IPSWICH’S next generation of leaders had a unique opportunity this week to step inside the world of government, thanks to a local partnership between Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding and Speaker of the House of Representatives and Member for Oxley, Milton Dick.
A local version of the national Parliament in Schools program brought more than 100 students from 26 schools to the Council Chambers to learn about democracy, government, and political life firsthand.
Mayor Harding said the program offered a vital lesson in civic engagement.
“This was an incredible opportunity for Ipswich schools to learn about democracy and good government, subjects I am extremely passionate about,” she said. “When children understand how our governments work, they are more likely to engage and make their voices heard as adults. There may be a future Prime Minister, Premier, or Mayor in our schools just waiting to be inspired.”
Mr Dick, who launched the national program in September 2022, said its goal was to make civics education accessible to students no matter where they live.
“One of my biggest priorities as Speaker is to increase the accessibility of civics education,” he said. “Every student should have the opportunity to learn about democracy and the Parliament, whether they can travel to Canberra or not. Today, I enjoyed working with Mayor Harding to bring this important program to Ipswich students.”
The students explored topics including federation, democracy, and the Australian Parliament, while also learning about the daily life of a Member of Parliament in their electorate and during sitting weeks in Canberra.
The program, open to primary and secondary students, tailors content to each grade level, giving young people across Ipswich a firsthand understanding of how government works and why it matters.
