Basketball Victoria (BV) has reaffirmed its commitment to the safety, inclusion, and empowerment of young people in the sport with the launch of the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC). This initiative aims to give young people a voice in shaping the future of basketball in Victoria, ensuring their perspectives influence policies, practices, and strategic decisions.
Empowering Young Leaders in Basketball
The YAC will serve as a platform for young people to drive positive change within the sport. Members will play a key role in supporting BV’s strategic objectives while advocating for an inclusive and safe basketball environment. By actively listening to young voices, BV is fostering a culture of belonging and continuous improvement, reinforcing basketball as the sport of choice for children and youth in Victoria.
Composition and Commitment
The YAC will consist of 11 to 13 dedicated young individuals from diverse backgrounds who can voluntarily commit to attending bi-monthly meetings and other key events throughout the year. Members will contribute by:
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Promoting child safety and wellbeing in basketball.
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Providing input on BV policies and strategic direction.
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Driving initiatives that create meaningful change in the sport.
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Engaging with associations and clubs to maintain positive relationships and further BV’s mission.
Call for Expressions of Interest
BV is now accepting expressions of interest for YAC membership through associations, domestic clubs, BV’s high-performance programs, and referee programs. The selection process seeks to ensure a diverse representation of young people from metropolitan and regional Victoria, including players, referees, and individuals from various backgrounds and lived experience including young people from First Nations communities, culturally diverse young people, LGBTQ+ community, and those with disabilities.
To be eligible, applicants must be between the ages of 16 and 24 at the time of their application. If selected for an interview, candidates will meet with BV’s Child Safety Advisor and another staff member to discuss their potential contribution to the committee.
The inaugural 2025 YAC will commence its term in April, with subsequent committees starting earlier in the year. Meetings will primarily be held in person, with online options available for those unable to attend physically. The YAC will also elect a Chair and Vice-Chair to lead meetings alongside BV’s Child Safety Advisor.
Roles and Responsibilities of YAC Members
YAC members will be expected to actively participate in meetings, projects, and initiatives that align with BV’s strategic goals. Responsibilities include:
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Attending committee meetings and relevant events.
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Contributing to BV’s strategic plan and co-designing youth-focused projects.
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Reviewing policies and providing feedback on safeguarding initiatives.
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Identifying and engaging in key basketball events throughout the year.
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Collaborating with BV staff to secure funding or grants for YAC initiatives.
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Upholding BV’s values and being a positive role model in the basketball community.
Members will also be required to comply with BV’s Child Safeguarding Policy, Privacy Policy, and Social Media Policy, ensuring that their conduct aligns with the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
Join the Movement
This is an exciting opportunity for young basketball enthusiasts to make a real impact on the sport they love. If you are passionate about shaping the future of basketball in Victoria, consider applying to be part of BV’s Youth Advisory Committee.
Expressions of interest are now open! Apply today through the online application form available on BV’s website and social media channels. Together, we can create a stronger, safer, and more inclusive basketball community.
Applications close - 5pm, 5th May 2025.
