FirstYear Guide
Acknowledgement ofCountry
Publications, like our first year guide play a vital role in making that connection visible and accessible.
Kaylen La Brooy Vice President (Publications)
WelcometoMacquarieLaw School!
Macquarie University Law School for over 50 years has been built on connection,bothprofessionally andpersonally Spanningwhatwill be your journey through first to final year, shared experiences of intellectual challenge, growth, and ambitiontopositivelycontributeto thelegalprofessionunitesusallas MacquarieLawStudents
My name is Kaylen La Brooy, and it is my privilege to serve as your Vice President (Publications) in the Macquarie University Law Society (MULS). I am currently studying a BachelorofLawsandPsychology,a combination that has heightened my appreciation for both the the law and the range of people who approach its many facets in diverseways
The resources in this guide have supported first years time and time again. Those who maximise the use of this knowledge will reap its benefits as they navigate their first year studying law! I seek to deliver and extend upon the success and high standard of previous MULS publications A key priority for me is to broadcast and publicise information about what MULS offers, as well as what the LawSchoolasawholeprovidesto
you all as undergraduate or JD postgraduatestudents.
I encourage you throughout your law school journey, to involve yourselves in our initiatives and feel confident through our support inyoudoingso
Accessibility is a central focus for us in 2026 I am committed to ensuring that information is disseminatedtoasmanyofyouas possible, while also providing educational resources that offer insight into the many different facets of the Law School experience
Through each initiative, we hope you feel welcome in this amazing community!Sending you our best wishesasyoutakethesefirststeps in your studies; don’t hesitate to reach out and ask questions duringthejourney
Kaylen
Sponsors
Congratulations on beginning your law studies at Macquarie University!
As a proud sponsor of the Macquarie University Law Society, we’re excited to support you as you take this big step toward a rewarding future in the legal profession.
This transition into university life is a significant one, so remember to be patient and kind to yourself as you find your footing. Make the most of the experience, get involved, meet new people, and enjoy the journey ahead.
We’re cheering you on and can’t wait to see where your studies take you!
From the Early Careers team at Sparke Helmore Lawyers
Contents
President’s Welcome
Aditi Pal President Pal
Editor’s Welcome
Oliver Bunting Editor
Therefore, I advise you to get involved with what you are interested in and keep an open mind to trying new things Some of the most valuable and rewarding experiences you will have at university come from stepping outside your comfort zone On behalf of the MULS Publications Portfolio, I hope that our publications serve as a helpful and reliable guide throughout your degree. I wish you all the best in your studies and look forward to seeing you make the most of the many opportunities availabletoyouatMacquarieLawSchool
The Dean’s Welcome
Professor Lise Barry
Dean of Macquarie Law School
DearFirstYearStudents,
Congratulationsonbeginningyourlaw degree at Macquarie Law School! If you’re feeling a mix of excitement and nerves right now, you’re not alone: that’s exactly how most of your peers arefeelingtoo Youmightbe
wondering how to approach your readings, how to structure assignments, or how to participate effectively in class These uncertainties are completely normal, and I want you to know from day one that we’re here to support you through every step of thisjourney
Every unit convenor at Macquarie Law School holds a weekly consultation hour specifically for students like you These aren’t just for when you’re struggling, they’re opportunities to discuss your ideas, clarify concepts, seek guidance on study techniques, or simply check that you’re on the right track Please use them Your lecturers and tutors genuinely want to see you succeed,andreachingoutforhelpisa sign of wisdom, not weakness. The students who thrive are often those who engage actively with their teachers and aren’t afraid to ask questions.
