Through various consultations including feedback from the 2024 Youth Leadership Forum, young people have highlighted the importance for Greater Dandenong Council and key local youth organisations to prioritise and invest in youth leadership and active citizenship opportunities, particularly among our culturally diverse young people.
Greater Dandenong Youth Services is committed to supporting and promoting youth leadership opportunities in the local community and has worked with young people and youth agencies to develop an action plan.
Young people involved in The Collective will help inform and guide Youth and Family Services in the delivery of the Greater Dandenong Youth Leadership Action Plan. Stay tuned for upcoming leadership opportunities and events on this page and via our social media platforms to come out of this action plan.
Youth Leadership Calendar
Keen to develop your leadership skills? We have put together a variety of upcoming leadership opportunities for you to try - whether you are just starting out or wanting to further develop your skills, there’s something here for everyone.
Download a copy of the full Youth Leadership Calendar or use the links below to learn more about each opportunity.
Term 4 Opportunities
2026 National Youth Parliament
150 motivated young Australians - one from every federal electorate - will be selected for a five-day Youth Parliament in Canberra in August 2026. You don’t need to have any experience - just a desire to represent your community.
Cost: Free - all travel expenses to Canberra paid
Eligibility: Young people who will be aged 16 or 17 in August 2026
Applications close: 21 November 2025
Public Speaking Level 2
Want to upgrade your public speaking skills? Come to this workshop to learn how to influence an audience and receive feedback in real time.
Delivered by Kizzy Okoukoni.
Details to follow. Email Greater Dandenong Youth Services via youthservices@cgd.vic.gov.au to express your interest.
Young Leaders Program 2026
This program provides a unique opportunity for participants to develop leadership skills, and plan and deliver community projects.
Eligibility: People aged 16 - 25 with a connection to the City of Greater Dandenong
Applications open: November 2025
Cost: Free
Check out our webpage for more information and to apply from November 2025.
Youth Brains Trust
Sign up to be member of the Youth Brains Trust to take part in training, consultations, surveys, research projects and leadership opportunities. Through monthly alerts you’ll be updated on opportunities to develop your confidence, skills and advocacy.
Location: Online, anytime
Cost: Free
Volunteer Facilitator Training
Volunteer facilitators engage high school students through peer-to-peer education, exploring global issues.
Eligibility: Young people 16 - 25 who have finished high school
Location: Sign up online
2026 Australian Government Youth Advisory Groups
This is an opportunity for you to work with Commonwealth departments to provide advice on the issues that matter to you.
Eligibility: Young people 12 - 25
Applications close: 26 October 2025
Free Youth Leadership Courses
Access four free leadership programs: Time, Money, Voice and Vote. Programs include videos, virtual activities, and mentorship opportunities.
Location: Online, anytime
Cost: Free
Check out their website for more information or to join their programs.
