Central Coast Council has adopted the Central Coast Youth Strategy 2026-2031, providing a clear roadmap for how Council, community organisations and partners will work together to support young people aged 12 to 24 over the next five years.
Shaped by extensive community engagement involving more than 556 participants, predominantly young people aged 12 to 24, the Strategy ensures young people’s voices help guide future decision-making and investment, while addressing the challenges and opportunities that matter most to them.
The Strategy focuses on six key areas:
- belonging, inclusion and voice
- wellbeing, safety and respect
- opportunity, skills and secure futures
- active, connected and affordable living
- green and sustainable futures
- strong partnerships and sector leadership.
Central Coast Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said the Youth Strategy reflects Council’s commitment to supporting young people and creating opportunities for them to thrive.
“Young people are not just the future of the Central Coast, they are helping to shaping our community today. They bring energy, ideas and leadership to our community and it’s important that their voices help shape the decisions we make,” Mayor McKinna said.
“This Strategy reflects what young people told us matters most to them and provides a clear roadmap for how Council and our partnerships can support them to feel connected, valued and empowered to succeed.”
Council’s role extends beyond delivering programs to include advocating for the needs of young people and working with partners to attract opportunities that improve youth wellbeing, education, employment and future prosperity.
Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said the adoption of the Strategy builds on Council’s ongoing commitment to delivering programs and initiatives that support young people to connect, learn, lead and contribute to their community.
“Throughout the year, our Youth Services team delivers a diverse range of programs including the Y4Y Leadership Program, which empowers young people to develop leadership skills and make a positive impact in their communities,” Ms Smith said.
“This includes Creative Engineers, which supports emerging creative talent and connects young people with the local arts sector, and Launch Labs which provide opportunities for young people to build leadership experience, employment readiness and life skills.
“Council also delivers school holiday activities such as Youth Day Out, youth-led initiatives including Paint My Park, community events through the Central Coast Skatepark Series, and coordinates local celebrations for Youth Week, bringing together young people from across the region for free activities, events and leadership opportunities.
“Each year, we also recognise the outstanding achievements of local young people through the Central Coast Youth Week Awards, celebrating those who have made significant contributions to our local community.”
The Central Coast Youth Strategy 2026-2031 is available at CentralCoast.nsw.gov.au