You’vechosentostudylawatapivotal moment in history We live in an era where disinformation spreads faster than truth, where social media amplifiesvoiceswithoutverifyingfacts, and where critical thinking has never been more essential. Your legal education will equip you with the analytical tools to cut through noise, evaluate evidence rigorously, identify logical fallacies, and distinguish between opinion and reasoned argument These skills matter far beyond the courtroom: they’re fundamentaltoparticipating
At Macquarie Law School, our motto is “Find Your Purpose” We believe legal educationshouldhelpyoudiscovernot just what career you want, but what kindofimpactyouwanttomakeinthe world Perhaps you’re drawn to human rights advocacy, environmental law, criminal justice reform, corporate governance, family law, or areas you haven’t yet encountered Our curriculum combines rigorous doctrinal foundations with exposure to contemporary challenges, and our faculty includes both leading scholars and experienced practitioners who bring diverse perspectives to their teaching
Youreducationextendsfarbeyondthe classroom The Macquarie University Law Society (MULS) is the heartbeat of our student community, offering rich opportunities to deepen your learning and discover your strengths Through mooting competitions, you’ll develop advocacy skills and learn to think on your feet. Social events will help you forge friendships that last well beyond your degree Careers workshops will connect you with practitioners and open doors to opportunities. Social justice initiatives let you contribute to meaningful causes Sports competitions and student publications provideoutletsfordifferenttalentsand interests I encourage you strongly to get involved with MULS Step outside your comfort zone, try activities that stretch you, and say yes to opportunities that intimidate you slightly These experiences build confidence, reveal capabilities you didn’t know you had, and often become the highlights students remembermostfondly
design.Thestruggleofworkingthrough difficult material, refining your arguments,andfindingyourvoiceasa legal thinker is where the real learning happens.
Let me be clear though: legal education is demanding It requires genuine intellectual effort, sustained engagement, and a willingness to grapple with complexity You’ll encounter difficult concepts that don’t click immediately, assignments that require multiple drafts, and problems withoutclear-cutanswers.Thisisby
Andawordaboutartificialintelligence: while AI tools are increasingly part of modern legal practice, learning to use them ethically and responsibly is essential AIshouldnevergeneratefirst draftsofyourworkorreplaceyourown critical thinking. Using it that way shortcuts your education and ultimatelycheatsyouoftheintellectual development you’re here to achieve The analytical skills, the writing ability, the capacity to construct and defend arguments: these can only be built through your own effort There are no shortcuts to genuine competence. Embrace the challenge of doing your own work; it’s an investment in your future self that compounds with interestoveryourentirecareer.
You’re joining a vibrant intellectual community that values diverse perspectives and fosters genuine collaboration Your classmates come from varied backgrounds and bring different experiences and viewpoints Learnfromthem.
Challenge each other respectfully Supportoneanotherthroughthetough moments. Some of the people in your classes this year will become your professional colleagues, your collaborators,andyourlifelongfriends
As Dean, I’m committed to ensuring youhaveeveryopportunitytosucceed Our academics are passionate about teaching and genuinely invested in your development Our alumni network is generous with mentorship and guidance The resources and support structuresareinplace.Whatyoubring to this equation is your curiosity, your effort, and your willingness to engage fully with this remarkable educational opportunity.
The world needs thoughtful, principled, analytically sharp legal minds. As you begin this journey, stay curious, work hard, ask for help when you need it, and remain open to discovering where your purpose might lead you. I look forward to seeing you grow and flourishovertheyearsahead
Withwarmwishesforyoursuccess,
ProfessorLiseBarry
Dean,MacquarieLawSchool
February
July
March
April
May
June
August
September
- Imposter Syndrome In The Law Panel
Confessions’ Booth
October
TBC - Mental Health Week Movie Night
- Mental Health Day Barbeque Fundraiser
Macquarie Law 2026 Yearbook
November
What is MULS? Contact
TheMacquarieUniversityLawSociety(MULS)isastudent-ledsocietythat supportslawstudentsintheirpersonalandprofessionaldevelopment.Itis currentlythelargeststudent-runsocietyatMacquarieUniversity,andhas existedasarepresentativebodyforexactly50years!
Sign Up Here!
Website: www.muls.org
Us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Macqu arieUniversityLawSociety/ Instagram: @muls macquarie
Email: enquiries@muls.org
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company /macquarie-university-law-society/ TikTok: @mulsmacquarie
THE PORTFOLIOS
I. Administration
II. Competitions (Advocacy & Professional Skills)
III. Careers Engagement
IV. Events
V. Marketing
VI. Education
VII. Publications
VIII. Social Justice
IX. JD & Postgraduate
ADMINISTRATION ADMINISTRATION
Lee Secretary
Aditi Pal President
Sharp Treasurer
Hayden
Orion
Treasurer
Secretary
Executive Officer
Administration
Law School Terminology Law School
Course Structure Course Structure
Adoubledegreestructurewilldiffertoconsolidateoverlappingunitsand allowyoutograduatequicker Doubledegreesstillrequirecompleteionof coreunitsinbothdegrees.ForLaw,thesewillbethe16essentialunits,and the8electiveunits.However,youwillnotneedtocompleteaFlexibleZone, astheseunitswillinsteadbecountedfromyourseconddegree.
