The project is led by Western Sydney University and its research partners, including the University of Tasmania, and will see the five participant visit international research stations to take part in discussions on how their cities can work together to act as custodians of the region.

They will also develop a proposal to form an Antarctic Youth Coalition when they each return home.

Project researcher Professor Juan Francisco Salazar from the Western Sydney University's Institute for Culture and Society and School of Humanities and Communication Arts

"Antarctica is not only the continent of science and a natural laboratory, but also a social laboratory for how humans might inhabit extreme environments in sustainable ways," he said.

"If we see Antarctica as a barometer from which to take a measure of the planet, these five cities have a challenge and a unique opportunity to become global leaders in spearheading new ways of custodianship and international cooperation, while developing novel forms of urban identities for their cities in relation to the Antarctic."

Co-researcher Professor Elizabeth Lean, from the University of Tasmania, said the expedition was vital in building a strong network of partners who could help care for Antarctica.

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"I know from my own experience how a journey to Antarctica, even a short one, can create lasting bonds," she said.

"During the expedition, the young people won't just explore Antarctica - they will also explore what they and their cities have in common.

"These cities are often seen as competitors, but their citizens can learn from each other and work together to raise awareness about the region to their south.

"These five young people will be a key part of that process. Like Antarctica itself, this expedition is about international cooperation."

The five participants were chosen out of about 100 international applications who showed a genuine commitment to their cities and to Antarctica.

Chloe Power from Hobart will take part in the expedition, alongside Caleb Fraser from Christchurch, Rudzani Silima from Cape Town, Katia Macias from Punta Arenas, Chile, and Florencia Garro from Ushuaia, Argentina.

The expedition will take place from February 12 to 19.

Research findings will be presented in Hobart in August during the Australian Antarctic Festival and Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research conference.

For more information about the expedition, visit antarctic-cities.org.