Around 50 Sunshine Coast students have been given a powerful voice in shaping Australia’s economic future, taking part in the first of a series of forums on Australia’s future launched by Federal Member for Fairfax, Ted O’Brien.
The future-focused workshop brought together student leaders from Suncoast Christian College, Maroochydore High School, The Industry School, Matthew Flinders Anglican College and Nambour High School to share their aspirations, concerns and ideas for the nation their generation will one day lead.
Ted O’Brien, who is also Deputy Leader of the Opposition and Shadow Treasurer, said the Sunshine Coast event marked the beginning of a national economic development program he would be leading to ensure young Australians are not just spoken about in policy discussions, but spoken with and listened to.
“This is about putting the future in the hands of the people who will live it,” Mr O’Brien said. “Too many governments talk about young people without ever talking to them, and I’m determined to change that.”
“If we want a strong future, we must co-design it with those who’ll be leading the nation in year’s to come.”
Students in attendance described the workshop as the beginning of something big, with Year 12 student leader Imogen Basset from Suncoast Christian College excited about the opportunity to be involved.
“Young people need to have their voices heard because we are actually going to be in charge as the next generation and so our voices and our concerns do really need to be heard today.”
During the event, students were asked to share their thoughts on Australia today and to scenario plan Australia in the year 2050.
Ted O’Brien said it was a privilege to launch the series on the Sunshine Coast.
“This is about informing policy, not politics,” Mr O’Brien said. “I’m here to listen, learn and serve – and to leverage what I hear for formulating policy to drive Australia’s economy.”
“My pledge is to take their priorities and ambitions to the national stage, so the next generation has a real say in the economic future they will inherit.”