Port teen gets inside view of democracy at National Youth Parliament

PORT Macquarie teenager Hunter Davis was among 150 students from across Australia chosen for this year’s National Youth Parliament.

He was selected from nearly 3000 applicants, representing the federal electorate of Cowper in an immersive five-day program that included simulated parliamentary debates, hands-on learning experiences, and workshops with parliamentary leaders.

A MacKillop College student, Davis was also a 2026 ABC Heywire winner.

He applied to join National Youth Parliament to become a strong voice for children and young people, particularly those from single-parent families, regional, rural and remote communities, and with lived experience of financial hardship and housing insecurity.

“National Youth Parliament provided me the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Australia’s democracy

and the parliamentary system,” he said.

“I had the opportunity to contribute to important discussions and understand the role of MPs with responsibility over a portfolio.”

He believes parliament can achieve meaningful change.

“Parliament has the power to create change, not only in Australia but around the world,” he said.

“It gives people the opportunity to have their voices heard, challenge the status quo and be part of positive change.

“I’ve always believed that if you don’t disrupt yourself, someone else will, and I see parliament as a place for change,

adaptation and disruption.”

Through the National Youth Parliament, the Port Macquarie teen hoped to deepen his understanding of Australia’s democracy while building skills he could bring back to his community.

Closer to home, he believes regional inequality is the defining issue in his electorate.

“One of the biggest issues facing Cowper is ensuring funding is allocated fairly,” Davis said.

“Cowper is one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions, and our infrastructure needs to keep pace with this growth.

“We need greater investment in roads, health, education and essential services to ensure our regional communities aren’t left behind.”

For any young person who feels politics doesn’t affect them, his message is simple: Your vote and voice matter.