Can You Help?

This website is in imminent danger of being shut down. It has been online since 1995, but the personal circumstances of the owner, Malcolm Farnsworth, are such that economies have to be made. Server costs and suchlike have become prohibitive. At the urging of people online, I have agreed to see if Patreon provides a solution. More information is available at the Patreon website. If you are able to contribute even $1.00/month to keep the site running, please click the Patreon button below.


Become a Patron!


Maiden Speeches / First Speeches

New members of parliament make what is now called a First Speech.

The first speech was once officially known as a maiden speech.

By tradition, new members are heard in silence during their first speech and there are no interjections. One famous exception was when John McEwen interjected during Gough Whitlam’s maiden speech in March 1953.

Maiden Speeches – Video, audio & transcripts

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2008

2005

2004

2002

1998

1996

1994

1993

1990

1989

1983

1959

1953

Print Friendly, PDF & Email