Law School Manual 2026

2026 UTS LSS BOARDING PASS

LAW SCHOOL MANUAL

TO: CLASS:

DATE:

LAW SCHOOL FIRST 2026

Grace Ryan, Education (Publications) Director

Luis Clarke-Nguyen, Education (Publications) Director

The UTS Law Students’ Society would like to acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Dharug Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which UTS stands, and pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging. We acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded - it always was, and always will be, Aboriginal land.

ACTING DEAN’S ADDRESS

I am the Acting Dean of the Faculty of Law, and it is my great pleasure to welcome you to another exciting year at our vibrant Faculty of Law. Whether you are just beginning your law school career or continuing to build on your achievements, this manual is designed to be your guide to the many opportunities and resources available through the UTS Law Students’ Society (‘UTS LSS’). The UTS LSS is more than a student organisation—it is a community that supports, inspires, and empowers you throughout your studies and beyond.

Law school is both challenging and rewarding. It demands intellectual rigor, resilience, and curiosity. But it also offers incredible opportunities for growth, connection, and impact. The UTS LSS plays a vital role in helping you navigate this experience. From career development and wellbeing initiatives to mooting competitions, social justice projects, and networking events, the Society is here to ensure you have the tools and support to thrive. Importantly, the UTS LSS promotes

Name

PROFESSOR TRACEY BOOTH

Ethnicity

AUSTRALIAN

Role

ACTING DEAN

initiatives that encourage balance and mental health, reminding us that success is not just about marks but about sustaining ourselves for the long term. Engage with these programs, and remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

And law school can be fun! The UTS LSS organises social events that foster friendships and connections—essential ingredients for a fulfilling university experience.

As Dean, I encourage you to immerse yourself in everything the UTS LSS has to offer. These experiences will enrich your time at law school and prepare you for a dynamic and impactful career. Your voice matters, your ideas matter, and your participation matters. Together, we can create a supportive, inclusive, and sustainable environment for all.

Welcome to the year ahead—I look forward to seeing all that you will achieve.

PRESIDENT’S

ADDRESS

Congratulations on starting your law degree at UTS Law! Welcome to the beginning of an exciting journey that will challenge you, inspire you, and shape you in ways you may not yet expect.

Starting a law degree is no small achievement. The competitive entry process and the demands of studying law make simply getting here something to be proud of, so congratulations on taking this first step.

While law school can be very intimidating and you might not know what to do or expect, that’s where the UTS LSS comes in. The UTS LSS is one of the largest and most successful student-run societies at UTS, with over 1,400 members. In 2025 alone, we delivered more than 100 initiatives, ranging from professional and academic programs to social and wellbeing events, all designed to cater to the diverse interests and needs of our law student community. Whether you’re keen to make new friends, compete in skills and advocacy competitions, or just unwind with a karaoke night, the UTS LSS has something for everyone.

At its core, the UTS LSS is about strengthening the already vibrant law student community by creating meaningful opportunities for connection, growth, and balance, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a truly holistic law school experience.

Now that I’m heading into my fourth year at university, I genuinely cannot recommend getting involved in the UTS LSS enough. There are so many ways to make the most of your time at UTS Law, from attending First Year Law Launch, joining a subcommittee, and participating in mooting and skills competitions, to signing up for the Buddy Project or attending our iconic Law Ball and

Name

SIYA KHATRI

Ethnicity

NEPALESE

AUSTRALIAN

Role

PRESIDENT

Law Cruise. These experiences play a huge role in shaping your time at law school and creating memories that last well beyond your degree.

I encourage you to get involved in as many aspects of the UTS LSS as you can. Be an allrounder in your law school journey; the more you put yourself out there, the more people you’ll meet, the more you’ll learn and the more rewarding your experience will be.

Your first step to getting involved is simple: scan the QR code on the back cover of this guide to become a member of the UTS LSS, and the best part is that membership is completely free! As a member, you’ll have access to discounted event tickets, exclusive opportunities, and a range of member-only perks. Make sure to also follow us on social media to stay up to date with events, ticket releases, competition signups, merch drops and much more.

I encourage you to take the time to read through this manual, as it will help you get started with your degree and introduce you to everything the UTS LSS has to offer. If you have any questions, ideas, or simply want a chat, feel free to reach out to me at president@utslss.com or send me a message, I’m always happy to talk. Please also stop by the UTS LSS Office on Level 14 of Building 2 and come say hi, there will always be someone ready to have a chat with you!

All the best for your university journey, I look forward to seeing you around campus and hopefully meeting you at one of our events very soon!

SOCIALS AT UTS

Welcome to UTS Law! While lectures, tutorials and exams are a big part of your degree, some of the most memorable parts of law school happen outside the classroom. The UTS LSS Activities portfolio is all about creating those moments – helping you meet new people, feel connected to the UTS Law community, and make the most of your time at university from your very first semester.

The transition into law school can feel overwhelming, especially in first year. That’s why the Activities portfolio focuses on running a wide range of events designed to help you settle in, find your people, and feel supported throughout your degree.

What does the Activities portfolio do?

The Activities portfolio curates events across the year that encourage connection, balance and fun. Our aim is to provide something for everyone – whether you’re keen to meet new friends, take a break from study, or simply get more involved in student life.

