Investing in young people: Why our Youth Action Plan matters

We have launched our Youth Action Plan 2025–2027, a fresh and focused roadmap that puts our young people front and centre.

As parents/caregivers, grandparents and friends, we all want the best for our young people.

We want them to grow up in a safe, inclusive and vibrant community that not only hears their voices but actively supports their dreams.

That’s exactly what this plan sets out to do.

“Our young people are thoughtful, creative and full of potential,” says Mayor Robert Bria.

“This plan is about listening to them, supporting them, and making sure they feel seen and valued in our City. It’s an investment in their future and in ours.”

“Young people are integral to Council’s vision of a progressive City which is prosperous, sustainable and socially cohesive, with a strong community spirit.”

“Applying a youth lens over Council activities will identify where value can be achieved for young people and how the participation of young people can add value to community,” he said.

From primary schoolers to early career starters, the Youth Action Plan recognises that young people aged 0–25 play a vital role in shaping the future of our community.

A range of priorities are proposed to be delivered over the next two years that align with the key themes of SA Youth Action Plan: 

• Greater access to mental health support and services.
• Connection to services and activities available in the young person’s community.
• Increased access to age appropriate, affordable, and accessible sport and recreation activities and opportunities.
• More support with post-school pathways, including the teaching of ‘life skills’ or ‘how to adult.’
• Inclusion in decision-making.

More than just words on a page, the plan is packed with real-world actions and opportunities, from co-designed school holiday programs and youth leadership initiatives, to job readiness workshops, live music events and mental health seminars.

It also responds to what young people have told us: they want to be heard, they want to contribute, and they want access to spaces and programs that are relevant, inclusive and empowering.

The plan meets these needs by creating more opportunities for youth-led events, creative expression, real-life skill-building and community involvement.

For parents, this means knowing your child is growing up in a city that values their potential and is actively investing in it. Whether it's their first job, a performance on stage, or a tree-planting day with friends, these experiences help build confidence, resilience and connection.

You can explore the Youth Action Plan and find out more about programs and activities for young people by visiting: Young People (https://www.npsp.sa.gov.au/our_community/youth)

Together, we’re shaping a future where every young person in our City feels supported, inspired and heard.

Find out more and view our new Action Plan, visit: Young People