Message from the South Australian Youth Minister

National Youth Week is the largest annual event for young people in Australia.  It is a great showcase of young people’s talents, contributions and achievements. Most importantly, it provides them with an outlet to express their ideas.

The support shown every year by the South Australian community for National Youth Week is outstanding.

In National Youth Week 2011, around 13,000 young people attended 184 events, hosted by 61 organisations.  In addition to this, another 1,200 young people were involved in the planning and running of National Youth Week events in their local communities.

The theme for National Youth Week 2012 is Imagine, Create, Inspire.

For the first time in South Australia the state launch will be held in a regional centre, the vibrant city of Mt Gambier.  This provides an exciting and excellent opportunity for the region’s young people to develop and deliver a major event that showcases their local community. To be staged at the Old Mt Gambier Gaol, the launch will involve live music, dance, expression art, multicultural activities, giant rides, food stalls and a number of information booths.

Events held during Youth Week will provide you with many opportunities to get engaged, learn something new, showcase your abilities, and participate in something you wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to participate in.

I am excited to see what your imaginations create, what inspiring events and activities you, your friends and local communities hold, and to hear about all the opportunities you were able to be involved in.

All the best for those involved in National Youth Week 2012 and don’t forget to have fun!

Hon Ian Hunter MLC
Minister for Youth