Community Planning and Strategy - Sunshine Coast Council

Community Planning and Strategy

Foreword 

The Sunshine Coast Youth Strategy will deliver a partnership approach towards building a 

brighter future for young people on the Sunshine Coast over the next 5 years and beyond. The 

stakeholders include layers of government, non-government agencies, the community and of 

course, the young people who make up the vibrant heart of our region. 

The youth strategy delves into the issues that have a direct impact on the lives of young people 

whilst also defining Sunshine Coast Council’s commitments to building a strong and resilient 

youth population. 

The Speak Up Engage Program has been a key part of the strategy development, providing 

significant input from the young people of the region. The program has positioned young people 

as the experts of their own cultures, experiences and needs, and recognises that young people 

are aware of what works and what doesn’t in their communities. 

Our young people are the key to the future, and so it is imperative that council tap into their 

optimism, creativity, innovation and energy. Involving young people in local government 

decision-making processes ensures the organisation puts a direct focus on the need to 

generate “on the ground” outcomes that are ultimately motivated by the aspirations of young 

people. 

The implementation of the Sunshine Coast Youth Strategy will draw upon and strengthen the 

links between council, young people and the community. It is important to develop a youth 

strategy that will facilitate greater outcomes for our young people through a collaborative 

approach to youth services. 

Through the strategy, council is aspiring to create an environment where young people are 

included in the decisions that have an impact on their lives. Encouraging partnerships with 

our young people promotes mutual respect and provides opportunities for young people to 

participate in civic life and take pride in their region. 

Cr Bob Abbot 

MAYOR 

Cr Christian Dickson 

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 

AND GOVERNANCE PORTFOLIO

Table of Contents 

Executive Summary 05 

Benefits of the Youth Strategy for our Region 06 

Sunshine Coast Youth Strategy 2010 - 2015 07 

Young People on the Sunshine Coast - a Snapshot 08 

What Underpins the Sunshine Coast Youth Strategy? 10 

Council’s Current Commitment 12 

Principle 1: Youth Voice and Action 14 

Principle 2: Access and Opportunity for all 15 

Principle 3: Speaking up for Youth 16 

Principle 4: Working Together 17 

Principle 5: Youth and Community Connections 18 

Appendix A - Consultation with the Youth Sector 20 

Appendix B - Relevant Documents 21 

Appendix C - Glossary 22 

Action Plan 23 

Findings from the Sunny Coast Youth Survey Fact Sheet 31 

04 

For further information, please contact: 

Youth Development Officer 

Sunshine Coast Regional Council 

e: commpartnerships@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au 

p: (07) 5475 7272

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 

The Sunshine Coast Youth Strategy has been developed with input from the region’s young people, 

youth sector and many areas across council, to ensure that youth needs, issues and aspirations are 

embedded into existing and future functions, facilities, services and resources of council. 

On the Sunshine Coast, young people contribute to the vibrancy and prosperity of local 

communities. This strategy helps to achieve council’s vision to become a vibrant, green and diverse 

region. The strategy identifies young people as those aged 11-24 years which represents 17% of 

the population. Within this broad age grouping, three smaller cohorts have been identified: 11-14 

years, 15-19 years and 20-24 years. 

The Speak Up Engage Program has been an important component of the formation of the 

foundation paper, Young People on the Sunshine Coast and the development of the youth strategy. 

The main aim of the program was to inform the development of council’s Youth Engagement 

Framework that would guide council on how to better involve young people in local government 

decision-making processes and enhance future engagement practices. These practices provide 

young people with the opportunity to participate in a mutual partnership with council and to build this 

region. 

One of the main outcomes of the Speak Up Engage Program was the Sunny Coast Youth Survey 

2010. The Speak up Engage Program engaged with over 2300 young people across the region to 

determine what young people like about their local areas, the key issues for young people and their 

visions for the next ten years. 

The survey revealed that the majority of young people value a sense of community, the environment 

and living in a convenient location. The key issues that impact their lives are drugs and alcohol, 

crime and a lack of arts and cultural activities. In ten years time, young people would like to see a 

region that has a greater sense of community, where population and growth are monitored and the 

environment is protected and preserved. 

The guiding principles and associated commitments of the Sunshine Coast Youth Strategy were 

developed from the Speak Up Engage Program and the outcomes of the Sunny Coast Youth Survey 

2010. The guiding principles are: 

»» 

Youth voice and action 

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Access and opportunity for all 

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Speaking up for youth 

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Working together 

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Youth and community connections 

The action plan is based on the principles and commitments and has been developed from an 

holistic organisational perspective. 

05

Benefits of the Youth Strategy for our region 

The Sunshine Coast Youth Strategy 2010-2015 has been developed with input from the region’s 

young people, youth sector and many areas across council to ensure that youth needs, issues and 

aspirations are embedded into existing and future functions, facilities, services and resources of 

council. 

Council is committed to continue to work in partnership with all levels of government, nongovernment 

agencies, the community and young people to build a resilient youth population and to 

provide opportunities for them to reach their full potential. 

Working closely with the community and across the whole region, council aims to achieve 

maximum outcomes with minimum intervention. Council will always look to develop capacity within 

the community to respond to issues before considering direct service delivery. 

