The Multicultural Youth Advocacy Network Australia (MYAN) has called on Australia’s political parties to embrace the voices of the country’s culturally diverse ahead of the coming federal election.
MYAN Australia stressed their desire to see parties address the systemic barriers faced by multicultural young people and to treat them as key stakeholders in the nation’s future.
They noted that, with Millennials and Gen Z now making up over 40 per cent of the electorate, their voices hold even more significance, believing they should be turned to in public debate and policymaking.
“This is a defining moment. If we’re serious about the future, we need to be serious about listening to and investing in multicultural young people,” said Carmel Guerra, Chair of MYAN Australia, in their press release.
“They are ready to lead – what’s needed now is political will and partnership.”
MYAN expressed a desire for the political parties to commit to a comprehensive set of policy actions that will enable multicultural young people to thrive and contribute meaningfully to Australia’s social and economic future.
Their priorities centre around topics like combatting racism and discrimination, investing in genuine co-design and youth leadership, digital safety and inclusion, social cohesion through meaningful inclusion, and targeted investment in mental health, housing, and economic participation.
“Multicultural young people are driving conversations on justice, equity and climate. We’re asking leaders to match that energy with bold, intersectional policy,” said Nayonika, MYAN Australia Youth Ambassador.
“We want to be at the table, not to just be consulted, but empowered to lead. We know the challenges — we live them — and we’re ready to co-create the solutions,” says Nayonika.
Rana Ebrahimi, MYAN Australia National Manager, noted that:
“This election is an opportunity for political leaders to earn their trust by delivering meaningful change that reflects the diversity, ambition, and potential of this generation.”
