Australia’s democracy
2026 National Youth Parliament opened with a series of experiences designed to connect Youth Members with Australia’s democratic institutions and leaders. During the week, participants unfurled the Australian flag at Parliament House, met with the Governor-General, the Speaker of the House of Representatives and were formally welcomed by the Prime Minister. Each participant had the opportunity to meet with their local Members of Parliament and discuss local issues and interests.
“I firmly believe that the best ideas come from collaboration…come from people engaging and talking it through and getting it right, and learning off each other as well.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
They also attended the ‘Pathways to Parliament’ panel sessions and heard from a diverse range of MPs, professionals and community leaders who began their own careers as young changemakers.
The panels provided insight into how young people can turn their ideas into meaningful action, and the many career pathways that can come from a passion for civics and positive social change.
From learning about Parliament to taking part
A central part of National Youth Parliament was giving young people the opportunity to experience the legislative process themselves.
Youth Members sat in the historic chambers at the Museum of Australian Democracy to debate two pieces of proposed legislation:
- Artificial Intelligence (Transparency, Safety and Education) Bill 2026, which passed with 99 Ayes and 54 Noes.
- Intergenerational Fairness Commissioner Bill 2026, which passed with 90 Ayes and 58 Noes.
Through the debates, Youth Members experienced the realities of parliamentary decision-making, including developing arguments, listening to opposing perspectives, negotiating and finding areas of compromise.
“My Favourite moment so far has been being able to debate in the chamber – we don’t often get a chance to see look behind the scenes…we were able to get a bit more insight into what actually happens through support staff and through our own Members.”
Karima M. Youth Member for Moreton
The experience demonstrated that civic education is most powerful when young people have the opportunity to put their learning into practice.
Youth Minister for Communications and Youth Member for Newcastle, Pip A. interviewed on 7 News.
Making space for young people’s voices
The week was also an opportunity for Youth Members to speak about the issues affecting their communities.
During adjournment debates, participants spoke passionately about a broad range of social issues, including those affecting their own electorates and communities. Their contributions reflected the diversity of experiences and perspectives young Australians bring to conversations about Australia’s future.
“I think a highlight here has just been to be able to represent my community, I know that where I live we don’t have the best confidence in government, so to actually be able to go here and see how government works and operates; it just fills me with so much more confidence about the future and about Australia too.”
Nathan A.
Youth Member for Spence
For many young people, opportunities to engage directly with decision-makers and democratic institutions can be difficult to access. National Youth Parliament creates a space where young people can develop the confidence, knowledge and skills to participate meaningfully in civic life.