At the launch of the Victorian Greens Youth Policy, Youth Spokesperson Jim Reiher said: “One of our key policies is for optional voting in State Elections for 16 and 17 year olds. We don't want to make voting
compulsory from a younger age, but we want teenagers to build an interest in politics and become involved in the political process.”

The Greens are committed to giving young people a real voice in Victorian politics. The Greens have nine candidates 25 years or under.

“Youth do get a raw deal in too many areas,” said Jim Reiher. “We must face up to this and unlike the old parties, the Greens will actually do something about it.”

“The old parties say a lot about what they will do for youth,” said Jim Reiher.“The trouble is, that once the men and women from the old parties get their seats in parliament house the promises seem to quickly disappear.”

Jim Reiher says it's important that all young Victorians who haven't yet enrolled to vote, do so before the electoral roll closes on November 7.

“It's important that no one forgets to enrol because every vote is important,” said Jim Reiher. “Time is running out, so get down to any post office and get registered before it's too late!”

Other initiatives in the Greens Youth Policy include:
- the establishment of a Children and Young Person's Commission with the authority to investigate relevant departments and information,
- improved access for Victoria's youth to the private rental market via strengthening the anti-discrimination laws,
- improved services for Victoria's homeless youth,
- expanded programs to promote mental health, wellbeing and the prevention of suicide among young people,
- greater support for Legal Aid Services for youth.

For more information and comment please contact:
Jim Reiher on (mob) 0425 752 358
or
Dave Lane on (mob) 0419 156 213.