Unit Enrollment -
eStudenteStudent
eStudent > My Study tab >Manage my course > “Select” > Add to Plan.
Plan and enrol tab >Select >Add to Plan >Enrol >Confirm
Classes Classes
INTERNAL Classes INTERNAL Classes
Eachunittypicallyhasalectureandatutorialeveryweek Formostunits, attendanceattutorialsismandatory,butlecturesareoptionalasthey arerecordedanduploadedonlineonEcho
Allessentialinformationabouttheadministrationofallunitsisfoundin theUnitGuide Thisincludesinformationsuchas:
1.GeneralInformation
Thenameoftheunitconvenorandtheiremail
Abriefdescriptionoftheunit
2 DeliveryandResources
Howlecturesandtutorialsaredeliveredandwhethertheyare mandatory
Whatunittextbooksarerequired
3 UnitSchedule
Aweek-by-weekscheduleastowhichtopicswillbestudied
4 AssessmentTasks
Allinformationtodowiththecontentofassessmenttasks,their weightingandtheirduedates(subjecttochange,sokeepyoureye outontheiLearnpage)
EXTERNAL Classes
Externalstudentstypicallydoalltheiruniversitywork andcorrespondenceonline.
Insteadofearningparticipationmarksthroughinpersonattendance,thereisafocusononline participationandforumpostingasameansof gettingthesemarks
Manyexternalstudentswillalsosubmittheir assessmentsonline,andwilldoasubstituteexam online.StudentsshouldsimilarlychecktheUnitGuide andkeepuptodatewithiLearntoconfirm
Anyquestionscanbedirectlysentto yourtutorviaa“Contact convenor/tutor”taboniLearn.
First Year Law Subjects
LAWS1000: FOUNDATIONS OF LAW
Thisunitwillcovertheprerequisiteknowledgeyouwillneedfortherestof yourdegree Itwillteachyoulegalskills,suchashowtoconductlegal research,essaywriting,andAGLCstylereferencing Itwillalsoteachyou legalknowledge,suchashowthejudiciaryworksinAustralia,howthe separationofpoweroperates,andthelegaltheorythatinformshowlawis conductedinAustralia ThisunitisoftengradedinaPassorFailmanner
LAWS1100: LAW, LAWYERS AND SOCIETY
Thisunitasessentiallya101onlegalethics,willcoverthetheorybehind ethicalapproaches,andthespecificrulesgoverninglegalpractitioners inAustralia.Thisunitishighlypractical,andwillrequirestudentsto applytheseethicalrulesinawiderangeofdilemmasthatoftenarisein thepracticeoflaw.
LAWS1200:CONTRACTS
Thisunitwillcoverthelawapplicabletocontracts-alegallybindingagreement betweentwoormoreparties Contractsareoneofthemainareasthatlawyers dealwith,andtheyserveasthefoundationforcommerciallaw Thiswillbeoneof thefirstunitsthatyoudealwithhypotheticals-astapleoflawschool Thesewill consistofmadeupquestions,oftenbasedonreallifecases,thatwillrequireyou toprovidealegallyjustifiableanswerbasedonprecedentcasesstudied
LAWS1300: CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Meet your Convenors: LAWS1000 & LAWS1100 Convenors: &
“Active engagement in lectures and tutorials is key to success in this unitwe recommend attending live lectures for better engagement and question opportunities, while keeping on top of readings and participating in tutorial discussions.”
