Streamlining the adoption process and stamping out bullying in schools is what a 12-year-old from Port Kembla wants to tackle in his new role with the NSW Youth Advisory Council.
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Oscar Ryan is the youngest in the group of 12 of the state's bright young leaders, ranging in ages up to 24. All have been hand-picked to assist with practical and valuable advice on behalf of youth to government.
"I'm hoping to get my voice heard so I have more of an opportunity to get those issues fixed," he said.
Oscar said he feels not a lot is being done in his local area around bullying; while being adopted himself he knows the process is long and tedious and would like to see policies change to make it more streamlined.
He was put into foster care with his current mum at two days old and it took until he was 11 for the adoption process to be completed.
The YAC will advise the NSW Government on issues that affect young people and share their vision for the future.
- MP Alister Henskens
Belinda Ryan has been known as 'mum' to Oscar and his older sister for nearly all of their lives, and she is proud her "usually shy" son has left his comfort zone to try and make a difference in the world.
"I'm also glad it's a range of younger to older because then there's role models to the younger ones," Ms Ryan said.
Oscar was chosen from 585 applications and will complete a one year term in the role - which began with the council's first meeting held online last weekend.
Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services, Alister Henskens, said the council provides young people with the opportunity to influence decision-makers that will create positive outcomes for their peers.
"There are many young people from all walks of life seeking to energise, lead and advocate for their generation and the best way to represent and serve our youth is to let their voice be heard," Mr Henskens said. "Members of the Youth Advisory Council will advise the NSW Government on issues that affect young people and share their vision for the future."
Throughout their one-year term, the Youth Advisory Council will be supported by the Advocate for Children and Young People Ms Zoë Robinson.
"Every year the members of the NSW Youth Advisory Council provide practical and valuable advice to government. I look forward to working with the 2021-22 Council and supporting them in their good work," Ms Robinson said.
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