There aren’t many 14-year-olds who can call themselves a NSW premier.
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But Louth Park’s James Peters certainly can, after he attended the YMCA NSW Junior Parliament in the school holidays.
Junior Parliament is an apolitical program, for year seven to nine students to gain a taste of politics.
Students attend a week-long camp to gain skills and training and spend time in the chamber debating their own ideas and motions.
Any legislation that is passed is handed to the sitting members at the conclusion of the week.
It was the teenager’s second time in Junior Parliament, after a stint as Health Minister last year.
The Newcastle Grammar student said he “absolutely loved” being involved in 2015, and gained a lot from his first year.
James was one of 14 returning members, and with support from his fellow colleagues he decided to throw his hat in the ring for the Premier position.
Nominees gave a 30 second speech as to why they would be best suited to the job.
James was then elected to the top job by popular vote.
Along with his Premier position, the 14-year-old was part of the transport committee.
The participants spent half a day doing community service, and James’s team spent theirs helping refurbish an old garden at Graceades Cottage, Bidwill.
After that, the students entered their two days in the Legislative Assembly.
The transport committee put forward a resource allocation model, which focused on a more equal ratio of transport funding between regional and urban areas.
As Premier, James also assisted others in organisation and provided a right of reply on some bills.
While the week has wrapped up, James’s position carries on for the entire year.
He will act as the voice for youth to NSW Parliament, and even plans to meet with Premier Mike Baird in the near future.
James said he wants to be an advocate for youth issues as he feels young people are often left out or not taken seriously.
He said he plans to use his position as “a right not a privilege” to advocate for programs at his school and in the community.
James plans to return to Junior Parliament next year.