DR AMANDA HEAD
Meet your Convenors: LAWS1200 your LAWS1200
My name is Dr Abdullah Al Arif, and I am a Lecturer at Macquarie Law School I specialize in areas such as the law of the sea, international environmental law, and marine resource management. However, this semester, I am excited to teach Contracts (LAWS1200), one of the foundational units in your law degree. Contracts is a fascinating area of law that explores the agreements we make in our daily lives whether it’s buying a coffee or signing a multimillion-dollar business deal In this unit, we will examine how contracts are formed, interpreted, and enforced, and we’ll explore their significance in both personal and commercial contexts
To prepare for this course, I recommend that first-year students focus on building a strong understanding of the ILAC (Issue, Law, Application, Conclusion) method, as it is the foundation of legal problem-solving. Familiarize yourself with the prescribed textbook, complete the readings before each class, and actively engage in tutorials. It’s also important to stay organized, review lecture materials regularly, and practice applying legal principles to hypothetical scenarios. Contracts is an incredibly relatable and rewarding subject that will sharpen your analytical and critical thinking skills I look forward to seeing you in class and guiding you through this essential area of law!
“I recommend first-year students focus on building a strong understanding of the ILAC method, as it is the foundation of legal problem- solving.”
DR ABDULLAH AL-ARIF
First Year Tips First Year Tips
Diarise
Eachsemesteridentifythedue dates.Veryoftenstudents confuseassessmentdatesorjust generallytoforgetthem.
DoyourReadings
Yourtutorialsaremorebeneficialwhen youknowwhatisgoingon,andmanyof thetutorialquestionsdoneinfirstyear oftenaresimilarlywordedintheexam.
WatchyourLectures
Attendinglecturesinpersonisanexcellentwaytoaskquestionsandwritenotes inrealtime.However,youcanalsowatchrecordedlecturesonlineusingtheEcho platform(ontherightsideofyouriLearn).Youcanadjustthespeed,andalso downloadtheslidesinordertoconsolidatenotes.Howeversometimes,evenjust listeningtothelecturecanbeenoughtogetanbroadunderstanding
KnowyourCases
Agreatwaytounderstandcaseistoreadtheentirejudgement.Whileseemingly daunting,thecaselawhaslargeexplanatoryparagraphsthatprovideextensive informationaboutthefactualmatrix,parliamentaryintentionsincreating legislation,andprecedentcases Thishashelpedstudentsgainadeeper understandingofcorelegalprinciples,andalsohelpsyourememberthespecific caseswayeasierwhenyouarepresentedwithsimilarfactualscenariosinyour hypotheticals
This long road is Wally’s Walk!
Engaging with Classes
Lectures Tutorials
Tutorials allow you to apply learnt content from weekly lectures and readings A fundamental part of law school is notetaking and synthesising content to help you absorb, retain, and apply information effectively in a classroom setting While you may find methods that work best for you, here are some suggestions you may like to consider when writing your tutorial notes We like to summarise this under THREE key P’s:
PREPARE
The first step is to be prepared each tutorial with notes that summarise weekly content on iLearn. Students are best prepared when they come to class with answers to set questions that are being covered each lesson
PARTICIPATE PAYATTENTION
To improve your tutorial notes, engage in class discussion to better understand how your peers may have developed their notes differently to yours While group collaboration may seem daunting, tutorials are actually a very supportive environment where it is perfectly fine to make mistakes!
Tutorials are designed to elevate your understanding of how to apply legal knowledge to real world scenarios Writing notes on what your tutor focuses on in class will greatly benefit your revision during exam time! Using different text colours that contrast between how you would have answered the question, versus how your tutor did will allow you to find gaps in your understanding identify new insights
FAQ’s FAQ’s
Competitions
The Competitions Portfolios seeks to foster practical legal skills and healthy competition among law students. This portfolio organises competitions like mooting,clientinterviews,negotiations,andwitnessexamination.
The Competitions Portfolios are the Advocacy Portfolio and Professional Skills Portolio. Advocacy Competitions focus on trial advocacy and courtroom skills whilstProfessionalSkillsCompetitionsfocusonnon-trialadvoacayandout-ofcourt skills.
Competitions Overview
NOTE** These dates and events are tentative and subject to change. Please keep up to date with the MULS social media pages regarding any specific event dates and times.
AdvocacyCompetitionsaresimulatedcourtproceedingsdesignedtohelpstudentsdevelopandshowcasetheir skillsinlegalresearchandcourtroomprocedure.Thesecompetitionsallowparticipantstotakeontherolesof advocatesarguingcasesbeforejudges.
FOUNDATIONS OF LAW MOOT
SUBJECT-BASED MOOTS
WITNESS EXAMINATION
“My best advice for first years is to put yourself out there.”
