THE largest group of teenagers ever to sign up to take part in the Ipswich Youth Advisory Council have been congratulated for their contribution as their term nears its end.

The 61 young people aged between 13 and 18 years, were applauded by Mayor Teresa Harding, last week.

“Council is proud to support the development of young people through the IYAC program, which has continued to grow and evolve since its establishment in 2007,” she said.

“The City of Ipswich has the youngest population in South East Queensland, and it is essential that young people are actively involved in shaping our city’s future.”

Members of the Youth Advisory Council are involved in consultations on policies, procedures, and projects.

“Input from IYAC has helped shape youth cultural programming, health and well-being initiatives and responses to social priorities such as homelessness and disaster recovery,” Cr Harding said.

“Over the past 12 months, members contributed to the Ipswich 2032 Legacy Roadmap, Strategic Regulation Policy, the Ipswich Film Festival for Youth, Active and Healthy Ipswich, and the Ipswich Central Urban Design Framework.”

Cr Jacob Madsen said the 2025 IYAC members embraced opportunities to build leadership and communication skills and learn about civic engagement.

Youth Advisory Council member Saachi, 13, said involvement in the group boosted confidence and broadened skills.

“My leadership skills have improved and I now have the courage to stand up and engage in discussions. It taught me to project my voice, my passion and my thoughts,” Saachi said.

Another member, Samuel, 15, said the program provided them with practical experience with local government and community service.

“I learned how many moving parts are involved in making a city thrive. IYAC showed me that being part of council means identifying problems and working together to solve them.”

Applications for the 2026 IYAC program are now open.