The youth strategy has a strong emphasis on meaningful and ongoing engagement, and provides 

a vehicle for young people to voice their concerns and influence council decisions. Encouraging 

partnerships with our young people promotes mutual respect and provides opportunities for them 

to participate in civic life and contribute to this region. The benefits of this partnership approach to 

the youth strategy include: 

Benefits for council 

Council will benefit through having a strategic direction that taps into the creativity and 

resources, energy and enthusiasm of young people. In a changing environment, young people 

hold the key to the future. Council is committed to providing young people with the opportunity 

to participate in a mutual partnership to build this region. Engaging and involving young people 

in local government exposes the organisation to youthful optimism and innovative ideas whilst 

creating deeper roots and stronger loyalties amongst its younger citizens. 

Benefits for young people 

Council aims to work with young people to develop their full potential and enhance their 

wellbeing through the outcomes of the youth strategy and Speak Up Engage Program. This 

enables council to facilitate youth development. Essentially, youth engagement provides young 

people with a platform to enhance their skills, build their competencies, and contribute to local 

government decision-making and ultimately assist in the development of policies, programs 

and services. Greater participation by young people in civic life creates a sense of belonging, 

ownership and pride in their local community and across the region. This in turn leads to 

aiding in the retention of young people in the region and the future wellbeing and strength of 

communities. 

06 

Benefits for the community 

Through youth engagement and outcomes of the strategy, the community will have a better 

understanding and acknowledgement of young people’s rights as citizens and their contributions 

to the economy, culture and vibrancy of the community. Organisations and institutions that 

facilitate intergenerational involvement and recognise young people as fully contributing 

members of a democratic society are themselves contributing to a progressive dialogue on 

youth and social change. Additionally, gathering and sharing of information promotes and 

enables good decision-making, clarifies and informs issues and allows accurate allocation of 

resources.

Sunshine Coast Youth Strategy 2010 - 2015 

The guiding principles of the Sunshine Coast Youth Strategy are: 

Youth voice and action 

Communicate effectively with young people, their families and others in their lives to build and 

facilitate services and outcomes that are responsive and flexible in meeting their needs. 

Access and opportunity for all 

Promote the equitable distribution and accessibility of resources, services and facilities to be 

inclusive of diversity such as age, gender, sexuality, cultural background, language, ability or 

geographical location. 

Speaking up for youth 

Listen to and acknowledge the needs and issues of the Sunshine Coast’s diverse youth population. 

Advocate to other levels of government, the commercial and community sectors for resources and 

support. 

Working together 

Build collaborative partnerships with the youth sector, agencies and young people to support 

the development of programs that increase their capacity through personal development, skills, 

knowledge and learning. 

Youth and community connections 

Build the resilience of young people by creating a sense of belonging and a sense of place that 

encourages community participation, active citizenship and volunteering. 

These five principles have been adapted from nine good practice principles identified and 

endorsed by the young participants in the Speak Up Engage Program. These same good practice 

principles have been an integral part of youth work and service delivery in local government for 

over 15 years on the Sunshine Coast. 

In embracing these guiding principles and in line with council’s Corporate Plan 2009-2014, 

council’s role in the youth sector will include: 

»» 

building capacity and partnerships through creative programs and development initiatives 

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promoting safety, accessibility and inclusiveness 

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advocating for resources and support for young people within the region, and 

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facilitating communication, information sharing, networking and active citizenship. 

07

Young People on the Sunshine Coast - A snapshot 

The foundation paper, Young People on the Sunshine Coast, provides a detailed demographic 

analysis of the region’s youth population and explores issues that impact their lives. 

On the Sunshine Coast, young people contribute to the vibrancy and prosperity of local 

communities and this vibrant, green and diverse region. Young people are those aged 11-24 years. 

Within this broad age grouping, three smaller age cohorts have been defined in line with the Office 

of Youth Affairs: 11-14 years, 15-19 years and 20-24 years. 

Sunshine Coast 

Queensland 

Young people 11–24 years 17.4% 19.7% 




Indigenous 11–24 year olds 

(as proportion of youth population) 

2.2% 5.4% 

Young people studying (full and part time) 67.8% 83.3% 

Young people living in family households 54.3% 60.9% 

Young people 15–24 years in workforce 

Employed in retail industry 

Employed in hospitality industry 

Employed in construction industry 

26.3% 

19.7% 

12.3% 

19.0% 

5.9% 

5.2% 

Young people employed part time 43.0% 46.5% 

Young people employed full time 41.1% 38.3% 

ABS 2006 

08 

Australian Bureau of Statistics Census Data 2006 indicate that the majority of employed 15-24 year 

olds within the region worked in the retail industry (26.3%), followed by accommodation and food 

services (19.7%) and construction (12.3%). This reflects the region’s historic economic base and 

employment opportunities; however recent employment data shows a significant change in this 

historic pattern. In 2009, employment in the retail sector almost doubled while in the construction 

sector it decreased by almost 50% (Education Queensland 2009, Year 12 Completers Survey).

What underpins the Sunshine Coast Youth Strategy? 

Council’s Youth Engagement Program – Speak up Engage 

The Speak Up Engage Program has been an important component in the formation of the 

foundation paper, Young People on the Sunshine Coast, and the development of the youth 

strategy. The main aim of the program was: 

»» 

to inform the development of council’s youth engagement model that would guide council 

on how to better involve young people in local government decision-making processes and 

enhance future engagement practices. 

