Editors Rosalia Bautista, Education (Publications) Director Zachary Boswell, Education (Publications) Director Designed by Ashley Bokser Special Thanks Alec Ramsbottom, UTS LSS President Ryan Little, UTS LSS Vice-President (Education) Law School Manual (LSM) is published in Sydney annually by the UTS Law Students’ Society. 61 Broadway, Ultimo NSW 2007 UTS Central, Level 14, Room 104 Ph (02) 9514 3448 Fax (02) 9514 3427 www.utslss.com Where unspecified, all photos and images have been contributed by the UTS Law Students’ Society. © 2024 UTS Law Students’ Society This publication is copyright. Except where permitted under the Copyright Act, no part of this publication may form or by any means (electronic or otherwise) be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted by any process without specific written consent of the UTS Law Students’ Society. Enquiries are to be addressed to the publishers. Disclaimer All expressions of opinion published in the LSM are not the official opinion of the UTS Law Students’ Society unless expressly stated. The UTS Law Students’ Society accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of any opinions or information contained herein and readers should rely on their own enquiries to make decisions in their own interest.
Acknowledgement of People and Country The UTS Law Students’ Society acknowledges the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation,
the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the
Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.
Dean’s Address
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President’s Address
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Socials at UT S Law
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What’s on in 2024
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Student Wellbeing
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Sports at UTS Law
13 15 18 20
Written by Professor Anita Stuhmcke Dean. Faculty of Law
A warm welcome to the Faculty of Law at UTS. Congratulations on being offered a place at the UTS Law Faculty, we are delighted to welcome you. I am sure 2024 will be a rewarding year for you and the start of a life-long connection with the Law Faculty.
The UTS campus is on the unceded land of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We are proud of the quality of our legal education, the impact of our research and the influence our students and academic and professional staff have on our local, national and global community through our commitment to social justice. UTS Law has the highest graduate satisfaction of any law school in NSW and the highest graduate employment overall and our Faculty is known for our articulate, practice ready and friendly graduates. I encourage you to become involved with the activities offered by the Law Students’ Society, the Law Faculty and the University. The activities on offer outside the formal classroom are equally important for your understanding of law, the development of your future career and importantly, learning how to balance your ‘work’ and your ‘non-work’ activities. These include social activities, skills based activities, sporting events and the list goes on. Exploring how to balance personal and professional needs will remain critical for wellbeing throughout life. So please don’t be hesitant – get involved early and explore and take up opportunities as they arise. 3
I have always treasured the opportunity to work with the students of the Faculty. As Dean of the Faculty of Law I am responsible for the day-to-day running of the Faculty and its future direction. It is a pleasure to be in my role as I am constantly in awe of student enthusiasm, energy and commitment. As Dean, I will find ways to connect with you through activities such as the Brennan Justice and Leadership Program. I look forward to meeting you throughout this year and over the course of your studies. Thank you for joining us in our pursuit of social justice, and I encourage you to make the most out of studying at UTS Law in 2024.
Congratulations on beginning your time at UTS Law! With your incredible adventure at UTS just about to begin, it may seem daunting to think about all the things that need to be done. You’ll have the chance to sign up to so many different opportunities, experiences, and communities, and all of this can be very overwhelming.
UTS LSS President 2024
However, that is where the UTS Law Students’ Society comes in; as the largest student-run organisation at the university with over 1100 members in 2023, the LSS is your one stop for all your essential needs as a student. With over 100 events throughout the year, there are plenty of avenues for you to join us and meet hundreds of like-minded individuals. Whether your focus is on social events, competitions, mentoring and wellbeing, career prospects, social justice, or all of the above, the LSS is the best place to become part of a larger community.
There are so many ways to get involved and stay engaged amongst the hustle of our young-adult lives in the modern world. There are many opportunities such as joining a subcommittee, becoming a councillor, competing in our mooting and skills competitions, signing up to the Buddy Project, or attending our incredible Ball, Cruise, and First Year Camp. The LSS office sits on Level 14 of Building 2, and with our society’s open door policy, it’s more than likely someone will always be around to point you in the right direction or just help you out in general.
