Tehan promotes My First Speech competition

THE Speaker of the House of Representatives Milton Dick and Wannon federal member Dan Tehan are promoting the My First Speech competition to local schools.

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.

Each year group’s winning entrant, accompanied by a parent or guardian, will be flown to Canberra to deliver their speeches live at Parliament House.

They will also participate in an engaging program tailored to deepen their understanding of the legislative process.

“This is an exciting opportunity for our local students to shine a national spotlight on the issues that matter most to them,” Mr Tehan said.

“The students participating in this competition will be our local leaders of tomorrow, and I am excited to give them a head start on their futures with this program.

Mr Dick said one of his priorities as Speaker was 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.

“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.” Submissions will close at 11.59pm on September 15.

To learn more about the competition and submit their entries, students can head to mfs.houseofrepresentatives.gov.au

For inquiries regarding the My First Speech competition, phone Mr Tehan’s office on 1300 131 692 or email [email protected]