Mandatory Financial Literacy Education in Secondary Schools Bill 2025
The Hume City Council team debated their Bill on ‘Mandatory Financial Literacy Education in Secondary Schools Bill 2025’ as part of the Legislative Council on Tuesday 8 July 2025. Hume City Council’s Bill passed with parliamentary majority.
The Bill was an Act to increase financial literacy; the ability to understand and manage money effectively, in secondary schools. This includes skills such as budgeting, saving, investing, and using credit wisely, as well as understanding loans, insurance, and superannuation. By increasing financial literacy, this Bill shall help young people make informed decisions, avoid debt and scams, and plan for both short and long term goals, leading to greater financial stability and confidence across the state.
Financial Literacy subjects in Australia “have fallen by about 70%” (Dobrescu 2024), despite its importance in preparing young people to navigate financial responsibilities. This Bill equips them with the knowledge and skills to manage money and make informed, effective financial decisions. It fosters independence and provides indispensable skills such as budgeting, saving, and investing. In the long term, it can reduce debt and financial stress, contributing to a more stable society. This Bill also promotes savings and investment, reducing reliance on government assistance.
Meet the 2025 Hume YMCA Youth Parliament Team
Layla Ktaifan, Atena Kashani, Ella Saji, Alison Vong, Fatima Khurram, and Ammar Mahmoud
Layla Ktaifan
What was your overall experience of the YMCA Youth Parliament program?
"I really enjoyed participating in the YMCA Youth Parliament Program. I was forced out of my comfort zone, challenged, and rewarded. It helped me discover more about who I am, and who I'd like to be. I built on my public speaking and debating skills, built my confidence, and met so many wonderful people. My experience was truly unforgettable."
What did you learn throughout this experience?
"Throughout this experience, I learned more about the process of which bills are presented and passed through parliament, and how to debate in this setting. I was placed under pressure, and learnt what I could truly achieve once i set my mind to it. I gained valuable social and public speaking skills, and learnt so much listening to other people debate from their unique perspectives."
What was your highlight/s from being in this program?
"The highlight of participating in this program is definitely the connections I formed. I met so many incredible people, and I am so grateful to have met, and became friends with the people I did. I will forever cherish the memories we made during this program, and hopefully the more to come."
What could be improved from this program?
"A bit more insight and transparency into the process of bill writing and parliament from the beginning of the program."
Why would you recommend this program to other young people?
"Yes, I would definitely recommend this program to other young people and I already have! It was an invaluable, unique experience and opportunity."
Atena Kashani
What was your overall experience of the YMCA Youth Parliament program?
"I had an amazing time at the Youth Parliament program. It was an inspiring experience to be surrounded by passionate young leaders, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity and to be around a group of our future leaders."
What did you learn throughout this experience?
"I learned how teamwork, leadership, and respectful debate can create real change, and gained a better understanding of how parliament works, especially with debating bills and passing them."
What was your highlight/s from being in this program
"My highlight from this program was definitely when I found out I had been selected as Chamber Leader. It was such a huge shock and honestly felt unreal. I loved connecting with passionate young leaders and debating ideas that can make a real difference, and being able to support them in any way I could."
What could be improved from this program?
"I don’t really have much feedback as all went great, but if I could improve on one aspect, it would be to have more time to debate bills and to support other teams."
Why would you recommend this program to other young people?
"I would definitely recommend this program because it helps young people build leadership skills, understand how parliament works, and connect with others who are passionate about creating change. There were people as young as 16 there; but they were so incredibly passionate it truly was inspiring."
Ella Saji
What was your overall experience of the YMCA Youth Parliament program?
"My overall experience of the YMCA Youth Parliament program was incredibly positive and enriching. It gave me a unique opportunity to engage with political processes, develop public speaking and debating skills, and collaborate with other young people passionate about making a difference. I found it inspiring to see ideas transform into proposals and to be part of a supportive environment where my voice mattered. Beyond the skills, it also boosted my confidence and understanding of how policy decisions impact communities, which has motivated me to stay involved in civic and community initiatives."
What did you learn throughout this experience?
"Throughout this experience, I learned so much about how young people can make a real impact in their communities. I discovered how policies are created and debated, but more importantly, I learned how to express my ideas confidently and listen to others’ perspectives. Working with people who are passionate about change showed me the power of teamwork and persistence, and it made me realise that even as a young person, my voice can contribute to meaningful decisions."
What was your highlight/s from being in this program?
"My highlight from being in the YMCA Youth Parliament program was having the opportunity to present my ideas and see them taken seriously by my peers and mentors. I really enjoyed collaborating with passionate young people from different backgrounds and learning from their perspectives. Being part of debates and discussions that could influence real policy was exciting and empowering, and it gave me a strong sense of achievement and confidence in my ability to make a difference."
What could be improved from this program?
"One area that could be improved in the program is providing more guidance for first-time participants on how parliamentary processes and procedures work. While the experience was very rewarding, a bit more support or workshops at the start could help participants feel more confident during debates and discussions. Additionally, having more opportunities for participants to follow up on their proposals after the program could make the impact of our work even clearer."
Why would you recommend this program to other young people?
"I would highly recommend the YMCA Youth Parliament program to other young people because it’s an empowering and unique opportunity to learn about how government works, develop leadership and communication skills, and make a real impact on issues that matter. The program also allows you to meet and collaborate with like-minded peers, gain confidence in expressing your ideas, and see firsthand how youth voices can influence positive change in the community."
