Australian Youth Climate Coalition

The Australian Youth Climate Coaliton (AYCC) is an umbrella organisation representing a broad range of youth organisations across Australia concerned about climate change. Climate change poses the greatest threat to our future and we aim to educate and mobilise our entire generation to combat it.

The AYCC hosts a whole range of activities including supporting the activities of its 25 member organisations.

This year the AYCC is running a national, non-partisan federal election campaign, Adopt a Politician. Young people have largely been left out of the debate, the Adopt a Politician campaign is a way for young people to elbow their way to the decision making process and get their voices heard. Like you might adopt a highway in need of improvement, young people across the country are adopting their politicians to improve their climate policies. The AYCC coordinates a comprehensive national education program which involves:

• Supporting and resourcing the programs of our member organisations
• Training volunteers, “AYCC Climate Messengers”, to deliver presentations and workshops in schools and communities
• Assisting high school students in establishing their own climate change action groups
• Developing resources for young people to use in educating their communities about climate change
• Providing opportunities for young people across the country to volunteer, meet one another, share ideas and communicate.

The AYCC, in concert with the Australian Student Environment Network, recently organisied the first national youth climate conference ‘Switched On’. Over 100 young people from around Australia between the ages of 14 and 26 were selected to attend the four day conference. The program was jam-packed with knowledge and skill based forums and workshops regarding the scientific, social, economic and political causes, consequences and solutions to climate change. There was also hands-on practical activities, such as making a solar-powered wheelie bin sound system. Each participant received a Climate Kit created by AYCC and other member groups which included climate change information, action tips, posters, stickers and other materials designed as a one-stop package for the budding AYCC member and volunteer, as well as for use by teachers and students in peer-education initiatives. The conference was an overwhelming success developing and strengthening youth networks across the country.

The AYCC participates in both regional, national and international climate change events and seeks to encourage and facilitate youth involvement and representation in these events. For instance, the AYCC is sending a delegation to Bali for the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties in December.

We have heaps of volunteer positions available for young people interested in getting involved in climate change activities.
Education: You can receive training and support to deliver presentations or workshops in schools, universities or communities.
Events: The AYCC is looking for assistance in running national and region events to raise awareness and encourage real action on climate change.
Starting a climate group at your school: The AYCC can provide mentoring, resources and assistance for students starting a new group.
National Campaigns: you can become involved in our federal election campaign, encouraging people to consider climate change when they vote in this election.
Participation in national events: Join our contingent at the Walk Against Warming, or apply to join the delegation heading to Bali. Member groups: Get involve with our member organisations in your state or territory.