Model of Participation

Participation in decision-making is a right of all children and young people, not a privilege. Youth Participation means actively and continuously involving young people in decision-making processes.

Inclusive and meaningful youth participation is fundamental to the design and delivery of services that meet young people’s needs. Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child holds that young people have the right to have a say in all matters that affect them. In Queensland, the Human Rights Act 2019 also guarantees the right of every person to take part in public life without discrimination. Youth participation is about genuinely connecting with young people, supporting them to share their views, amplifying what they’ve told us and making sure their views influence decision-making.

The Model of Participation and the Quick Start Guide have been designed to help you structure your organisation's model of youth participation.