NSW Government reporting shows young people are under-represented in local councils across the state. Over half of all councillors in NSW are between 50 and 69. In many communities, “the voices of young people are missing from debate and decision making.”

Local government can influence what young people experience in their communities. Councillor and Deputy Mayor Imogen Draisma, who entered Kiama Council at the age of 22 hopes to break the glass ceiling and have young people represented in local government. 

In an interview, Cr Draisma noted the lack of engagement between local government and young people in the town, and the misinformed idea that larger issues are out of Council’s hands.

According to research conducted by The Whitlam Institute, the following topics are at the forefront of what matters to young people; environmental issues such as pollution, plastic use and climate change, women’s rights, Australia’s place in the global system, human and child rights, extinction of human and animal species, caring and providing for others less fortunate than themselves. 

“If we can engage young people to combat those issues on a closer level, it can become local-based activism and change how young people experience this town,” Cr Draisma said. 

When asked what matters to Cr Draisma, she answered simply.

“I would like to stay here.” 

The rise in short-term holiday accommodation across Kiama has impacted the availability of rental homes that young people rely on to set up their roots in our town. Rising housing costs in Kiama are also contributing to the growing barriers for young people to stay in the town. 

“If short term rentals take over this town it will cripple the South Coast,” Cr Draisma noted. 

Getting involved 

Kiama Council has a monthly public forum, and a monthly council meeting both to which members of the community can attend and provide feedback, suggestions and commentary on what’s happening in the town and how council can support them further.

Youth Forum

Councillors Imogen Draisma will be joining candidates Kane Presland, Harry Ledger and Jordan Casson-Jones online on Thursday 29 August, 3.00pm - 4.00pm to discuss how they plan to re-invigorate Kiama and support young people who see a future in the town. 

If you have any questions, suggestions or topics of interest you wish to be explored during the session, please scan the QR code to register your interest.