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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, encourages senior high school students across the region to enter the 2026 My First Speech Competition, to bring their unique voice to Canberra. Photo supplied
High school students across Dawson are being given the opportunity to step into the shoes of a federal member of parliament and bring the issues of their electorate to the floor of Parliament House.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon Milton Dick MP, and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP are calling for entries in the 2026 My First Speech Competition for senior students in Years 10, 11 and 12.
The national initiative invites students to imagine themselves as newly elected Members of Parliament and record a three-minute speech on an issue they are passionate about.
Speaker Milton Dick said promoting parliamentary education to students across the country remained a priority.
“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.”
Mr Willcox said the competition provided a platform for the region’s next generation of leaders.
“We have some incredibly bright, passionate young people across Dawson, from our high schools in Mackay and the Whitsundays right up to Burdekin and Townsville,” Mr Willcox said.
“This competition is a fantastic platform for our local students to find their voice, stand up, and put our region on the national stage.”
One winner from each year level will receive an expenses-paid trip to Parliament House in Canberra, including flights, accommodation and a $250 prize pack. Winners will also present their speeches to the Speaker and Members of Parliament.
Mr Willcox said he wanted local entries to reflect the distinct economic and social realities of Dawson.
“I want our local students to think about what matters most to them, whether that is regional cost of living, local manufacturing, or the future of our agricultural industries, and bring that regional perspective straight to Canberra.”
Entries close at 11.59pm AEST on Monday, July 20, 2026.
“Our young people are the future leaders, and their opinions deserve to be heard in the halls of Parliament House,” Mr Willcox said.
“I strongly encourage every eligible student in Dawson to get involved, draft their speech, and take hold of this rare opportunity to show the rest of Australia what our region is made of.”
For guidelines and entry information, visit the official competition website.
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