The deadline for the 2026 My First Speech competition has been extended to Wednesday 29 July 2026.
Developed by the Department of the House of Representatives, the My First Speech competition provides senior secondary school students a platform to connect with, and learn about, the work of the Australian Parliament. The competition invites students in Years 10-12 to imagine themselves as a newly elected Member of Parliament and to write a maximum 3-minute speech on an issue they are passionate about.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon. Milton Dick MP said, "One of my key priorities as Speaker has been to promote parliamentary education to students across the country, and this is yet another exciting way that young people can take an active role in our democratic system."
One winner from each year group will receive an expenses-paid trip to Canberra to deliver their speech at an award ceremony hosted by the Speaker at Parliament House. Winners will also tour the building and other sites of national significance in Canberra.
The My First Speech website has tips and resources to aid students in writing a standout entry.
Entries close at 11:59pm AEST on Wednesday 29 July 2026. For more details and to enter competition, visit My First Speech competition.