As the President for 2024, I aim to create a space for all regardless of who you know, and where you come from, and give everyone the chance to have their say and make their mark.
Your first step from here can be following the QR Code on the back cover of this publication to become an LSS member, and the best part is, it’s free to join for all UTS Law students! You will then be granted access to discounted event tickets, exclusive opportunities, and many more membership perks. Also, take a moment to follow us on social media so you never miss a ticket release, merch drop, competition sign-up, and much more!
Going into my third year of uni in 2024, I now fully understand the importance of ‘finding your people’ in a new place, and I believe that the vast array of our LSS events will allow you to naturally find not only a new crowd, but lifelong friends and strong relationships that move beyond the static and “awkward” connections you may make in your lectures or seminars. The LSS has allowed me to meet not only industry professionals, seasoned academics and fantastic mentors, but also genuine, close friends I can have a great time with outside of uni.
Written by Alec Ramsbottom
With that being said, please take the time to read through this manual - this is the best way to get a grasp of the opportunities available to you in your first year. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out on Facebook or send an email to president@utslss. com - I’m always available for a chat. Best of luck as you navigate through your first year, and I look forward to hopefully meeting you all soon around campus and at our upcoming events! 4
Your time at university is about so much more than attending tutorials, completing your readings, and sitting your exams. These aspects are all important, but the memories and connections you will make outside the classroom are equally as important. Here at the UTS LSS we believe in the value of creating a healthy balance between the academic and social side of university, and you will soon discover just how close the UTS Law community is!
Written by Ruby Stewart Vice-President (Activities)
Welcome to the Socials portfolio! We are responsible for
filling up your calendars with a host of exciting events that will have you dancing all night long and making those
memories that will be recounted well after graduation.
Studying law can be challenging at times, but it is the friends that you will make within UTS Law that will change it from being a daunting individual experience, to a collective
journey. Coming to our events guarantees you the chance to meet those friends that will be by your side throughout your degree and beyond.
But most of all, you can expect events catered to everyone. Our primary goal is to provide the events that help you
to make friends, and you do not need to fit into any mold to do so. We do offer you the chance to party, but it is
What do we offer?
not a requirement to engage in our events. 2023 saw the
introduction of Sober Officers at all our large social events,
2023 was an exceptional year for the socials portfolio, with all
which is something we will be continuing in 2024. 2023 also
2023 included:
which is a great sober alternative to our typical start of
events reaching record highs in ticket sales! The events ran in
· Law Ball · Law Cruise · First Year Law Camp · First Year Law Drinks
· Start of Autumn Session Party · Start of Spring Session Barbeque · Pub Golf · Karaoke Night
saw the introduction of our Start of Spring Session Barbeque semester parties, so keep an eye out for that event in 2024!
The Socials portfolio always secures some of Sydney’s
most-loved venues for our events. From Bungalow 8 and
Scary Canary to Sydney Harbour and the Star Casino, our events will be the highlight of your time at university. We
also hire professional DJ’s and photographers to elevate the experience and make nights with us absolutely unmissable.
What to expect in 2024?
2024 will see the return of our most-loved social events
with the goal of making them even bigger and better. We will have venues we’ve never seen before, offering something exciting for both our new and current members. Further,
some of our events will look a bit different this year, as we
look to bring in more interfaculty collaborations so that you have the chance to meet people studying other degrees across UTS.
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Where to find information about our events?
Our social events are ticketed and always sell out very fast. We offer multiple ticket releases per event, but you can
anticipate each release to sell out within a matter of minutes. To keep up to date with all our events and ticket releases,
make sure to follow our Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok.
