Over 90 people attended Beyond Borders: Breaking Down the Silos – YACVic Rural’s flagship conference events – in Charlton and Warrnambool during late May and mid-June 2026. The purpose of the events was to gather rural youth sector workers and key stakeholders to strengthen cross-sector collaboration, explore shared challenges and opportunities, and identify practical ways to improve outcomes for rural young people.
Each event was tailored to reflect the unique needs, priorities, industries and community contexts of the region in which it was delivered. This ensured that discussions remained locally relevant and responsive to the experiences of rural communities and the young people who live within them.
Highlights included youth panels, a keynote address by Katie Acheson, the 60-Day Challenge and advocacy workshops, all with a local focus.
What YACVic Rural will do next
Over the next 6–12 months, YACVic Rural will build on the momentum created from Beyond Borders by:
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continuing to strengthen connections across the rural youth sector through networking, collaboration and knowledge-sharing opportunities
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supporting youth-centred approaches that amplify the voices, experiences, and leadership of rural young people
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encouraging cross-sector collaboration to address shared challenges and improve outcomes for young people
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promoting examples of sharing power with young people through effective youth participation, engagement, and leadership across regional Victoria
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exploring opportunities for future regional gatherings, communities of practice and collaborative initiatives informed by the priorities identified through Beyond Borders.
By continuing to invest in local relationships, championing youth participation, and collective action, YACVic Rural aims to support stronger, more connected rural communities where young people are respected, valued and active in the local communities.