New MP calls election tough job interview

The man sitting in federal parliament in place of maverick Clive Palmer admits being elected was the "longest and toughest job interview" of his life.

Liberal MP Ted O'Brien has delivered his first speech to federal parliament since winning the Queensland seat of Fairfax in the July 2 election, after Mr Palmer quit politics.

He took advantage of the no-heckling rule for maiden speeches, making a declaration most MPs likely also believe of their own seats.

"I should say that unashamedly as the new member for Fairfax I represent by far the most important electorate in all of Australia," he told parliament

"It hasn't been an easy road to get here. Being elected ... has been the longest and toughest job interview of my life."

Mr O'Brien thanked his mother for dedicating her life to being a mother of nine and wife to his father, who died of Parkinson's disease five years ago.

"I love my mum," he said, as she watched on through tears.

He sees a future Australia that prospers because the government had repaired the nation's fiscal position and encouraged democratic debate.

"Debate which was honest and fearless, not censored by politically correct media," he said.

"I believe this future Australia can eventuate but it won't just happen. It has to be got."