The Speak Up Engage Youth Team is a group of young people working with council since 

2008, primarily concerned with the overarching issue of youth engagement and the methods 

of engagement that would be most effective to encourage young people’s participation in local 

government decision-making. Using identified themes, the team tested the effectiveness of a 

number of engagement tools including face-to-face interviews, online surveys and blogs, and 

use of the media. From these learnings, a model for youth engagement emerged. The youth 

engagement model recognises that young people are the experts in engaging with their peers 

and promotes the use of a variety of engagement techniques (face-to-face interviews and 

electronic media) which will maximise youth participation. The final outcome was the action based 

application of the model with the development of a youth survey administered by young people in 

the 44 localities of the Sunshine Coast region. This resulted in 2,307 respondents, representing 

approximately 5% of the youth population aged 11-25 years. The success and robustness of the 

Sunny Coast Youth Survey validates the effectiveness of the youth engagement model. 

Vision for young people in the region 

Through the Speak Up Engage Program - Sunny Coast Youth Survey 2010, young people were 

given the opportunity to express their hopes and aspirations for the Sunshine Coast over the next 

ten years. The following table provides the three open ended questions, top three themes for each 

and number of responses. 

Open ended questions Top themes as identified by young people 

What do you like about your suburb/local area? Sense of community – 1,323 

Environment – 1,087 

Convenient location - 726 

What are the biggest issues for young people 

living on the Sunshine Coast? 

What do you want the Sunshine Coast to look 

like in 10 years time? 

Drugs and alcohol – 815 

Crime – 488 

Lack of arts and cultural activities - 445 

Sense of community – 1,129 

Population and growth – 813 

Environment – 603 

10 

• More information about the results of the Sunny Coast Youth Survey 2010 can be found on 

the Findings from the Sunny Coast Youth Survey Fact Sheet (see attached). 

• For issues identified by the youth sector, refer to Appendix A.

The survey found that young people have a vision for the future of the Sunshine Coast where 

communities are more vibrant, harmonious and friendly. Where they can travel the coast with ease 

and safety and access more youth friendly entertainment and activities. A region that is prosperous 

and offers a variety of education and employment opportunities for young people, manages 

population growth and development while protecting the environment. 

Working with the Community 

The youth strategy has been developed by working closely with the region’s youth sector. Council 

will aim to develop capacity within the community to respond to youth needs and to facilitate 

a coordinated approach to youth services across the region. There are many benefits to this 

approach including: 

»» 

building capacity in local organisations 

»» 

creating an environment of collaboration between stakeholders 

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engendering ownership of issues and solutions by the community 

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creating a bigger pool of expertise to consider issues and responses, and 

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increasing advocacy power to other levels of government due to collaborative, region-wide 

responses. 

Most significantly, this approach works towards creating a stronger, more resilient and sustainable 

community. 

Working with the Youth Sector 

Consultation with the youth sector has been an important element in the development of the youth 

strategy. A meeting with the youth sector took place on 1 June 2010 and highlighted the issues 

found on page 20. This meeting was scheduled in response to requests that emerged at the 

Community Services Conference held in May for more involvement with council. 

In an effort to validate these issues, an online survey to the broader youth sector was conducted 

in July. The survey was sent to 52 youth-focused organisations from across the region and 18 

responses were received. 

According to responses received, council’s role within the sector might be a combination of 

coordination, communication and engagement, sector support and capacity building, funding and 

providing youth activities and events. 

Foundation Paper to Council’s Strategy 

The foundation paper, Young People on the Sunshine Coast, was a preliminary step in the creation 

of the youth strategy. The background paper is extensive in its coverage of young people and 

the multiple issues that impact their lives. The methodology for compiling the paper included 

various information sources at a local, state and national level. The paper incorporates previous 

consultation, research and social and youth policies from the three former local governments of 

the Sunshine Coast. The paper also incorporates data from the Speak Up Engage Program (2008 

– 2010) and data from the Sunshine Coast Youth Partnership youth survey and summit (2009). To 

view the foundation paper, Young People on the Sunshine Coast, visit council’s website. 

11

Council’s Current Commitment 

Council’s commitment to the community, including young people, is articulated in the Corporate 

Plan 2009-2014 under the theme of Social Cohesion: 

“Strong communities provide lifestyle choices, share ideas, provide mutual support, and celebrate 

their local identity and culture. Relationships between governments, community and business 

sectors build trust and encourage sharing of ideas and resources. Through its social planning 

strategies and programs, council will help develop a sense of identity and belonging, promote and 

encourage interactions, ensure equal opportunities and provide information to help strengthen 

community groups and networks.” 

Council’s commitment to young people is reflected in its services, facilities and functions and 

includes: 

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advocating for the needs of young people in the community and within council 

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breaking down barriers to participation and engaging with council by creating opportunities for 

young people to participate in development activities and contribute to council decision-making 

processes 

»» 

celebrating the diversity of young people and recognising their individuality 

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providing equitable access to services, facilities and information 

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enhancing the wellbeing of young people and their families by providing information and referral 

to programs that are responsive to their needs 

»» 

facilitating development opportunities that empower young people 

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providing and maintaining community, recreation and sporting facilities 

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promoting opportunities to participate in recreational, sporting, cultural and artistic activities 

»» 

promoting participation of young people in their communities 

»» 

providing leadership in planning, collaboration and partnerships across youth service networks 

and with other community providers at the local, regional and state levels 

»» 

providing opportunities to celebrate the value and strengths of young people 

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supporting and developing leadership in young people, and 

»» 

supporting young people to be advocates at a local, regional, state and federal level. 

The Sunshine Coast Youth Strategy is inclusive of all cultures. Council also acknowledges 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders as first Australians and its commitment to reconciliation 

through the Reconciliation Action Plan. 