ExecutiveOfficers (Foundations)
&JapneetGill
FrancescaMartinez ExecutiveOfficer
(Advocacy)
PhucMinhChauNguyen
ScottElliott
Professional Skills ProfessionalSkills
JUNIOR CLIENT INTERVIEW
NEGOTIATIONS
The Negotiations Competition replicates the negotiation process between parties resolving disputes outside of Court. The aim of the competition is for competitors to develop the ability to strategically reach a settlement in good faith while still negotiating a satisfactory outcome for your team.
“...give everything a go!
Alan Huang ExecutiveOfficer (ProfessionalSkills) ExecutiveOfficer (ProfessionalSkills)
AudreyChen
“...say ‘yes’ as often as you can.” “ ‘...say oyes’as ftenas youcan.”
Get Involved! Get Involved! Competitions Expo Competitions
The Competitions Expo is our annual showcase of our current and future competitions. At this event, you can gain insight into: how to prepare, the rules of the competitions and what competitors get out of it. If you are new to your law degree and are interested in competitions, this is the best way to know which one is right for you
As a competitor As a competitor
For the majority of internal competitions, you can enter into the competitions by filling in an EOI form that is posted at the beginning of the Semesters. Make sure to keep up to date with our socials in order to see the EOI form! Alternatively, you can email either Vice-Presidents as well if you have questions and/or want to sign up. For intervarsity comps, competitors are selected from the pool of EOIs.
As a judge judge
Judging is open to students who have previously been successful competing before. Although judges are usually made up of barristers, solicitors and professors, student judges are chosen on a discretionary basis to also contribute. The ability to judge a moot, a negotiation, or other any competition is incredibly beneficial and builds great skills.
As a volunteer
Acting as a witness or client for a competition is a good way to get exposed to the skills and benefits of competing. This is especially beneficial for students in their first year or those who do not wish to fully dedicate themselves to the large time commitment that competing entails.
Career Engagement
The Career Engagement Portfolio provides law students with valuable opportunities to explore and enhance their career prospects. This Portfolio organises events such as the Clerkship Fair, networking events and panel discussions. By fostering relationships with law firms, organisations and alumni, the portfolio bridges the gap between students’ studies and the professional world.ThePortfolio’saimistoequipMacquarieLawstudentswiththeinsightsand connectionstheyneedtonavigatethejobmarketwithconfidence.
Hi everyone! My name is Zoe Byrne, and I am currently studying a Bachelor of Laws / Bachelor of Security Studies.
This year, I am very excited to serve as the Vice President (Career Engagement) for the Macquarie University Law Society
In my role, I am responsible for organising all career-focused events for MULS members. Career Engagement is about connecting students with future employers, helping members understand the wide range of career paths available after law school, and making the often daunting professional journey feel more accessible and achievable.
This year, key career initiatives will include clerkship presentations and the annual Clerkship Fair, which are invaluable opportunities for students to
engage directly with firms, ask questions, and gain insight into the recruitment process. In addition, I am looking forward to delivering a diverse range of career panels, including an inhouse law panel and a family and criminal law panel, designed to showcase the breadth of legal careers and to provide honest, practical perspectives from professionals working across different areas of the law
For first year students, my biggest piece of advice is simple: get involved. Join societies, say yes to opportunities, make new friends, and don’t be afraid of a few late nights at the library University goes by far quicker than you expect Trust me, the time really does fly, and before you know it, you’ll be looking back wondering where it all went. Make the most of it while you can
Ankhita Sekhar
Career Panels
MULSwillberunninganumberofeventsthisyear,with eacheventfocusingondifferenttypesofcareeroptionsin thelegalsector.Studentswillgetanopportunitytolearn fromtheexperiencesandexpertiseoflegalprofessionals speakingattheseevents Thisisgreatforfirstyearstudents whoareunsureonwhattypeofcareertheywanttopursue
The Clerkship Fair
TheClerkshipFairisaflagshipeventofMULSandtheCareerEngagementPortfolio.Itisanexcellent opportunitytomeetandconnectwithHRrepresentativesfromlawfirmsinthelead-uptoclerkship applications. Students are provided a direct insight into the application process and given opportunitiestoaskfirmrepresentativesquestions.
WHATISA CLERKSHIP?
