On Tuesday 5 November, NSW Parliament held its annual NSW Schools Constitutional Convention, an opportunity for year 11 students to engage in meaningful discussions about democracy and the constitution. 

Celebrating 30 years, this year’s convention saw almost 100 students from across the state take part in engaging workshops and discussions that encouraged critical thinking. 

Some of the students travelled 400km from regional NSW just to flex their democratic muscle and reflect on their role in shaping Australia’s democratic future! 

The event began with an inspiring keynote address from Professor Anne Twomey, Professor Emerita of the University of Sydney. 

The Hon. Ben Franklin MLC, President of the NSW Legislative Council, and a resident of regional NSW, welcomed the students and praised all of them for their level of involvement and eagerness to learn. 

At the end of the busy day, 30 of these exceptional young people were selected by their peers to attend the National Constitutional Convention in Canberra in early 2025. A total of 120 year 11 and 12 students are selected nation-wide to attend the national convention.  

Thank you to all of the students that attended our 2024 NSW Schools Constitutional Convention. It was truly inspiring to see the passionate engagement in democracy. 

Congratulations to those selected to travel to Canberra and represent NSW in 2025!

Information and nomination forms for the 2025 NSW Schools Constitutional Convention will be sent to all NSW schools in August so stay tuned.