The Minister for Youth, Kate Ellis, is encouraging young Australians to apply to become Australia’s Youth Representative, as part of the 2009 Australian Delegation to the United Nations in New York.
"The Australian Government recognises the importance of young people being heard on important issues facing the world today," Ms Ellis said.
"Applications opened this week for an exciting opportunity to take an active role in decision-making and policy formulation on the world stage.
"The Youth Representative will work in the Australian Mission to the United Nations, in New York, along with other young representatives from around the world, developing new projects for young people."
Applications are sought from young people with a sound knowledge of international issues, strong leadership skills and experience in representing youth opinion and issues.
The United Nations Youth Association of Australia (UNYA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will select the successful candidate.
Ms Ellis said the 2008 representatives, Ms Elizabeth Shaw (WA) and Ms Melanie Poole (ACT), will start working in New York on September 15th.
"Elizabeth and Melanie have talked with young Australians about the issues they find most relevant, and will present their findings at the UN General Assembly," she said.
"They are among many young Australians who, by taking an active role, are making outstanding contributions to their communities from the local to the international level.
"The Australian Government wants more young people to speak up and get involved in public life and the issues that affect Australia both now and in the future.
"We have therefore committed $8 million over four years to establish the Australian Youth Forum, which will be a link between the Government and young people, including youth policy specialists and the youth sector.
"The forum will support and encourage young Australians to contribute to Government policy development and decision-making," Ms Ellis said.
Expressions of Interest for the Australian Youth Representative close on 31 October 2008, and can be submitted through the UNYA website.