Commissioner gives the voices of WA children and young people a national audience
Media Release
WA Commissioner for Children and Young People, Dr Jacqueline McGowan-Jones, hosted a Youth Forum in Perth today, creating a dedicated space for young people to speak directly about the issues impacting their lives.
The forum brought together youth representatives from Youth Disability Advocacy Network (YDAN), Youth Homelessness Advisory Council (YHAC), Youth Affairs Council of Western Australia (YACWA), Youth Pride Network (YPN), The Integrity Initiative, and Empowering Young Leaders, who shared their lived experiences and outlined key issues and practical solutions for change.
Children’s Commissioners, Guardians and Advocates from other jurisdictions were also in attendance, providing an opportunity for young people’s voices in Western Australia to be heard more broadly.
Discussions focused on key issues affecting young people, including mental health and wellbeing, housing insecurity, discrimination, disability inclusion, education and employment pathways, and cost-of-living pressures.
Participants highlighted the importance of culturally safe and inclusive services, stronger protections for vulnerable young people, and greater accountability across government and community systems.
The forum marked the end of a three-day visit to Perth (Boorloo) WA by fellow Australian Children’s Commissioners, Guardians and Advocates.
Quotes attributable to Jacqueline McGowan-Jones, Commissioner for Children and Young People WA
“I want to thank the young people who took part today for their courage, insight and leadership and reaffirm that children and young people remain at the centre of my advocacy and reform efforts in Western Australia.
“Young people are experts in their own lives. Today’s forum ensured their voices were heard clearly and directly by those responsible for advocating for their rights and wellbeing,” Dr McGowan-Jones said.
“Meaningful engagement goes beyond consultation – it requires listening, responding and acting.”
“I have the great privilege of being their advocate, making sure their voices are heard and their rights are upheld.”
Media contact
Megan Sadler
0434 327 804 / megan.sadler@ccyp.wa.gov.au
