Young people have always been powerful drivers of social change, and today more than ever, their voices matter. If you are passionate about children’s rights, social justice, and advocacy, the UNICEF Australia Young Ambassador Program 2026–2027 offers a unique opportunity to turn your passion into meaningful action.
This highly regarded 18-month volunteer leadership program is designed for young people aged 16 to 24 who are eager to make a tangible difference in the lives of children and young people across Australia. Through hands-on advocacy, training, and engagement with policymakers, the program empowers participants to influence decisions that shape a better future for children.
About the UNICEF Australia Young Ambassador Program
The UNICEF Australia Young Ambassador Program is a nationally recognized youth leadership initiative that equips young advocates with the skills, knowledge, and platform needed to champion children’s rights. Over the course of 18 months, selected ambassadors work closely with UNICEF Australia to raise awareness, influence policy, and inspire action on issues affecting children both locally and globally.
As a Young Ambassador, you will not only learn about the challenges children face but also actively contribute to solutions. The program is structured to ensure that young people are not just participants, but leaders—driving conversations, hosting workshops, and engaging directly with decision-makers at high-level events.
What Makes This Program Unique?
Unlike short-term volunteering opportunities, the UNICEF Australia Young Ambassador Program is a long-term commitment that focuses on real impact and personal growth. Participants are supported with professional training, mentorship, and access to UNICEF’s extensive advocacy networks, allowing them to grow into confident leaders and effective change-makers.
The program values diversity, inclusion, and lived experience. Applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, especially those who bring unique perspectives and a strong commitment to community engagement.
Roles and Responsibilities of a Young Ambassador
As a UNICEF Australia Young Ambassador, you will take on a range of impactful responsibilities, including:
- Leading interactive workshops and campaigns that raise awareness about children’s rights and UNICEF’s mission
- Engaging with policymakers, community leaders, and stakeholders at national forums, conferences, and events
- Representing young people’s voices in discussions that influence policies and programs affecting children
- Participating in advocacy initiatives that aim to create systemic and lasting change
- Collaborating with other ambassadors to design creative solutions and youth-led projects
These activities are designed to ensure that your advocacy efforts lead to measurable outcomes and meaningful engagement.
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Skills and Experience You Will Gain
The program places strong emphasis on capacity building. Throughout the 18 months, Young Ambassadors receive comprehensive training and ongoing support to help them succeed. By the end of the program, participants will have developed a wide range of transferable skills, including:
- Leadership and teamwork skills through collaborative projects and peer engagement
- Public speaking and media training, helping you confidently communicate messages across platforms
- Policy advocacy and civic engagement skills, enabling you to understand and influence decision-making processes
- Strategic communication skills, including storytelling and campaign planning
- Professional networking experience, connecting you with youth leaders, advocates, and professionals
These skills are highly valuable for future careers in law, public policy, international development, media, education, and nonprofit leadership.
Who Can Apply?
The UNICEF Australia Young Ambassador Program is open to young people who meet the following criteria:
- Aged 16 to 24 years at the time of application
- Passionate about children’s rights, advocacy, and social impact
- Willing to commit time and energy to an 18-month volunteer program
- Interested in engaging with communities, decision-makers, and national platforms
- Motivated to work collaboratively and contribute to positive change
No prior advocacy experience is required—what matters most is your commitment, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn.
Why You Should Apply
Becoming a UNICEF Australia Young Ambassador is more than a volunteer role—it is a life-changing experience. Participants gain confidence, clarity of purpose, and the ability to create impact far beyond the program itself.
Some of the key benefits include:
- A nationally recognized advocacy and leadership experience
- Opportunities to influence policies that affect children and young people
- Access to exclusive training, events, and mentorship
- Membership in a supportive network of like-minded youth leaders
- The chance to leave a lasting legacy through meaningful advocacy work
Many former ambassadors go on to become leaders in their fields, using the skills and networks gained through the program to continue advocating for social change.
How to Apply
Applications for the UNICEF Australia Young Ambassador Program 2026–2027 are now open. Interested candidates are encouraged to review the full application guidelines and submit their application through the official UNICEF Australia website.
Apply here: https://www.unicef.org.au/our-people/young-ambassadors
Be sure to prepare your application carefully, highlighting your passion for children’s rights, your leadership potential, and your commitment to making a difference.
Important Deadline
Application Deadline: 22 February 2026
Early applications are strongly encouraged to ensure you have enough time to complete all required steps.
Young people have the power to change the world—and the UNICEF Australia Young Ambassador Program provides the platform to do just that. If you are ready to raise your voice, influence policy, and stand up for children’s rights, this is your opportunity to step forward and lead.
Apply today and become part of a generation shaping a fairer, safer, and more inclusive future for children across Australia and beyond.