Youth health will be prominently featured at Parliament House as the Australian Association for Adolescent Health (AAAH) organizes its National Youth Health Showcase. This one-day forum aims to unite researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and youth leaders to advocate for meaningful reforms in adolescent health.
The showcase will delve into critical research themes such as youth-friendly general practice, mental health service design, access to sexual and reproductive health, and the involvement of young people in research initiatives. These topics underscore the pressing need for evidence-based approaches that enhance the inclusivity and accessibility of health systems for young individuals.
Dr Cristyn Davies, President of AAAH and Senior Research Fellow in Child and Adolescent Health at the University of Sydney, stated, “Investing in adolescent health delivers a triple dividend. It improves young people”s health today, builds healthier adults for the future, and gives the next generation a stronger start in life.” She emphasized the importance of merging research, policy, and personal experiences at Parliament House to convert evidence into actionable solutions.
Grace McGowan, Senior Youth Ambassador for International Adolescent Health Week, expressed the urgency of responsive policy changes, noting, “Policy only changes lives when it listens and then acts. Young people need timely and effective responses the first time they seek help.”
With leadership from Professor Melissa Kang, Co-Head of General Practice at the University of Sydney and Oceania Representative for the International Association for Adolescent Health, Dr Davies, along with AAAH board members Saad Khalid and Sonali Varma, aims to incorporate the voices of young people throughout the event”s program, which has been co-designed by a diverse, intergenerational team.
Professor Kang remarked, “Young people”s health and wellbeing reflect how well our systems are functioning. When care is welcoming, inclusive, and easily accessible, it strengthens families, communities, and the health system overall.”
Ava Haine, a youth delegate from Moura in Central Queensland, highlighted the disparities faced by rural youth, stating, “Distance should not decide whether a young person is seen, heard, or helped. We need timely appointments close to home, digital options that genuinely work, culturally safe care, and clear pathways to ensure we do not fall through the gaps.”
Dr Davies further emphasized that reforming adolescent health is a collective responsibility, insisting, “This showcase focuses on practical solutions and shared leadership. We are collaborating with governments, health professionals, researchers, and young people to implement evidence-based changes that enhance the equity and responsiveness of health systems.”
