TWO young people from the region have been inducted as members of NSW's first Regional Youth Taskforce, which will have a voice in state government.
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Tamworth's Ryan Dwight and Armidale's Laura Murray are among 18 members who will be "able to champion causes big and small that matter to their peers".
They were chosen from a pool of 300 applicants and will provide advice to Minister for Regional Youth Bronnie Taylor, government agencies and the Office of Regional Youth.
The taskforce will meet twice a year in person and twice a year via video conference.
Mr Dwight, who works for Homes North Community Housing, said he applied because he was "passionate about my region ... and providing solutions to the issues that are impacting young people every day who reside in our area".
"I want to ensure that the voices of young people are heard, and the issues risen are taken seriously from state government."
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Mr Dwight said he believed some of the most pressing issues were affordable housing, employment and training opportunities, and public transport.
He also wanted to see more evening activities for young people, greater access to medical and mental health services, particularly for people with a disability, and more support and opportunities for young Indigenous people.
Mrs Taylor said she was "eager" to hear more from the participants.
"The survival and prosperity of our regional towns relies on the teenagers and young adults of today, so it makes sense to give those people a voice at the highest level of government."
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said two people from each of NSW's nine regional zones had been selected.
"This is an amazing group of young people with diverse backgrounds who are united by their desire to improve life for their peers, from country to coast," Mr Barilaro said.
"It's a big responsibility, but I am confident that every single young person chosen is committed to the task, and I want each of them to know they have the support and backing of myself and the NSW government."