Y AUSTRALIA MEDIA STATEMENT – VOTING AT 16
23 July 2025
The UK Government has recently announced it will lower the voting age from 18 to 16 – a positive move that recognises the voices, rights and responsibilities of young people. This reform has been warmly welcomed by the YMCA England and Wales, and we join them in celebrating this important advance for young people.
The Y knows from research and engagement that young people don’t feel their voices, interests and concerns are recognised by leaders or reflected in policy development.
Providing genuine opportunities for young people to be heard by government and then delivering tangible actions addressing these concerns is the precursor to addressing formal civic disengagement with young people.
Speaking to ABC Radio Sydney about the announcement, Isaac, a Y NSW Youth Parliamentarian said, “I think it signifies a shift in the way in which we approach politics…, specifically because young people quite simply will be more engaged in the democratic process – whether it be, not just inside the voting booth, but also having those conversations and that dialogue with family and friends, also in schools and education systems.”
Alexandra Ash, CEO of Y Australia says, “16- and 17-year-old Australian’s are already deeply impacted by political choices, but for too long they haven’t been able to have their say. It has been over 50 years since Australia, reconsidered the voting age and lowered it from 21 to 18. It’s time this issue was considered again along with investment in the education, resources and support young people need, so they can participate fully and confidently in civic life.”
The Y’s statement comes off the back of a strong record of encouraging and empowering young people to participate in civics education and life. You can read in more detail our concerns and calls to action in our submission to the 2024 inquiry into civics education, engagement and participation in Australia here.
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About Y Australia:
Y Australia is a federated, for-purpose organisation that supports children, young people and communities in over 680 places across Australia. We are a proud member of the global YMCA Movement.
Download full statement here