If social media isn’t for you, you can check out the UTS LSS Website and find all Socials information on the 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
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First Year Law Drinks & Start of Semester Party When? 21st March
If you can’t attend First Year Law Camp, First Year Law drinks
is an equally great way to meet people. Come and celebrate
First Year Law Camp When? 8-10th of March
This is NOT a study camp! First year law camp has nothing to do with law, and everything to do with sailing off to a private island for a weekend filled with making friends within your first-year cohort.
surviving the start to your law degree and enjoy a generous bar tab with us. This is the only other event exclusive to first year events that the socials portfolio offers after camp, so don’t miss out on the chance to mingle with your cohort!
The fun doesn’t end there - join us for our start of semester
party afterwards where you can kickstart the dancefloor and meet people from other cohorts as well.
This is a 3-day weekend away with nightly parties and
hours of relaxing with friends on a private beach. We highly recommend this event for all first years looking to meet
people and relax before the assessments for the semester start to pile up.
Start of Spring Semester Barbeque When? August… Stay tuned.
Kickstart our Spring session with a BBQ on alumni green,
Law Cruise
the perfect way to relax back into the semester. We’ll have
the music blasting, and food options to cater to any dietary
When? 19th April
requirements, so join us between your classes to reignite
Set sail with us and dance the night away on a luxury yacht
break.
through Sydney Harbour. This is one of the best nights on the UTS LSS Calendar and not one you want to miss. Your
ticket will secure you a 3-hour unlimited bar tab and food, a
professional DJ playing the entirety of the cruise and access to our exclusive afterparty. Tickets will sell out quickly so
keep your eyes peeled on our social media or website for all the information to secure yours. More information is coming soon!
some friendships and tell us all about your travels over the
Law Ball
When? 21st September Law Ball is the peak event of the UTS LSS Calendar. It is an
absolute must-attend for all Law Students, with a decadent 3-course meal and free-flowing champagne at one of
Sydney’s most luxurious venues. Our 2023 Law Ball held at
the Star Casino was a smashing success and we can’t wait to
Pub Golf
When? August… Stay tuned. Looking for a night out at some of Sydney’s most famous
pubs, complete with free drinks, hours of dancing and some friendly competition? Look no further! Pop your textbooks away, pick up a visor and some clubs and swing your way through the CBD with us at our annual pub crawl!
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share with you our 2024 date and venue very soon. Keep an eye on our social media and website updates for our ticket sales and we can’t wait to dance the night away with you.
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W
He l o T e r e H e ’ re
p!
Written by Ryan Little Vice-President (Education)
Starting law school is an amazing but challenging experience. Between studying, making new friends and starting a career, it is the beginning of an exciting chapter in your life. However, it can also be quite a challenge. That’s why the Education Team is here to help! Our goal is to help you reach your full potential as a student through our Academic Support programs, including the Peer Mentoring Program and the Subject Tutoring Database, which help students handle difficult course content. We also aim to encourage learning about the law beyond the classroom through our Non-Academic Support initiatives, such as the Buddy Project and its Launch Event and Sip and Sing events, the Speaker Series panels and The Full Bench student academic journal, while also providing some entertainment and supporting student wellbeing in the form of the Smile Project events, the Equity x Wellbeing Panel and The Bar Podcast.
Academic Support Peer Mentoring The Peer Mentoring Program is an absolute game-changer for your study. Led by some of the LSS’ brightest students, you will receive tips and tricks, as well as invaluable
insights in recorded workshops released in the lead up
to assessments for first-year subjects. Peer Mentoring is delivered online via the official Facebook page
@LSSPeerMentoring, so you can view the workshops whenever you want!
The program is a great way to ease any anxieties or
uncertainties that may arise when commencing your studies. Whether you missed a concept in class, are struggling
with legal skills, or simply want to perfect your craft, Peer Mentoring is valuable for every student.
Subject Tutoring Do you want to get ahead in your studies? The LSS facilitates a Subject Tutoring Database of high-performing students willing to share their skills as private tutors, which can
be found on the LSS website. Signing up is as simple as
contacting a tutor and organising a time, price and meeting arrangement.
