The internet is in many ways suited for this to happen. It's a collaborative, democratic medium which facilitates high level (at least) communication. Where internet usage is ubiquitous, like in Australia, it really comes into its own. It works because it has the power to bring people together.

We realise the principle of 'united we stand, divided we fall': that's why
we have unions that can act collectively. This principle can translate onto the internet: by assembling virutally on the internet, young people finally have a cheap and accessible way of acting collectively. By working together through the internet, we can find a new strength that they didn't have individually, creating political and economic clout where previously there was little. This enabling of collective action by young people is where we can break new ground. I think the most important thing for young people to do is to become
involved. Become involved in their communities, their democratic system, and if it isn't perfect, to become involved in making it perfect. Participative democracy involves an educated population making educated decisions that will effect themselves. Standing back and poking holes in The System isn't sharp-edged social criticism, it's a one-sided and counterproductive measure. And even though it might give you a temporary feeling of superiority, it doesn't result in much. It is NOT what participative democracy is about.

Offering solutions, developing solutions, and becoming involved in
implementing those solutions is what we should be doing.

Personally, I'd love to see a culture of participative democracy establish
itself among young Austrailans - all young Australians, whether they're
planning to work for an NGO, in the private sector or in the public service. The best solutions come about through the most vibrant and robust democratic processes.