My First Speech Competition 2026 - Winners to deliver speeches at Parliament House

The three winners of the My First Speech competition for 2026 will travel to Parliament House in September to deliver their speeches to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Milton Dick MP, and Members of Parliament.  

The My First Speech competition invites students to imagine themselves as a newly elected Member of the House of Representatives and to write a 500-word speech on a topic they are passionate about. 

This year, more than 500 entries from across Australia were submitted. Entries were shortlisted by the Department of the House of Representatives and the three winners – one each from Years 10, 11 and 12 – were selected by a judging panel convened by the Speaker and consisting of the Member for Barton, Ms Ash Ambihaipahar MP and the Member for Mayo, Ms Rebekha Sharkie MP. 

The Speaker said:   

"The My First Speech Competition is a fantastic way for our future leaders to engage with democracy and speak about the issues that matter most to them. 

It is so important that we continue to create opportunities for young Australians to connect with their Parliament. Hearing their voices, ideas and perspectives is a sign of a vibrant and healthy democracy, and something I am deeply passionate about." 

Members of the Parliament House Press Gallery are invited to attend the event:  

My First Speech Competition 2026 – Winners’ Presentation Event & Speeches  
Monday 14 September 2026, 11.00 am – 11.45 am 
Presiding Officers’ Exhibition Area, Level 1, public area (near the post office) 
Parliament House, Canberra 

If you require any further information, please contact [email protected].   

To find out more, please visit My First Speech competition.  

Media contact 

Information Management Office 
Department of the House of Representatives 
[email protected] 

For background information 

Information Management Office 
02 6277 4388 
[email protected]