Community minded young people in the Clarence Valley should consider applying for a position on the NSW Government’s new Regional Youth Taskforce, according to Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis.

“The Youth Taskforce is part of a suite of youth initiatives we took to the election and it was inspired in part by the success of Clarence Youth Action following forums with both the Deputy Premier and the newly appointed Minister for Regional Youth Bronnie Taylor in Grafton last year, so we really should have a seat at the table,” Mr Gulaptis said.

The taskforce will be made up of 18 members across regional NSW who will meet regularly and provide advice to NSW Government agencies and Ministers on policy decisions and local action plans regarding youth.

“This is a terrific opportunity for young people to propose solutions for issues such youth homelessness, unemployment, mental health and other issues such as digital connectivity,” Mr Gulaptis said.

“We are backing this youth focus with cold hard cash principally through the $50 million announced for regional youth through the Stronger Country Communities Fund.”

The NSW Government has established the first ever Office for Regional Youth and will soon release the State’s first Regional Youth Strategy to address challenges in regional NSW.

Travel costs and accommodation will be covered for Regional Youth Taskforce members travelling across NSW for meetings.

To find out more or submit an application visit www.nsw.gov.au/RegionalYouthTaskforce.  Applications are open until 11:59pm 14 July 2019.