Having received their topics to debate, the group travelled to Hobart to prepare through guided workshops. They were then given the opportunity to present their arguments in a mock debate in parliament.

Youth Parliament participant, Jada-Li Crossey said it was a great experience and that it showed the group the skills required to be involved in politics.

“We were able to go to Government House and visit the House of Representatives everyday and learnt how each section functioned,” she said.  

The mock debate not only assisted students to work on their political prowess in putting forward a point, but also gave the students transferrable life skills.

“It taught us how to listen to other people’s opinions and have a discussion maturely. Everyone was able to show their point of view and not take it personally.”

There were 30 participants from various schools from across the state. 

Youth Parliament is a yearly event students can apply for and participate in.