Kingston's Youth Strategy

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Consultation has concluded

Council is seeking feedback on its draft 2019-2022 Kingston Youth Strategy.

A draft Youth Strategy has been developed, based on extensive research and community consultation, to guide how Kingston Council will support, empower, and advocate for young people aged 12 to 25 years.

Significant changes have taken place in both the youth service system and Kingston community since the previous strategy and Council is keen to check-in with the community on the proposed new strategy.



Did you know:

  • over 25,300 (or 16.7 %) of Kingston residents are aged 10 to 24 years and this is forecast to increase
  • only 39% of young people surveyed felt they had a Positive Identity
  • 27.5% of young people reported feeling unsure about their future
  • 37% of young people reported concerns about housing affordability and accessibility
  • 36% of educators and service providers recognise that young people are having challenges coping with stress


The new four-year Strategy is informed by extensive community consultation with young people, parents, service providers and educators.

It features four priority areas:

1. Healthy and resilient
Young people could strengthen their health and resilience in several areas, particularly getting enough sleep, improving their self-esteem, and dealing with feelings of depression, anxiety, and pressure.
Actions proposed include:

  • co-designing services with young people
  • using social media to encourage healthier choices
  • creating new pathways to access support
  • and increasing understanding and awareness of mental health.

2. Acknowledged
Young people are creative, energetic, innovative and have a voice that needs to be heard. While some young people are participating or contributing to their community and feel that they are being heard, others are not as connected or acknowledged for their contribution.
Key directions and actions for Youth Services include:

  • providing spaces to build social connections
  • facilitating youth leadership and consultation
  • promoting the achievements and impact of young people and encouraging inclusion.

3. Engaged
Young people benefit from having positive connections with their family, at school and within the community. Young people told us they want to feel empowered. They want to feel safe and be involved.

Actions proposed for Youth Services include:

  • supporting vulnerable young people
  • providing more targeted resources
  • strengthening online and social media networks
  • and partnering with other Council departments.

4. Prepared
Many young people told us they feel unsure about the future which can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress. Young people experience many significant changes and transitions including commencing Year 7, leaving school, starting work and becoming an independent young adult.

Key directions and actions for youth services include:

  • partnering to deliver 'Adulting' workshops
  • providing work-ready accredited training
  • raising awareness about the world of work
  • expanding youth volunteering opportunities.


Have your say

Are you happy with the four key priority areas?

Council is seeking feedback on its draft 2019-2022 Kingston Youth Strategy.

A draft Youth Strategy has been developed, based on extensive research and community consultation, to guide how Kingston Council will support, empower, and advocate for young people aged 12 to 25 years.

Significant changes have taken place in both the youth service system and Kingston community since the previous strategy and Council is keen to check-in with the community on the proposed new strategy.



Did you know:

  • over 25,300 (or 16.7 %) of Kingston residents are aged 10 to 24 years and this is forecast to increase
  • only 39% of young people surveyed felt they had a Positive Identity
  • 27.5% of young people reported feeling unsure about their future
  • 37% of young people reported concerns about housing affordability and accessibility
  • 36% of educators and service providers recognise that young people are having challenges coping with stress


The new four-year Strategy is informed by extensive community consultation with young people, parents, service providers and educators.

It features four priority areas:

1. Healthy and resilient
Young people could strengthen their health and resilience in several areas, particularly getting enough sleep, improving their self-esteem, and dealing with feelings of depression, anxiety, and pressure.
Actions proposed include:

  • co-designing services with young people
  • using social media to encourage healthier choices
  • creating new pathways to access support
  • and increasing understanding and awareness of mental health.

2. Acknowledged
Young people are creative, energetic, innovative and have a voice that needs to be heard. While some young people are participating or contributing to their community and feel that they are being heard, others are not as connected or acknowledged for their contribution.
Key directions and actions for Youth Services include:

  • providing spaces to build social connections
  • facilitating youth leadership and consultation
  • promoting the achievements and impact of young people and encouraging inclusion.

3. Engaged
Young people benefit from having positive connections with their family, at school and within the community. Young people told us they want to feel empowered. They want to feel safe and be involved.

Actions proposed for Youth Services include:

  • supporting vulnerable young people
  • providing more targeted resources
  • strengthening online and social media networks
  • and partnering with other Council departments.

4. Prepared
Many young people told us they feel unsure about the future which can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress. Young people experience many significant changes and transitions including commencing Year 7, leaving school, starting work and becoming an independent young adult.

Key directions and actions for youth services include:

  • partnering to deliver 'Adulting' workshops
  • providing work-ready accredited training
  • raising awareness about the world of work
  • expanding youth volunteering opportunities.


Have your say

Are you happy with the four key priority areas?

  • CLOSED: This survey has concluded.

    Council is keen to hear your views on the proposed new Kingston Youth Strategy 

    Consultation has concluded
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