Published on Wednesday, 25 February 2026 at 4:05:08 PM

Sixteen Year 6 students, representing eight schools from across the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale, have been inducted as the Shire’s first Junior Council begins its 2026 program.

Nominated by their schools and proudly supported by their principals, families and wider school communities, the students will meet monthly from February to learn how local government works and how decisions are made.

The program began with an induction day, marking the first step in a year that will see the students develop practical skills in public speaking, debating, negotiation and leadership.

Next month they will elect their Junior Council President and Deputy Junior President.

The program has been designed to amplify young voices and build a stronger connection between Council and the Shire’s youngest residents.
Over the course of the year, participants will:

• Learn how to chair and participate in formal meetings
• Develop confidence in public speaking and critical thinking
• Represent the views of their schools and peers
• Present and discuss motions
• Reflect on their growth through structured skill-building activities.

The Junior Councillors will present an overview of their work at a Council meeting later in the year, before graduating in November.
For more information on the Shire’s Junior Council, head to: https://www.sjshire.wa.gov.au/community/get-involved/programs/junior-council.aspx

Comments attributable to Shire President Rob Coales:

“These students represent the next generation of leaders in our community, and they have been chosen for Junior Council because they show a real commitment to making a difference for SJ’s youth.

“Junior Council gives them the opportunity to learn how local government works, to build confidence and to share their ideas about the future of our Shire, particularly with regards to outcomes for children and young people.

“We are genuinely keen to hear what these outstanding young people have to say and to ensure their perspectives are considered in meaningful ways.”

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