In 2022, TasNetworks will be forming a Youth Panel. Meeting five times from March to May, the panel will work together to co-design a draft community benefits sharing program framework. The panel is open to all young people who want to have their voice heard whilst gaining new skills, meeting others and working on a real-world project that will make a meaningful contribution to their community.

Who can apply?

Anyone who is 18-25* years of age and permanently lives in one of the following local government areas: Burnie,​Waratah/Wynyard, Central Coast, Kentish, Meander Valley, Northern Midlands.

The Youth Panel is an inclusive process. All people who meet the age and location criteria are encouraged to apply. In addition to a stipend payment, support will be provided on an individual basis to all successful applicants to enable full participation.

*Participants need to be between 18 and 25 years of age on 26 March 2022 (the first meeting).

What will participants be working on?

The Panel will be tasked with co-designing a draft North West Transmission Developments community benefits sharing framework.

The North West Transmission Developments include 220kms of new and upgraded transmission lines that will link Cressy, Burnie, Sheffield, Staverton, Hampshire and East Cam strengthening the transmission backbone in Tasmania.

The project will provide the much-needed capacity to support new and existing renewable energy developments in the region, including Marinus Link and support the state’s ambition to be a world-leading energy provider.

Community benefits sharing is an approach to major infrastructure projects that supports the delivery of community benefits in recognition of the project’s impacts. It provides an ongoing and sustainable positive legacy for the community and demonstrates a long-term commitment to impacted communities.

What will participants commit to?

  1. Attend all five meetings - three full day, in-person meetings on a Saturday at a central North West location, and two two-hour online meetings on Thursday evenings
  2. Commit to the Youth Panel Code of Conduct and participate in meetings throughout the panel process in accordance with it.In addition to the above, ideally participants will be able to:
  • Access to a PC, laptop or iPad with a camera and internet connection for online meetings.
  • Where possible, arrange their own transport to and from the in-person meetings.

Please note, you can still apply if you do not have these additional requirements. Support will be available to successful applicants so that they can participate.

Timetable

MeetingDateTiming
One (in person)Saturday, 26 March 202210.00am to 4.30pm
Two (online)Thursday, 7 April 20226.00pm to 8.00pm (or 6.30pm to 8.30pm)
Three (in person)Saturday, 30 April 2022Saturday session 10.00am to 4.30pm (Includes site visit to help participants understand the different types and levels of impact)
Four (online)Thursday, 12 May 20226.00pm to 8.00pm (or 6.30pm to 8.30pm)
Five (in person)                 Saturday, 28 May 2022final Saturday session 10.00am to 4.30pm

What will participants receive?

As part of the Youth Panel, you will have the opportunity to build your career and life skills, create networks with other young people and be a part of a professional process – whilst being fully supported with any required training or information along the way. Each participant will be able to discuss their individual needs, whether this be transport or other support, on a one-to-one basis.

Panel members will also receive:

  • A welcome pack and all materials required to participate in the Youth Panel meetings
  • Lunch and light refreshments during all in-person meetings.
  • A total stipend of $1,200, paid in increments
  • A Certificate of Participation on completion of the Youth Panel process.
  • How to apply

To apply to participate in the Youth Panel, you will need to prepare written answers the following questions, or film a short (maximum 2 minute) video of yourself answering them.

Questions:

  1. Based on your personal experience, what would you say is the biggest issue or challenge facing people living in your community right now? And, what is one key thing that could be done to improve life where you live?
  2. What has motivated you to apply to be on the Youth Panel?
  3. What are three skills or capabilities you have that could be beneficial for the Youth Panel?
  4. Have you a personal ambition or goal for the future and, if so, what is it?

Once you are ready, then:

  1. Open the Online Application Form
  2. Provide your name, age, location and contact details (you will need an email address)
  3. Fill your answers to the questions, or upload your video
  4. Submit the formApplications close at 11:59pm Sunday 20 February 2022. All applicants will be notified of the results via email by 1 March 2022.

How to nominate someone

Do you know someone who would enjoy this opportunity, rise to the challenge and benefit from participating in the Youth Panel? Nominate them today!

You will need to provide the following information:

  • Permission from the person you wish to nominate
  • Your name and contact details
  • The nominee’s name and contact details
  • A prepared answer to the following statement: Why would you like to nominate this person for the Youth Panel?

Ready to nominate? Please fill out and submit this Nomination Form.

Applications close at 11:59pm Sunday 20 February 2022. All applicants will be notified of the results via email by 1 March 2022.