The Minister's Student Council (DOVES) is the peak forum for interaction between NSW public school students, NSW Education and the NSW Minister for Education.

Read more about the Minister's Student Council (DOVES) on the about page.

How can I get involved?

The Minister's Student Council (DOVES), is an initiative of the NSW Government to ensure student voices are heard in developing education policy and addressing matters of concern to students.

In October 2020 a student steering committee was formed to help co-design the council.

The result is a 27-member council representing students from all Operational Directorates across NSW, including Connected Communities, who advocate on behalf of their school communities.

There are three students representing each operational directorate who bring their wider student community into the policy process by holding regular student forums, where they hear from their peers and advocate on their behalf to senior leaders.

How do students apply?

Applications for the Minister’s Student Council for 2027 are now open.

Students who are currently in Year 6 to Year 9 (2026) are eligible to apply, each student serves a two year term, with no Year 12 students on the council due to their busy schedules.

We would like you to submit a 90-second video telling us a little about yourself and why you would be a great advocate for your peers.

In your video, tell us:

• Why would you be a good advocate for other students? What qualities would you bring to the role?
• Tell us about an initiative you have started, supported or been involved in at your school or in your community. What did you do, and what difference did it make?
• What does student voice mean to you? Why do you think it is important for students to have a say in decisions that affect them?

We are looking for future leaders

You don't need to already hold a leadership position or have a long list of achievements.

We are looking for students who have something special to offer, students who:

• genuinely care about the experiences of their peers
• listen to and understand different perspectives
• lead with empathy and respect
• are curious, confident and willing to have a go
• can speak up for others, not just themselves
• have shown initiative or made a difference in some way
• have the potential to grow into a future leader

Don't worry about making your video perfect. We want to hear from you, your ideas, your personality and what you could bring to the Council.

Upload your video via the GOOGLE FORM

In 2027 there are a total of 17 positions available on the council.

Positions Available
Metro North - 2
Metro South - 2
Metro South & West - 0
Regional South & Connected Communities - 4
Regional North - 3
Regional North & West - 1
Rural North - 2
Rural South & West - 3

Timeline for the Minister's Student Council 2027 applications