YPAT stands for Young Political Advocacy Training.
YPAT is a one-day or multi-day residential program where you will gain knowledge, insight and some practical understanding of political systems, campaigns and cultural challenges.
UNDERSTAND, ENGAGE AND CHANGE THE WORLD YOU LIVE IN
Work and live for the greater good
Your faith calls you to love your neighbour and make a difference. But how does this translate to real-world politics and policy challenges in Australia?
Join us at 
to:
Discover how to create meaningful change right where you are
Understand Australia's political and social landscape
Connect with like-minded individuals who share your values
YPAT is about action and advocacy.
More than that though, it is about the reasons for such things, the foundations of justice and democracy.
Forming a generation since 2009
Launched in 2009 by the Thomas More Centre, YPAT has constantly adapted to the next generation and now boasts of over 300 alumni.
YPAT is about people
A healthy democracy requires respect for the dignity of all people. Serving the common good, means helping all people to flourish.
You'll make like-minded friends
Spend hours discussing your passions and goals over meals and activities.
We invite 18 to 30 year olds to register their interest now
APPLY300+
Alumni
17
Years
120+
guest speakers
340%
Grew our reach by 340% during Covid using online delivery
Program
- Formation in ethics, ideologies, leadership and practical politics.
- CORE
- Leadership
- Political party structures
- Workers’ and employers’ rights in balance
- Intelligence and security
- Policy
- Governance
- Economics
- Ethics
Also includes
- Personal development
- Creative arts
- Sport
- Prayer
- Social nights
- Special guest speakers
Matea in 2019 said...
“I often wondered how anyone could develop a balanced understanding of political matters given the strong media bias and prejudiced views of peers? Then I found YPAT, which offered the perfect solution. The week was as informative as it was inspiring. Each topic covered was made relevant to every attendee regardless of our interests and expectations coming into the week.
We were fortunate enough to spend time having coffee or lunch with the guest speakers outside of their lectures to give us greater personal insights and advice into what we may have previously deemed as the scary word of politics. As a Catholic university student studying law and international relations, the overwhelmingly secular teachings sometimes led me to believe that it was impossible to include Christian morals into modern day politics but after YPAT I realised I was so very wrong and was able to be inspired by the many professionals who remain firm in their beliefs whilst succeeding in their careers.
The conversations with other young adults at YPAT were even more enlightening and I'm very grateful to have been able to attend. It's given me a productive mid-year break with an encouraging boost to continue to the next semester with the clarity to be able to relate my studies to my friends and everyday life.”
Sam in 2018 said...
“I grew up in a small rural town, where the word 'politics' was rarely used. I think it was a belief that little can be done in politics, so don't bother. However, upon entering university I found the culture was the exact opposite – people did not only speak about politics, they were intentionally political with their actions and views. I soon found myself surrounded by a strong post-modern, post-Christian culture at the campus.
Along with this came a hostile authoritarian view of anyone who opposed their agenda. This is why YPAT retreat is so important to equip us physically, mentally and spiritually. Upon completing YPAT, to my wonder and content, I can say that it certainly achieved what it set out to do. Through the comprehensive range of speakers on a variety of important topics, I grew stronger in my conviction, reasoning and faith. Expounding this experience were the approachable and knowledgeable organisers who were always keen on discussing topics from the day and answering any questions I had.
A Furthermore, meeting the other delegates and hearing their stories assures me that there are other people like me facing similar issues and are also eager to do something about it. Overall, the knowledge and networks developed at YPAT are one-of-a-kind – it showed me how to make a difference in the not-so-untouchable world of politics. Please consider backing YPAT, as no other group is doing this type of work, and I think it will be a key ingredient in winning back the country and our culture.”
How to support
Help YPAT expand and build more in-person and online opportunities by making a donation today using the link below.
Visit this secure webpage hosted by the creators of YPAT the Thomas More Centre.
What people are saying
"YPAT is a unique and intense learning event and a great hope for Australia."
- Peter Kelleher - Editor of News Weekly magazine."Nothing else trains young Australians like the YPAT experience does. YPAT is a beacon of hope for the future."
- Anna Krohn OAM - Executive Director of the Thomas More Centre, Australia.