Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey recently called on students from Years 10, 11 and 12 from across the electorate of Parkes to enter the very popular My First Speech competition.
This competition, which gives one student from each year group across the country the chance to give their speech at Australian Parliament House, has closed for submissions, but a second competition is now open for young people aged 25 and under.
Mr Chaffey said the 2026 Raise Our Voice in Parliament campaign was underway, and he urged young people to take the opportunity to have their ideas heard.
“This competition asks people to write a 90-second speech that answers the question, ‘What is one big issue shaping your future, and what is a meaningful action you want Parliament to take on it?’,” Mr Chaffey said.
“Selected speeches will be read out by elected members in Parliament during Youth Voice in Parliament Week from 12-15 October. It would be great to have young voices from across the electorate of Parkes heard as part of this important week.
“Whatever issue it is that is close to your heart, this is a great opportunity to have your ideas presented in front of Parliament.”
Submissions for the 2026 Raise Our Voice in Parliament campaign close on 7 August, 2026. More information can be found on the Raise Our Voice in Parliament website at https://raiseourvoiceaustralia.com/ including a school toolkit.
Media contact: Marie Low | 0491 940 108 | marie.low@aph.gov.au