Young Territorians Feel Ignored in Election Campaign
As the Northern Territory prepares for its election on Saturday, young voters are expressing their disappointment with the major parties' lack of focus on issues that directly impact them.
Several first-time voters shared their concerns with the ABC, highlighting youth crime, employment and training opportunities, housing, and mental health as key areas they want the next government to address. They feel the major parties have not adequately consulted or engaged with young people during the campaign, leaving them feeling unheard and misunderstood.
Jules Gabor, a 19-year-old youth advocate, spoke about her personal experience with youth homelessness and the toll it took on her mental health. She emphasized the need for safe spaces where young people can grow, learn, and receive support.
Jordon Humphreys, an 18-year-old advocate for youth, disability, mental health, and anti-bullying, believes youth crime is the most pressing issue. He suggests investing in government-run youth drop-in centers and providing young people with skills to help them find jobs and connect with others.
Shanaya McAdam-Bray, an 18-year-old Indigenous youth advocate, criticized the major parties' plans to build new women's prisons and lower the age of criminal responsibility. She believes addressing the root causes of crime through dialogue and understanding is more effective than incarceration.
Taylah Mills, a 20-year-old administrative officer, feels young people in remote communities have been completely ignored by the campaign. She hasn't seen any policies targeting their needs and feels there has been a lack of communication from the major parties.
Both major party leaders were questioned about their policies for young people. Chief Minister Eva Lawler acknowledged the lack of specific youth policies, while Opposition Leader Lia Finocchiaro highlighted her party's focus on education and first-home buyer grants.
Young Territorians feel their voices are not being heard in this election. They urge the next government to prioritize their concerns and engage in meaningful dialogue to address the challenges they face.