A clerkship(sometimesreferredtoasasummerorwinterclerkship)isastructured internshipthatlastsaround6weeks.Youareeligibletoapplytotheseinyour penultimateandgraduateyear.
WHATDOESACLERKSHIPINVOLVE?
Theclerkshipprogramisafantasticwaytogainaninsightintoday-to-day professionallegalpracticeandenablesstudentstomakeinformeddecisionsabout futureemployment Importantly,manyfirmshiretheirgraduatelawyersoutoftheir cohortofsummerclerks
WHATDOESTHECLERKSHIPFAIRENTAIL?
TheFairbeginswithanInterviewRoulettetobrushuponyourinterviewskillswiththe firm’sleadingHRrepresentatives.Itwillbefollowedbyachangetonetworkwith representativesfromthedifferentfirms,whetheritbetheheadHRrepresentatives, recentclerks,lawyersandmore
HOWDOIPREPAREMYSELFFORCLERKSHIPSASAFIRSTYEAR?
Therearemanyofwaysofsettingyourselfupforclerkshipslaterinyouruniversitycareer.Firstly, concentrateonmaximisingyourLawWAM,andespeciallymakesuretomaximiseyourmarksinLAWS 1200(Contracts) Also,makesuretogetinvolvedinasmanyextracurricularsasyoucanbalanceup withyourstudies Extracurricularsthatsetyouupwellforclerkshipsincludeinvolvementin Competitions Lookaroundforworkpositionsinlaw!
CANICOMEASAFIRSTYEAR?
Unfortunately,toensurethatpenultimateandfinalyearstudent’sgetpriority,firstyearscannot attendclerkshipfair However,youcanstilldownloadourClerkshipGuide(releasedinMay)andget yourselfpreparedforwhenyoucanattend.
Legal Terminology & Diverse Careers
KeyTerms:
Subpoena:Adocumentissuedinlegalproceedingsrequiringapersontogiveevidenceorto producedocumentstotheCourtatacertainplaceandtime
Affidavit:Awrittenstatementoffacts,confirmedbyoathoraffirmation,whichcanbeusedto supportanapplicationorcanbetenderedbyapartytoproceedingsasevidenceinCourt Affidavitsareoften"filed"intheregistry
Law Firm Position Tiers LawFirmPositionTiers
Events
The Events Portfolio is dedicated to organising a dynamic social and sports calendar for the Macquarie University Law Society. Throughout the year, this Portfolio is focused on creating opportunities for students to connect, network and build lasting friendships. Through a variety of engaging events such as First Year Law Camp, Law Cruise and Law Ball, it seeks to foster a sense of community and inclusivity.
VicePresident(Events)
Chantelle Bourne events@muls org
ExecutiveOfficer(Sport)
Maverick Anderson
As the executive officer of sport within MULS, I play a key role in promoting member wellbeing, collegiality, and professional engagement through the coordination and governance of sporting activities I am responsible for planning, managing, and delivering sporting programs, competitions, and representative teams that encourage broad participation across the legal profession My role involves overseeing logistics, and policies to ensure all sporting
As the executive officer of sport within MULS, I play a key role in promoting member wellbeing, collegiality, and professional engagement through the coordination and governance of sporting activities I am responsible for planning, managing, and delivering sporting programs, competitions, and representative teams that encourage broad participation across the legal profession
My role involves overseeing logistics, and policies to ensure all sporting initiatives are safe, inclusive, and aligned with the law society’s objectives. I co-act as a central point of contact, liaising with sporting associations, venues, sponsors, and internal committees to build strong partnerships and maximise opportunities for members I also contribute to strategic planning by using sport as a platform to support mental health, work-life balance, and networking within the profession Through fostering teamwork, leadership, and community spirit, I aim to strengthen professional connections and cultivate a positive, supportive culture within the law society
My advice would be to engage with as many events and activities as possible in order to maximise not only how much fun you have throughout uni, but also how you network. Engaging in activities run by the law society is an awesome way to make friends and kickstart your degree at Macquarie
ExecutiveOfficers (Socials)
Kaitlyn Meares & Nihara Delungahawatte
Hi everyone! I’m Kaitlyn and I’m currently in my fourth year studying a Bachelor of Laws/Criminology. My role as one of the exec’s for social events allows me to help organise events for MULS members so they can have some fun outside of classes. From brainstorming themes to finding DJ’s and venues that people will enjoy, my job is to make sure that everyone gets to enjoy their time at uni!
