Young people who have grown up in residential care will drive change through Queensland’s new Ministerial Youth Advisory Board (MYAB).

Led by the Minister for Child Safety, Charis Mullen, in partnership with CREATE Foundation, MYAB will be an invaluable forum for young people to share their experiences of residential care directly with the Minister.

CREATE Acting Deputy CEO Imogen Edeson said MYAB will ensure young people’s voices are at the heart of reforms to the out-of-home care system.

“From what young people have told us about their experiences in residential care, improvements need to be made to ensure a safe and stable environment for all children and young people. The Ministerial Youth Advisory Board will be an incredible opportunity for care-experienced young people to directly shape changes to the care system.

CREATE applauds the Queensland Government for taking this action as part of its Roadmap for Residential Care. We are delighted to partner with the government on this project. We look forward to supporting young people to have their say and effect positive change over the coming  years,” said Edeson.

Applications are currently open for Queensland’s Ministerial Youth Advisory Board (MYAB). Young people aged 18–21 who have been in residential care in Queensland at some point in their lives are encouraged to apply before Monday, 17 June.

CREATE Foundation is the national consumer body representing the voices of children and young people with an out-of-home care experience. They provide programmes for children and young people with statutory care experience. They listen to what those with lived experience in the care system tell them and advocate for them to achieve systemic change.

About the Ministerial Youth Advisory Board (MYAB)

Queensland’s first Ministerial Youth Advisory Board will appoint nine young people, aged 18-21, who have experience in residential care. Residents will discuss their experiences and suggestions for improving residential care with the Minister.

The MYAB will meet four times over a 12-month period.

Justin Lance Marcel Lavadia

Justin Lavadia is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum with a diverse writing background spanning various niches and formats. With a wealth of experience, he brings clarity and concise communication to digital content. His expertise lies in crafting engaging content and delivering impactful narratives that resonate with readers.

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