For first year students in particular, our events are one of the easiest ways to meet people in your cohort and build friendships early on. Many students meet their closest friends at UTS LSS events in first year and stay connected throughout their degree.

What do we offer?

Across the year, the Activities portfolio runs a mix of large-scale flagship events and smaller, more relaxed catch-ups. This includes:

Law

Why get involved?

Ethnicity

Role

Law school can be challenging, but it’s far more rewarding when you experience it alongside others. Attending Activities events is a great way to:

Make friends in your year and across different cohorts Feel more connected to the UTS Law community Take meaningful breaks from study Create memories that last well beyond your degree

You don’t need to be outgoing or experienced in uni life to get involved – just showing up is enough.

Where to find information about UTS LSS events

Our social events are ticketed and always sell out very fast. To stay in the loop on upcoming events and ticket releases, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

If social media isn’t your thing, you can find all the latest Socials updates on the UTS LSS events website’s activities page.

Finally, if you have any feedback on our events or any questions for us, please don’t hesitate to reach out by emailing socials@utslss.com.

WHAT’S ON IN 2026

2026 ACTIVITIES CALENDAR

13-15th March

FIRST YEAR LAW LAUNCH

First Year Law Launch is the ultimate way to kick off your law school experience.

This three-day event is all about meeting your cohort, making friends, and easing into uni life before assessments ramp up. If you want to start law school already knowing people, feeling confident, and part of the community – this is it.

FRIDAY GETAWAY | Stanwell Tops

We’re starting strong with a full-day getaway to Stanwell Tops, packed with activities, games and bonding. This is where friendships are made and group chats are born.

SATURDAY BOOGIE | Sydney CBD

Hit the city for a guided pub crawl across Sydney CBD’s best venues. Expect big energy, great music, and a night you’ll be talking about all semester.

SUNDAY BRUNCH | UTS Building 2, Level 14

End the weekend the right way with a Sunday brunch in our exclusive Level 14 space. Expect delicious food, endless coffee and plenty of laughs as you swap stories, make plans and turn new faces into future friends. Come for the brunch, stay for the vibes!

Whether you’re nervous, excited, or somewhere in between, Law Launch is highly recommended for all first-year law students who want to start uni feeling connected, supported, and ready.

Friday 20th March

FIRST YEAR LAW DRINKS & START OF SEMESTER PARTY

If you can’t attend First Year Law Launch, First Year Law Drinks is another great way to meet people. Join us to celebrate surviving the beginning of your law degree with a generous bar tab and great company. This is one of the only first-year-exclusive events offered by the Socials Portfolio after Law Launch, so don’t miss the chance to connect with your cohort!

But the fun doesn’t stop there – stick around for our Start of Semester Party! It’s the perfect opportunity to hit the dance floor and meet students from other year groups too.

26th September 2026

LAW BALL

…stay tuned for more details!

May 8th

LAW CRUISE

Set sail with us for an incredible evening aboard a luxury yacht cruising through Sydney Harbour. As one of the most highly anticipated events on the UTS LSS calendar, this is a night you won’t want to miss!

Your ticket includes a 3-hour unlimited bar tab, delicious food, a professional DJ spinning tracks throughout the cruise, and access to an exclusive afterparty. Tickets will sell out fast, so stay tuned to our social media or website for all the details on how to secure yours. More information is coming soon!

August…more information to come!

PUB GOLF

Ready for a night out at some of Sydney’s most iconic pubs? Expect drinks, dancing, and some friendly competition. Leave your textbooks behind, grab a visor and some golf clubs, and join us as we swing our way through the CBD for a night to remember!

THE EDUCATION TEAM: WE’RE HERE TO HELP

My name is Matt Ham, and I am the Vice President (Education) for the UTS Law Students’ Society. On behalf of the Education team, I am very pleased to welcome you on board this journey at UTS Law and to present to you the 2026 Law School Manual.

This Manual has been prepared by the Education portfolio with first-year students in mind. It is designed to be a practical, approachable guide that introduces the UTS LSS and supports you as you begin your law degree. We hope it becomes something you return to throughout your studies, not just in your first semester.

Starting law school is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. New expectations, unfamiliar assessments, and a fast-paced academic environment can make the transition daunting. The Education portfolio exists to support you through this transition, not only academically, but socially and personally as well.

What does the Education Team do?

The Education portfolio focuses on creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all law students. We do this by delivering initiatives that help students adjust to law school, build confidence in their academic skills, and feel connected to the wider UTS Law community.

Our work centres on three key pillars:

1. Supporting student’s transition into law school

2. Developing academic skills and confidence, and;

3. Promoting wellbeing and connection

The Buddy Project

(EDUCATION)

One of our flagship initiatives, and often a highlight of first year, is the First Year Buddy Project.

The Buddy Project pairs incoming students (Junior Buddies) with experienced law students (Senior Buddies) who have already navigated the challenges of law school. Your buddy is there to provide guidance, reassurance, and a friendly point of contact as you settle into university life.

In 2025, the Buddy Project reached record-breaking engagement, with 270 Junior Buddies and 135 Senior Buddies participating across the year. Alongside one-on-one support, the program includes multiple social events such as the Autumn Launch, Sip n Sing Night, and Spring Event, creating opportunities to meet people, form friendships, and feel part of the law community from early on.

