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YOUTH PROGRAMS OVERVIEW
Rotary recognises the importance of empowering youth and young professionals through leadership programs and those that enhance international awareness and understanding.
Read below for details of individual programs that are offered by our District, along with links to details on partner programs supported by Rotary Clubs around Australia.
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LEADERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT
APPLICATIONS OPEN EARLY 2026
RYPEN (Year 8-10)
Next Program: 2026 (Dates TBC)
Cost: ~$385
A youth program for developing future leaders, empowering them to build their self‑concept and resilience, as well as learning life skills such as communication, teamwork, and community responsibility.
APPLICATIONS CLOSED
RYTS (Year 11-12)
RYTS (Year 11-12)
Next Program: 4-9 Jan 2026
Cost: $800
A youth personal development and leadership program guiding young people in the transition from school to life's next phase by creating connections and enhancing their life skills, confidence and leadership capability.
APPLICATION OPEN EARLY 2026
RYLA (Ages 21-29)
Next Program: April 2026 (TBC)
Cost: TBC
A leadership summit for young adults inspiring them to empower themselves and others. A program that cultivates communication and interpersonal skills, allowing leaders to develop greater self-awareness and a sense of community and belonging, while networking in a fun environment.
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INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE & AWARENESS
APPLICATIONS OPEN
Rotary Youth Exchange
(RYE)
Next Available: 2027 Long Term
Cost: ~$10,500 (Students), ~$2,200 (Clubs)
RYE provides opportunity for long and short-term international exchange with another country for students 15 to 18 years old to immerse themselves in another culture, learn a new language, and develop their skills as leaders and global citizens. Students are hosted by a local Rotary club, attend school in their host country for up to a full academic year, and stay with two or more host families for that period.
APPLICATIONS OPEN EARLY 2026
Model United Nations Assembly
(MUNA)
Next Event: 30 May 2026
Cost: $400 per team
For teams of Year 11-12 students, MUNA is a one day event that encourages them to learn about other nations and to understand and appreciate the workings of the United Nations while they develop debating skills and gain self-confidence in public speaking.
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PARTNER PROGRAMS
Rotary is a partner / supporter of a number of programs that encourage students of various ages to explore their interest in studying Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths (STEM) subjects beyond secondary school. Please click on the links below to head to the external website of each program for more information on program dates, locations and cost.
Rotary also partners with Road Safety Education to deliver the RYDA program that features a highly engaging and memorable one-day workshop which front-loads students’ understanding of road safety and gives them the tools, habits and motivation to take action and stay safe on our roads as both drivers and passengers throughout their lives.
Finally, Rotary also partners with the Windeward Bound Trust to deliver Youth Development Sail Training. The program is designed for young people aged 14-18 to learn the skills to sail a square-rigged tall ship. They will keep watch and take the helm, help in the galley, learn to navigate using the ship’s charts and climb the 24-metre mast to set and furl the sails. They will learn how to work in a team and learn that teamwork and communication can overcome all obstacles.
Your local Rotary or Rotaract Club (a list of clubs and contacts can be found here) may be able to assist with sponsorship and support for attendance at these programs