Young people keen to take on the world will descend on the Bundaberg Region this March for Australia’s premier youth leadership event.
The Young Leaders Summit, for school students aged 12 to 17 years, aims to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders, innovators and changemakers.
The one-day event includes keynote presentations, panel discussions and interactive workshops designed to develop the participants’ leadership, public speaking and problem-solving skills.
Hosted by the Queensland Family and Child Commission (QFCC) and delivered in collaboration with the Australian School of Entrepreneurship, the program includes a focus on teamwork and financial literacy, as well as providing educators a 10-week entrepreneurship unit to continue skills building in class.
Bundaberg Regional Council will provide in-kind sponsorship of $1,747 as a fee waiver for the hire of the Bundaberg Multiplex Sports and Convention Centre, with further support through Council’s Jobs Commitment Program.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said hosting the event in Bundaberg would give local young people the opportunity to build essential life skills.
“This is a wonderful event to help the region’s young people to develop leadership and entrepreneurial skills not taught in traditional classrooms,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“They will hear from inspirational speakers from business and the community who will share their real world experiences.
“Hands-on workshops and team activities will give the participants a chance to build their confidence in a supportive environment.
“Empowering young people to develop critical thinking skills is an important part of setting them up for future success.”
Young Leaders Summit Bundaberg will be held Wednesday, 11 March 2026 at the Bundaberg Multiplex Sport and Convention Centre.
QFCC have sponsored 300 free tickets for secondary school students across the region, including Special Assistance Schools and Homeschoolers.
Interested students should contact their school to register, alternative learning providers can email economic.development@bundaberg.qld.gov.au.
