The City of Parramatta has launched its Youth Inclusion Framework , a new guide for strengthening how young people are included in decisions that shape our city.
The launch was held at PHIVE on Thursday 19 March 2026 and brought together young people, youth service providers, community leaders and Council staff.
The event opened with a thoughtful Welcome to Country by Linda Sainsbury, a Dharug woman of the Baramadagal Clan.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor, Cr Martin Zaiter, spoke about the important role young people play in Parramatta’s future. Guests also heard from Lauren Stracey, CEO of Youth Action, who delivered an energising keynote address on practical approaches to youth inclusion, challenging attendees to keep youth voice at the centre of decision making and to turn commitment into meaningful change.
Young leaders Yeshal Mansoor and Joshua Santos hosted the event, demonstrating the intent of the framework in action — supporting young people to take an active role in conversations and decisions that affect them. Joshua and Yeshal have each been involved in the development and implementation of the framework.
A panel discussion followed, convened by Aileen Robino. The panel featured local young people Yeshal Mansoor and Joshua Santos, alongside Lauren Stracey (CEO, Youth Action) and Graeme Pringle (Youth Health Coordinator, Western Sydney Local Health District). The discussion focused on inclusive engagement, reaching young people from diverse backgrounds and supporting meaningful participation.
Following the launch, Council hosted a Youth Sector Forum, providing an opportunity for youth services and organisations to discuss the framework and explore ways to work together on implementation.
Council will continue to embed the framework into practice and progressing the priorities identified by young people, the community and the youth sector.
For more information on all thing’s youth inclusion, visit City of Parramatta’s Youth Inclusion Framework website.
