National Policy Alliance (NPA)
Structure
The NPA represents a diverse and inclusive membership that reflects its commitment to addressing the needs of young people from multicultural backgrounds. The NPA is chaired at the national level by MYAN and is composed of state and territory chapter leads from MYAN’s partner networks, which ensures broad representation across Australia’s regions. Young people play a pivotal role via their participation in the NPA, bringing their lived experiences and innovative ideas to the forefront of policy discussions.
Additionally, the Alliance includes policy experts who contribute their specialised knowledge to shape informed strategies and initiatives. Government representatives are also integral members, providing essential insights into legislative processes and facilitating collaboration between the NPA and public institutions. Furthermore, the Alliance membership is supported by the participation of local, state and national multicultural and migration and settlement organisations, which play a crucial role in understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by multicultural communities.
This structure allows for community-driven actions that address geographic specific issues, while aligning with broader national advocacy goals, ensuring that regional perspectives effectively inform national advocacy and initiatives.
Purpose
The challenges faced by young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds require coordinated responses across government, education, employment, mental health, and community sectors. The need for systemic reforms for inclusive, accessible, and culturally responsive policy and prgramming remains critical. Ongoing advocacy efforts have influenced positive policy changes, but much more needs to be done to ensure that all young people have equitable opportunities to thrive in Australia. Through the establishment of the NPA, we aim to amplify our collective voice as policy practitioners and amplify the collective voice of multicultural youth in Australia.
With a strong focus on collaboration and action, the NPA aims to create meaningful policy change by:
Harnessing the collective expertise of members across the country.
Sharing resources and evidence more effectively.
Streamlining our collaborative advocacy efforts at local, state, and national levels.
Strengthening local and national connections among staff, volunteers, stakeholders, and partners.
Empowering young people to engage in policymaking and advocacy.
“When I spoke, people turned their heads, their eyes locked on, listening. My opinion was valued, cared for, and taken seriously.”
– Konan, MYAN YAG member
Critical Areas of Focus
The NPA is dedicated to advancing policy solutions across seven critical areas that are essential for improving the settlement and migration experiences of young people in Australia. These areas have been identified through extensive discussions and recent collaborative work, reflecting the most pressing challenges and opportunities in the current landscape.
Racism in Schools
Tackling racism in educational settings is crucial for creating safe and supportive learning environments. The NPA advocates for comprehensive anti-racism policies, cultural safety training for educators, and inclusive curricula that promote respect and understanding.
Family Violence and Intergenerational Conflict
Preventing and responding to family violence requires culturally sensitive approaches that acknowledge the unique experiences of young people from diverse backgrounds. The NPA supports initiatives that enhance service delivery and foster safe family environments.
Youth Settlement in Regional and Metropolitan Areas
Supporting young people in both regional and metropolitan areas involves addressing unique challenges such as housing, access to services, and social integration. Place based solutions are necessary to foster inclusive communities across diverse geographic settings.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
Addressing adolescent mental health needs through culturally safe and accessible services is a priority. The NPA emphasises the importance of reducing financial barriers, strengthening culturally responsive practice among service providers, and integrating youth mental health support into broader settlement services.
Education Pathways
Ensuring access to quality education and clear pathways for young migrants and refugees is essential for their successful integration and future contributions. The NPA advocates for action to address barriers to educational attainment and promote inclusive curricula that reflect diverse histories and perspectives.
Employment and Economic Growth
Economic empowerment through employment is a cornerstone of successful settlement. The NPA advocates for pathways that enhance job opportunities, recognise overseas qualifications, and support entrepreneurship among young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds.
Redefining Youth Leadership Membership
Empowering young people to take on leadership roles within their communities is vital for fostering a sense of belonging and agency and strengthening informed decision making. The NPA focuses on developing leadership programs that recognise the strengths and potential of young migrants and refugees.
NPA Activities
- National and S/T NPA online and in person meetings throughout the year.
- Membership engagement, surveys and co-design sessions to keep members shaping strategic policy advocacy, not just informing it.
- Practical support, advocacy workshops, member networking events, and information seminars to help members strengthen connections and drive collective and individual policy advocacy efforts.
- Strategic sector and youth collaborations, from policy input to national and local events to ensure we put multicultural youth perspectives centre stage.
Reports
The NPA End of Year Snapshot highlights the collective achievements the Alliance has made across 2025. From advocating for policy changes that champion equity and accessibility to implementing initiatives and partnerships that strengthen community and sector development, the impact of our work is evident and inspiring.
We are pleased to share with you an end of year snapshot that highlights the key work and accomplishments of the NPA over the past year. As we move into 2026, we remain committed to building on this momentum and continuing our mission to advocate for policies and initiatives that foster a fair, inclusive, and prosperous society for all multicultural young people.
Read more about the launch of the NPA, including outcomes of workshops and a curated list of recommendations to support policy advocacy efforts across the country.