Parliament Invites First Nations Youth Stories, Immediately Requests They Fit Neatly Into A “Positive Narrative”

CANBERRA – A national storytelling competition has opened for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, encouraging young people to share stories of identity, Country, community and connection—then bring those stories to the nation’s most famous building for listening politely.

Organisers said the program is about amplifying voices. Parliament agreed, confirming the voices will be amplified through a microphone, a photograph, and a brief moment where everyone stands very still and looks moved.

A spokesperson said the competition celebrates creativity and confidence. “We want students to be proud,” they said, “as long as pride remains within approved themes and doesn’t accidentally raise any questions about power, history, or budgets.”

Students were encouraged to submit in multiple formats. Government departments were also excited, noting this creates “valuable content diversity” for social media tiles, banner images, and a highlight reel titled Inspiring Futures (No Context Needed).

Teachers welcomed the opportunity, while quietly recognising it will also require extra after-hours support, plus a bonus unit of “emotional labour” not covered by any grant.

Winners will travel to Canberra, where their work will be displayed. The display will be protected by the building’s strongest security measure: a committee that decides where the display can be displayed.