- Alexandra Whitwam - Youth and Community Engagement Manager, Telstra Foundation
We’re excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Telstra Foundation Youth Advisory Council (the Council).
The Council are a national group who help us to gain a deeper understanding of how young people experience digital technology and its impact on their lives. The council provides crucial feedback on our projects, helps us to develop innovative ideas, and creates content that truly resonates with their peers.
What it's all about
If you’re aged 12–18, passionate about tech, creativity, online safety, digital culture, or simply making things better for young people, this is your chance to have a real say in the issues that matter.
The Council brings together up to 24 young people from across Australia to share ideas, collaborate on projects, and influence the direction of the Telstra Foundation’s work. As a Council member, you’ll have opportunities to:
- Share your views on the digital world – what’s working, what’s not, and what needs to change.
- Contribute feedback and ideas to real projects that support young people nationwide.
- Create content that speaks to other young people, including videos, stories, advice and creative pieces.
- Take part in events and media opportunities.
- Connect with like‑minded peers from different states and backgrounds.
- Be paid for your time and expertise.
Past Council members describe the experience as supportive, confidence‑building and fun, highlighting how valued their voices were and how quickly the group bonded over shared experiences.
This year, we’re especially encouraging young people from the Northern Territory and regional communities to apply, and we’ll be working closely with local networks to make sure young people across Australia hear about the opportunity.
How to apply
You’ll need to submit a short video (no fancy setup required!) answering a few questions about who you are, your strengths, and what excites you about the digital world. Take a look at the full instructions and the position description for all the information you need.
Applications close Monday 23 February 2026.
🌟Your Voice Matters – Apply Now
If you want to make a difference, influence how tech impacts young people, and join a community of creative, passionate and curious thinkers, this is your moment.
👉 Apply now for the 2026 Youth Advisory Council
👉 Share the opportunity with friends, classmates or youth groups
👉 Encourage young people in your life to put their ideas forward
Your perspective could shape projects, research, and tools used by thousands of young people across the country. We can’t wait to hear your ideas, and we’d love to see your application.
“Being a council member was incredibly rewarding. I was part of a supportive, respectful team where young people’s voices were genuinely valued. Overall, being part of the TF YAC helped me grow in confidence, develop new skills, and feel connected to a community that is passionate about creating positive change for young people.” – Sienna (17)
“I had never joined a Youth Council before and the very first time I joined a meeting, I was met with such warmth and joy. It was a fun group to be a part of and we really connected in different ways like music or art. I really loved this whole year with the council and can’t wait to do it all again next year!” – Eshan (13)
More about the Youth Advisory Council
Some examples of the work the Council did in 2025:
- Digital skills project
- The Sleep Challenge
- Australian Youth Digital Index reaction reels
