Sparking Opportunities since 1905
YAL is a not-for-profit organisation supporting young Australians since 1905. From scholarships to mentorship and social connection, YAL creates a supportive environment for young Australians to grow and reach their full potential.
We create potential for a better tomorrow.
Welcoming Marija
The YAL Board would like to announce that Tammy-Rae Schaper will be taking personal leave for health reasons, from 7 September 2026, with Marija Andacic appointed Interim Chief Executive Officer.
“Tammy-Rae is an extraordinary leader and her contribution to YAL over the last 13 years has been immense. The Board fully supports her decision to take this time, and we look forward to welcoming her back when she is ready, with the timing of her return to be determined in due course.” said Bec Mahony, Chair of YAL.
Marija brings over 20 years' experience across health, community, and government sectors, and an existing partnership with YAL as an advisor. This experience, along with her expertise in governance, compliance, workforce strategy, and organisational transformation, position her to lead YAL through this period with continuity and confidence. During the interim period, Marija will work closely with the YAL Board, leadership team and staff to maintain momentum across YAL’s priorities.
“We are delighted to welcome Marija into the Interim CEO role. Her experience and understanding of Not-for-Profit Sector as both a leader and Board Director across other organisations will provide strong, active leadership for YAL during this period,” said Bec Mahony.
YAL remains focused on delivering for our young people, members, stakeholders and the community. We thank Tammy-Rae for her tremendous contribution and wish her well in her recovery, as we look forward to continuing the important work underway.
We are the oldest youth organisation in Western Australia.
Established in 1905
It is more than just a scholarship
We offer a bespoke scholarship program to support disadvantaged young Australians on their educational journey, in whatever form of education that suits them.
We have awarded $811,000 across all our programs to keep young Australians engaged in education.
Over the past 10 years
Our Programs
Bringing YAL’s purpose to Cairns
Since 1948, we have provided an opportunity to support the Cairns community, and what we do there makes you appreciate the ‘small’ moments in life.
Together, we make a difference for young Australians across the country.
We Bought a Business to Expand our Reach!
Your clean space fuels someone’s future. 100% of Castle Cleaning’s net profits help young Australian’s reach their potential.
Corporate Partnerships
The only limit to changing a young person’s tomorrow is your imagination. Let’s work together to help our young people reach their potential!
“The opportunity to contribute to the lives of young people and assisting with providing them with opportunities, helping to shape their lives and future has been a tremendous honour and a useful endeavour to donate my time to.”
— Sean Henbury, Stakeholder