For many students, the Buddy Project becomes a source of both academic reassurance and genuine connection. It is not about having all the answers, but about knowing that support is always within reach. Name

Academic Support and Skill-Building

The Education portfolio also delivers Peer Mentoring, a program run in partnership with the UTS Faculty of Law. Trained Peer Mentors support first-year students in developing essential law school skills, including legal research, essay writing, time management, and exam preparation.

In addition, Education runs speaker events, panels, publications, and resources throughout the year which are all designed to complement your studies and encourage engagement with the law beyond the classroom.

Wellbeing and Balance

We recognise that academic success is closely connected to wellbeing. Law degrees are demanding, and maintaining balance is essential.

The Smile Project is the Education portfolio’s key wellbeing initiative, focusing on creating spaces for students to relax, recharge, and connect. Through wellbeing-focused events and supportive initiatives throughout the year, the Smile Project reinforces that looking after yourself is just as important as performing well academically.

Together, our academic and wellbeing initiatives aim to support you in a diverse manner, allowing for the smoothest transition into Law School.

Getting Involved

One of the best ways to engage with the Education portfolio is through the Education Subcommittee. Subcommittee members assist in running events, supporting programs like the Buddy Project and Peer Mentoring, contributing to publications like this Manual, and shaping initiatives that directly impact the student experience. Applications will be open by the time you read this, and no prior experience is required, just enthusiasm, commitment, and an interest in supporting fellow students.

A Final Word

Law school will challenge you, but it will also offer opportunities to grow, connect, and discover what you are capable of. The Education portfolio is here to support you throughout that journey.

If you ever have questions, concerns, or ideas, whether about academics, wellbeing, or getting involved, please feel free to reach out to me at any time. I am always happy to hear from students and to help however I can.

So, please make sure your seatbelts are fastened and luggage is stowed away. We are excited to welcome you to the UTS LSS and look forward to supporting you throughout your degree. Bon Voyage!

THE BAR PRODUCTIONS

Name Name

GRACE RYAN

Ethnicity

AUSTRALIAN IRISH

EDUCATION (PUBLICATIONS) DIRECTOR

On behalf of the Education Portfolio and the UTS LSS, we are thrilled to introduce you to ‘The Bar Productions’ (The Bar) podcast for 2026!

About The Bar:

The Bar is a podcast created by UTS law students for UTS law students! We design and produce the podcast with the blessing of our Vice-President (Education) Matt, UTS law students host the podcast and the podcast is made specifically for you, our fellow UTS law student listeners!

The Bar balances thoughtful legal discussion with light-hearted entertainment, covering everything from student life and current legal issues, to interviews with guests across different stages of their legal journeys. It is a beloved UTS LSS publication, providing a personalised insight into law school at our university!

2026 sees The Bar enter its seventh season, meaning The Bar has been running for a whopping seven years now!! Season 7 of The Bar will provide a similar entertaining tone to similar seasons, but we aspire for it to reach new professional heights,

LUIS CLARKE-NGUYEN

Ethnicity

UK VIETNAMESE

Role Role

EDUCATION (PUBLICATIONS) DIRECTOR

featuring more interviews with prominent legal guests, with the podcast acting as an educational, yet highly comprehendible platform for students. We want the scope and media engagement of the Bar this year to be bigger and better than ever and are committed to making it exciting and fresh for you, our listeners! This season will be hosted by 2-4 students, with episodes released on a fortnightly basis (approximate). All episodes are released on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. We can’t wait for you to listen!

Where to Find Us

Along with finding our episodes on Spotify and Apple Podcasts by looking up ‘The Bar’, be sure to also give our Instagram account @thebarproductions_ a follow, to keep up with updates about future episodes and for other related content! Our DMs are always open if you have ideas for talking points – we aim to have more student input this year!

Getting Involved –

Join the Education Subcommittee! It takes a small village of committed students to create The Bar! If you’re interested in getting involved, stay tuned for applications to join the Education Subcommittee on the UTS LSS socials. This is a standout opportunity to meet new people on the UTS LSS, gain experience in what it takes to create a podcast, accrue LTS hours for the Brennan Justice and Leadership Program and take a creative break from the demands of law school. Stay tuned for updates! We’d love to work with you!

STUDENT WELLBEING

For the UTS LSS, our main priority is ensuring your wellbeing, so you can be the best in not only your studies, but in life. Starting your law degree is time to celebrate all the hard work you have put in to get here! However, it can be challenging to navigate the changes of university life and your new law studies workload. From adjusting to the university class and assessment styles, making new friends, working and getting involved in university life; your new juggling act can quickly become difficult to manage. It is important for you, especially in a degree with a high workload, to maintain your physical and mental wellbeing during this exciting time.

Enter the UTS LSS! We’re here to make sure you feel heard, supported, and safe during your studies, and particularly during your transition into your newfound juggling act. Creating routines to equally optimise your academic focus and your wellness is imperative for success at university. We’re here to help advocate for your wellbeing and provide support for times self-care can fall second to academic obligations. With our support, prioritising your wellbeing now as a student will benefit you well into your career, through the habits, structures, and self-reminders for mental care you create from day dot!

