The position of Youth Governor is one o
f prestige within the program; appointed by the taskforce, the holder of the position is empowered to appoint and dismiss Members of the Youth Parliament, summon and convene the Chamber, swear in Ministers and their Shadows, and approve or reject legislation. It is generally a position filled by a highly experienced member of the program who has proven both their dedication and ability in Youth Parliaments past.
This year's Youth Governor is Mr Chad Satterlee. Chad is studying political science at the University of Western Australia. He is mainly interested in issues of distributive justice and theoretical political economy, and enjoys playing the violin and chess. In 2009 he was elected Leader of the Opposition in the WA Youth parliament program, and was appointed Shadow Education Minister in 2008.
A message from the Youth Governor:
Youth Parliament is an incredibly fun experience. As well as trading the traditional Parliamentary barbs, as a Youth Parliamentarian, you are presented with the opportunity to debate serious issues before the eyes of the people who matter. It's a given that you will forge some lasting friendships along the way.
The Youth Parliament is an opportunity for youth with serious and progressive ideas to raise them in a forum with real power to make change. I encourage all young people to take the opportunity to demonstrate your brilliance and advance your ideas.
-- His Excellency Mr Chad Satterlee, Youth Governor