Is there any additional feedback you would like to provide?
"My experience in the program was very positive, and I appreciated how inclusive and engaging it was. One small improvement could be having more opportunities for participants to connect and collaborate outside of formal sessions, which would help build stronger networks and continue the momentum from the program. Overall, it’s an inspiring opportunity for young people to learn, grow, and make a real impact."
Alison Vong
What did you learn throughout this experience?
"During this program, I learned a lot of important skills that I’ll definitely use in the future. One of the main things I improved was my public speaking. I became more confident in expressing my ideas clearly and concisely in front of others. I also learned how to communicate my opinions and views in a respectful way, even when there’s disagreement. This was especially important in a debating environment, where listening and understanding others is key. Additionally, I gained a deeper understanding of how debates in parliament work, including the bill making process, and how policies are shaped. Overall, this experience helped me develop both my communication skills and my understanding of the political system, and it was an invaluable opportunity for personal growth."
What was your highlight/s from being in this program?
"The highlight of the Youth Parliament program was definitely visiting the Government House. It was when everyone really started to bond, and it felt like we got a lot closer as a group. Hearing the Governor talk about her role and experience in politics was super interesting, and it was cool to meet other well-known politicians. That day gave us a chance to connect on a deeper level while also learning a lot about the political world. It was a memorable part of the program that made the whole experience stand out."
Why would you recommend this program to other young people?
"I’d recommend this program because it really pushes you to grow. It gets you out of your comfort zone, helping you build skills like communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills that are useful in the future. You also meet a lot of amazing people, and the friendships you make here can last a long time. It’s great to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about similar things. On top of that, you get the chance to meet some powerful figures in politics, and hearing their insights gives you a whole new perspective on leadership and the world around you. It’s definitely a program that challenges you, helps you grow, and leaves you with valuable connections and experiences."
Fatima Khurram
What was your overall experience of the YMCA Youth Parliament program?
"Youth Parliament was an incredibly inspiring and empowering experience. From public speaking and debating to meeting young people from all corners of Victoria, Youth Parliament taught me how our voices can truly make difference. It gave me the opportunity to engage with like-minded young people who are passionate about making a change, while also learning from diverse perspectives."
What did you learn throughout this experience?
"Throughout this experience, I developed a deeper understanding of politics and policy-making, while building confidence in public speaking and leadership. Most importantly, I learned how to step out of my comfort zone by taking on challenges I might have once avoided. This showed me the value of pushing myself, as it led to personal growth and a stronger belief in my ability to contribute meaningfully."
What was your highlight/s from being in this program?
"The highlight of being in this program was meeting new people. I loved connecting with other passionate young people from different backgrounds and hearing perspectives that were different from my own. These connections not only helped me grow personally but also made the program more enjoyable, as we supported each other, collaborated on ideas, and built lasting friendships."
What could be improved from this program?
"I think the program needed to have better communication with its participants as I was not really sure of what to do or how things would go at times. I would also have liked for the chairpeople to have kept unnecessary talking/conversations until after the debate was over so the participants could have more time to actually debate."
Why would you recommend this program to other young people?
"I would recommend this program to other young people because it gives you the chance to step out of your comfort zone, build confidence, and develop valuable skills like teamwork, leadership, and public speaking. It also provides a unique opportunity to meet inspiring people, learn how politics and decision-making work, and realise that young voices can create real change."
Ammar Mahmoud
What was your overall experience of the YMCA Youth Parliament program?
"This year, I had the amazing opportunity to take part in the 2025 Victorian Youth Parliament. For a full week, I joined other passionate young people from across Victoria to debate bills, share ideas, and speak on issues that matter to our communities. Standing up in the historic chambers of Parliament House was both nerve-wracking and exciting — but also incredibly empowering. The whole experience gave me a real sense of what it feels like to be part of the decision-making process and showed me the power of youth voices when they’re heard at the highest levels."
What did you learn throughout this experience?
"Throughout the program, I learned just how important teamwork and collaboration are. Writing and debating bills wasn’t something you could do alone — it required listening to different perspectives, compromising, and building ideas together. I also learned a lot about myself as a speaker and a leader. Every time I stood up to debate, I became more confident in presenting my arguments and backing myself, even in tough discussions. Most importantly, I realised that young people have the ability to influence real change if we have the courage to speak up."
What was your highlight/s from being in this program?
"There were so many highlights, but a few stand out for me. Delivering my speeches in the chambers — especially my member’s statement on Palestine — was an unforgettable moment, as it allowed me to use my voice on an issue I deeply care about. Another highlight was meeting so many like-minded people who are just as passionate about advocacy and community as I am. And of course, being recognised as Best Debater in Council by the Y. A was an incredible honour that I’ll never forget. Altogether, these experiences showed me the value of using my voice not just for myself, but for others too."
Why would you recommend this program to other young people?
"I would recommend Youth Parliament to any young person who wants to grow their voice, challenge themselves, and meet others who are just as passionate about making a difference. The program pushes you out of your comfort zone in the best way — whether that’s delivering a speech in Parliament House, working with a team to shape a bill, or debating issues that matter. You walk away with stronger leadership and communication skills, but more importantly, with lifelong connections and a belief that young people truly can create change. It’s an experience that leaves you inspired and motivated to keep speaking up."