Name

CHARLI DE GREENLAW

Ethnicity

AUSTRALIAN

SCOTTISH

Role

WELLBEING DIRECTOR

In 2026, we’re continuing the tradition of wellbeing events targeted towards stressrelief and joy for our hardworking members, as well as important conversations about mental health, the legal industry, and how that relates to you as a student. Keep a lookout for details to come for the Equity x Wellbeing Panel in the Autumn session and the Smile Project events in both the Autumn and Spring sessions. These events are great opportunities to connect with your peers and have a reminder to stay grounded during busy times!

Alongside support from your UTS LSS peers, UTS provides counselling services, sexual harassment support services, and more for students in need. If you are struggling, feeling unsafe or are just in need of support, you can find more information for UTS’ services on page 14.

Interested in joining the team? Apply to join the 2026 Education Subcommittee! The subcommittee provides excellent opportunities to help run these events, whilst meeting a great network of people and make long-lasting connections.

If you have any questions or need support, feel free to email wellbeing@utslss.com, or pop by Level 14 of Building 2.

HEALTH, WELLBEING AND INCIDENT REPORTING

MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES:

UTS Counselling Service - (02) 9514 1177

UTS Psychology Clinic - (02) 9514 7339

Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636

Lifeline Counselling Service - 13 11 14

Batyr - 0402 576 114 https://www.uts.edu.au/currentstudents/current-studentsinformation-faculty-law/studentsupport-and-mentoring

Talk campus https://www.uts.edu.au/currentstudents/support/health-andwellbeing/counselling-serviceand-self-help/self-help-resources/ talkcampus-app

ActivateUTS Gym - (02) 9514 2444

INCIDENT REPORTING:

The UTS LSS operates under ActivateUTS, meaning that if you ever have an incident occur with a member, executive or a relevant party of the UTS LSS, or wish to communicate serious concerns, you should direct these concerns directly to ActivateUTS.

Under ActivateUTS, you can confidentially seek support and/or file a report. ActivateUTS can help you in circumstances of physical, verbal, mental and misconduct incidents.

There are a variety of possible outcomes which depend on your circumstances and your wants as the reporter. If you know what outcome you seek from your report, ActivateUTS can help you move towards this outcome or assess your options. You can also view their website for more situational advice as to how you should proceed should you have an issue.

For more information, you can access the Governance of the UTS LSS through our website utslss.com, where our Disciplinary Policy is found in Part 2, Section 15 of the UTS LSS Constitution, and the ActivateUTS Policy is available.

OTHER SEXUAL ASSAULT & HARRASSMENT SERVICES:

Respect Now Always: https://www.uts.edu.au/partners-andcommunity/initiatives/respectnowalways

Options available for UTS Students: https://www.uts.edu.au/about/university/ community/our-commitment-campusfree-sexual-harm/what-do-if-you-haveexperienced-sexual-harm

UTS sexual harm support line: 1800 531 626

SPORTS AT UTS LAW

The Activities Portfolio is excited to welcome you to another huge year of UTS LSS Sport! Within the UTS LSS, sport is a chance to step away from the stress of study and channel that law-school competitiveness into something genuinely fun. This year is all about getting involved, staying active and meeting new people. Whether you are a competitive athlete or just looking for something social outside of class, there is a place for everyone in UTS LSS Sport.

The backbone of the UTS LSS Sports Program and one of the easiest ways to get involved is social sport. It is fun, relaxed and a great way to meet people across the society. Throughout 2026, we will be opening registrations for a range of teams including mixed futsal and mixed netball. Even if you cannot commit to weekly matches, there is always something happening and the energy of showing up and cheering on LSS is hard to miss.

I am also excited to announce the inaugural UTS LSS Run Club! Following the rise of run and walk groups, this weekly morning session is set to become a core part of UTS LSS life. The all abilities group will focus on connection, movement and starting the day well, with the added incentive of ending at a bakery for a sweet treat and a coffee.

Name

EDEN LEVIT

Ethnicity

AUSTRALIAN

Role

SPORTS

DIRECTOR

By popular demand, we are thrilled to announce the return of UTS LSS Pilates Day. Following its success last year, this one-day Reformer Pilates event offers a low-impact, accessible, and enjoyable way to move. Whether you’re a seasoned Pilates enthusiast or simply curious to give it a try, it’s the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow law students.

Another annual highlight is the Intervarsity Sports Day. Each year, the UTS LSS goes head to head with other law schools in a range of sports games. Expect friendly competition, strong UTS LSS spirit and a great day out. Whether you are playing or a professional cheerleader, it’s always a highlight of the calendar.

The Activities portfolio is delighted to announce this exciting year ahead. Be sure to monitor UTS LSS social media for sign-ups, updates, and information on all upcoming events throughout the year.

COMPETITIONS AT UTS LAW

Name Name

ALEXANDER MARINOS

Ethnicity

GREEK

VICE PRESIDENT (COMPETITIONS)

Why you should get involved:

Whether it’s developing your legal advocacy skills or claiming the ultimate bragging rights, UTS LSS competitions are the best place to cement your passion for litigation. From unlocking skills you didn’t know you possessed, meeting industry professionals, making new friends or building a long lasting network with past and fellow students, the opportunities are endless.

Mooting:

Mooting is a simulated courtroom experience where students argue hypothetical legal cases, honing their research, written, and oral advocacy skills. Mooters research and prepare written arguments before presenting their oral submissions to a panel of judges, simulating appellate, and other proceedings. Mooting enhances students’ analytical understanding of legal principles, improves their oral advocacy, and provides practical insights into the intricacies of legal practice.

