Torres Strait Regional Authority is calling on the community to provide feedback on its draft Zenadth Kes Inner Island Youth Strategy before 31 October. Photo: Supplied.
Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) is calling for community feedback on the draft of a strategy that will help develop a framework to support youth living on the inner islands of the Torres Strait.
The draft Zenadth Kes Inner Island Youth Strategy has been released for public consultation and is aimed at capturing the voices and views of young people aged 12 to 25 who are living, studying or working in the region.
The draft youth strategy provides a strategic framework that will be used to enhance opportunities, strengthen and support the delivery of culturally responsive and youth-centred programs, services and policies, with the goal of improving options for young people who call the inner islands home.
The document’s foundational principles of culture, identity and wellbeing have been identified as core priorities and enablers for success across key areas of focus, including cultural knowledge and guidance, voice and change, exploration and participation, opportunities and options, being connected, and holistic health.
TSRA Chairperson Pedro Stephen encouraged all community members and stakeholders to submit feedback on the draft youth strategy.
“Your input is invaluable as we work together to create a supportive environment for our young people,” he said.
“We believe that by actively listening to our youth, we can develop a strategy that not only meets their needs, but works to mobilise effort by all respective agencies and departments delivering or supporting youth services in the region.”
The information and opportunities identified in the draft strategy is the culmination of input, advice and information received from extensive community consultations, including the views of young people submitted through the Zenadth Kes Youth Survey in August.
Feedback on the draft strategy must be provided to TSRA by 5pm on 31 October.