12

These commitments are enacted through council initiatives which include, but are not limited to: 

»» 

Externally Funded/Partnership 

Programs 

* Speak Up Engage 

* Black Swans Big Day Out 

* TravelSmart 

* Holiday programs 

* Living Smart 

* AMPED - Sunshine Coast A-Venue 

Program 

* Smart Arts 

»» 

Strategies/Policies/Plans 

* Youth Arts Strategy 

* Skate and BMX Strategy 

* Economic Development Strategy 

* Cultural Plan 

* Open Space Strategy 

»» 

Internal Programs 

* Environmental education 

* Grants 

* Education resources (libraries) 

* Information and literacy sessions 

* Healthy education programs 

* Street performance 

* Community safety 

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Infrastructure 

* Cultural infrastructure 

* Sporting and recreation facilities 

* Community centres/halls 

* Cycleways and footpaths 

* Aquatic centres 

13

Principle 1: Youth voice and action 

OBJECTIVE: Communicate effectively with young people, their families and others in 

their lives to build and facilitate services and outcomes that are responsive and flexible 

in meeting their needs. 

Investing in young people is investing in the future of the Sunshine Coast. Facilitating opportunities 

for young people to participate in community life acknowledges that they are valued members 

of their community. Initiatives such as the Speak Up Engage Program allow young people to 

participate in an engagement process and express their opinions on matters that concern them in 

innovative and appealing ways. 

Research conducted with and for young people suggests that they differ from older generations in 

their preferred method of engagement in the political process. ‘There is clear evidence that young 

people in Australia are engaged with political and social issues, but that they feel alienated by 

formal, institutionalised politics and are less inclined to engage in traditional forms of participation’ 

(Collin 2008:20). 

Research also suggests that young people value processes and experiences that are fun, 

culturally relevant, flexible, and effective. It is these aspects that the Speak Up Engage Youth Team 

exploited in developing the model of engagement for council and in administering the Sunny Coast 

Youth Survey 2010. 

The Sunny Coast Youth Survey 2010 engaged with 2,307 young people between the ages of 

11 and 25 years across the Sunshine Coast. This represents 4.6% of the youth population and 

demonstrates that young people are willing to participate and offer their opinions on matters that 

affect them and the community. The survey utilised four main engagement methods; media, 

marketing and promotion, interpersonal and online engagement. 

Through this process, respondents expressed strong views on a variety of themes including: 

Sense of Community; Environment; Population and Growth; Transport; Crime; Drugs and Alcohol; 

Employment; and Community Safety. Young people have also expressed a desire to seek out and 

avail themselves of opportunities to be involved in council and community decision-making and to 

break away from the negative stereotypes and perceptions portrayed in the media. 

“We need people who really understand teens, who want to give us 

opportunities.” 

youth 

voice 

Council’s commitments in relation to this principle include: 

»» 

facilitating opportunities for young people to be heard and valuing their views and 

opinions 

»» 

engaging meaningfully with young people and enabling them to have a say in 

decisions that affect their lives 

»» 

adopting innovative and appropriate methods of communication that are relevant 

and appealing to young people. 

14

Principle 2: Access and opportunities for all 

OBJECTIVE: Promote the equitable distribution and accessibility of resources, services 

and facilities to be inclusive of diversity such as age, gender, sexuality, cultural 

background, language, ability or geographical location. 

Young people are often disadvantaged due to a lack of equitable access to resources and 

opportunities. One of the key issues for young people on the Sunshine Coast is travelling from 

place to place in this vast region. The ability to utilise different modes of transport is important 

for young people to develop a sense of independence, to access employment, education, 

entertainment, activities and to “hang out” with friends. The dispersed nature of the Sunshine 

Coast creates difficulties in accessing public transport that is convenient, affordable and timely. 

This leads to a heavy reliance on parents and private vehicles for transport which further inhibits 

independence. Cycleways and pathways offer alternative forms of mobility (cycling, walking and 

skateboarding) for young people and promote physical activity. 

For a variety of reasons, many young people have disconnected or are at risk of disconnecting 

from formal education. Access to flexible alternative education and training programs is essential 

to help these young people reach their full potential. Programs such as the Federally funded 

Youth Connections and the State funded Youth Support Coordinator Program are geared towards 

reconnecting young people in innovative ways and providing alternatives to mainstream education. 

The Sunny Coast Youth Survey highlighted young people’s need for opportunities and places for 

hanging out and social interaction. Comments around this theme related to not enough to do or 

not enough age appropriate activities or places, and the cost and ability to access such places 

and activities. In addition to these unstructured pursuits, young people surveyed expressed a 

desire for greater access to youth entertainment and events, transport and recreational activities 

(sporting and physical activities). Young respondents to the survey also expressed the need for 

greater access to casual and part-time employment opportunities for students as well as the need 

for a diversity of industries on the Sunshine Coast. These needs were exacerbated by the lack of 

affordable accommodation and a convenient and timely transport system. 

Access to information empowers young people to actively participate in the community. Web based 

media and social networking sites are used extensively by young people to connect with others 

and to discover what is happening on the Sunshine Coast and in their local communities. 

“With limited bus times and routes it is hard to reach certain 

destinations on certain days.” 

youth 

voice 


»» 

advocate for improved services and infrastructure for the whole region 

»» 

facilitate information sharing 

»» 

build partnerships with the commercial and community sectors to provide more 

opportunities and resources for young people. 

15

Principle 3: Speaking up for youth 

OBJECTIVE: Listen to and acknowledge the needs and issues of the Sunshine Coast’s 

diverse youth population. Advocate to other levels of government, the commercial and 

community sectors for resources and support. 

