COMMITEE FOR FRANKSTON & MORNINGTON PENINSULA 

On Friday the 1st of May, Charli D (School Captain), Amelia R (Communications Captain), and I presented at the Committee for Frankston and Mornington Peninsula (CFMP) School Leaders Forum held at Peninsula Grammar. Students from schools across the region were invited to respond to the prompt: “In 2026, the number one issue facing young Victorians is…” After discussing our priorities regarding the prompt, we decided to present on the topic of education equity. Highlighting the growing divide between public and private schools, and the ways this inequality can create generational barriers to opportunities such as accessing tertiary education and managing the financial pressures that come with it. 

Our presentation was delivered directly to local MPs and representatives from the CFMP, providing an opportunity for young people’s voices and perspectives to be heard by community leaders. The forum was both engaging and thought-provoking, with students from many different schools presenting a wide range of important and eye-opening issues affecting young Victorians today. 

The morning concluded with group photos and interviews, where MESC leaders, along with a select few other schools, were invited to participate and further discuss their presentation and ideas. Overall, the forum was an amazing opportunity for us and an experience we will remember for a long time. We are excited to attend the follow-up session on the 19th of June. A workshop day where students will collaborate with peers from other schools and local representatives to further discuss the issues raised and work together to develop meaningful solutions that benefit the wider community. 

Emily G-W School Captain 2026