YOUNG MAN IN ACTION: Tamworth’s Lachlan Mills has been selected as a member of the Legislative Council at this year’s YMCA NSW Youth Parliament.
HE might only be 18 years old, but Tamworth’s Lachlan Mills is wading into the political arena for the second year running.
The former Calrossy Anglican School student has been selected for the inaugural Legislative Council in this year’s YMCA NSW Youth Parliament.
Last year he represented Tamworth in the Legislative Assembly.
“My time in the Legislative Assembly in July was extraordinary, I loved every minute of it – the debates, the opportunity to influence the state through proposed acts and most importantly the other young people,” Lachlan said.
He said being a member of the Legislative Council would be a challenge, but he had “no doubt” the program would further enrich his understanding of parliamentary process and give the state’s youth a say.
As an MLC, he will not represent a particular electorate nor construct a bill, but will be involved in scrutinising those passed by the Legislative Assembly.
He will also produce a report within the committee of roads and ports.
Already the committee has submitted three possible topics, one of which will form the basis of the report to be delivered and debated at the parliament in early July.
The Youth Parliament is an apolitical program, designed to be a realistic simulation of the NSW Parliament.
The 157 members also complete education packs to enhance their understanding of the state parliament and its processes.
Next month Lachlan will attend a training camp and then in July the parliament will sit for a week-long session.
He will also attend a dinner at Government House, at which he will have the opportunity to meet state politicians and the governor.
Lachlan said all bills passed by the parliament were reviewed by the NSW government and opposition, giving young people input into
politics and legislation.
Despite his interest in politics, the University of Wollongong student, who is studying psychology and commerce, is not sure a career in the field is on the horizon.
But he remains passionate about young people’s involvement in politics.
“Politics is a necessary means for progression in this country,” Lachlan said.
“Too often the voice of the youth is not heard, simply because no one is willing to listen – that is the basis for my interest in politics, knowing how, if in any way, the youth can influence legislation.”