We have so many fun events planned for 2026. One event that is a MUST for your first year of uni is First Year Law Camp! It's a great chance to make friends PLUS we have tons of activities and some UNMISSABLE parties planned that you will want to be at.
My best advice for first years is to not put too much pressure on yourself. You have to be reasonable, manage your expectations, and not push yourself too far. Something I have found has helped me is having hobbies that allow me to use my brain and body differently to studying. Not only is it a great way to make sure I can prioritise my me-time, but it allows me to take a step back from uni and out of the crazy headspace that studying law can put you in!
Welcome to MULS! Hi everyone, my name is Nihara Delungahawatte and I am currently in my second year of a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Medical Science (Neuroscience). I serve as one of the Social Executive Officers under the Events portfolio, where I am responsible for making sure all of you have exciting events to look forward to throughout the year, creating opportunities to build lifelong friendships and lasting memories. From the iconic First-Year Law Camp to some semester drinks, a night cruise like no other, and finally wrapping up the year with our Law ball, I can’t wait to meet all of you at our Events!
Having recently been a first-year law student myself, I understand the mix of nerves and excitement you might be feeling. My advice to you is simple:
1. Take risks and put yourself in uncomfortable situations, including going to events alone (there is always someone else in the same position).
2. Make the most of every opportunity and don’t be afraid to say yes.
3. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy!
Marketing
TheMarketingPortfoliocreatesonlinecontentandmerchandisedesignedtopromote MULS’events,programs,andoverallpresencewithintheuniversity.Theirgoalistoensure thatallmembers currentandprospective areinformedandengagedthroughouttheir universityjourney.
Vice-President(Marketing)
Marketing
Education Education
TheEducationPortfolio’sfunctionistosupporttheholisticeducationofeachof ourmembers.Whetherthisbethroughacademicorwellbeingsupport,this Portfolioisyourgo-toforenhancingyouruniversityexperience.
Education Education
Aaron Keetels
Meet your First Year Reps Meetyour FirstYearReps
Alisha Geraghty B Laws/ B Psychology (Hons) FIRST YEAR REPRESENTATIVE
My name is Alisha Geraghty, and I am a fifth-year Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) student at Macquarie University.
I made the most of my first year by stepping out of my comfort zone and saying yes to as many opportunities as possible. I attended events, introduced myself to new people, and got involved early, even when it felt intimidating Engaging with MULS activities helped me build friendships, feel connected to the law community, and gain confidence navigating university life My goal for first-year students is to help them feel supported, welcomed, and confident from the very beginning of their degree I hope to contribute to initiatives that foster genuine connection, reduce the anxiety that often comes with starting law, and ensure students know where to go for academic and social support I want first-years to feel that MULS is approachable, inclusive, and is there for them throughout their transition into university
My best advice is to try to talk to at least one new person in every class. Everyone is just as new and nervous as you are. Arriving early, chatting outside the classroom, or starting a conversation at your table can make a huge difference. Having friends in class makes university less daunting - you have people to ask questions, share notes with, and navigate first year alongside.
Ishani Kumar B Laws
FIRST YEAR REPRESENTATIVE INTRODUCTION
Our Podcast OurPodcast
The Justified podcast by the Macquarie University Law Society (MULS) is an educational series featuring interviews with legal professionals, focusing on career insights, industry experiences, and advice for law students.
Episodes are available on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
Don’t forget to listen to our Podcast!
The PublicationsPortfoliooverseesthecreationandmanagementoftheGuidesand Briefthroughouttheuniversityyear.Theseinformativepublicationsinstructandnurture lawstudentsthroughouttheirtimeatMacquarieLawSchoolbyguidingthemthrough aspects of Law School that may seem confusing and daunting. In addition, these Publicationsalsoprovideanavenueforstudentstoworkandpublishcreativepursuits
Our Editors OurEditors
I’m Krishi Patel, and I am currently in my 2nd year of Bachelor of Laws. I am also the Editor-in-Chief for MULS’ flagship publication, The Brief for the year 2026. At The Brief, we strive to be the force that nudges law aficionados and unlike-like minded individuals to share their voices. Not just to be heard, but to spark discussions
There will be 3 print editions of The Brief in 2026, along with year-round continuous publications in The Brief Online The themes of all 3 editions will centre on questioning the gap between legal input and justice output, understanding the subjectivity within the field of law through the discussion of ‘unjust’ laws, and, lastly, measuring the extent to which the law lets go or holds tight.
