Young people across the electorate are being urged to put forward their ideas and perspectives as part of the 2026 Parliament Prize competition.
The annual initiative, run by the Parliament of Victoria, gives students the opportunity to step into the shoes of a Member of Parliament by creating a 90-second video outlining an issue they believe deserves attention.
State Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, said the competition was an excellent way for students to learn about the democratic process while expressing their views on topics important to them.
"Young people often have fresh ideas and a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing their communities," he said.
"The Parliament Prize provides a platform for students to share those ideas and gain a better understanding of how Parliament works."
Mr Bull said students could focus on any issue they were passionate about, whether it related to their school, local community, environment, sport, health, transport or broader state and national matters.
"There is no shortage of issues that young people care deeply about, and this competition gives them an opportunity to speak up and be heard," he said.
"East Gippsland students have performed extremely well in previous years, and I would love to see that success continue in 2026."
The competition is open to Victorian students from Grade five through to Year 12 and is divided into three age categories.
Students are invited to submit a short video in the style of a parliamentary Member's Statement, explaining an issue of importance and why it deserves attention.
Prizes are awarded to placegetters in each category, with students and their schools sharing in the rewards. First-place winners receive $500, second-place winners receive $250 and third-place winners receive $150, while participating schools also receive funding to support civics and citizenship education.
Mr Bull encouraged schools, teachers and parents to support students interested in entering.
"This is a wonderful opportunity for young people to develop confidence, communication skills and a deeper understanding of our democratic system," he said.
"I encourage students from right across East Gippsland to get involved and showcase the ideas and talent we have in our region."
Entries close in June and further information, including entry details and competition guidelines, can be found on the Parliament of Victoria website.

Tuesday, 9 June 2026