Students across Victoria have an opportunity to share their views on their issues affecting their communities as part of an annual Parliament of Victoria competition.
The Parliament Prize, which opened this week, encourages students in years 5 to 12 to submit a video of themselves delivering a Member’s Statement on a local issue, as MPs do each sitting week throughout the Parliamentary year.
The Nationals’ Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, said the competition is an important opportunity for the Parliament of Victoria to engage with students to help them understand Parliament’s role.
“A Member’s Statement is an opportunity for elected members to make a brief statement of up to 90 seconds in state Parliament on matters of interest or concern to them and those living in their electorate,” she said.
“I would love to see lots of entries from local students, and I encourage local schools to be involved.”
Ms Benham added that initiatives like the Parliament Prize play a vital role in civic education. “It’s a great way for young people to have their voices heard and to gain a deeper appreciation of how our democratic system works,” she said. “Hearing directly from students about the issues that matter to them helps shape a stronger, more connected community.”
The competition has three categories – years 5-6, years 7-9, and years 10-12 – with cash prizes awarded to the winner, runner-up and third-placed entrant.
Additionally, students who place first in each category will win $1000 for their school.
For further information visit vicparl.news/parlprize.
Entries close at 5pm on Friday, June 12 2026.