I will be recruiting and aiding students to deliver the truest message through their writing. For me, what matters most is having something substantial to say. Many times, it so happens that we rant on about something we can’t bring ourselves to care about, because we’ve committed to the bit or the topic So a big request to all my writers and to all the first-years - speak about something that sets your soul on fire; don’t be afraid to send me an email 2 days before your deadline saying that you have a new idea that you really want to try out, because if we can make it work, we will It surely is the inception of a new year for us, and for The Brief, and I’m not a soothsayer, but I dare say that I see a bright and chaotic year ahead of us.
Krishi Patel
Oliver Bunting
ExecutiveOfficer (TheBriefEditor-in-Chief)
ExecutiveOfficer (Editor)
The Brief TheBrief
The Brief is our tri-annual publication where students, academics and professionals alike discuss topical legal issues. This year is our 51st edition of The Brief and will include interviews with Judges,pastalumniandacademics.Sign uptogetinvolved!
WRITE FOR THE BRIEF WRITE FOR THE BRIEF
While our Brief Edition 1 for 2026 is already in the works, join theBriefSubcommittee2026grouponFacebook,ordirectly contact publications@muls.org and/or thebrief@muls.org inordertogetinvolvedforfutureissues!
Social Justice
The Social Justice Portfolio is dedicated to promoting and platforming equality, humanrights,andsocialresponsibilitywithininlawschoolcohortsandthebroader legal community. It is responsible for coordinating social justice initiatives that provide opportunities for Macquarie law students to engage with legal issues that haveasocialjusticefocus.
Rayanne Sabra socialjustice@muls.org Vice-President
SJ Spotlight
Social Justice
Equity Scheme
TEXTBOOK AND TICKET EQUITY SCHEMES
TEXTBOOK AND TICKET EQUITY SCHEMES
The textbook and ticket equity schemes seek to support students facing potential barriers, by providing access to to textbooks and subsidised event tickets. These initiatives aim to promote equity, inclusion and community participation, by ensuring all students can fully engage in their studies and extra curricular regardless of circumstance.
TheJurisDoctorandPostgraduatePortfolio’sfunctionistosupportpostgraduatelaw studentsintheiracademicandprofessionaljourneys Throughouttheyear,thisPortfolio willarrangenetworkingevents,careerdevelopmentPanels,andsocialeventsdesignedto elevateyouruniversityexperience.
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The IT Service Desk provides all technological help for Macquarie University students. You can contact them:
Online at: https://mq.servicenow.com/onehelp public/
By phone on (02) 9850 4357
By email at onehelp@mq.edu.au to log a ticket
In-person at 17 Wally’s Walk, Ground Floor
Service Connect is your first point of contact for any enquiries you have relating to your time at Macquarie. They will provide you with advice and information about any aspect of your university life or refer you to the appropriate service You can contact Service Connect:
Online at AskMQ: https://ask.mq.edu.au
By phone on (02) 9850 6410
In-person at 18 Wally’s Walk, Level 2 MUSE
PAL (Peer Assisted Learning) is an academic support program available to all students in selected units. Sessions are usually run for an hour, once a week. They are peer-facilitated and studentled For more information, check out PAL on the Macquarie University website.
[https://students.mq.edu.au/support/st udy/peer-assisted-learning]
StudentWellbeing
The various Student Wellbeing services at Macquarie are here to support you during your university experience. They offer:
1.Online mental wellbeing support
2 Counselling and mental health support
3.Accessibility and disability support
4 Safety advice (including support regarding sexual assault, sexual harassment and relationship abuse)
5.Financial concerns, legal issues, work problems, and relationships
They are located at in-person at Level 5, 12SW Western Rd and on phone at 9850 7497 or email wellbeing@mq.edu.au.
If you are in an emergency situation or need immediate assistance, contact mental health services or emergency services on 000. If you need to speak to someone urgently, call Lifeline 13 11 14.
