THE Speaker of the House of Representatives, Milton Dick, and Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey have launched the My First Speech competition for students in the Parkes electorate.

The national competition challenges students in years 10, 11 and 12 to envision themselves as newly-elected Members of the House of Representatives and write a 90-second speech, focusing on a topic of their choosing.

The winning entrant from each year group, accompanied by a parent or guardian, will be flown to Canberra to deliver their speeches live at Parliament House and participate in an engaging program tailored to deepen their understanding of the legislative process.

The submission deadline for the competition is set for 11.59pm AEST on Monday, September 15, 2025.

To learn more about the competition and submit entries, students can visit the dedicated competition website: mfs.houseofrepresentatives.gov.au

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Milton Dick (pictured), and Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey are urging students from Years 10-12 in the Parkes electorate to take part in the My First Speech competition.

For further information and inquiries regarding the My First Speech competition, please contact Mr Chaffey’s office on (02) 6882 0999.

“This is an exciting opportunity for students across the Parkes electorate to talk about the issues that matter the most to them – the things that might affect them every day, or those that might impact on generations to come,” Mr Chaffey said.

“I know we have some of the most talented students in Australia here in regional New South Wales, and I’m excited to see what they have to say. This program offers a great opportunity to get a head start on a big future.”

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Milton Dick said one of his key priorities as Speaker has been to promote parliamentary education to students across the country.

“This is yet another exciting way that young people can take an active role in our democratic system,” Mr Dick said.

“This competition will provide high school students with the chance to 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.”