How do I propagate young shoots off my Cordyline australis?

Cordyline australis isn't one of the easiest of Cordylines to propagate from cutting, your best chance is to do it in early spring.  Use a sharp knife to cut the shoots as close as possible to the main plant, trim the leaves back to just 2-3 emerging leaves then plant the cuttings into a good quality well draining potting mix or sharp sand.

To improve your chances of striking the cuttings, place the pot with the cuttings into a large clear plastic bag to create a mini hothouse.  Put this where it will receive good light but not direct sunlight.  Roots should develop within 2 months and you can pot them into tubs/containers or directly into the ground.