NSW Government to appoint Youth Commissioners for Community Relations Commission

Sydney (Tribune International) For the first time the Community Relations Commission will appoint Commissioners to represent young people from culturally diverse communities, the Premier of NSW and Minister for Citizenship, Mr Bob Carr announced today.

State Cabinet this week approved changes that will increase the number of Commissioners on the Community Relations Commission from nine to eleven, two of whom to represent young people and be aged between 18 and 24 years.

Mr Carr said the decision honoured the Government's pre-election commitment outlined in its citizenship policy, Promoting Harmony, Valuing Diversity.

"This is a great opportunity for young people to be involved and provide advice on matters concerning cultural diversity in NSW," Mr Carr said.

"We need young people of high quality to become tomorrow's leaders.

"My strong message is get involved - help make the decisions that affect out future," Mr Carr said.

The Community Relations Commission recognizes and values the different linguistic, religious, racial and cultural backgrounds of residents of NSW, and promotes equal rights and responsibilities for all residents of NSW.

The Commission is already government partner in the Youth Partnership with Arabic Speaking and Pacific Island communities.

Mr. Carr said the Community Relations Commission and Principles of Multiculturalism Act would be amended to include the new appointments. The Community Relations Commission was inaugurated on March 13, 2001 replacing with Ethnic Affairs Commission.