Claire Clutterham (Sturt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

This week is youth week and the Raise Our Voice in Parliament 2025 campaign, now in its fifth year, is an incredible opportunity to amplify the voices of young Australians aged six to 25 by reading a 90-second speech in parliament. Cameron, 21, from my electorate of Sturt spoke about resilience opportunity in action. In Cameron's words:

I want a future when no young person is left behind. I've experienced times when having a stable home wasn't guaranteed. I faced challenges that no-one should have to face. But I've also seen the strength that comes from community, compassion and opportunity lessons I carry from my mother, a strong independent woman who taught me resilience.

To build a better tomorrow for young Australians, the government must act today. They should invest in affordable housing so no young person sleeps rough, provide accessible timely mental health support, ensure quality education and training programs, prepare us for the jobs of the future, commit to meaningful climate action to protect our planet, and design policies that promote fairness, inclusion and opportunity so all young Australians can thrive. This isn't just about my story; it is about thousands of young Australians who deserve to be heard, respected and empowered to shape our country's direction. We are the next generation of leaders. Let's build a future where every voice counts, where every young person has a chance and where today's action create a tomorrow we all want to see.