Information for schools

Year 10 students connect with peers from across South Australia at Adelaide Oval and learn how their ideas and actions can make a difference.

The Active Citizenship Convention is an annual event that brings students and educators across all schooling sectors together with experts, government officials and community stakeholders in the interests of democracy.

The Active Citizenship Convention, ‘Our Voice. Our Impact’, is delivered as a one-day program held across 3 days, where students:

• discuss the importance of youth participation
• consider different perspectives and participate in dialogue
• engage with a range of community and youth leaders.

The convention is part of the department’s Safeguarding Democracy work, building students’ confidence and capability to contribute to discussions and decisions that affect their lives and communities.

Who can attend

Year 10 students; schools can register up to 7 students for one of the 3 days

Educators are encouraged to register and prioritise students who may benefit from building confidence, connections and perspectives.

What to expect

Students attending will engage with:

• Dynamic presenters on democracy, youth influence and civic participation.
• An interactive session on that explores strategies to navigate AI, mis- and disinformation.
• Youth-led interactive group sessions on respectful dialogue and deliberative decision making.
• Get Voting experience, providing students with an opportunity to engage in casting a valid preferential ballot.
• Lunch with legends and leaders – a powerful opportunity to connect with inspirational Australians from politics, media, the arts, sport, and community life.
• Live music performance created from student reflections and voices captured during the day on active participation, youth voice and decision-making.
• A well-known MC will guide each day’s program, adding humour, heart, and a relatable voice that will encourage students to engage, connect and be active citizens.