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Non-Academic Support Buddy Project The Buddy Project pairs first-year students (Junior Buddies)
Speaker Series
interests and goals. It is one of the most fun and impactful
Speaker Series is an exciting series of interactive seminars
‘Buddy Events’, opportunities for buddies to bond in
to lead the dialogue and facilitate the discussion in a Q&A
with older students (Senior Buddies) based on mutual
programs the LSS offers. The program also involves several
which explore topical legal issues. We invite esteemed guests
individual and group settings.
format. After the panel, there will be plenty of opportunities
Your buddy can be anything from a study buddy, coffee mate or best friend! The program is what you make of it. Sign up NOW to the Buddy Project using the QR Code!
to socialise and enjoy a beverage and some snacks too!
Publications The Education Portfolio is also responsible for publications
like The Full Bench, a law journal composed of articles written by students on compelling legal issues. The Full Bench
is a fantastic way to see your writing published in a well respected and professionally designed publication.
Subcommittees The Education Portfolio is responsible for two LSS
subcommittees. The first of those is the Education
Publications Subcommittee, which works on the Full
Bench and the Bar Podcast. The second is the Wellbeing
Smile Project Smile Project is a semesterly run event that aims to alleviate some of the stress that builds up during the semester and promote an inclusive and open dialogue around mental
Subcommittee, which assists with the Smile Project and other wellbeing initiatives. Joining a subcommittee is a fantastic
way to get involved in the LSS early on, develop key skills and build connections, so be sure to scan the QR code for more details:
health. It is an opportunity to enjoy a picnic style gathering
with friends, involving a BBQ lunch, therapy dogs and goodie bags filled with exciting items.
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On behalf of the Education portfolio and the LSS, we are excited to introduce you to The Bar Podcast for 2024!
Written by Rosalia Bautista and Zachary Boswell Education (Publications) Directors
About the podcast
Looking for a new podcast? The Bar Podcast is a student run podcast hosted by fellow law students and is the perfect way to enjoy some light hearted entertainment while
gaining insights into your law degree. Our hosts discuss
student life, recent events, legal news and from time to time,
interview special guests. From ‘Confessions with the Dean’ to interviews with legal industry professionals, The Bar Podcast will have something for you!
This year, we are happy to announce Season 5 of The Bar
Podcast! This season will feature some exciting changes and will be hosted by 3-4 students, with episodes to be released
Li s te n N o w
!
on a fortnightly basis. All episodes are released on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, so be sure to give it a listen!
Where to find us
Give our instagram, @thebar_productions a follow! It is our main port of call when it comes to updates, social media polls and episode release dates. Feel free to reach out if there are any topics you would like to hear about!
Join the Education Publications Subcommittee If you would like to be involved in The Bar Podcast, stay
tuned for applications to join the Education Publications Subcommittee on the UTS LSS instagram. This is a great
opportunity to make new friends, accrue LTS hours for the Brennan Program, introduce yourself to the LSS and take
a break from tedious law assignments by channeling your creative spirit.
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Written by Anna Lucas Wellbeing Director
A focus on wellbeing is always important, especially when entering University. While your first year is very exciting, it can also be daunting at times. This is why, more than ever, the UTS LSS is placing the utmost importance on Wellbeing.
The LSS also wishes to acknowledge the complexity of
In 2024, the LSS aims to create a safe space for every
open to supporting each other in overcoming adversity. One
individual to feel seen, heard and appreciated. We are
committed to ensuring that every first year student feels at ease in their new and often challenging first year of
university. There are a range of innovative and accessible
events and activities throughout the year to create discussion
mental health issues and their prevalence among law
students. Our primary goal is to foster an environment where our members feel supported by one another. We aim to
create a culture where students feel empowered to speak about the challenges surrounding mental health and are
easy way you can involve yourself in Wellbeing initiatives
is by joining the Wellbeing Subcommittee for 2024 where
students help to plan and organise wellbeing events for law students.
and meet the wellbeing needs of every student. These events will be delivered in a hybrid of in person and online events
for the comfort of every student. Our main initiatives include our semesterly Smile Project, where you’ll find a plethora of
resources to support your wellbeing before exams, and other events such as R U OK Day to name a few. In 2024, we’ll also be expanding our engagement on digital platforms to direct students to various wellbeing resources.
