THE next generation of young leaders is stepping up in Ipswich, with a record-breaking number of volunteers joining the Ipswich Youth Advisory Council (IYAC) for 2026.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding welcomed the new cohort last week, announcing that 73 young people aged between 13 and 18 have commenced their term – the largest intake since the council was established in 2007.
“The Ipswich Youth Advisory Council is growing each year – in 2024 we had 37 members, in 2025 we had 65, and this year we have 73,” Mayor Harding said. “Ipswich has the youngest population in South East Queensland, and IYAC continues to empower young leaders to speak up on the everyday issues that matter to them.”
Mayor Harding said the strong turnout reflected the enthusiasm of young people to help shape the city’s future.
“I am delighted to see so many of our youngest and brightest ready to contribute ideas and perspectives that will help guide Ipswich as it grows,” she said.
Community and Sport Committee Chairperson Councillor Jacob Madsen said IYAC provided a valuable platform for young people to build leadership skills while influencing a wide range of council policies and projects.
“By joining IYAC for 2026, these young people are having a direct impact on Ipswich’s growth and development,” Cr Madsen said. “In 2025, members worked closely with council on initiatives such as the Ipswich Film Festival for Youth, planning for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic legacy, strategic regulation, urban design, and addressing homelessness.”
Cr Madsen said the program also helped participants develop a deeper understanding of civic engagement while building confidence, communication and collaboration skills.
The Ipswich Youth Advisory Council is open to young people aged 13 to 18 who attend school in Ipswich and are keen to make a positive difference in their local community. Members are appointed through an application process, serve an initial one-year term, and may seek re-appointment for a second term.
