The Department is Government's arm responsible for the formulation and implementation of policies and programmes targeted at empowering youths to create a better future through informed choices.  The department is also responsible for the promotion and development of sports, its infrastructure throughout Fiji, all within the framework of national planning, policies and priorities.
The department endeavours to strengthen its services to capture and develop the full potential of young people and motivate them to be proactive and productive citizens in the nation's socio-economic development process.  Rural youth potentials are being harnessed by encouraging youth into implementing Small enterprise Development projects for self-employment and improved livelihood. Youth development programmes of the Department involve the provision of advisory and technical services for youths and youth groups to enable them to become socially responsible and economically self reliant.