Client Interview:

In an industry where client relationship is everything, client interview positions competitors to interview hypothetical clients that address a unique legal issue. By extracting all relevant facts through carefully posed questions you’ll be faced with ethical dilemmas, in which you have to provide preliminary legal and non-legal advice to achieve victory.

Negotiation:

If you don’t think every competition is for you, let’s just meet in the middle.

ZACHARY BOSWELL

Ethnicity

ZAMBIAN AUSTRALIAN

Role Role

VICE PRESIDENT (COMPETITIONS)

Negotiations simulates real practice correspondence between sides providing students with an opportunity to navigate around sticky legal conflicts. Provided with hypothetical common and secret facts, you must come to a mutually beneficial outcome where you have to prioritise your client’s needs in midst of maintaining an amicable relationship with the other side.

Witness Examination:

Channel your inner Elle Woods and get your opposing witness to reveal the truth without your own client giving too much away. Witness Examination is an individual competition where students develop case theory by examining and cross-examining witnesses. By constructing a convincing case you must simultaneously discredit their opposing counsel’s case. Are you up for the challenge?

Written Skills:

Through the Advice Writing and Affidavit

Drafting competitions, students have the opportunity to develop their legal writing skills in a practical way. This year, students will be able to bust out their essay writing skills in our new Paper Presentation competition.

When

can new law students compete?

The UTS LSS runs the Junior Skills Competitions (Client Interview, Negotiation and Witness Examination) over eight weeks in the Spring Session. These competitions are open to first and second-year students who have never competed before, making it a level playing field. These competitions are the perfect way for students to develop their practical legal skills in a supportive and encouraging environment.

We totally get that your schedules are jam packed but the Junior Gauntlet Competition has you covered. This is the easiest way to get a foot in the door to the world of UTS LSS competitions as a first-year law student. This competition is run over one weekend in the Winter break (25 - 26 July 2026), where you’ll partner up to try your hand at Negotiation, Client Interview and Witness Examination. This is a one-off opportunity to experience each competition over one weekend and gain strong foundational skills and assess which you love the most before competing in our Junior competitions (or just compete in all three skill competitions). Throughout the weekend, you will be exposed to all different skill competitions, ask questions about all competitions as a whole, and acquire tips and tricks for each competition from previous competitors.

Can’t wait until Junior Gauntlet Competition but want a first-hand look at how our skills competitions are run? No better place to start than as a witness or a client for the Opens Witness Examination and Opens Client Interview competitions run throughout the Autumn semester! This is a fantastic opportunity for you to gain valuable insights into the various skills competitions we offer by working with a seasoned competitor (even if just for one week) and get a feel for what it is like to compete. By the time our Junior Skills Competition roll around in the Spring semester, you will be that one step ahead familiar with the structure of each competition and be prepared to give them a go yourself!

An additional bonus: the hours that you accumulate volunteering as a witness or client can be claimed as Leadership Through Service (LTS) hours towards your Brennan Justice and Leadership Program and the UTS SOUL Award.

Junior mooting is back and bigger than ever, with two moots in each of the Autumn and Spring sessions. These moots are a great way for first and second-year law students new to mooting to develop their skills:

Want to learn more?

If you want to learn more about the mooting opportunities offered by the UTS LSS, look out for our Mooting Mentoring Program (MMP)! The Program equips participants with the skills to nail each aspect of a moot, getting you ready for the MMP Moot Intensive. We encourage everyone regardless of experience and how far you are into your degree to get involved. More information about this program can be found on page 19

If you can’t get enough of competitions or don’t want to miss out on any updates, please join our UTS LSS Facebook page and the UTS LSS Competitions Forum Facebook group! We regularly post information and registration details on these pages for all our competitions throughout the year – sign up now so you don’t miss out!

THE MOOTING MENTORING PROGRAM

Spanning the Autumn and Spring Sessions, the Mooting Mentoring Program (MMP) is designed to provide first-time mooters with everything they need to know to excel in mooting, offering a fantastic opportunity for students to develop their skills in writing, research, and advocacy. The MMP is an invaluable addition to your law degree, and I cannot recommend it to all new law students enough!

Starting in the Autumn session, students will be provided numerous opportunities to be mentored by highly experienced past and present competitors, both students and faculty members, to learn how to tackle problem questions, research effectively, write submissions, and develop oral arguments. Students will then be able to test out their newly acquired skills in the MMP Moot Intensive, which is held in a condensed format designed to prepare first-time competitors for the Junior Moots to follow.

Junior Moots

At the end of the Autumn session, first and second-year law students can tackle the first Junior Moot – the brand new Junior Contracts Law Moot, which will be held for

Name

Ethnicity

MOOTING DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

the first time in 2026. Then, in the Spring Session, Junior Mooters can participate in the Junior Torts Law Moot and the Junior Criminal Law Moot. Junior Moots consist of general rounds, followed by a finals series for the top teams, where general rounds are held over the weekend, and the finals series will take place throughout the following week.

