16-year-old Flinders student becomes Queensland’s youngest 2026 Youth Parliamentarian as the Youth Member for Nicklin

Nicklin MP Marty Hunt, Flinders Yr 11 student and Nicklin Youth Voice James Grisman and Flinders Principal Michelle Carroll.

Matthew Flinders Anglican College is celebrating a significant leadership opportunity for Year 11 student James Grisman who has become the youngest member selected for the 2026 YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament (QYP).

At just 16, James has secured a prestigious role as the Youth Member for Nicklin – centered in the Sunshine Coast hinterland – and will serve as a pivotal link between Sunshine Coast youth and the state’s decision-makers, with mentoring support from local Nicklin MP Marty Hunt.

Standing out in a merit-based field of candidates aged up to 25, James’ appointment serves as testament to the leadership development and real-world learning experiences provided at Flinders for students to become compassionate and aware citizens.

Principal Michelle Carroll said James’ success reflects the College’s mission to empower students to lead with intent.

"The Flinders community is incredibly proud of James. His selection as the state’s youngest Youth Member is a reflection of the immense determination and character we encourage in all our students," Ms Carroll said.

"James has participated in our Dramatic Arts program and explored Humanities subjects to hone the public speaking and critical thinking skills essential for the floor of Parliament. He is a shining example of a Flinders student translating classroom learning into real-world advocacy."

The QYP program began with a launch weekend at Parliament House in Brisbane (17–19 April), where James joined 92 other Youth Members to brainstorm legislative ideas and participate in mock debates.

James explained his schooling journey at Flinders had contributed to his community-minded approach and confidence.

“I have been a student at Flinders since kindergarten, and my subjects and opportunities at our school have definitely been important in helping me prepare for this role,” James said.

“My Year 11 elective subjects are humanities-based and my involvement has certainly invigorated my interest in and expanded my knowledge of political topics. My experiences in school productions as part of the Dramatic Arts program has developed my confidence and public speaking abilities, and played a part in encouraging me to take part in the QYP.

"Youth Parliament is a chance to move beyond the classroom and learn how to turn passion into meaningful policy. I'm planning to study political and international subjects at university, and know that Youth Parliament will serve as a great opportunity for me to learn more about how it really works.

"The application process was nerve-wracking, but it forced me to get clear on my worldview and how Nicklin can better serve its youth.”

As the youth voice for the Nicklin region, James will be immersed in unique educational opportunities, experience parliamentary operation first hand, mingle with members of Government and Opposition, and have a say in fiery debates on topical issues.

Nicklin MP Marty Hunt praised the program which provides young people with a front-row seat to democracy.

“It’s fantastic to see a young local like James stepping forward and earning his place in Youth Parliament,” Mr Hunt said. “Opportunities like this give our next generation a real voice in shaping the future of our communities.

“James’ passion for tackling issues like housing affordability and turning ideas into meaningful policy so young people can continue to live and thrive on the Sunshine Coast is exactly the kind of leadership we want to encourage.”

James said he is dedicated to addressing local challenges facing his generation.

"I want to address the ‘brain drain’ on the Coast by improving housing affordability and local infrastructure, ensuring young people can afford to live and work where they grew up," James said.

“I am deeply interested in youth issues and political involvement, and I want to make positive change. I want my voice to matter and to broaden my perspective by listening to other people from all across the state.”

The program culminates in a rare opportunity for Youth Members to sit in the very seats occupied by state lawmakers at Parliament House in Brisbane during Residential Sitting Week (27 September–3 October). There, they will debate Bills representing their communities and deliver personal statements on issues that impact their generation.