Jacqueline McGowan-Jones: The future belongs to youth. Should they have the opportunity to vote?

The idea of lowering the voting age to 16 has been a topic of robust debate for many years in many democratic countries. Supporters argue that 16-year-olds possess the necessary maturity, knowledge, and stake in the future to warrant participation in elections. Naysayers argue that children are too ill-informed to vote and lack the cognitive abilities to make an informed decision on important matters. At 16, our young people are already entrusted with significant responsibilities and rights that demonstrate their capability to engage in civic duties. They can work, pay taxes, drive, and in some places, even marry. If society trusts them with these duties, why can’t they be responsible enough to make informed decisions about who should represent them and the policies that will shape their lives? By 16 students are typically engaged in humanities, arts and social sciences classes that educate them about government, politics, and civic engagement. They are sometimes more informed about current events and political systems than adults. So should young people aged 16 be allowed to vote? Could they be given the option of non-mandatory participation, to allow those so inclined to have their say? Sixteen-year-olds have a substantial stake in our future. Policies on education, climate change, and employment will affect them more directly and for a longer period than many older voters. By allowing them to vote, we ensure that their voices are heard in decisions that will shape the world they will inherit. People often say to me that young people are our future leaders and I always correct them and tell them young people are leaders right now. My job is to advocate for children and young people across WA and ensure their voices are heard. I want to know how they feel about lowering the voting age as this topic is often raised when I speak to people under 18. Our teens want a say on issues that affect them so I’m asking them to tell me what they think about lowering the voting age. Children and young people aged under 25 can take part in my survey by visiting my website or socials. Have your say, today www.ccyp.wa.gov.au @ccypwa Jacqueline McGowan-Jones is the WA Commissioner for Children and Young People