Applications are now open to join Central Coast Council’s youth leadership program ‘Youth-for-Youth’ (Y4Y) Action Team 2026. This is an opportunity to be part of a group of young people, aged 15-24, who care about community challenges and want to work together to develop meaningful solutions that create positive change.
Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said Council’s youth leadership program ‘Youth-for-Youth’ (Y4Y) Action Team opens doors to lifelong learning and personal growth for our future leaders.
“Council is committed to investing in our young people,” Mayor McKinna said.
“Through this collaborative approach, we’re ensuring young people are at the forefront of shaping programs and championing ideas that matter to them.
“I encourage parents and carers to share this opportunity with the young people in their lives and support them in applying to be part of the youth leadership program.”
Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said the program brings together passionate young people who want to create a positive change on the Coast, while gaining valuable learning and development experiences.
“The leadership program – now in its 6th year – equips young people with essential skills like communication, teamwork, project delivery and problem-solving.
“Specifically, the program actively engages young people, empowering them to take initiative, advocate for their peers, and contribute valuable insights to Council initiatives from a young person’s perspective.
This year’s Y4Y Action Team hosted the 2025 Youth Week Awards, planned and delivered the Thinking Out Loud Youth Forum, launched the ‘Youth for You podcast series’ and helped deliver Youth Day Out community days and other youth-based events on the Central Coast.
Applications must be submitted by 5pm Friday 5 December 2025.
Eligibility criteria:
- Aged 15-24
- Living or attending school, or tertiary education, or working on the Central Coast
- A passion for advocating for young people
For more information, search ‘Y4Y recruitment 2026’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au