UTS offers counselling services, sexual harassment support services, and more. If there ever comes a time where you
have questions, experience a change in your wellbeing or simply need someone to talk to, please feel free to reach
out to myself or a member of the UTS LSS. If you would like to be connected to any services or ask any questions, I can
be contacted via email at wellbeing@utslss.com. Also, our office is located on Level 14 of Building 2 and our council
members care and want the best for you throughout your law
school journey. Managing wellbeing is crucial to your success in your degree and the LSS is here to help!
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Written by Sports Director
Looking to take a break from the classroom and have fun while meeting and making new friends? The UTS LSS Sports Program is the perfect opportunity for this! It is a great way to get involved in student life at university. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just looking to have fun, come and give it a go!
Social Sport
Kickstart
people while also staying active! All skill levels are welcome,
great deal on health and fitness, the Kickstart program
Harrison O’Brien
Social sport is an excellent way to have fun and meet new so grab a few mates and get involved. Social sport is run weekly across both semesters at UTS. The LSS offers the
opportunity to play either netball, basketball, and futsal, with
all competitions being mixed. There is something on offer for everyone and there is no limit on how many teams you can play for!
Whether you’re a serious gym-goer or just looking for a is an excellent opportunity. Challenge yourself with this
small group exercise program led by some of the qualified personal trainers available at UTS, whilst also getting to
access the Elite Athlete and Performance Gym on campus. The program is run once a week for ten weeks, and is a
fantastic opportunity to improve your physical and mental
wellbeing, as well as have fun. Limited spots are available, so register as soon as possible!
City2Surf
Grab your best pair of running shoes and get ready to take
on a challenge! City2Surf is one of Sydney’s most iconic fun-
runs, so whether you’re going for gold or running for fun, join the UTS LSS team to be a part of an awesome day ending with some post-race celebrations!
Intervarsity Sports Day
Want to compete for Law School bragging rights? Here’s your chance to represent the UTS LSS at the annual
Intervarsity Sports Day! Represent the LSS in friendly sports competitions against other law schools. This is also a great way to make new friends across different year groups and universities.
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Bubble Soccer
Enjoy some hilarious fun with your mates as you suit up in a
bubble and run amok at Wentworth Park. This event is a great way to blow off some steam during the busy university year!
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Written by Blake Sanchez-Cruz and Anastasia Zimonopoulos Vice-Presidents (Competitions)
The types of competitions Competitions allow law students to engage in practical applications of their academic studies through real-life problem scenarios. Participating in competitions adds invaluable experience to your CV, and provides networking opportunities with other students, faculty members and external advocates.
Why you should get involved The competitions offered by the UTS LSS provide law
students with an opportunity to take the content they learn in class, and apply it to real-world hypothetical situations.
Mooting and Skills Competitions are also highly respected by prospective employers as a result of the skills developed.
Mooting Mooting is a simulated courtroom experience where students argue hypothetical legal cases, honing their advocacy
and analytical skills. Mooters research and prepare written arguments before presenting their oral submissions to a
panel of judges, simulating real legal proceedings. Mooting enhances students’ understanding of legal principles,
improves their oral advocacy, and provides practical insights into the intricacies of legal practice.
Negotiations Negotiation provides students with an opportunity to master important alternative dispute resolution skills. Teams are
provided with hypothetical common and secret facts which they must utilise to come to a mutually beneficial outcome
which balances their client’s objectives with the other parties interests.
Client Interview Competitors conduct a 30-minute interview with a
hypothetical client that addresses a unique legal issue. They are required to extract all relevant facts through carefully posed questions, raise ethical dilemmas, and provide preliminary legal and non-legal advice.
