The 2024 edition of the national My First Speech competition for year 10, 11 and 12 students opened today and is now accepting submissions.
The competition asks students to write and record a 90-second speech on a topic they are passionate about as if they are making their first speech in the House of Representatives. A winner from each year group is selected and flown to Canberra with a parent or guardian where they deliver their speech at Parliament House. Winners will also meet MPs, tour Parliament House, and learn more about the democratic process.
A panel of judges, which includes Members and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon. Milton Dick MP, will choose the winner from each year group.
"I am so pleased to see this great competition return for another year. Last year we had a record number of entries, and the competition was strong." Speaker Milton Dick said.
"Not only is this competition a fundamental part of engaging our young Australians in democracy, but it also gives us a glimpse into the issues that are important to them."
Entries close at 5.00pm (AEST) on 27 July 2024. More details can be found on the My First Speech website at: aph.gov.au/myfirstspeech.
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