Through Junior Mooting at UTS, you will make many personal and professional connections, joining a welcoming, supportive and diverse group of students in an incredibly social, fun, challenging and competitive environment. You will enhance your academic experience by bolstering your understanding of legal concepts through practical applications in a highly engaging format, and concretise a strong foundation to excel during your time at UTS. To get involved, make sure you keep an eye out for posts on the UTS LSS Facebook page and your student emails for notifications and instructions. I look forward to welcoming many of you as participants in the MMP and competitors in the Junior Moots this year!

CAREERS AT UTS LAW

It is no secret that undertaking a law degree, whilst being the stepping stone to kickstarting your legal career, comes with its challenges and rewards. As a first year law student, you may be unfamiliar with how to navigate your legal career and how to effectively build a network from scratch. Luckily, the Careers portfolio is here to help you in breaking down any adversities you may encounter when networking and provide you with relevant resources that will assist you in choosing what legal field you may wish to pursue a career in.

How to Get Involved in the Careers Portfolio

As a first year student, you have the flexibility to delve into the numerous events and opportunities provided by the Careers portfolio to gain a more holistic understanding of what the legal profession offers.

Name

JESSICA TRINH

Ethnicity

CHINESE AUSTRALIAN

Role

VICE-PRESIDENT (CAREERS)

Join our Subcommittee!

If you wish to become a part of the UTS LSS, I highly recommend applying to be a member of the Careers (Publications) Subcommittee! Being a part of our Careers (Publications) subcommittee provides you with the opportunity to contribute and edit our annual ‘Clerkship and Career Guides’ and to be writer for the ‘Careers Blog’. As a subcommittee member, you will be responsible for assisting our Careers (Publications) Director and Vice-President (Careers) in the publication of these Guides and the maintenance of the Blog. You will gain transferable work skills of editing, visual design and marketing.

Attend our LinkedIn Photoshoot

If you are looking to create or update your LinkedIn profile photo, come along to our annual ‘LinkedIn Photoshoot’ where you can register to receive a free headshot and have an opportunity to talk to our firm sponsors.

Get involved with the First Generation Program

If you are the first in your family to study law or attend university, we recommend applying to be a participant of our ‘First Generation Program’, where you will have the opportunity to network and meet with other students from similar circumstances and develop a personal network from scratch and gain unique insights on navigating the legal profession without relying on prior connections.

Participate in our Beyond Corporate Mentoring Program

If you are interested in kickstarting your legal career and looking to network, we recommend signing up to be a mentee to our ‘Beyond Corporate Mentoring Program’, where you will have the invaluable opportunity to be paired with a legal professional in various niche fields of law.

Information on Careers

To find more information about the careers events our portfolio offers, we recommend going to our website and clicking the ‘Careers’ section for access to our annual Guides, Careers Blog and relevant event details.

In addition, we also recommend looking at the UTS CareerHub which provides recent job opportunities and positions which may be relevant to your degree. It should be your first destination when job searching!

SOCIAL JUSTICE AT UTS LAW

Why is Social Justice Important?

The Social Justice Portfolio plays a fundamental role in the UTS LSS. The Portfolio exists within the society to ensure that the core values of equity, accessibility and advocacy manifest within the student body. To achieve this, the Social Justice Portfolio hosts a range of proactive and responsive initiatives each year to support both the wider community and the student body of UTS law.

Through dedicated First Nations, Queer, Women’s and Accessibility Representatives, the UTS LSS delivers initiatives which centre on representation and voice. Initiatives such as intervarsity collaborations, internal events, mentoring programs and publications seek to ensure that issues concerning marginalised communities are meaningfully addressed. Further, students who are a part of these communities are meaningfully represented in the society’s decision-making and organisation process. Meanwhile, in collaboration with the UTS Faculty of Law, the Brennan and Equity Directors deliver equity and advocacy initiatives to support students and expand their understanding of key social justice issues. This includes the delivery of equity schemes, events, and the coordination of opportunities such as participation in the Brennan Justice and Leadership Program (‘Brennan Justice Program’).

Ultimately the Social Justice Portfolio is an ever evolving portfolio, recognising that the legal sector and students’ legal education does not exist in a vacuum but rather on a backdrop of social justice issues. Hence, the importance of the portfolio rests in bridging the gap between study and the real world issues experienced within and addressed by the legal profession.

Name

AVA KEEVERS

Ethnicity

AUSTRALIAN

Role

VICE-PRESIDENT (SOCIAL JUSTICE)

How to Get Involved:

First year is the perfect time to get involved in the Social Justice portfolio for many reasons!

Firstly, engaging with the Social Justice Portfolio is an extremely rewarding experience that gives students the opportunity to give back to the community. Whether through attending panels, charity events or contributing to publications like the social justice magazine, first-years are able to learn about, interact with and support pressing social justice issues. This engagement helps students to foster a sense of belonging and contextualise their legal studies.

Secondly, the Social Justice Portfolio provides students with exposure to skills and values which helps to shape their future legal careers. Through initiatives such as advocacy panels, mentoring programs and publications, students develop transferable skills including communication, leadership and critical thinking. More tangibly, the Brennan Justice Program is recognised by employers, demonstrating that students are able to apply their studies to social justice issues beyond the classroom.

Finally, the portfolio also provides a supportive environment for students who may themselves be experiencing disadvantage. Equity schemes, mentoring programs and inclusive events are designed to respond to student needs. Additionally, the representatives provide a point of contact for female-identifying students, students in the LGBTQIA+ community, the differently abled and First Nations students to address any issues of concern. This support can make a huge difference as you transition into your first year of law.

