Young Changemakers Network SA
The Young Changemakers Network SA empowers young people aged 14 to 17 across South Australia to take collaborative action on issues that matter to them and their communities.
Through the network, young people come together around issues they care about, connect with others who share similar interests and experiences, and build the skills, confidence and relationships needed to drive real change.
Young Changemakers work alongside the Commissioner for Children and Young People South Australia to develop campaigns, explore ideas and contribute to conversations shaping the future of South Australia.
Whether young people care about mental health, climate justice, education, safety, inclusion, housing, creative expression or community connection, the network is designed to support them to learn, collaborate and take action together.
How the program works
Young Changemakers take part in:
- two full-day Summits each year
- collaborative group work between Summits
- workshops and skill-building opportunities
- conversations with community leaders and decision makers
- youth-led campaigns.
Rather than being organised by region, Changemakers connect through shared interests, experiences and the issues they care most about.
The program is designed to evolve throughout the year in response to the priorities and ideas of the young people involved.
2026 Young Changemakers Network
Applications for the 2026 Young Changemakers Network have now closed.
Young people from across South Australia applied to be part of this year’s program. Successful applicants have been notified and are now confirmed as members of the inaugural Young Changemakers Network SA cohort.
The 2026 cohort will come together for the first Summit on 26 June 2026, where participants will connect, explore issues affecting young people across South Australia and choose the campaign themes the network will work on together throughout the year.
This page will continue to be updated as the program progresses, with insights, ideas and updates shared throughout the year.
Volunteer mentors
Each group of Young Changemakers is supported by a volunteer mentor – someone with knowledge relevant to the group’s campaign and a genuine motivation to support young people’s advocacy.
Mentors are drawn from community organisations, professional networks and the broader South Australian community. The commitment is deliberately light: supporting a group of young people with monthly check-ins.
Volunteer mentors are recruited after Summit One, once participants have chosen their campaign themes.
If you or your organisation are interested in becoming a volunteer mentor, contact us at ccyp.changemakers@sa.gov.au.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this replacing SA SRC?
SA SRC has evolved into Young Changemakers Network SA. The purpose remains the same – amplifying young people’s voices, and taking collective action – but the way young people can be involved has expanded.
Do I have to be a leader to apply?
No. Young people can take action locally, co-lead with others, or support action in ways that suit their interests and capacity.
How much time do I have to commitment to Young Changemakers Network?
Changemakers will spend around 2-4 hours a month taking action and contributing to their local groups. Co-Leaders and Campaign Support roles may require some extra time
Does it cost anything to participate?
No! Young Changemakers Network SA is 100% free for all participants.
Any travel costs that may be incurred to get you to the summits will be organised and covered by us.