Youth Council

The Blackall-Tambo Regional Youth Council (BTYC) provides the local young people in the region with an opportunity to have their voices heard and contribute to decisions that shape the future of our communities. 

Established by the Blackall-Tambo Regional Council in 2025, the Youth Council is a school-based leadership group that represents the voice of young people aged 10-17 years who live, work, study or socialise within the Blackall-Tambo region. The formation of the Youth Council aims to encourage participation in local government, the development of leadership skills, and to provide advice to Council regarding initiatives that benefit young people across the region. 

Why was the Youth Council Established?

The Youth Council was established to ensure young people have a formal pathway to share their ideas, aspirations and feedback with Blackall-Tambo Regional Council. It also provides valuable opportunities for young people to build leadership, governance, and communication skills while actively contributing to the future of their local region. 

Membership & Elections

The Youth Council consists of up to 12 (twelve) members drawn from schools across the Blackall-Tambo Region, including Blackall State School, St Joseph's Primary School, Tambo State School. Members are appointed for a two-year term, and chosen by their school-based cohort to be representatives. 

Leadership Positions

Youth Council members elect a Youth Mayor and Youth Secretary at their first formal meeting, on a two-year cycle. These leadership positions are determined through nomination and ballot process, giving young people first-hand experience in democratic processes and local government leadership.

Meetings

Formal Youth Council meetings are held every two months during the school term, rotating between Blackall and Tambo Council Chambers. Additional project meetings may be held as required to progress initiatives and community projects. Members of Blackall-Tambo Regional Council attend the meetings and provide guidance throughout the year. 

What does the Youth Council Do?

The Youth Council works with Council to:

  • Represent and advocate for the views of local young people
  • Provide input into youth engagement, sport and recreation planning
  • Assist with youth-focused projects and initiatives
  • Promote leadership development and community participation
  • Act as a consultative group on matters affecting young people in the region. 

Youth Council Projects

The Youth Council has contributed to a range of youth initiatives and community improvement projects, including:

  • advocacy for the development of youth spaces and opportunities,
  • water fountains in recreational zones to reduce reliance on processed drinks,
  • support for 'Bark Park', a new dog park area now in Blackall.

Looking for more information? Please read our Terms of Reference(PDF, 316KB) for the Blackall-Tambo Regional Youth Council or contact our offices (07) 4621 6600

Contact Council

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