Many of the issues that impact on the lives of the Sunshine Coast’s young people are outside the 

jurisdiction of council; however council can play an active role in engaging with young people to 

understand their concerns, needs and aspirations, and advocate on their behalf for resources and 

support to bring about positive changes that will benefit the whole community. 

The issues that impact the lives of young people on the Sunshine Coast are many and varied 

and include mental and physical health concerns such as obesity, self-esteem, depression, and 

drug and alcohol abuse. There are also issues associated with education, employment and 

homelessness. Some of the most difficult periods for young people are times when they are 

transitioning from one life phase to another: from primary to secondary school; secondary to 

tertiary education or work; from childhood to adulthood. These are stressful times for young people 

and can place pressure on relationships and increase the risk to young people of homelessness, 

poor mental and emotional health, and drug and alcohol abuse. 

Some respondents to the Sunny Coast Youth Survey 2010 observed that there is easy access 

to drugs on the Sunshine Coast and that drug abuse is related to boredom and a lack of age 

appropriate activities, entertainment and suitable, affordable venues. 

Young people’s responses in the Sunny Coast Youth Survey indicate the need to address issues 

of access to efficient and convenient transportation, greater employment opportunities, and the 

availability of affordable housing and crisis accommodation. 

Their vision for the future of the Sunshine Coast is one where there is intergenerational harmony 

and respect; where there is increased availability of public transport, open space, recreational 

facilities and entertainment options, and a region that is economically and environmentally 

sustainable. 

“The community needs to give us a chance to prove ourselves 

so we can earn their trust!” 

youth 

voice 


»» 

empowering young people to speak up for themselves and to take a lead role in the 

planning, implementation and evaluation of activities and programs to increase the 

likelihood of achieving positive outcomes for young people and communities 

»» 

advocate with other levels of government, the commercial and community sectors to 

improve support and health service provision, and 

»» 

strengthen intervention and support programs that assist young people with major 

transitions in their lives. 

16

Principle 4: Working together 

OBJECTIVE: Build collaborative partnerships with the youth sector, agencies and young 

people to support the development of programs that increase capacity through personal 

development, skills, knowledge and learning. 

Developing close working relationships with young people assists in building their capacity and 

enables them to actively participate in community life as citizens in their own right. Assisting young 

people to build their skills and knowledge and become resilient, self sufficient and active citizens is 

of benefit to the whole community. 

The responsibility for the wellbeing of young people belongs to the whole community and 

therefore requires a collaborative approach with other levels of government, the commercial and 

community sectors and young people. A key component of working together is to identify the 

variety of services and programs that exist for young people at a local, district or regional level. The 

Sunshine Coast is well serviced by long established service providers with a strong track record in 

developing and delivering youth services. The mapping of service provision enables identification 

of duplication and gaps in services and programs. 

Forming collaborative partnerships maximises resources and enables the delivery of more effective 

services and programs across the coast. Service providers on the Sunshine Coast are currently 

working together to develop and deliver youth programs. Joint applications for government and 

philanthropic grant funding improve the possibility for success in a very competitive funding field. 

As one of the largest local governments in Australia, Sunshine Coast Council can make a positive 

contribution to youth services by lending its support to collaborative funding applications. 

Youth service providers on the Sunshine Coast have identified five priority needs for young people: 

employment; transport; accommodation; social inclusion and meeting places for social interaction. 

These issues closely align with those articulated by respondents to the Sunny Coast Youth Survey 

2010, although for young people the issues of drug and alcohol abuse and crime were also highly 

significant. Young survey respondents envision a future that is drug free, with less violence and 

crime, a strong sense of community and where everyone is safe - a future where population and 

growth is managed and the environment is protected. 

“I want the Sunshine Coast to have more youth involvement.” 

youth 

voice 


»» 

Working together with all levels of government, commercial and community 

organisations and young people to: 

* deliver a coordinated approach to youth services and programs 

* create employment, training and development opportunities for young 

people 

* deliver improved health and wellbeing and safety outcomes for young 

people 

* create opportunities to contribute to civic life. 

17

Principle 5: Youth and community connections 

OBJECTIVE: Build the resilience of young people by creating a sense of belonging 

and a sense of place that encourages community participation, active citizenship and 

volunteering. 

The Sunshine Coast is a vast region covering 3,014km 2 and a coastline that stretches over 200km. 

The dispersed nature of the Sunshine Coast provides challenges in connecting communities 

and creating a sense of belonging. The majority of young people (78.9%) live in well populated 

residential locations situated predominantly along the coastal strip, 11% live in rural residential 

locations and 10.5% live in locations that are predominantly rural. 

Population statistics indicate that there is a gradual decline in the population of young people 

from the age of 16 years, when it is assumed that they move away from the Sunshine Coast to 

pursue higher education and employment opportunities. For many young people, the connections 

and sense of belonging they experienced at school is lost in the transition from school to work or 

tertiary education. 

Respondents to the Sunny Coast Youth Survey 2010 overwhelmingly value a sense of community 

in their local areas. This sense of community differs according to the location of respondents 

encompassing both ends of the spectrum - they value whether their town is small or big, quiet 

or busy, urban or rural. They like their friendly neighbours and being close to friends and family. 

What they would like to see in the future are more opportunities for local community events and 

activities, as well as places to hang out and interact socially. 