EVENTS:

Panels and Conferences

Across the year the Social Justice Portfolio presents an amazing range of panels and conferences providing students an opportunity to network with their peers, legal professionals and discuss pressing social justice issues in the context of the law and legal profession. Panels to look forward to in 2026 include: the Accessibility Panel, Equity x Wellbeing Panel and the Women in Law Intervarsity Conference in collaboration with the USYD and UNSW law societies.

Brennan Justice Program

The Brennan Justice Program is a voluntary program organised in partnership with the UTS Faculty of Law which has over 1400 students and alumni registered! Completing the program entails students participating in leadership through service hours in addition to reflections on a range of social justice issues and Brennan initiatives. To support students achieving this award, the program offers a range of initiatives to participate in including: Justice Talks, Brennan discussion groups, as well as fundraisers and charity events. In addition, students can participate in the annual Public Speaking Competition in collaboration with the Social Justice Society. Students who complete this program are recognised on their AHEG statement showcasing commitment to social justice!

Justice Action Committee

The Justice Action Committee (JAC) is the subcommittee of the Social Justice Portfolio. By helping to plan, organise and execute key initiatives in addition to providing guidance on how the UTS LSS should interact with the student cohort, the JAC members are essential to promoting social justice in the UTS LSS. Applications for the subcommittee will open early in Semester 1 so I highly encourage you to apply!!

Financial Equity Subsidies

The Social Justice Portfolio seeks to ensure all students have equal access to LSS initiatives and resources to support their education through a range of equity initiatives. This includes subsidised tickets for events such as Law Cruise and Law Ball. Moreover, the Textbook Equity Scheme provides semester-long textbook loans to students experiencing financial hardship. To pair with this scheme in 2026, we aim to re-introduce the University Essentials Scheme to provide extra resources for students such as Officeworks gift vouchers. Together these schemes seek to support the academic success of students.

Blogs and Facebook Groups

Additionally, the Social Justice Portfolio is responsible for a range of Blogs and Facebook pages. This includes the Women’s Collective, Queer Collective and the Diverse-Abilities Blog. Joining and following these publications helps provide students with a space to voice their concerns, amplify their voices and keep up to date with issues or events relevant to these communities.

REPRESENTATIVES

Name Name

SOPHIE GALLAGHER-HORNE

Ethnicity

HUNGARIAN

AUSTRALIAN

ACCESSIBILITY REPRESENTATIVE

Welcome to UTS Law! My name is Sophie, and I am your Accessibility Representative in the LSS for 2026. My role is about ensuring that every student - whether living with a physical or invisible disability, managing medical conditions, are neurodivergent, or have learning difficulties - can fully participate in university life and enjoy all the opportunities the UTS LSS has to offer.

Accessibility is at the heart of the UTS LSS. We are committed to making our events, competitions, initiatives, and student experiences inclusive for all. Diversity and inclusion are not just values we talk about, they shape how we build community, listen to your voices, and support your growth as future lawyers.

This year, I am excited to organise several initiatives designed to raise awareness and provide support. This includes publishing our first-ever Accessibility Guide for Law Students, which explains what accessibility means in practice, highlighting available resources at UTS, and shares the lived experiences of students in our community. I also encourage you to explore the Diverse-Abilities Blog, where we’ll discuss how disability and accessibility intersects with the legal profession. Another highlight will be the Accessibility Panel, bringing together legal professionals and advocates to reflect on challenges and opportunities within the legal system.

For first-year students, my message is simple: you belong here. Starting law school can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. Whether you need support to access UTS LSS events or simply want to talk about accessibility, I am here as your first point of contact. I hope to foster a positive mindset around disability and inclusion, and to be a source of encouragement as you discover what makes you passionate.

I look forward to meeting you, hearing your stories, and working together to make UTS Law a place where everyone thrives.

TAYA MORNATE

Ethnicity

ABORIGINAL AUSTRALIAN

Role Role

FIRST NATIONS REPRESENTATIVE

Yawayi, my name is Taya Morante, and I am a proud Dunghutti woman and the First Nations’ Representative on the UTS LSS.

My journey through law and through culture has not been linear.

Growing up, my Indigenous background was acknowledged, but it was not something that actively shaped my household. Like many families, there is intergenerational trauma that made it difficult for my father to speak openly about our heritage and culture.

As I entered adulthood and commenced my law and journalism degrees, I felt a strong pull to reconnect. I was assigned to listen to the stories of strangers, and yet, I didn’t know the stories of my own family. It was here, at UTS, that I began to truly engage with culture, thus bringing me to this role.

I know how daunting law school can be, particularly as a first-generation student, and as a First Nations person navigating spaces that were not built with us in mind. Or rather, built to our detriment. Regardless of the colour of our skin, First Nations students experience challenges that our peers simply cannot relate to.

As your representative, my role is to advocate for you: to fight for opportunities, resources, and spaces that support your academic, cultural, and personal wellbeing. I am also more than happy to attend events with you if you’re feeling unsure or don’t want to go alone.

If you ever need a friendly ear to discuss challenges, goals, concerns, or ideas, please do not hesitate to reach out. You can contact me at firstnations@utslss.com or message me on my social media platforms (which are very easy to find). I may not always have the answers, but I will always do my best to listen, support, and advocate for you.

