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 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.
Health Hive
The Health Hive Free Online Course is a short, self‑paced program for young people aged 14-24 that builds confidence and practical skills in public health research, advocacy, and community action. Co‑designed with young people and developed by the University of Sydney, it’s free, beginner‑friendly, globally accessible, and offers a certificate and digital badge on completion.
Foundation for Young Australians
FYA’s Programs Archive brings together a range of free initiatives that help young people build advocacy skills, lead in their communities, support First Nations justice, and access funding to drive real social change. Programs like Media for Advocacy, Young Mayors, Step Up!, Blakollective, Youth Action and Wellbeing Grants, and Seeding Strength Grants offer training, mentorship, and resources to back youth‑led action.
Centre for Multicultural Youth Opportunities
CMY Youth Opportunities offers a range of free programs for young people to build skills, find their voice, and create positive change in their communities. From youth‑led networks, leadership and advocacy groups, and creative projects to mental health, settlement, and cultural programs, these opportunities support multicultural young people connect with others and make an impact.
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards Program
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards is a free leadership program for young people aged 18-30 that helps you build confidence, leadership skills, and strong connections with others your age. Run by Rotary, it’s a fun and hands‑on experience with workshops, team challenges, and guest speakers that support you to step out of your comfort zone, learn about teamwork and leadership, and grow as a person.
Date: 6-11 July 2026
Location: Phillip Island Adventure Resort
Cost: RYLA is no cost to participants. Rotary Club sponsor every participant at RYLA.