One of the key limiting factors in promoting greater intergenerational and community connections 

is stereotyping and negative perceptions (of young people and by young people). Greater 

participation by young people in their local communities enhances their sense of belonging and 

strengthens ties to the community. 

By maintaining strong partnerships with young people (through programs like Speak up Engage), 

the youth sector and the community, council is well placed to bring about change by building 

intergenerational respect and harmony. 

“I want the community to take pride in helping young people.” 

youth 

voice 


»» 

provide opportunities for young people to contribute to and participate in their 

community 

»» 

incorporate young people’s ideas and aspirations in facilities, services and functions 

of council 

»» 

advocate for appropriate, affordable and timely services that connect young people 

with social networks, employment, education and training and the community. 

18

APPENDIX A - CONSULTATION WITH THE YOUTH SECTOR 

Youth Sector Consultations 

A meeting was held with organisations from the youth sector on 1st June 2010. The meeting was 

attended by representatives from eight key youth organisations from across the region. Three 

questions were addressed at the meeting and the responses are depicted in the following table. 

1. What are the key issues 

for young people? 

2. What is council’s role in 

the youth sector? 

3. How can council and the 

sector work more effectively 

together? 

Employment Infrastructure Facilitate regular meetings 

Transport Coordinating role Communication 

Accommodation Employment opportunities Key council contact for youth 

sector 

Social inclusion Maintaining youth partnerships Relationship building with 

Indigenous young people 

Meeting places for social 

interaction 

Positive media/ promotion of 

youth activities 

Support joint funding proposals 

Further consultation with the sector took place in the form of a survey that was delivered online 

in early July and aimed to validate the outcomes of the June meeting. The survey was sent to 52 

youth focused organisations from across the region and 18 responses were received. The top 

issues identified in the survey were: Employment; Education; Accommodation/Homelessness; 

and Transitions/At risk. All respondents agreed that council’s role might be a combination of 

coordination, communication and engagement, sector support and capacity building, funding and 

providing youth activities and events. 

Youth Sector Change Drivers Group (School, Business, Community 

Partnership Brokers) 

The Youth Sector Change Drivers Group (YSCDG) is one of the key points of leverage for 

achieving change in the region. High level representatives from key regional, state and national 

agencies use knowledge of their organisations and a sophisticated understanding of the local 

environment and the youth engagement and transition arena to inform partners of key directions, 

policies and initiatives. The YSCDG identified a number of keys issues for youth on the Sunshine 

Coast which include: 

»» 

Transport »» 

Lack of large industry 

»» 

Late intervention of disengagement - family 

culture 

»» 

Parental understanding of career pathways 

and participation in youth transitions 

»» 

Industry engagement SME »» 

Disengagement in the school system 

»» 

Lack of alternative learning pathways »» 

Literacy and numeracy 

20 

»» 

Student understanding of workplace 

expectations and lack of employability skills 

»» 

Where do 13 and 14 year olds at risk and 

disengaged youth go?

APPENDIX B - Relevant Documents 

Corporate Documents 

Endorsed 

* Corporate Plan 2009-2014 

* Community Engagement Policy 

* Grants Policy 

* Report on Past Community Engagement 2003-2009 

* Housing Needs Assessment 

* Economic Development Strategy 

* Affordable Living Strategy 

* Young People on the Sunshine Coast Foundation Paper 

In Draft 

* Skate and BMX Strategy 

* Social Planning Framework 

* Sustainable Transport Strategy 

* Wellbeing Charter 

* Community Events and Celebrations Strategy 

* Open Space Strategy 

* Creative Communities Plan 

* Sport and Active Recreation Strategy 

* Social Infrastructure Strategy 

Planned 

* Community Plan 

* Planning Scheme 

* Community Safety Strategy 

* Library Strategy 

* Access and Equity Policy 

* Positive Ageing Strategy 

State Legislation and Policies 

»» 

Local Government Act 2009 

»» 

Child Protection Act 1999 

»» 

Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardianship Act 2000 

»» 

Juvenile Justice Act 1992 

»» 

Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 

»» 

Strategic Policy for Youth 2007-2011, Department of Communities 

21

APPENDIX C - GlossarY 

Accessibility 

(universal access) 

Advocacy 

Capacity building 

Community 

involvement and 

partnerships 

Collaborative 

partnerships 

Community 

wellbeing 

Connectedness 

Engagement 

Equity 

Inclusiveness 

Social cohesion 

Sustainability 

Social justice 

The ease of access to services, facilities and resources by all members of 

the community irrespective of ability, cultural background, language, gender, 

age or geographical location. 

Support for members of the community who are likely to be disregarded or 

to have difficulty in gaining attention, so that their voices and opinions can 

be heard. Appealing on their behalf for services and resources beyond the 

purview of council. 

Capacity building is a process of building capabilities in the community 

to more effectively prepare for and respond to social issues in a sustainable 

manner. 

This value promotes inclusive communities that are involved in decisions 

that affect them. This will be achieved through meaningful community 

engagement, creating strong partnerships and valuing the equitable 

contribution of all people to local government processes. 

Creating and maintaining relationships with other levels of government, 

the commercial and community sectors in order to work together to deliver 

positive outcomes for the community. 

A community may have a number of indicators that measure their level of 

wellbeing. These may range from community safety to mental and physical 

health. Wellbeing can be described as how a community lives, works and 

plays – the liveability of the environment, the level of enjoyment and the 

coping mechanisms of the community. 

A sense of belonging to a community or social network. A strong attachment 

to a place or community. 

