Competition Applications and Selection

WSLSA encourages students to apply for competitions that align with their interests, experience and availability. Competitions are an excellent way to develop practical legal skills, build confidence, work closely with peers and academics, and represent Western Sydney University in an external setting.

 

How Applications Work

Applications will usually be advertised through the WSLSA website, student communications and social media channels.

Each competition page will set out:

  • the nature of the competition;

  • key dates and application deadlines;

  • eligibility requirements;

  • expected commitment;

  • whether course credit may be available; and

  • any selection process, such as written applications, interviews, mooting intensives or skills-based assessments.

Students should carefully review the requirements for each competition before applying.

 

Applying for Multiple Competitions

Students are encouraged to apply for all competitions that align with their interests, experience and availability.

Applying for more than one competition will not disadvantage your application. Rather, it assists WSLSA and academic coaches to identify where each student may be best placed to contribute, develop and perform at a high standard.

 

How Selection Decisions Are Made

Selection decisions are made having regard to the requirements of each competition. Depending on the competition, relevant considerations may include:

  • academic background or subject knowledge;

  • mooting, negotiation, mediation or advocacy experience;

  • written and oral communication skills;

  • legal research and analytical ability;

  • teamwork and professionalism;

  • availability for training and competition dates; and

  • overall suitability for the particular competition.

For some competitions, selection decisions may be made by the Competitions Subcommittee, academic coaches, the Program Lead- Mooting, or other relevant staff. 

 

Commitment Expected

External competitions require a significant level of preparation. Students selected for a team are expected to engage professionally and consistently throughout the preparation period.

This may include:

  • attending scheduled training sessions;

  • participating in practice moots or skills sessions;

  • preparing written submissions or other competition materials;

  • undertaking legal research;

  • receiving and implementing feedback;

  • working collaboratively with team members and coaches; and

  • being available for evening or weekend preparation where required.

The level of commitment will vary between competitions. Some competitions may involve a workload comparable to a university subject, particularly during the final preparation period.

 

Matching Students to Suitable Opportunities

WSLSA aims to ensure that students are matched with competitions that reflect their strengths, while also building strong teams to represent Western Sydney University in external competitions.

Selection decisions will consider each student’s advocacy experience, subject knowledge, preparation capacity, availability and suitability for the particular competition.

 

Please contact Amy Young, President of the Competitions Subcommittee, if you have any questions: competitions@wslsa.com.au