General News
11 March, 2026
Teens focus on future
TWELVE teenagers have been sworn in as the Cairns Youth Council, marking the start of an 18-month term representing young people across the Cairns Local Government Area.
A swearing-in ceremony was held at Cairns Regional Council chambers last week to welcome the 12 newly-elected youth councillors, who will serve from 1 February 2026 to 20 June 2027.
The youth council is part of the national Young Mayors Program pilot, delivered locally through a partnership between Cairns Regional Council and the Foundation for Young Australians (FYA).
The program empowers young people aged 13–17 to engage in civic leadership, contribute to local decision-making and advise Cairns Regional Council on issues that impact their generation.
Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said the youth council was one of council’s most important and valued partnerships.
“The inaugural youth council showed just how valuable youth perspectives are in shaping our future. This new group of councillors will continue that important work, bringing fresh ideas, leadership and lived experience to council discussions,” she said.
“Our young people care deeply about Cairns and this program ensures their voices are heard in a meaningful and lasting way.”
The youth councillors were elected in October 2025 through a democratic process led by young people, with more than 2200 votes cast in schools and community hubs.
Youth councillor Noah Solomon said he joined the youth council to create meaningful change in the community and ensure young voices are heard.
“I’m passionate about taking action, not just talking about what needs to be done,” he said.
Youth councillor Claudia Kurowski, this year’s young citizen of the year, said she looked forward to strengthening young women’s presence in leadership. “I aim to ensure that young people are not merely consulted, but meaningfully represented in the decisions that shape our community,” she said.
Youth councillor Parker Scott said that he was passionate about creating more sporting opportunities for young athletes in our region.
“My goal is to level the playing field between regional and metropolitan youth sport, so every young athlete has equal opportunity to succeed,” he said.
During their term, the youth council will identify priority issues for young people across the region and deliver initiatives using their dedicated project budget.
For more information about the Young Mayors Program, visit: www.bit.ly/4ccFHeE