Meaningful communication with and involvement of the community in 

decisions that affect them. Encouraging active citizenship and participation. 

An equitable society has a fair distribution of resources and political 

power. Access and equity is concerned with building strong, connected 

and inclusive communities by acknowledging the inequality of advantages 

within the community and providing opportunities for active participation in 

community life for all. 

Including all members of the community irrespective of ability, cultural 

background, language, gender, age or geographical location. 

Social cohesion is the term used to describe the bonds that bring people 

together. Cohesive societies result from a number of interrelated factors, 

including the provision of physical necessities such as housing and health 

services, and strong and positive relationships between people, which offer 

community members mutual support and trust. 

Sustainable development requires that our actions meet the needs of 

present generations without compromising the quality of life of future 

generations. Social sustainability means that future generations should have 

the same or greater access to social resources as the current generation. 

Long-term social sustainability depends on developing social capital in local 

communities through capacity-building. 

Social justice ensures that human rights are upheld, disadvantage is 

addressed, diversity is valued, and transparent and participatory decisionmaking 

in local government is encouraged. 

22

Community Planning and Strategy

Priority Legend: 

Do Now - within the next 12 months 

Do Next - in the next 3 - 5 years 

Do Always - ongoing for the next 5 years 

PRINCIPLE 1: YOUTH VOICE AND ACTION 

Commitment 1.1 Facilitating opportunities for young people to be heard and valuing their views and opinions 

Actions Department with lead responsibility Priority 

1. Speak Up Engage Program - promote, adopt and implement the youth engagement model 1. Community Services/Organisation Do Always 

2. Provide greater online opportunities for young people to make comment on policy and 

planning issues 

3. Where practicable, provide feedback to young people about the outcomes of their comments 

and feedback to council about issues 

4. Ensure council information is easily accessible for young people (through libraries, online 

etc.) 

5. Connect with SCING to ensure council engages with Indigenous young people 

wide 

2. Organisation Performance 

3. Organisation wide 

4. Organisation Performance/Community 

Services 

5. Community Services 

Commitment 1.2 Engaging meaningfully with young people and enabling them to have a say in decisions that affect their lives 


1. Include young people in the design process for public spaces including place-making 

ventures 

2. Deliver and support Indigenous youth through capacity building programs (i.e. Black Swans 

Big Day Out and Murri Stylin) 

1. Infrastructure Services 


Do Always 

Commitment 1.3 Adopting innovative methods of communication that are relevant and appealing to young people 


1. Youth friendly website that relays information about holiday programs and activities, events, 

event transport and entertainment, resources and support (and much more) 

2. Investigate and implement the use of social networking technologies and virtual spaces for 

effective communication and information gathering with young people 


2. Community Services/Organisation 

Performance 

Do Always 

24





PRINCIPLE 2: ACCESS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL 

Commitment 2.1 Advocate for improved services and infrastructure for the whole region 


1. Continue to advocate for and advise on improved and affordable broadband for the region 1. Finance and Business 

Do Always 

2. Advocate for flexible education options, including access to flexi school models and 

apprenticeships 

3. Advocate for improved transport options targeting young people 

4. Continue to advocate for and deliver safe and secure places, infrastructure and transport 

5. Implement the Social Infrastructure Strategy 

6. Implement recommendations from the Skate and BMX Strategy 

7. Plan for healthy communities by adopting the Planning Institute Australia healthy spaces and 

place design principles 

8. Implement recommendations from council’s Affordable Living Strategy 


Services 

3. Infrastructure Services/Regional 

Strategy and Planning 


5. Regional Strategy and Planning/ 

Community Services 

6. Infrastructure Services/Community 

Services 



Commitment 2.2 Facilitate information sharing 


1. Review and update Community Information Service to facilitate information sharing 

2. Community Services newsletter 

3. Annual Community Services conference 




Do Always 

Commitment 2.3 Build partnerships with the commercial and community sectors to provide more opportunities for young people 


1. Develop a Youth Arts Strategy 

2. Transport art and behavioural change initiatives 

3. Delivery of community grants program 


2. Community Services/Infrastructure 

Services 


Do Now 

25





PRINCIPLE 3: SPEAKING UP FOR YOUTH 

Commitment 3.1 Empowering young people to speak up for themselves and to take a lead role in the planning, implementation, evaluation of 

activities and programs to increase the likelihood of achieving positive outcomes for young people and communities 


1. Build strong relationship with Department of Education and Training and advocate for greater 

flexible education and training programs 

2. Incorporate the findings of the Sunny Coast Youth Survey 2010 in the Community Plan 

3. Build strong relationships with the Indigenous Education Unit 


2. Community Services/Executive Office 


Do Always 

Do Now 

Commitment 3.2 Advocate with other levels of government, the commercial and community sectors to improve support and health service 

provision 


1. Build strong relationship with health providers to advocate for greater support for young 

people (e.g. Drug Arm, North Coast Aboriginal Corporations for Community Health, Cultural 

Healing and Indigenous health programs) 

2. Work with youth organisations in the region to advocate to other levels of government to 

improve youth support services within the region 

3. Liaise with Department of Health and other State government agencies about the findings of 

the youth survey and about population growth in the region 




Do Now 

Commitment 3.3 Strengthen intervention and support programs that assist young people with major transitions in their lives 


