Young people in rural and regional Victoria face unique barriers to accessing relevant and adequate services and being heard by decisionmakers, but local support and leadership can change this.

Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic) is bringing together youth and community service workers across the state at Potholes to Possibilities, a three-day conference in Bendigo.

Premier Jacinta Allan MP will open the conference, where speakers and attendees alike will work through pressing issues for regional communities including disaster recovery, healthy relationships, mental health, technology’s impact on social services, and opportunities for youth participation.

The impressive range of expert speakers includes Bendigo-based digital innovator Cassandra Rowe (Indigital), nationally recognised Lucy Thomas OAM (Project Rockit), leading sexual health expert Natalie Cavallaro (Sexual Health Victoria), and many more.

“Created by and for rural and regional communities, this conference will be an invaluable opportunity for anyone who works with rural and regional young people to boost their skills, and tap into an incredible peer network,” says YACVic Head of Rural and Acting Co-CEO Derm Ryan.

To ensure equitable access to the conference, YACVic welcomes young workers (aged 18-25) and students of youth work or community services (any age; any qualification level) to use the discount code YOUTHWORKS for 20% off.

Tickets are available now on the YACVic website.

Learn more: yacvic.org.au/conference

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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.

Talent available for interview: YACVic Head of Rural and Acting co-CEO Derm Ryan; Rural Development Coordinator Karen Walsh. Certain speakers upon request.