Youth Voice aims to develop a working group sourced from Maroondah schools and community groups to produce a Youth Magazine and provide a voice for students and younger people within Maroondah.

The project was launched at Ringwood Secondary College through an online interactive forum which allowed schools across Victoria to participate. A number of topics were discussed through the forum, including discussion around VCAL and VCE, cyber safety and the Ringwood Transit City and the redevelopment for Ringwood.

The launch also provided an opportunity to explore the Australian Technical College, which is located at Ringwood Secondary. The college provides practical skills development for students seeking a trade vocational career.

The forums, which were conducted via online chatroom functionality, provided an opportunity to receive input from younger people in regard to their vision for Ringwood. A number of younger people cited the need for increased entertainment and public transport, as well as sharing concerns about Ringwood Station. The discussion generated from these students will assist in planning for the future of Ringwood with Council and Queensland Investment Corporation (the owners of Eastland) both participating in the forums.

The Youth Magazine will provide an ongoing mechanism to demonstrate the positive contribution that younger people make. The publication will also encourage participation within our community through strengthening connections and highlighting issues relevant to younger people.