Matt Doocey announced that the 11th Youth Parliament will be taking place in 2025 today. 
 
“Youth Parliament offers a unique youth development opportunity to young people from across New Zealand to experience the political process and learn about how government works,” Mr Doocey said.
 
The two-day event will take place at Parliament on Tuesday, July 1, and Wednesday, July 2. The full programme for participants runs from late April to August.
 
“Up to 123 young people will be selected to be Youth members of Parliament (Youth MPs) and will have the opportunity to advocate for their communities and debate the issues they are passionate about."
 
Up to 20 young people will also be selected as Youth Press Gallery members to report on the activities of Youth MPs and learn about the press gallery's vital role.
 
This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for youth in New Zealand. Youth MPs will go out and talk to young people in their schools and communities and bring their perspectives directly to Parliament, Doocey said.

"Youth Press Gallery members will help build interest among other young people around what happens throughout Youth Parliament.”
 
Applications for all Youth Parliament participants will open on Monday, 03 February 2025, and close at 12 noon on Friday, 28 February 2025. 

Young people aged 16 to 18 on the application closing date are eligible to become a Youth MP, while Youth Press Gallery members can be between 16 and 24.