Young Australian public office holders: Experiences, challenges, and the rejuvenation of democracy

Young people (aged 18 to 30 years-old) are one of the most underrepresented groups within Australia, constituting as little as 3% of public office holders. This is a fundamental issue for representative democracy. Highlighting the voices and experiences of young public office holders across the country, this thesis explores the systemic, normative, and cultural challenges which work to exclude youth from the formal political institutions. The thesis also explores the remarkable contributions these young people are making to the Australian political system. The thesis presents an important contribution to understanding, and shaping, the future direction of the Australian democratic system.