The draft Youth Voice Plan presented to Council this month reflects work undertaken over the last 12 months to understand what it is like to be a young person on the Northern Beaches and supports young people to be more active contributors in community life.

The draft Plan outlines five years of action for youth development that will support and engage young people.

Key safety issues raised by young people during consultations included:

• Safety on public transport and in public spaces
• The importance of events and community connections
• Housing
• Online safety and how that links to mental health
• Alcohol and other drugs – the importance of role modelling by adults and the desire for opportunities to socialise in places that are alcohol-free.

The draft Youth Voice Action Plan was placed on public exhibition and community comment was invited from 1 December 2022 to 28 February 2023. Following the exhibition period and collation of responses, Council will now consider the responses and refine the draft Action Plan in early 2023