In 2023, Australia geared up for a significant referendum – a chance to vote if the Constitution should change to acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of Australia. This involved creating an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice, an independent advisory body.  

In partnership with @cityofparramatta and @WestWords, Codebreakers is continuing this conversation through a writing competition. We want to hear the voices of Western Sydney’s young people. Although some might not have been of voting age, your influence is still powerful. They can hold vital information and be the bridge for family and friends. 

Winning prize: 

• If winner is aged 12 -17: A place in WestWords’ After-School Creative Writing Program for the entire year starting in 2024 AND a prize of $250 
• If winner is aged 18 to 24: A place in WestWords’ Academy Program for the entire year starting in 2024 AND prize of $150 
• For 2nd and 3rd place, a place in WestWords’ term 1 After-School Creative Writing Program AND prize of $100 

We invite young minds to contribute their perspectives on the significance of the Voice to Parliament Referendum. Your voice matters, and this is your chance to make it heard through the power of words. 

We want to hear from you on “What’s the impact of your voice during this pivotal time?”

Competition Rules:
– Submissions must be original and based on the theme of the Voice to Parliament Referendum.
– Entries can take the form of essays, poems, short stories, or any creative written expression.
– Submissions should be no longer than 1000 words.
– The competition is open to individuals aged 12- 24 years. – Entries must be submitted by 31 October there – https://forms.gle/mYuEpJR2EhhFbTuC9.

Other submission methods can be explored.

And guess what? All entries will be published on the Codebreakers website!