[3] The format of Strictly Speaking is based around that of a talent show where contestants compete for the title of Australia's best speaker.

In the area of content, contestants are assessed on the subject matter; originality; creativity; quality of writing; structure; clarity and effectiveness of argument; and appropriateness of the speech.

In the area of delivery, contestants are assessed on whether the speech was natural or practised; pitch, pace and volume; appearance; fluency; and emotion.

[8] On 8 December 2009, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation announced its programming lineup for 2010 which included Strictly Speaking.

The Spy Report stated "Strictly Speaking struggled to make an impression, averaging 586,000 viewers".