Rural Youth Advocacy and Support Initiative

The Youth Affairs Council of Victoria (YACVic) and Victorian Rural Youth Services (VRYS) recently launched their rural Youth Advocacy and Support Initiative, which is funded by the Victorian government, to strengthen the advocacy and support for the Victorian rural youth sector. Their vision is that all young people have access to the services, programs and resources they need, and are not disadvantaged by their rurality. The launch was held on Wednesday 12^th May 2011 at the Rochester & Elmore District health Service.

YACVic is the peak body and leading policy advocate on young people’s issues in Victoria. Their vision is for a Victorian community that provides opportunity, participation, justice and equity for all young people.

VRYS is a network of services concerned with young people’s wellbeing in rural and regional Victoria. They are committed to supporting research, sector training and policy development to promote the strengths of young people in rural communities, and address the disadvantages these young people can face.

The launch started with MC Gavan Thomson, SFYS Coordinator, Cobaw Community Health, VRYS chair. Gavan introduced the event and gave an overview of the initiative. Gavan introduced the presenters Jessie Mitchell, Rural Youth Services Support and Advocacy Officer, Youth Affairs Council of victoria; Rachel Collins, Executive Officer, Echuca Moama Beacon Foundation; and Danielle Florence, Youth Development Project Officer, Shire of Campaspe, with the Rochester Youth Action Plan, Danielle was accompanied by two youth who were involved with the Rochester Youth Action Group.

After the presenters gave their speeches The Hon Damian Drum, MLC Northern Victoria, Parliamentary Secretary for Regional and Rural Development officially launched the initiative. Afternoon tea was then provided and there was a chance for networking with the community.