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.
Greater Dandenong Youth Leadership Noticeboard
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.
Upcoming Opportunities
City of Greater Dandenong's Connect and Collaborate: Youth Leadership Collective
Join us for an inspiring networking event designed for young people, by young people, offering an opportunity to make meaningful connections in a supportive and engaging space. This event welcomes young people aged 15-25 who want to meet like‑minded peers, emerging leaders, community changemakers, students, graduates and young professionals starting out or seeking their first job. Participants can grow their network, share ideas, collaborate with others and feel inspired by motivated young people, while learning from peers passionate about leadership, social change and making a positive impact.
Date: Wednesday 8 April 2026
Time: 6pm-8pm
Location: Dandenong Civic Centre, Council Chambers
Cost: $5
City of Greater Dandenong's Young Leaders Program
The Young Leaders program is for young people aged 16–25 who live, work or study in the City of Greater Dandenong and offers the chance to collaborate with like‑minded peers, build leadership, communication and teamwork skills, and make a positive impact through planning and delivering community projects. Participants become a voice for local young people, gain a deeper understanding of Local Government through interactions with the Mayor and Councillors, and develop hands‑on project management experience while contributing to the growth and wellbeing of their community. Applications close Tuesday 14 April.
Date: Tuesdays from May to September
Time: 4.30pm-6.30pm
Location: 39 Clow Street, Dandenong
Cost: Free
City of Greater Dandenong's Holiday Activities Committee
The Holiday Activities Committee (HAC) is a four‑week introductory leadership program that gives young people aged 12-16 the chance to co‑design fun, creative, engaging and healthy school holiday activities while developing leadership and facilitation skills. Throughout the program, participants build confidence, form new friendships and step into the role of Peer Leader during the Greater Dandenong holiday activities, attending the program for free.
Date: Tuesdays for four weeks during each school term.
Time: 4.30pm-6.30pm
Location: 39 Clow Street, Dandenong
Cost: Free
Australian Youth Affairs Opportunities
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.
Check out their website for more information or to sign up.
Raise Your Voice
This initiative invites young Australians aged 12 to 26 to share their lived experiences and opinions on issues that matter most to them, including climate change, mental health, education, employment and justice, through original written submissions featured on AYAC’s national youth blog. Selected contributors receive a $75 honorarium, and their work is showcased across AYAC’s blog, social media and newsletters, helping to amplify diverse youth voices and champion authentic storytelling. The program empowers young people to influence conversations that shape their futures while retaining ownership of their work, creating a platform where their perspectives are valued, respected and heard.
UN Youth Australia Volunteer Facilitator
The UN Youth Australia Facilitator program offers young people the chance to inspire and empower high‑school students through peer‑to‑peer education on global issues. Facilitators lead workshops, Model UN debates and crisis simulations that immerse students in diplomacy, global affairs and the mission of the United Nations. Volunteers aged 17-25 can take on a variety of roles, gain hands‑on experience in teaching and event delivery, and help shape the next generation of globally‑minded leaders. Training is offered across all states and territories, with opportunities to run programs locally, nationally and even internationally.
YLab Opportunities
YLab offers young people the chance to design a better world by getting involved in meaningful, impact‑driven opportunities, from workshop participation to ongoing roles that shape systems and services across Australia. Whether you're joining the Youth Advisory Panel to influence nationwide change or contributing your insights on sex, dating and relationships through The Line campaign, YLab gives you the platform to spark real conversations and drive forward‑thinking ideas.
headspace Dandenong Youth Reference Group
For young people aged 16 to 25 who have lived experience with mental health and are passionate about supporting youth wellbeing. Express your interest for a volunteer position with the headspace Dandenong Youth Advisory Group.
Date: Fortnightly on Wednesdays
Time: 5pm-6pm
Location: Dandenong Hub, Level 2, 26 McCrae Street , Dandenong
Cost: Free
VicSRC Intro to Student Voice Short Course
VicSRC has developed a short course to help school‑aged students learn how to use their voice to create positive change within their school community. It’s designed for students who are curious about student voice, interested in taking part in decision‑making at their school, and passionate about making the school environment better for everyone.
