News

Youth | September 17, 2018

Victorian young people to have a voice on radio

A Liberal Nationals Government will grow the next generation of broadcast journalists with a four- year investment in the successful Student Youth Network if elected at November’s State Election.

The Nationals Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy said the network provided an opportunity for young people from Lowan and across the state to have their voice heard and gain skills in radio, TV or digital media.

“All young Victorians should have their voices heard which is why a Liberal Nationals Government will invest $400,000 over four years to continue the important work of the Student Youth Network,” Ms Kealy said.

“Run by young people, for young people, the network’s programs help to increase participant’s confidence, social skills and employability through volunteer and training opportunities in metro and regional areas.

“Our investment will ensure its important work to kick-start the careers of our young people continues.”

The Student Youth Network offers an industry mentoring program, leadership and professional development opportunities and media training for around 5000 participants each year.

The program’s alumni includes well known radio identities such as Dan Ziffer, Hamish and Andy, Ryan Shelton, Scott Pape and Zan Rowe.

Shadow Minister for Young Victorians Steph Ryan said the Liberal Nationals were proud to have provided the initial support for the program eight years ago, giving young people a chance to learn invaluable skills and share their stories.

“We are proud to have first recognised the great work done by the Student Youth Network to give young people a voice,” Ms Ryan said.

“The networks mentoring program has become a successful staple of the organisation’s work, with one in three mentees finding paid employment in the media industry while participating in the program.

“Our support for the Student Youth Network will help increase youth participation in regional radio stations and provide training to help young people develop their skills.”

Funding for the program, which has run for the past eight years, will lapse this year.