SYDNEY: Over 5–6 August 2026, the Armenian National Committee of Australia (ANC-AU) hosted the fourth iteration of the
ANC-AU Junior Advocates Program, held for the first time at the Parliament of New South Wales.
Across the two-day program, 18 Year 11 students from Galstaun College took part in the initiative, learning about Australia's democratic system, the role of Parliament, and what it is like to work in politics and the public service.
The program commenced with Politics, Democracy & You, an interactive workshop introducing students to the foundations of Australia's political system, the institutions that underpin its democracy, and the many ways young Armenian-Australians can participate in shaping the decisions that affect their communities.
Students then took part in a Mock Parliament, where they debated and negotiated amendments to the Homework Reduction Bill 2026, which, unsurprisingly, passed unanimously through both chambers. They also participated in the You're an Advocate activity, selecting a contemporary Armenian issue they were passionate about before preparing and delivering a two-minute advocacy pitch to build support for their cause.
A major highlight of the program was attending Parliamentary Question Time, giving students a rare opportunity to witness the state's democratic process in action from the public galleries of the Legislative Assembly.
Students also heard directly from political staff and elected representatives during the Day in the Life segment. Senior Adviser to Mark Coure MP, Jayden Tran, spoke about his pathway into politics and provided an insight into the work undertaken behind the scenes by parliamentary staff.
The Co-Chairs of the Parliamentary Friends of Armenia, Dr. Hugh McDermott MP and Mr. Tim James MP, then shared their experiences as Members of Parliament, discussing the realities of political life, the responsibilities of elected office, and the importance of public service.
Together, these sessions provided students with an authentic insight into the diverse career pathways available within politics and government, while offering the opportunity to engage directly with those working in the field.
On the second day of the program, students participated in the Job Shadow component, where they were placed with Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff to gain first-hand experience of working in politics. From assisting with policy briefings to attending meetings and community events, students experienced the fast-paced and varied nature of parliamentary life.
The ANC-AU thanks the Member for Willoughby, Tim James MP, for serving as Parliamentary Host for the program, and also extends its appreciation to the following Members for their generous support and participation:
- Dr Hugh McDermott MP – Member for Prospect
- Mark Coure MP – Member for Oatley
- Jacqui Scruby MP – Member for Pittwater
- Matt Cross MP – Member for Davidson
- Charishma Kaliyanda MP – Member for Liverpool
- Nathan Hagarty MP – Member for Leppington
- The Hon. Susan Carter MLC – Member of the Legislative Council
Reflecting on the success of this year's program, ANC-AU Political Affairs Director Sebastian Majarian said: “
This has been one of the most successful youth outreach initiatives the ANC-AU has delivered to date. The level of engagement, curiosity and enthusiasm shown by these students over the past two days has been outstanding, and it's incredibly encouraging to see so many young Armenian-Australians taking a genuine interest in Australia's democracy and political process.”
He added: "
Programs like Junior Advocates are about more than teaching students how Parliament works. They're about showing young people that politics isn't something that happens around them—it's something they can actively participate in and shape."
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Our hope is that today's Junior Advocates become tomorrow's political staffers, public servants, elected representatives and community leaders. One day, when the ANC-AU knocks on a politician's door to advocate for our community, we hope it will be one of these students opening it."
