At Telstra Foundation, we believe that young people aren’t just the leaders of tomorrow - they’re the changemakers of today. When they speak, we do more than just listen, we share and act on what they say.
In partnership with for-purpose organisations like MINUS18 and UNICEF Australia, we’re helping young people speak up and be heard through initiatives like the Queer Youth Now survey and the Pass the Mic campaign. These programs are designed to ensure that youth perspectives - especially those from marginalised communities - are not only acknowledged but actively shape decision-making.
Our Youth Advisory Council (YAC) is at the heart of this work. In 2025, our Council is a diverse group of young Australians aged 12 to 18, including:
25% from regional, rural, or remote communities
13% identifying as LGBTQIA+
17% First Nations youth
29% with lived experience of mental health challenges.
Their insights help us shape the Australian Youth Digital Index, a national report capturing how young people experience and use technology in their everyday lives. From co-designing digital wellbeing tools to presenting directly to Telstra’s Board, these young leaders are influencing how we build inclusive, youth-friendly digital spaces.
Read more on our Youth Advisory Council
Our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion goes beyond statements - it’s embedded in our partnerships and programs. Through collaborations with organisations like AMES Australia, Psykinetic and MINUS18 we support culturally and linguistically diverse youth, champion disability inclusion and promote gender equity and intersectionality for young people.
We’re proud to back campaigns that elevate youth voices in human rights, digital citizenship and mental health - ensuring that young people are not just consulted, but co-creators of the future.
Queer Youth Now is one of these campaigns. A national survey led by MINUS18 to amplify the voices of LGBTQIA+ young people aged 13–25. With over 2,700 participants, the survey revealed a strong need for safer digital spaces, better mental health support and more inclusive representation. The findings are helping shape advocacy, policy and youth-led programs.
Read how we're partnering with MINUS18
Whether it’s through national media, public speaking, or content creation, Telstra Foundation-supported young people are shaping public discourse. Their lived experience and critical thinking are helping us reimagine what leadership looks like - and who gets to lead.
The Pass the Mic campaign from UNICEF Australia and supported by us, was designed to engage young Australians aged 18–24 in conversations about digital wellbeing. It aimed to raise awareness of both the risks and opportunities of the online world, encouraging young people to share what social media means to them. This work is creating a compelling evidence base to influence policy and decision makers.
Social media helps me connect to friends globally and it makes me feel included. I meet people just like me where I can't meet in my regular life.
– Pass the Mic respondent 14, VIC
As we look ahead, we’ll continue to invest in youth-led innovation, inclusive storytelling and platforms that empower young people to thrive.
Telstra Foundation’s mission is to create a better-connected world for children and young people so they can live healthier lives online.
