About the Youth Futures Network

The Youth Futures Network brings together 15 organisations across NSW. Our members are local specialists who work with employers, educators, communities, youth services, and families to create clear pathways for young people into further education, meaningful work, and active social and civic participation.

We deliver youth-focused programs funded by State and Federal Governments, supported by strong local partnerships, events and workshops. Our members’ business model centres on career direction, employment and education outcomes. With deep experience in events, contract delivery, career brokerage and community engagement, we adapt to the emerging needs of our regions.

We support NSW’s jobs agenda and the goal of creating one million additional jobs by 2036. Our services help young people build entrepreneurial and transferable skills, remove barriers to participation, and prepare for a digital future in collaboration with schools and industry.

Our Vision and Mission

Our Vision

To build strong, supportive and ongoing relationships that influence education, employment and positive outcomes for young people.

Our Mission

To empower our members with the resources, connections, and collective strength to deliver meaningful outcomes for their communities.

Our Core Beliefs

  • Transparency

    We share openly and make informed decisions together.

  • Commitment

    We follow through and deliver on our shared goals.

  • Respect

    We value diversity and honour the strengths of all members.

  • Curiosity

    We ask questions, seek feedback, and remain open to change.

  • Collaboration

    We work together to achieve collective impact.

  • Accountability

    We own our results and learn from both success and failure.

Our Capabilities

  • Statewide Strength, Local Knowledge

  • Holistic youth skills development

  • Safe and supportive workplace advocacy for youth

  • Future-focused industry engagement and support

  • Creative career immersion program development

  • Comprehensive mentoring programs

  • Impact measurement and reporting

  • Policy and advocacy expertise

  • Partnership & collaboration cultivation and brokerage

  • Wellbeing, health and resilience promotion

  • Advocating for access, inclusion and diversity

  • Culturally informed practices

Youth Futures Network Impact snapshot

  • 54,000

    young people connected with industry, opening doors to real career pathways.

  • 3,501

    First Nations youth engaged in work preparation programs.

  • 1,640

    young people with diverse learning needs engaged in work preparation programs.

  • 36,500

    young people built employability skills through workshops, online learning, and one-on-one support.

  • 26,500

    businesses, social enterprises and community organisations have backed YFN—supporting young people to navigate career pathways and secure their future success.

We Work With

  • Education

    Working with young people, empowering them to start their career journey.

  • Business

    Working with businesses across NSW to find the next generation of skilled workers.

  • Industry

    Understanding the needs of industry to help shape tomorrow’s leaders today.

  • Community

    Giving back to our communities through their young people.