Bishops are looking forward to the Australian Catholic Youth Festival as an opportunity to listen to and engage with the Church’s emerging leaders – its young people. 

The festival is a three-day event bringing together thousands of young people, ranging from Year 9 students to young people up to the age of 25, from across Australia to celebrate and express their Catholic faith. 

To be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from November 30 to December 2, the festival will include talks, prayer experiences, Mass, workshops, forums, live concerts, games, a justice activity centre and an interactive expo. 

Parishes, schools and communities can register groups, with single registrations also available for those aged over 18. Registrations will close at the end of October. 

It is the fifth time the festival has been run, having been born out of the experience of World Youth Day in Sydney in 2008. The last festival was held in Perth in 2019. 

Australian Catholic Bishops Conference President, Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB, said it was a “critical encounter” between young people of faith and the bishops of Australia. 

“It is an opportunity for current leaders of the Church to listen to emerging leaders of the Church,” Archbishop Costelloe said. 

“The bishops attending the festival are looking forward to hearing and learning from young people about their joys, challenges and fears, in a spirit of deep and respectful listening which is the hallmark of a synodal Church.” 

Archbishop Costelloe said research had demonstrated youth festivals had delivered benefits including growth and re-engagement in faith and building a closer relationship with Jesus. 

But he noted one of the key experiences highlighted by young people attending past festivals had been the opportunity to speak with religious leaders. 

“Each Australian Catholic Youth Festival has generated enormous enthusiasm and energy and given young people a sense of being part of something bigger and life-affirming,” Archbishop Costelloe said. 

“I hope and pray that this year’s festival will sow the seeds of energy, commitment and hope in those taking part as we seek together, with the help of God’s grace, to enliven the Church for all that lies ahead.” 

The festival registration hub can be found here: Registration – Australian Catholic Youth Festival Melbourne 2025 

The detailed program can be found here: Program – Australian Catholic Youth Festival Melbourne 2025