We have the reach and collective power to ensure equitable access, facilitate intergenerational dialogue and amplify the voices of youth from across our region, who are the health leaders of tomorrow.
— Bianca Lau-Goodchild,
Partnerships Coordinator & Youth Lead
Our story
As the peak body on climate and health in Australia, it is essential that the Climate and Health Alliance (CAHA) is a representative of and acts in line with the needs of all people living in Australia, in consultation with underrepresented groups, including youth. This allows us to ensure our priorities, actions and advocacy are aligned with those who will be most affected by climate change.
The establishment of a youth advisory body in August 2025 to guide CAHA’s efforts has been increasingly in demand, as climate change worsens and young people are experiencing increasing impacts. To address this, CAHA established a Youth Leaders Council, among the 15-30 age group, which seeks to enable young people to shape their own future by providing a platform for them to share their unique lived experience, knowledge and perspectives on climate and health.
Our purpose
The purpose of the Youth Leaders Council is to convene a group of young people passionate about the intersection of climate and health, to support CAHA initiatives, engage in genuine consultation with this underrepresented group, support community growth and identify opportunities for young people.
Events and initiatives
Youth + Climate Health Summit, September 2025
CAHA was thrilled to launch Australia’s first Youth + Climate Summit, an exciting two-day event designed to empower the next generation of climate and health change makers. Supported by VicHealth and City of Melbourne, the event brought together passionate young people aged 15-30 who are eager to explore the powerful intersection of climate change and health. More than just a conference - it was a platform for collaboration, creativity and action.
COP30 in Belém, November 2025
During Health Day at COP30, Bianca Lau-Goodchild, CAHA’s Partnerships Coordinator & Youth Lead, spoke at an event hosted by Health Care Without Harm, alongside fellow young leaders, highlighting the importance of platforming young voices in decisions that shape the future of climate and health.
Youth-led project supporting youth mental health: Link We Can
A community-based, youth-led project, Link We Can, was established to support young people’s mental health in response to the growing challenges they face, particularly due to the climate crisis. Through consultations with the broader CAHA network, the initiative strengthened youth voices in climate and health advocacy and was recognised with an award at CAHA’s Climate + Health Summit on the Gold Coast.
What’s next?
Stay tuned for the next round of intake for council members. Sign up to our newsletter for updates.
If you would like to support our youth work or collaborate with us, please contact [email protected]