Empowering young voices

In May, the Young Adults Advisory Committee (YAAC) met to discuss key initiatives. A key takeaway from the meeting was the decision to create a YAAC support structure working group to enhance communication and reporting structures for committee members. 

The working group had its first meeting and mapped out a draft structure of support running through brigades and district, up into the YAAC. At the next YAAC meeting (24 September) this will be presented for discussion and consultation by the committee members.  

In 2024-25, the YAAC will consult on an exciting new project: the National Centre of Excellence, a joint venture between the Youth Affairs Council of Victoria (YACVic) and Victoria University. This initiative aims to empower young Australians to become active agents of change in emergency management. At the YAAC meeting on 24 July, project members were invited to discuss how young members can get involved in this transformative work. 

This initiative offers an excellent opportunity for young adults to engage and participate in meaningful project work, further solidifying their roles within the emergency management landscape. 

Established in 2019 by the CEO and Chief Officer, the YAAC provides a safe forum for CFA volunteers aged 18-30 to engage directly with senior leaders and influence their volunteer experience.  

Our young adult members are not only highly engaged but also hold impressive positions within their brigades. Many are already in leadership roles, and others come from diverse professional backgrounds, including law, medicine, business ownership, and corporate leadership. 

We encourage young adults aged 18-30 to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to join the committee. This is an excellent opportunity to engage with leadership and share feedback. 

If you have an agenda item for discussion at the YAAC meetings, please fill out the agenda item request form to ensure your voice is heard. 

The YAAC is dedicated to enhancing the volunteer experience for young people while fostering skills that support their future endeavors, ultimately strengthening the CFA community.