1. Partner in program delivery that facilitates awareness and support for mental and physical 

health issues for young people 

2. Investigate and implement youth arts-based responses when designing programming to 

support transitional changes in young people 

3. Support employment programs in the region that assist young people with major transitions in 

their lives 



3. Finance and Business/Community 

Services 

Do Always 

26





PRINCIPLE 4: WORKING TOGETHER 

Commitment 4.1 Deliver a coordinated approach to youth services and programs 


1. Share information about youth survey outcomes to assist in council’s capital works planning 1. Organisation wide Do Now 

Commitment 4.2 Create employment, training and development opportunities for young people 


1. Partner with Queensland Youth Industry Links Incorporated to deliver youth forums in 

interested schools within the region 

2. Build capacity of the youth sector through facilitation of youth sector meetings and forums 

3. Work with Regional Development Australia Sunshine Coast (RDASC) to identify and respond 

to priorities for young people and opportunities for capacity building within the youth sector 

4. Work in partnership with Youth Sector Change Drivers Group 

5. Coordinate a work experience program (incorporating students from University of the 

Sunshine Coast and other Qld Universities through to high school students within the region 

– primarily Yrs 10-12); provide where possible industry placements for students who require 

industry practicum placements and mentoring 

6. Work in partnership with the Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE by providing industry/work 

experience for disabled students 

7. Maintain and coordinate traineeships 

8. Continue to support Skilling Queenslanders for Work – Employment Program, including 

Indigenous work placement 

9. Promote and coordinate a proposed Indigenous Cadetship Program in partnership with 

Sunshine Coast University 

10. Encourage young people to get involved in community environmental education programs 

and activities e.g. environment festivals, living smart programs, etc. 

11. Develop partnerships with organisations that help create environmental development / 

education opportunities for young people (e.g. Universities, TAFE Underwater World etc) 


Services 




Services 










Do Always 

27





PRINCIPLE 4: WOrkING TOGETHER (Continued) 

Commitment 4.3 Deliver improved health and wellbeing and safety outcomes for young people 


1. Deliver healthy educational programs 


Do Now 

2. Support and promote TravelSmart across the region and roll out in south and north central 

schools (Universities, workplaces for major employers) 

3. Partner with State and Federal government agencies and non government organisations to 

promote health and wellbeing programs 

4. Support and promote Heart Foundation programs 

5. Support and promote programs relating to mental health issues for young people 

6. Implement the Open Space Strategy 

7. Implement recommendations from the Sport and Active Recreation Strategy 

8. Develop a physical activity strategy 

9. Consider the development of a recreation strategy 

10. Partner with state government agencies to deliver drug and alcohol awareness programs that 

encourage personal responsibility 

11. Partner with state government agencies to strengthen and improve existing community safety 

programs (e.g. Safety House and Neighbourhood Watch) 





6. Regional Strategy and Planning/ 

Infrastructure Services/Community 

Services 

7. Community Services/Infrastructure 

Services 





Commitment 4.4 Create opportunities to contribute to civic life 


1. Encourage young people to participate in council community engagement activities 

2. Provide the opportunity for young people to have their say on strategic planning and policy 

issues – e.g. participate in council’s Our Place Our Future community engagement program 

3. Develop youth focus groups around specific issues to ensure youth voice 

4. Provide volunteering opportunities for young people through the implementation of council’s 

Volunteer Policy 




wide 


wide 

Do Now 

28





PRINCIPLE 5: YOUTH AND COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS 

Commitment 5.1 Provide opportunities for young people to contribute to and participate in their community 


1. Promote and coordinate holiday programs in libraries 


Do Now 

2. Promote community and youth events on council websites (in line with youth engagement 

model) 

3. Continue to deliver and/or promote programs for and inclusive of young people (i.e. A-Venue, 

Street Performance, Smart Arts) 

4. Promote delivery of intergenerational programs to facilitate social inclusion and skill sharing 

across a range of areas 

5. Further promote environment activities / programs to young people 


Wide 





Commitment 5.2 Incorporate young people’s ideas and aspirations in facilities, services and functions of council 


1. Create youth friendly spaces in council libraries 

2. Provide opportunities for youth input into community resource collections and programming 

that reflects lifestyle and information needs of young people 

3. Plan appropriately for young people’s needs in facilities and services using the youth survey 

outcomes and continuing engagement activities 




Do Next 

Commitment 5.3 Advocate for appropriate, affordable and timely services that connect young people with social networks, employment, 

education and training 


1. Gap analysis of public transport routes and timetables (i.e. in terms of youth needs) 

2. Negotiate for improvements in public transport provision in respect of gaps identified 

3. Working together with transport providers and stakeholders to provide innovative transport 

options, such as Upass 

4. Audit and gap analysis of pathways and cycleways as alternative modes of transport 

5. Advocate for external funding to extend pathways and cycleways in respect of gaps identified 





5. Finance and Business 

Do Now 

29

Youth Strategy Process 

The Sunshine Coast Youth Strategy provides direction 

and actions to guide council and its partners to 

achieve agreed outcomes for the region’s young 

people. It is a continuous process beginning 

with information gathering through research and 

engagement and returning to this point following 

strategy formulation, realisation and learning. 

Strategy Monitoring and 

Evaluation Process 

• Council will evaluate the Youth Strategy every 24 

months. 

• Key performance indicators (KPIs) will be 

developed with which to measure the objectives 

and outcomes of the strategy. 

• All responsible departments will be requested to 

respond to the KPIs against the action plan. 

• Report back to stakeholders. 

• Through continued engagement with young 

people and the youth sector, issues of concern to 

young people will be monitored and opportunities 

will be provided for the action plan to be up dated. 

30

Community Planning and Strategy - Sunshine Coast Council

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