Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic) congratulates the Koorie Youth Council (KYC) as they take their next step towards independence.
This moment has been a long time in the making. YACVic has auspiced KYC since 2004, and has been proud to support their growth and great work. At the same time, we share KYC’s belief that, as the representative body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people in Victoria, it is important for them to be an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO).
In line with that objective, and the pursuit of full self-determination, KYC have moved to be auspiced by the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) from 1 April 2023. They are also moving physical location to operate out of the Melbourne Aboriginal Youth Sport and Recreation Co-operative (MAYSAR) in Gertrude Street, Fitzroy.
Moving to VALS will provide invaluable support on KYC’s pathway to being an independent ACCO; co-location with MAYSAR also brings new partnership opportunities and continues a proud tradition of ACCO services in this precinct.
Over the years, YACVic and KYC have collaborated on important policy and advocacy work. We have supported KYC’s key efforts such as the ground-breaking Ngaga-dji report, and jointly developed the Aboriginal youth mentoring program Marram Nganyin, which KYC continues to deliver today.
We have also loved the day-to-day collaboration and friendship that our organisations have enjoyed in several years of sharing a workplace. We will certainly miss the team’s passion, perspectives, expertise and humour around the office.
YACVic is proud to incubate organisations like KYC, to build a thriving youth sector with capacity to support a wide range of young people. YACVic is undoubtedly also a stronger and more dynamic organisation thanks to KYC’s rich influence.
This exciting evolution for KYC builds on several years of good work and growth, and we will continue to collaborate for strong outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.
Media contact: Katia Pellicciotta (she/her), YACVic Media & Communications Coordinator on 9267 3744 or KPellicciotta@YACVic.org.au
About Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic)
Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic) is the peak body and leading policy advocate for young people aged 12-25 and the youth sector in Victoria. Established in 1960, YACVic advocates for the rights of young people in Victoria to ensure they are active, visible and valued in their communities.