Seven West Australians aged between 18 and 24 will have the opportunity to experience Chinese culture first hand as part of a new youth exchange program.
The International Youth Exchange Program is an initiative of the Liberal National Government and the Home Affairs Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government to further strengthen relations between China and Western Australia.
Youth Minister Tony Simpson said applications for the program were now open to students who could demonstrate they were actively engaged in their communities.
"The program provides an invaluable opportunity for young West Australians to gain an understanding of a different culture, develop self-confidence and to build international networks, while setting out a base for their future education and career goals," Mr Simpson said.
"It is the first of its kind between WA and Hong Kong and will facilitate the exchange of ideas and experiences on an international level.
"I strongly encourage young people across the State to apply, particularly those from regional areas as well as Aboriginal and multicultural backgrounds."
Under the program, Western Australian delegates will have the opportunity to meet and participate in activities with Hong Kong delegates when they visit Perth in October 2016 before travelling to Hong Kong in February 2017.
Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Mike Nahan said the program would help build intercultural understanding among young people.
"Initiatives such as the International Youth Exchange Program provide future leaders with the cultural appreciation that will ensure the strong relationship between WA and China continues well into the future," Dr Nahan said.
Fact File
The program is delivered in partnership with the Department of Local Government and Communities and the Youth Affairs Council of WA, supported by the Office of Multicultural Interests
Applications close on Thursday, July ,7 2016
Youth Minister's office - 6552 6600
Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister's office - 6552 5700
