QUEENSLAND Youth Week has been officially locked in, with celebrations set to run from Saturday, April 11 to Sunday, April 19 – shining a spotlight on the energy, ideas and leadership young people bring to communities right across the State.
More than just a week on the calendar, Youth Week is about recognising the vital role young Queenslanders aged 12 to 25 play in shaping neighbourhoods, strengthening connections and driving positive change.
From volunteering and sport to culture, mental health and creative expression, the week gives young people a platform to be seen, heard and celebrated.
Backing that focus is a significant funding boost, with $275,000 in grants available in 2026 to support youth-led events and initiatives.
Individual grants of up to $10,000 will help young people turn ideas into action – whether that’s a local festival, a wellbeing workshop, a cultural celebration or a community project designed by and for young people.
The expanded grants program is being delivered in partnership with the Queensland Mental Health Commission, reinforcing the strong link between youth participation, creativity and wellbeing.
It marks a major increase on previous years and reflects growing recognition that when young people are supported to lead, entire communities benefit.
The impact is already clear. In 2025, nearly $70,000 was shared among 16 youth-led events across Queensland, including community festivals, culturally focused celebrations, and grassroots sporting competitions – each one bringing people together and building local pride.
Creativity also takes centre stage during the current Youth Week, with the Queensland Youth Week 2026 Digital Art Competition featuring a $1750 cash prize pool, the competition encourages young artists to tell their stories visually, with the winning artwork set to become the face of Queensland Youth Week 2027.
Youth Week is not just about events – it’s about belonging, opportunity and building a stronger future.
