SYDNEY: The Armenian National Committee of Australia (ANC-AU) is calling on Armenian-Australian young people aged 18 and over to apply for the 2026 ANC-AU Youth Advocates Program, taking place in Canberra on Monday, 12 October and Tuesday, 13 October 2026.
The program will once again bring together a cohort of emerging Armenian-Australian leaders for a two-day visit to Australia’s national capital. Accompanied by members of the ANC-AU National Office and Board, participants will gain a hands-on experience of Australia’s federal political system while developing the practical skills and confidence required to become effective community advocates.
Throughout the two-day program, participants will engage directly with parliamentarians, political staffers, public servants, journalists, policy advisers and leading policy organisations, providing a unique opportunity to gain first-hand insight into Australian politics, public policy and advocacy.
Under the guidance of the ANC-AU National Office and Board, participants will take part in:
- Hands-on advocacy workshops focused on developing participants advocacy skills and giving them the knowledge they need to effectively advocate on Armenian-Australian issues.
- Sessions with think tanks and media organisations, exploring the role of policy development, public affairs and media in shaping public debate and what a career in these organisations may look like.
- Advocacy meetings with Senators and Members of Parliament, providing participants with direct experience engaging with elected representatives and advocating on issues that matter most to them and our community.
- Intimate sessions with politicians, political staffers, public servants, journalists and policy advisers, offering first-hand insight into careers and pathways within Australian politics and public life.
- A Mock Parliamentary Debate at Parliament House on a topic of national relevance, moderated by Members of Parliament.
- Attendance at Parliamentary Question Time, providing participants with an opportunity to observe Australia’s Federal Parliament in action.
ANC-AU Political Affairs Director and Youth Advocate alumnus Sebastian Majarian highlighted the importance of the program in developing the next generation of Armenian-Australian leaders:“The ANC-AU Youth Advocates Program is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders within the Armenian-Australian community. Through practical experiences, mentorship and direct engagement with Australia’s political system, the program equips young Armenian-Australians with the skills, confidence and knowledge to become effective advocates, whether in politics, public service or their chosen professional fields."
“Our goal is to empower participants to champion the interests of the Armenian community and carry forward the mission of Hai Tad for years to come," he continued.
The program is open to all Armenian-Australian young people aged 18 and over who are passionate about advocacy, public affairs, politics, community leadership and contributing to the Armenian-Australian community.
To apply for the 2026 ANC-AU Youth Advocates program, click
here.
*Participation fee: $200, covering return travel to and from Canberra, overnight accommodation and all meals throughout the program.
Limited spots are available — applicants are encouraged to apply early.