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Witness-Examination
Junior mooting runs during the Spring Session, where new
Witness Examination is an individual competition where
Moot or the Junior Criminal Law Moot. The Junior
students develop their advocacy skills by examining and
cross-examining witnesses. Competitors work to construct a convincing case while simultaneously discrediting their opposing counsel’s case.
Written Skills Students also have the opportunity to compete in various written skills competitions, including Advice Writing,
Paper Presentation and Affidavit Drafting. These practical
competitions provide students with invaluable legal skills heavily relied on in legal practice.
law students can participate in the Junior Championship Championship Moot takes place over the entire Spring Session on Mondays and involves a contract or tort law problem question. The Junior Criminal Law Moot runs
over a weekend and provides new law students with the opportunity to obtain and develop their advocacy skills. The Junior Gauntlet Competition is an incredible
opportunity for first-year law students to kickstart their
involvement in UTS LSS Competitions. This competition is run over a weekend and includes workshops on how to compete in client interview, negotiation, witness examination, and
mooting. The competition also provides students with the
opportunity to put these new skills into practice and receive feedback from judges.
Where can information on Comps be found? Join the UTS LSS Competition Forum and the UTS LSS Facebook page for all the latest competition updates!
When can new law students can compete? The UTS LSS runs the Junior Skills Competitions for first time
competitors of Client Interview, Negotiations and WitnessExamination in the Spring Session for first and second-year students. However, new law students can get involved as a
volunteer client in Client Interview or a volunteer witness in Witness Examination during the Autumn Session. This is a
great opportunity to develop valuable skills from watching experienced competitors! Volunteering can also help in
working towards other initiatives, including the Brennan Program and the UTS SOUL Awards.
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Competitions: Testimonials M e li s s a D
ib
t interview, negotiations “Competing in junior clien the most rewarding and mooting was one of mmend them enough. reco ot cann experiences and I developed my confidence The mentorship I received cy and client and lawyer oca adv , in legal research the door to competing interactions, which opened ice? Just do it - you’ll adv My ls. at representative leve people and have so much surprise yourself, meet new fun!”
Xi a n d e
“Reflecting on my participation in the two junior mo that they significa ots, I recognise ntly enhanced my advocacy and leg skills. Serving as al research a pivotal aspect of a law student’ only offer a splen s life, moots not did opportunity to hone debatin push students be g skills but also yond their limits . Therefore, I wh recommend tha oleheartedly t all law students engage in this en The most valuable riching experienc piece of advice e. I can offer is to est effective team be ablish an fore embarking on the journey.”
most en one of the petition has be m Co e to g m tin g in oo ow The Junior M experience, all my university research of y m rts d pa ne le ho ab valu e. Competing er to ry into practic at carried ov put legal theo something th , ills sk n tio edback ica fe un ek m se m to co s and e competitor es. I encourag ge! help my studi e the challen ac br em d an
Li be rt y Ja co b
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Xu
Written by Eliza Lo Russo Vice-President (Social Justice)
The UTS Law Student’s Society’s Social Justice portfolio is one of the most dynamic and serves as a catalyst for positive change by offering students unique opportunities to apply legal principles in the pursuit of social justice. By creating a space for open and informed discourse, students are encouraged to challenge preconceptions, broaden their perspectives, and contribute meaningfully to the ongoing conversations surrounding social justice. Through a diverse range of initiatives, I’ve witnessed how involvement with the Social Justice portfolio equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to become proactive agents of change. Workshops, seminars, and guest lectures from prominent legal professionals and activists provide valuable insights into the complexities of social justice, fostering a deeper understanding of the role law plays in addressing systemic inequalities.
What can you expect to see in 2024? I am so excited to bring an exciting year of Social Justice
events to the UTS calendar in 2024, as well as building upon previous events.
Conferences The Social Justice Conference is a highlight of the
Spring Semester. Panellists and Keynote speakers from legal, political and social justice backgrounds address
contemporary issues, with discussions driven by student engagement.
