Lowering the voting age will strengthen our democracy. Giving 16 and 17-year-olds the right to vote means more voices will be heard, making our democracy more representative and inclusive.

Right now, politicians can overlook young people and the issues affecting them because most young people aren’t part of the voter population. But when 16 and 17-year-olds can vote, political parties and leaders will have to take their needs and concerns seriously. They’ll need to listen, engage, and create policies that benefit young people too.

Lowering the voting age will bring more voices into our democracy and make sure young people’s interests are represented in political decisions. When 16 and 17-year-olds can vote, politicians will have to listen to the issues that affect them, from education and mental health to climate change, housing, and the cost of living.

A lower voting age means a government that better reflects everyone in Aotearoa, not just older generations. It means stronger policies, better decision-making, and a democracy that truly represents all of us.