The Hon Peter Garret, AM, MP

I am proud to be a part of this years’ National Youth Week, which runs from 13-22 April 2012. National Youth Week is one of the biggest youth celebrations in our country, with over 250 000 young people taking part.

I encourage all young Australians to be part of National Youth Week by getting involved in the range of fantastic events, activities and of course the National Talent competitions RockIT, WriteIT, SnapIT, DesignIT and ShootIT.

I am looking forward to seeing how young Australians use this years’ theme ‘Imagine. Create.  Inspire.’

The great success of National Youth Week can be attributed to the fact that young Australians play a central role in organising it.   

These young Australians, aged 12 to 25, are attending events, putting their creative talents on display, listening to live music, and creating graphic design works. 

My role as Youth Minister is to be an advocate and champion for the nearly 4 million young people in Australia.

My vision for young Australians is that they are active, productive members of our community.

National Youth Week is about celebrating and recognising the value of all young Australians to their communities. Our society is made richer when we enable young people to express themselves and their talents.

Through National Youth Week we celebrate diversity and promote social inclusion. The range of activities and events that are run provide positive social engagement activities for our most vulnerable and disadvantaged young people.

I’d encourage all young Australians, no matter where they are from or where they live, to get involved in National Youth Week. It’s a hub for your creativity and ideas, and is a great place to meet other young people.

I wish you a fantastic National Youth Week for 2012, and I’ll see you there!

Peter Garrett
Minister for Youth