UNICEF Australia, with the support of the NSW Government, is hosting the first Youth Summit for young people living with drought in NSW.
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Applications to be one of about 100 young people aged 14 to 24 years who will be active participants at UNICEF Australia's NSW Youth Summit on Living with Drought are now open.
The three day summit is the next step in improving our understanding of the impacts of drought on young people.
It will also develop the scope and shape of responses they would like to see undertaken to assist and enhance their ability to cope with and prepare for these conditions into the future.
"Earlier this year, UNICEF Australia produced a report on the impacts of drought as told to us by children and young people in NSW," CEO of UNICEF Australia Tony Stuart said.
"The report revealed how little is known about the experience of children and young people during drought, or about how best to support them in the face of these significant challenges.
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"We initiated this project as part of our mandate to be a voice for children and, as part of our ongoing work consulting with children around Australia, it forms part of UNICEF Australia's efforts to ensure a fair chance for every child.
"This summit will continue this approach by bringing together over 100 young people, with experience or expertise in issues relating to the drought, to actively participate in the formulation of solutions. Ultimately, on the final day, decision-makers and service providers will join the conversation."
Throughout the summit, from planning and design by an 11-member youth steering committee, through to completion of the final report, UNICEF Australia will be working in partnership with young people from drought-affected regions throughout NSW.
One of the steering committee members, 15 year-old Kate Currans from western NSW, explained just how important it is for young people to come together with decision-makers and one another to discuss the challenges they face living with drought in NSW.
"I am passionate about the future of agriculture and equality for all children in Australia," she said.
"Rural and remote kids in ongoing drought-stricken areas miss out on so many opportunities. I would love to be part of contributing to solutions to the impact of this natural disaster on children and young adults."
Summit participants will hear from inspiring speakers, and take part in discussions, workshops and activities.
They will work with others who share and understand their struggle, form new support networks and learn new tools and strategies to cope with the daily struggles of the drought.
The NSW Youth Drought Summit will be held at Point Wolstoncroft Sports and Recreation Centre, Lake Macquarie from Wednesday October 9 to 11.
Applications and further information are available at: www.unicef.org.au/droughtsummit.