In addition, we have had great success with the 2023
Intervarsity Women in Law Conference focusing on gender bias in techlaw and the Equity x Wellbeing panel, which emphasises the importance of finding a balance and
reflecting on your own personal wellbeing and mental health, especially as a law student. Industry professionals discuss the challenges pertinent to our student community and beyond.
Who are we? The Social Justice portfolio is one of the biggest in
the LSS, encompassing Equity, the invaluable Brennan Program, and representative directorships for women,
First Nations, LGBTQIA+ and disabled communities. We
highly recommend you get involved with the abundance
of initiatives in the Social Justice calendar below, and if you
would like to get in touch or make your own suggestions, you can contact Eliza Lo Russo, Vice-President (Social Justice) at vpsj@utslss.com at any time.
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Justice Action Committee The Justice Action Committee (JAC) applications open in February/March 2024. Don’t miss this opportunity!
This official UTS LSS subcommittee meets monthly and is
Subsidies and Equity Schemes
our new Representative positions in the organisation and
There are a number of equity schemes run by the UTS LSS to
JAC also runs their own initiative, Social Justice Awareness
Equity Scheme loans textbooks to students upon proof of
meet like-minded students.
offers support to students in obtaining resources. This year,
dedicated to assisting the Brennan and Equity Directors and execution of all the initiatives that fall within the portfolio. The
assist students experiencing financial difficulty. The Textbook
Week. It is an awesome way to get involved in the LSS and
financial hardship, and the University Essentials Scheme
Brennan Justice and Leadership Program The Brennan Justice and Leadership Program is a joint
initiative between the UTS LSS and the UTS Faculty of Law,
honouring the central role of social justice at UTS Law. This
we are offering students the opportunity to donate their
relevant textbooks to the Textbook Equity Scheme. Equity
Subsidies are offered to eligible students for First Year Law Camp, Law Cruise and Law Ball. Applications for these
initiatives are shared via UTS LSS social media channels throughout the year!
award can be achieved through Leadership through Service
Women’s Collective
attained through student volunteering, and deep reflection
Winning a 2023 National Award from ALSA, the Women’s
(LTS) Hours, and Reflections on Justice (ROJ) Points and are on wide-reaching areas of justice.
The program offers initiatives to gain LTS and ROJ such
as Justice Talks, Discussion Groups, RASA Week, and the Westmead Arts and Crafts Drive. In 2024, there may be
new introductions like Brennanite of the Month to highlight outstanding student engagement with the program, and a continuation of last year’s highlight event, the Public Speaking Society x Brennan Program Public Speaking
Collective is a great success story of leveraging our
passionate student body to give back to our community through charity events like the Walk for WAGEC (raising
over $5.5k for the Women and Girls Emergency Centre) and sharing resources and opportunities for women in UTS Law to get the most out of their time during their degree and
beyond. If you identify as female or gender-diverse, you are
more than welcome to join our Facebook Community Group.
Competition. Students who take out the award will have this
Equity & Diversity Suggestion Box
only one of its kind across all Australian law schools, and
In 2024, you will see the introduction of an anonymous
recognised on their AHEG Statement. The program is the shows UTS Law’s commitment to social justice.
digital suggestion box to the UTS LSS website, allowing
students for the first time to share ideas and suggestions as well as concerns or constructive feedback with the LSS that
can be actioned and/or shared with the wider faculty where appropriate. We are committed to elevating student voices
more than ever, and will be focused this tenure on not losing sight of that goal.
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Hi - my name is Eloise Cansdell and I am the Womens Representative to the LSS! I am
dedicated to connecting with, encouraging and being a friend to all female-identifying law students at UTS. Through the incredible and highly useful resources here at UTS, I strive to remind you that you are a valuable contributor to the student community and can achieve anything you put your mind to.
We have some exciting events and programs planned that I encourage everyone to
participate in. The Womens Mentoring Program (WMP) pairs female-identifying law
students with inspirational female mentors from the legal profession to foster meaningful
ell Eloise Cansd - Womens
relationships between women at different stages of their career. This is the perfect opportunity to get involved and ask questions to industry professionals.
