What is a first speech?

It is the first speech to the House of Representatives made by a member following their election. It is a significant occasion and an opportunity for a new member to outline to the House, to the people they represent in their electorate (their constituents) and to all Australians, what they are passionate about and what matters to them. There are no specific rules regarding content.

There is a convention in the House that a first speech is heard without interjection or interruption, and the Chair normally draws the attention of the House to the fact that a member is making a first speech. In return for this courtesy, the member must also follow a few conventions, including not being provocative.