NYC was set up by the Singapore Government on 1 November 1989 as the national co-ordinating body for youth affairs in Singapore and the focal point of international youth affairs.
On 1 January 2015, NYC began its operations as an autonomous agency under the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) and housed two key institutions: Outward Bound Singapore (OBS) and Youth Corps Singapore. Together, the agency will drive youth development and broaden outreach to young Singaporeans and youth sector organisations.
Ms Grace Fu, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, is the Chairperson of the 15th Council. The Council comprises members from diverse backgrounds such as the youth, media, arts, sports, corporate and government sectors.