Delegates representing the youth from G20 nations were today welcomed to Sydney for the official Youth 20 (Y20) Summit.
Senator the Hon Scott Ryan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education, said over the next three days 120 youth delegates from G20 nations will be discussing the most pressing economic challenges facing young people around the world.
The Y20 delegates will develop a communique on these issues to be presented to G20 leaders at the Brisbane G20 Summit in November.
“The Australian Government is committed to supporting young people’s engagement with the G20 through the platform of the Y20 Summit,” Senator Ryan said.
“The Y20 represents an opportunity for the delegates to ensure the voice of young people is heard, and to present recommendations on pressing economic issues facing their generation.
“These economic issues are not abstract or far away, they are currently affecting millions of young people around the world.
“Unemployment is clearly one of the most prominent issues facing young people around the world. Some estimates state over 74 million young people out of work worldwide.
“Addressing regulatory, educational and other barriers to youth unemployment is crucial to ensuring the future generations enjoy the economic and social opportunities to which younger generations are rightly entitled.”
Delegates will experience a programme featuring policy development, skills workshops, plenaries and panels from prominent speakers as well as enjoy cultural events.
The Australian delegates will be representing Australia at the Y20 after several months of consultation and engagement in discussion and debate.
For the first time, interactive online sessions will also be available as part of the Y20 programme.
“This provides young people across the world the opportunity to participate in Y20 discussions without actually being present at the Summit,” Senator Ryan said.
Under the leadership of Co-Chairs Mr Josh Zwar and Ms Holly Ransom, a Planning Group of young Australians has been managing Australia’s delivery of the Summit over several months.
For further information on the Y20, visit www.Y20Australia.com.