The Austrian National Youth Council, the so-called Bundesjugendvertretung (BJV), is the representative body for children and young people in Austria and stands up for the interests of 49 children‘s and youth organizations. 
  

BJV was first established in 1953 through the coming together of the principal youth organisations and changed its name and structure in 2001. BJV was set up to represent the interests of young people and youth organisations and continues to do this right up to the present day. BJV’s role is recognised in legislation and as a Social Partner. BJV promotes the development of services for all young people and promotes and safeguards their interests and concerns and is, as a legally recognised organisation, the legitimate lobby organisation for young people in Austria.

From youth sections of political and trade union organisations, to faith and uniformed organisations, minority ethnic groups and the Scouts: BJV includes local youth councils and organisations that represent particular interests and groups of society. This diversity guarantees the broad representation of interests of young people in Austria.

The Österreichische Kinder- und Jugendvertretung (ÖJV) represents the interests of young Austrians and Austrian youth organisations on European and international level. The organisation works in close co-operation with BJV, other national youth councils and youth NGOs. ÖJV represents BJV as a full member of the European Youth Forum.

ÖJV is also actively involved in bilateral and inter-regional fora in the framework of the European Youth Forum. ÖJV encourages the participation of its member organisations to take part in international activities such as seminars, conferences and work shops.