Charlton hosts youth-led rural conference to shape the future of regional communities

With rural workforces shrinking and young people continuing to leave regional areas, one important question remains: what are we doing to ensure young people want to stay, return and thrive in rural communities? 

More than 90 people gathered in Charlton in late May for Beyond Borders: Breaking Down the Silos, YACVic Rural's flagship conference. The event brought together youth sector workers, community leaders, industry representatives and young people to strengthen cross-sector collaboration, explore shared challenges and opportunities, and identify practical ways to improve outcomes for rural young people. 

Designed specifically for the region, the conference reflected the unique needs, priorities and industries of the local community, ensuring discussions were grounded in the lived experiences of rural young people. 

North Central LLEN's Claudia Cox said one of the key themes of the day was ensuring young people are genuinely included in decisions that affect them. 

"Too often we're making decisions about young people because we think we know what's best for them, without actually asking them. It was great to hear directly from our panel about how we can better consult, listen to and empower youth voice." 

A highlight of the conference was a panel of young people who have built rewarding careers in regional Victoria. 

Birchip's Tess Lee shared her journey of co-owning local café Olive Joy with her mum, while reflecting on travelling to Horsham for school and eventually choosing to build her future in a rural community. 

Mason Heenan spoke about beginning university in marine biology before discovering a passion for education. He now works at the local school, while studying to become a teacher himself.  

Darby Fitzpatrick shared how he turned a lifelong passion for trucks into a career through a School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (SBAT), supported by North Central LLEN. 

Shannon also spoke openly about living and working in Swan Hill and the challenges he has overcome as a young Aboriginal person, highlighting the importance of belonging, opportunity and representation in regional communities. 

Another standout moment was the keynote address from Katie Acheson, who challenged attendees to place young people at the centre of decision-making. 

"Take a young person with you," she encouraged. "Into every meeting, every conversation and every decision you make. Young people are not the problem to solve, they are partners in creating the solution." 

The conference left attendees with a clear message: creating thriving rural communities starts by listening to young people, valuing their ideas and giving them meaningful opportunities to shape the future. 

The Charlton event was delivered by YACVic Rural with support from North Central LLEN and local partners, reinforcing a shared commitment to strengthening opportunities for young people across the region.