Name Name

JULIAN FOY

Ethnicity

FRENCH AUSTRALIAN

QUEER REPRESENTATIVE

Hello everyone! My name is Julian Foy (he/him) and I am the Queer Representative for the UTS LSS. First of all, congratulations on starting law school! Beginning your degree is a huge achievement, and I hope you’re incredibly proud of yourselves. First year can feel like a lot at times, but in my own experience, it’s also where friendships are formed, confidence is built, and a sense of belonging really starts to take shape. Engaging with the UTS LSS only enhances these experiences, and I encourage everyone to get involved in whatever way feels right.

I’m currently in my second year studying a Bachelor of Laws and Science (Environmental Biology). Outside of law school, you’ll most likely find me at pop music concerts (seriously, ask me about my upcoming concerts) or in Newtown on a Wednesday night. I care deeply about community, creative spaces, and making sure law school feels accessible and welcoming rather than intimidating.

As Queer Representative, my passion lies in advocacy, connection, and visibility. Law school can be an empowering space, but it can also reflect broader inequalities and exclusions that exist within the legal profession. My hope is to contribute to a culture where LGBTQIA+ students feel supported, heard, and celebrated, whether that’s through social opportunities, or simply knowing there is someone you can reach out to. I’m especially interested in fostering spaces that are inclusive and centred on genuine connection within the community.

Most importantly, I want you to know that you belong here. No matter how you identify, where you come from, or how confident you feel right now, there is space for you within the UTS Law community. I can’t wait to see what you all bring to law school, and I hope 2026 is a year where you feel supported, challenged, and excited about what’s ahead.

TAHLIA LEE

Ethnicity

SAMOAN

AUSTRALIAN

Role Role

WOMEN’S REPRESENTATIVE

Hi everyone! My name is Tahlia Lee and I am the Women’s Representative for the UTS LSS 2026!

Firstly, congratulations to all our first-year students who are starting your law school journey. Beginning law can feel overwhelming at times, but it is also an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience. The UTS LSS is here to support you, and I encourage you to get involved in ways that feel right for you.

I’m currently starting my third year, studying a Bachelor of Law and Business, majoring in Finance. Throughout my time at UTS, I’ve been actively involved in the competitions, social justice and social aspects of the UTS LSS which has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my degree. Outside of uni, I love dancing, spending time with friends and soaking up the sun whenever I get the chance.

As a Women’s Representative, I am passionate about supporting women in law and ensuring female-identifying students have a safe, welcoming space to reach out to, whether they’re feeling unsure, isolated or simply looking for guidance.

Looking ahead to a very exciting 2026, my goal is to continue fostering an inclusive and empowering environment for female-identifying students.

An amazing initiative we have to offer this year is the Women’s Mentoring Program which pairs female-identifying law students with inspiring female mentors in the law field. We also will have the Intervarsity Women in Law Conference and the Walk for WAGEC, all which play an important role in fostering community, empowerment and advocacy within the law school.

I’m so excited to meet and connect with as many of you as possible this year. Most importantly I am here to support, guide and represent you through 2026! Please don’t hesitate to reach out as I am always happy for a chat! You can contact me at women@utslss.com or message me on social media any time :).

EQUITY AT UTS LAW

Hi everyone! My name is Ditsa Dey, and I am your Equity Director for 2026! I am currently a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Business student, and I am committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and accessible environment within the UTS LSS.

Equity is a core part of the UTS LSS’ mission. The Equity portfolio exists to ensure that all students, regardless of their background or circumstances, have equal access to essential educational resources and the opportunities for social engagement offered by the UTS LSS.

Financial Help Services at UTS UTS offers a range of financial assistance services for undergraduate students experiencing hardship, including Financial Support Grants, the Housing Rental Subsidy (HRS), and grocery or food vouchers. These supports are designed to help students manage study-related expenses, accommodation costs, and unexpected financial challenges. Students are encouraged to visit the UTS financial assistance webpage or connect with the UTS Student Centre to learn more about eligibility and application processes.

Equity Initiatives for 2026

Our Equity Program features several key initiatives designed to support student wellbeing, accessibility, and inclusion. Central to this is the Textbook Equity Scheme, delivered in collaboration with the UTS Law Faculty. This need-based scheme provides students experiencing financial hardship with access to essential textbooks for core law subjects, helping ensure equitable access to academic resources.

Ethnicity

INDIAN

Role

EQUITY DIRECTOR

The program also includes the University Essentials Scheme, which provides Officeworks vouchers to assist students in purchasing essential study materials.

Alongside financial support, the Equity Program prioritises education and wellbeing through the annual Equity x Wellbeing Panel, ran in collaboration with the Education Portfolio. This event creates space for important discussions around mental health, accessibility, and sustainability within legal education and the profession.

To promote social inclusion and community connection, the UTS LSS offers subsidised tickets for major events such as First Year Law Camp, Law Cruise, and Law Ball, ensuring all students can participate in key social experiences. The program also hosts Charity Trivia Nights, providing a fun and inclusive way for students to connect while raising funds for important causes.

Together, these initiatives reflect the UTS LSS’ ongoing commitment to building a welcoming, equitable, and supportive community for all law students.

2026 lsm

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DATE:

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