Also, make sure you join the Women’s Collective run on facebook where we post valuable weekly insights and updates on events! Throughout the semester you should keep an eye
out for exciting opportunities to get involved with initiatives such as charity drives, fundraisers and team events.
Don’t be a stranger! If you would like to get in touch, please contact me via my email women@utslss.com.
Hello and Kia ora! My name is Huw Wiremu Watson and I am the First Nations Representative to the LSS for 2024. To all students joining UTS Law in 2024, a sincere congratulations and a warm welcome!
I would also like to welcome you in the language of the Gadigal people, whom the LSS acknowledge as the
traditional custodians of the Eora Nation on which our
campus stands. So to you all, I would like to say - bujari gamarruwa.
A bit about myself: I am proud to be Māori of the tribes
Ngāti Tūwharetoa and Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi and I have a great passion for First Nations justice. In my spare time I enjoy playing and watching footy, listening to music and playing piano.
In the 2024 Autumn session, I will be establishing a First
Nations Law Student Collective on Facebook. The purpose of this group is to foster a culturally inclusive and all-round friendly environment for all UTS law students who identify as First Nations - including, but of course not limited to,
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, Māori and Pasifika. By joining, you can contribute to an array of strategic cultural
initiatives both internally at UTS, and externally with industry
partners and organisations. Moreover, this group will act as a social hub for First Nations law students to mingle and it will also provide academic, cultural and well-being support.
As a student advocate, I am here to support and represent you. As such, please do not hesitate to contact me at any
time with all queries, questions or concerns at firstnations@ utslss.com OR feel free to message me on my social media to chat!
As First Nations Representative, my goal is to connect
and support all First Nations law students throughout the
duration of their degree. I am dedicated to bolstering the
involvement of First Nations law students within the array of
exciting initiatives that have been planned for the year ahead. Furthermore, I am here to ensure the availability of academic, cultural and/or well-being resources that may assist each and every one of you throughout the year.
Huw Watson - First Nations 20
Hi guys! My name is Eva Ossowski, the Queer Representative for 2024. One of the most inclusive aspects of queerness at UTS Law is the welcoming
community of LGBTQ+ people. As a representative of our community, I will aim to foster a more vibrant, diverse and intersectional voice within the UTS LSS. I would
love our LGBTQ+ students and allies to have access to more opportunities to work with Sydney’s many LGBTQ+ youth and crisis charities. Through collaboration with
other universities, I plan to establish a Queer Students Network that allows students to connect and embrace a community that reflects and celebrates the rich, diverse experiences of law students at UTS.
The UTS LSS also offers valuable opportunities for partnerships with Queer led
organisations. For example, events in partnership with NSW Pride in Law and The
Eva Ossowski - Queer
Pinnacle Foundation provide platforms for authentic conversations, and insight into the triumphs of queer individuals in the legal profession. Moreover, sponsorship
events with LGBTQ+ led and managed law firms in NSW create a direct passage for queer law students to access specific networking opportunities. This initiative also
opens much needed avenues for peer and professional mentorship for the Queer Law community.
I am very excited for the upcoming year and can’t wait to see what lies ahead. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to queer@utslss.com.
A warm welcome to all first years. My name is Anna van Woerkom, and I am the postgraduate representative for the UTS LSS for 2024!
I would really love to see our numbers for postgraduate events skyrocket in 2024 and the newsletter will be instrumental in helping boost student participation. Ramona Vijeyarasa, the Juris Doctor Program Head at UTS, and I have been
Anna Von Woerkom - Postgraduate
brainstorming ways to optimise the newsletter to communicate more effectively about events in 2024.
Postgraduate students often enter their law degree after gaining experience in a
variety of different fields, so our postgraduate events have become more important and integral than ever for providing postgraduate students with opportunities
to learn from experts in their new field of study and widen their network. We are
having a panel of barristers speak to students at the first postgraduate event, so be sure to keep an eye out for more details!
If you’d like to get in touch, please feel free to contact me at postgrad@utslss.com.
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