Local representation in inaugural
national youth parliament
The inaugural National Youth Parliament took place at Parliament House in Canberra during August and local Narara Valley High School student, Lewis Pankhurst, represented the federal seat of Robertson. Lewis got to take part in hands-on learning experiences, including simulated parliamentary debates, workshops with political leaders, and real-world policy challenges.
Lewis Pankhurst and Dr Gordon Reid MP in Parliament House Canberra.
26 August 2026
THE National Youth Parliament aims to equip 16-17-year-olds with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to actively participate in Australia's democratic and parliamentary system.
Federal Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid said, “The Speaker of the House of Representatives, The Hon Milton Dick MP, made it a priority to establish a regular youth parliament program to give young Australians an opportunity to learn about civics and our Parliamentary system.
“The inaugural program was a huge success with young Australians convening in Canberra during August to take part in a range of learning modules.
“I was able to meet our own local representative for Robertson, Mr Lewis Pankhurst, who delivered his powerful adjournment debate speech on mental health services, particularly in our education system.
“Lewis spoke passionately about his area of interest and made compelling arguments for why greater emphasis needed to be applied in relation to the provision of mental health services in the education system, and how we support mental health workers.
“It was reassuring seeing so many engaged young Australians taking part in this brilliant program. And I look forward to seeing the program roll out successfully again next time."
Youth Members travelled to Canberra for a five-day (four-night) program held across the Australian Parliament House and the Museum of Australian Democracy, Old Parliament House. All costs associated with the program including travel and accommodation were covered by the program. The Department of the House of Representatives worked with experienced Youth Parliament program provider, Y Australia to deliver the program. The Y has been running Youth Parliament programs for over four decades.
“I strongly encourage interested 16-17-year-olds on the Central Coast to learn more about the National Youth Parliament and to register their interest, or alternatively, to contact my office for more information,” Dr Reid said.
To learn more about the National Youth Parliament, visit here.
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