Year 12 student and Kingscliff High School captain Archie Allsopp is one of only 150 secondary students from across Australia selected to attend the National Youth Parliament in Canberra this August.

The Kingscliff High School (on Bundjalung land) student was chosen from 2,200 applications nationwide through a competitive, multi-stage process recognising civic participation, leadership and community engagement.

Delivered by the Department of the House of Representatives in partnership with Y Australia, the five-day program gives students an immersive experience at Parliament House and the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.

Participants will take part in simulated parliamentary debates, workshops with political leaders and real-world policy discussions, while learning how Parliament works and how laws are developed and passed.

Kingscliff High School Relieving Principal Damien Borg said the school community was proud of Archie’s achievement.

“This is a fantastic achievement for Archie and a wonderful opportunity to develop their leadership skills, confidence and understanding of how our democracy works,” Mr Borg said.

“Archie’s achievement reflects the aims of Inspire – High Potential and Gifted Education, the NSW Department of Education’s approach to strengthening opportunities for students to be challenged and supported in public schools.

“His selection for National Youth Parliament demonstrates high potential in leadership, civic participation and community engagement, particularly within the social-emotional domain, while the program’s focus on parliamentary debate, policy discussion and democratic processes provides an enriched opportunity to further develop his intellectual capabilities and talent.”

Archie said his role as school captain had helped spark a deeper interest in politics and the opportunities available to young people in regional communities.

“One of the things I’m passionate about is improving opportunities for young people in regional parts of Australia, particularly by enhancing access to education, career pathways and practical courses that can help young people reach their full potential,” Archie said.

“I hope this program will provide me with valuable insight into what a future in that area might look like.”

The National Youth Parliament will be held from Sunday 16 to Thursday 20 August 2026.

The initiative plays an important role in strengthening civics education, giving young people the opportunity to better understand Australia’s political system and have a voice on the issues that matter to them.

To learn more, visit the National Youth Parliament website.