Students across the Bellarine, Surf Coast, and Geelong region have the chance to win a trip to Canberra and present their ideas at Parliament House through the 2026 My First Speech Competition, launched today by Libby Coker MP and Speaker Milton Dick MP.

This national competition welcomes students in Years 10, 11 and 12 to envision themselves as newly elected Members of the House of Representatives and write a 3-minute speech, focusing on a topic they’re passionate about.

One winner from each of year group will receive an expenses-paid trip to Parliament House in Canberra, including flights and accommodation, and a prize pack valued at $250. They will also present their speech to the Speaker and members live at Parliament House.

Entries to the My First Speech Competition close on 11.59pm AEST on Monday 20 July 2026.

For information and entry submission, please visit the website: https://mfs.houseofrepresentatives.gov.au/

For further information and inquiries regarding the My First Speech competition, please contact [email protected].

Quotes attributable to Member for Corangamite, Libby Coker MP:

"I know that so many young people across our region have ideas about how we can make our communities and our country better, and this competition gives them a fantastic opportunity to share those ideas.

"As a former teacher, I know how important it is to encourage young people to speak up and engage with the issues they care about. 

“I encourage students across the Bellarine, Surf Coast and Geelong region to get involved." 

"The My First Speech Competition is a unique opportunity for local students to learn more about our democracy, build their confidence and experience what it might be like to represent their community in Parliament."

Quotes attributable to Speaker of the House of Representatives, Milton Dick MP:

“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.”

“This competition will provide high school students with the chance learn more about the way our nation’s democracy works, and how actively engaging with the parliamentary process can draw attention to the issues that are most important to them.”