150 young Australians from across the country will gather at Australian Parliament House from 17-19 August 2026 to participate in the National Youth Parliament (NYP), a civic education program that provides young people aged 16 to 18 with a hands-on experience of Australia's federal parliamentary system, including the process by which bills are drafted, debated and passed into law.
Youth Members – one from each of Australia’s 150 federal electorates – will take part in a week of mock sittings of the House of Representatives, ‘Member Experience’ sessions and panel discussions with elected representatives and parliamentary officials.
The program aims to strengthen young people's understanding of democracy and civic participation.
The program is led by the Department of the House of Representatives and delivered in partnership with Y Australia.
Media are invited to attend the following National Youth Parliament events:
APH Flag Roadshow meets the National Youth Parliament
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Milton Dick MP, and Youth Members will unroll the 12.8 m x 6.4 m Australian flag on the roof of Australian Parliament House.
- When: Monday 17 August 2026, 9.00 am – 9.20 am
- Where: Roof, Australian Parliament House
Welcome Reception and Official Opening
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Milton Dick MP, and the Clerk of the House, Ms Claressa Surtees, will join Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, to formally open the 2026 National Youth Parliament.
- When: Monday 17 August 2026, 10.30 am – 11.15 am
- Where: Members' Hall, Ground Floor, Australian Parliament House
Media Opportunities
Interviews available with National Youth Parliament participants from across Australia who can speak about their experiences and perspectives on civic participation. The Speaker and the CEO of Y Australia, Ms Alexandra Ash, will also be available for interviews.
Media enquiries
Media wishing to attend should contact the National Youth Parliament team in advance for advice on access arrangements.
Jessica Robins Annie Collison
Director, Parliamentary Events MGR&CO (on behalf of Y Australia)
[email protected] [email protected]
02 6277 5624 0406 080 356
