Twenty-six community organisations and local governments in Western Australia have been awarded a share of nearly $220,000 through the 2025-26 Youth Engagement Grants program. Each recipient can receive up to $10,000 to deliver projects that align with the WA Youth Action Plan 2024-2027 – Koorlangka Bidi, focusing on building skills and capacity for young people aged 10 to 25, supporting youth-led initiatives, or establishing Youth Advisory Councils (YACs).
Recipients span across the state, from the Kimberley to the Great Southern. Projects include the Shire of Cunderdin’s STRIVE Youth Program, which encourages active community engagement; the Peel Volunteer Resource Centre’s YAC, empowering youth to shape volunteering initiatives; Joombarn-buru Aboriginal Corporation’s Drive and Thrive project, helping at-risk Aboriginal youth gain driving licenses, life skills, and vocational training; the Shire of Northam’s youth-led community action plan; and the Shire of East Pilbara’s year-long leadership and skill-building program.
The 2025-26 grants mark the fifth consecutive year the program has supported organisations in making a meaningful impact on young people across WA. Past recipients, such as the Belmont Saints Squash & Sports Club, have used the funding to help youth achieve formal qualifications, build skills, and participate in volunteer and paid roles within their communities. Beneficiaries like Teagan Scott have gained coaching and officiating qualifications, enabling them to mentor younger players and give back to their clubs.
The WA Youth Engagement Grants Program is open annually to eligible organisations delivering projects in Western Australia, continuing to provide opportunities for youth empowerment, skill development, and community participation.
