Youth Advisory Committee

Committee description

Young people between the ages of 13-19 years from across the state are part of Zoos Victoria’s Youth Advisory Committee.

The committee is made up of 15 members from diverse locations, backgrounds and life experiences to represent Victorian youth.

Meetings are held twice over each school holidays for a total of 8 meetings over a 12-month period. We also have one online catch up over each of the school terms.

Committee members play an important role in providing a voice for young people and support the Zoo to develop its programs to appeal to youth.

Working collaboratively with Zoo staff and other young people, committee members enable the Zoo to achieve its mission to fight extinction​, with a particular focus on empowering the next generation of conservationists.

Committee members will:

• Have opportunities to give their ideas and opinions about Zoos Victoria’s plans and policies
• Discuss issues that affect young people
• Provide input into Zoos Victoria’s processes and programs that relate to young people
• Learn about Zoos Victoria and wildlife conservation
• Develop leadership skills and experience
• Be able to add this to their CV
• Meet other young people and stay socially connected

Who this committee is for

Any young person between 13-19 years old can apply to be on the committee, with parent permission where applicable.

If you are 18 years or older, you will be required to have a valid Working with Children Check.

Cost and inclusions

This is a voluntary committee and there are no costs associated with being a member. You will receive a Zoos Victoria membership, allowing unlimited visitation to all four Zoos Victoria zoos for one year: Healesville Sanctuary, Kyabram Fauna Park, Melbourne Zoo, and Werribee Open Range Zoo. Lunch will be provided.

Program sequence

Meetings will be hosted at Melbourne Zoo.

Here are the 2025/26 dates for your calendar:

Members are expected to attend at least 75 per cent of meetings.

Frequently asked questions 

Still have some questions? The Youth Advisory Committee FAQs document is where you will find additional information.

Please read through this document with your parent/guardian.