The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) is excited to launch its Young People Inclusion Plan for 2021-2023, strengthening its commitment to support young people to be active citizens and exercise a life-long engagement with democracy.
The Young People Inclusion Plan (the Plan) is the VEC’s commitment to supporting the voices of young people in the democratic system.
The Plan has been developed following consultation with young people, our partner organisations from the youth sector, a review of research into young people’s electoral engagement and input from our staff.
At the 2018 Victorian State election, voter turnout for enrolled 18-year-olds was 90.36%; but the figures show a sharp decline in participation following that first voting experience, with only 85.79% of 20-to-24-year-olds and 83.7% of 25-to-29-year-olds voting.
Electoral Commissioner Warwick Gately launched the Plan today and thanked those involved in the process for their contribution and advice.
‘I’d like to acknowledge the input of our partner organisations, including the VicSRC, YMCA Victoria and the Victorian Youth Congress, along with young people and our staff who all gave their time and expertise’ Mr Gately said.
‘The VEC has a strong history of supporting the engagement of young people in the democratic process and this plan allows us to continue building on this history,’ Mr Gately said.
The Plan is available to download from the VEC’s website at the following links: