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• About LSS

  The Melbourne University Law Students’ Society is the main student body in Melbourne Law School. We help you with all aspects of student life, from revision classes to getting a career and having fun.

  • Australian Law Students' Association (ALSA)

    Information about the Australian Law Students’ Association, the peak representative body for law students across Australia.

  • Calendar

    Calendar of upcoming events.

  • Locker Hire

    The LSS Locker Hire service will be returning again in 2012. Lockers will be available for hire in February. Lockers on Mezzanine and Level 1 will be made available for hire in February, for $20. Full-length lockers are also available for hire for $50 each. The locker will be in your possession until 31 December 2012. Just come by the LSS office on Level 2 in order to pay and receive your locker number (payment is to be made by EFTPOS only, cash will not be accepted). You will need to provide your own lock. Please direct all enquiries to lss-secretary@unimelb.edu.au.

  • Sponsors

    All sponsors of this web site.

  • Victorian Council of Law Students’ Societies (VCLSS)

    The Victorian Council of Law Students’ Societies (VCLSS) represents the peak body for Victorian law students. All Victorian law students are members of this organization. The executive of the VCLSS consists of the Presidents of the Victorian law schools, being; Deakin Law Students’  Society La Trobe University Law Students’ Association Melbourne University Law Students’ Society

  • Organisations of Interest

    Global Law Students' Association The Melbourne University Global Law Students' Association specialises in helping law students access graduate opportunities beyond Australia’s shores. It aims to expose law students to the range of career opportunities available to them both here and abroad, and both within and outside the legal field. To find out more about the GLSA, visit the GLSA website.

  • Contact Us

    Full contact details for LSS.

  • 2012 Committee

    • President’s welcome

      An introduction to the LSS from the president.

    • 2011 Committee

      2011 committee list.

    • 2010 Committee

      Elected Members President   Romy Faulkner Vice President   David Yang Secretary   Simon Breheny Treasurer   Hadi Mazloum Activities Directors   Trystan PeckoverDavid Wood Careers Directors   Frankie BarbourAnita Das Competitions Directors   Melissa LokDavid Park Education Directors   Brendan FitzgeraldMollie Tregillis Equality Directors   Bruce HardyPenelope Ward Environment Officers  

    • 2009 Committee

      Elected Members President Jonathan Augustus Secretary Romy Faulkner Treasurers David Yang Julia Wang Activities Vice Presidents Harry Hookey Nudge Perera Careers Vice Presidents Rebecca Clarke Alexis Fong Competitions Vice Presidents Thomas Ickeringill Courtney McLennan Education Vice Presidents Laura Johnston Charlotte Newbold Equality Vice Presidents Belinda Huang Arlene Wu Careers Officer Alex Zolotarsky Environment Officer Harrison Hilt Mature Age Officer Christian Wood Women’s Officers Monica Lillas Hannah Pham Queer Officer Bruce Hardy

    • 2008 Committee

      President Phil Barker Secretary Ben Zanatta Treasurers Lei Jie Li Pei Wen Chen Activities Vice Presidents Jonathan Augustus Ronny Chieng Careers Vice Presidents Fiona Borrelli Shirmaine Koh Education Vice Presidents Hadi Mazloum Arani Satgunaseelan Equality Vice Presidents Jessica Rae Jenny Jiang Women’s Officer Courtney McLellan Careers Officer Bob Hu Mature Age Representative Konstantin Rotarou Directors of Competitions Ben Teo Alex Zolatarsky Purely Dicta Editors Phillipa Noakes Lily Fordyce

    • 2007 Committee

      PresidentChristine LuiSecretaryRich HewettTreasurers Ellen Liang Brinsley Saw Activities Vice Presidents James Bull Lachie Slattery Careers Vice Presidents Pei Wen Chen Megan Trethowan Education Vice Presidents Michael Ng Niva Sivakumai Equality Vice Presidents Joshua Tee Benjamin Zanatta Women’s Officers Fadzai Jaravaza Julienne Hortle Careers OfficerMarie De Stefano ALSA RepresentativeMeng-Xi HuMature Age RepresentativeTom Bevan Queer Officer Freyja Tobin Purely Dicta Editors Angus Christophersen Taboka Finn

    • 2006 Committee

      PresidentJonathan JiSecretaryPeter GauntTreasurers Taboka Finn Gareth Redenbach Activities Vice Presidents Cat O’Dea Chris Settle Careers Vice Presidents Ashwin Rajan Brinsley Saw Education Vice Presidents Cameron Sim Tim Wright Equality Vice Presidents Niva Sivakumar Patrice Galatis Women’s Officers Stella Gold Agata Wierzbowski

    • 2005 Executive Committee

      PresidentPhilip TangSecretaryKristian ImbesiTreasurers Jason Pobjoy Sarah Rogers Activities Vice Presidents Anthony Cherny Gareth Redenbach Careers Vice Presidents Jeremy Lee Niloshan Vijayalingam Education Vice Presidents Amber Chew Christine Huynh Equality Vice Presidents Jeremy Wade Tim Wright

    • 2004 Executive Committee

      PresidentPorscia LamSecretaryChristine HuynhTreasurers Garry Chu Susannah Macknay Activities Vice Presidents Georgie Coleman Andrew Rodger Careers Vice Presidents Dora Guslitser Philip Tang Education Vice Presidents Kristian Imbesi Ishaan Nangia Equality Vice Presidents Dalit Kaplan Evelyn Tadros

• Activities

  Information about LSS events. Show up, have fun and make contacts. LSS has events for everyone.

  • Activities Overview

    2011 promises to be a bumper year for activities at the Law School. From Law Ball and Law Camp to Law(n) Bowls, Law School’s Got Talent and  Ski Camp (just to name a few creamy delights), you will not be able to escape the predatory clutches of fun that will be thrown your way. And if that’s not enough, weekly BBQ’s will leave your wallet heavier and you fatter. MUCH FATTER. So the grand message is fun for all – we can’t wait for the festivities to begin and we hope to see you around the traps very soon. Justin ‘Stop Dancing Like That’ Meneguzzi and Antony ‘Who Gave Him a Microphone’ Freeman lss-activities@unimelb.edu.au

  • BBQs

    Throughout the year if you see a large crowd and hear some kickass music pumping from the University Square lawns, then you’ll know the LSS is hosting a BBQ. Free food (sausages, meat and vege burgers), free drinks (beer, pre-mixed spirits and soft drinks), good music and your hanging with your fellow law students on a sunny afternoon

  • Law School's Got Talent 2011

    Can you sing? Tap-dance? Break-dance? Play the ukulele? Drink faster than Bob Hawke? Dislocate and relocate your limbs? If you have a talent, this night is for you. On stage. For charity. And to be honest, for our entertainment.

  • Law School's Got Talent

    Can you sing? Tap-dance? Break-dance? Play the ukulele? Drink faster than Bob Hawke? Dislocate and relocate your limbs? If you have a talent, this night is for you. On stage. For charity. And to be honest, for our entertainment.

  • Event Pictures

    Law Ball Snaps Badabing Badaboom.  You guys certainly did bring the party to the Sebel, and here's the proof. B-R-A-V-O. Check out old skool media for more. .

  • More Events…

    • LSS Snow Camp

      The Snow Season is now approaching and the LSS is keen to get you all up in the powder so you can once again ski/board until you're sore. Or even if you have never been to the snow before, this would be an amazing opportunity to go to the snow and learn how to ski or snowboard in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. If you fail on the slopes, there is still plenty to do in and around Mount Buller. Currently, the ticket sits at $398! This is what a ticket will get you: - 2 nights accommodation at the Melbourne University Alpine Ski Lodge (includes kitchen, beds and lounge room) - Return buses - 3 day ski passes We've also managed to arrange an incredible group booking with Mount Buller, so if you don't have your own gear you can hire some from us! Here are the costs: Ski Package (incl. ski/poles, boots and wrist guards) -- $70; OR Snowboard Package (incl. snowboard, boots and wrist guards) -- $89

    • Law Cruise

      For those of you that are unsure, every year the LSS hosts a night where we pretty much party it up on a boat. There’s drinks, great music and often a cool theme which involves some fun (and hilarious) dress ups. You can dance on the poop deck, poop on the dance deck… just don’t fall into the water, it’s pretty cold… and you’d miss the AFTERPARTY! That’s right sailors, the night doesn’t just end when the boat docks… we keep on kickin’ it on land!

    • Pub Nights

      “If it ain't broke, don't fix it.If it's just coke, then mix it.” Two different ideologies there, and both relate to the good old fashioned MULSS PTN. For those that aren't familiar with the Activities portfolio, that must be a pretty daunting acronym. It literally stands for Melbourne University Law Students' Society Pleasant Thursday Night and it is code for a pub evening out with your friends-cum-colleagues. They have been a popular fixture in years past, and hopefully will remain so for years to come. Certainly not broke, we don't intend to fix them. As for the second ideology mentioned above, the LSS certainly does not condone binge drinking. What we do condone however, is a pleasant few beers in pleasant company. So come along and enjoy our bar tab, for a small entry fee of $10.

    • After Exams Parties

      Look out for our mid-year and end-of-year After Exams Parties. We generally co-host them with Law Student Societies from Monash, La Trobe, Deakin, Vic Uni etc. So if they rock, give all the credit to us, and if they suck, blame Monash like we always do.

• Competitions

  Information about law competitions run by LSS. Test your skills outside of class by facing down fellow law students in these fun competitions.

  • Competitions Overview

    I was surprised when I found out the LSS was responsible for the running of competitions way back when. From Mooting to Witness, Client Interview to Negotiation (not to mention International Humanitarian Law Mooting, Letter of Advice, and Paper and Oral), competitions are intrinsic to the law school experience. They teach you practical skills and get you to speak the law, rather than just write about it. I thought it would most certainly be the kind of thing the law faculty would organise, but no! In fact, it is the LSS. With this however, comes a significant advantage. Competitions can be run with student insight.

  • Rules of Participation

    2011 Rules of Participation   Application of the Rules   1. These rules of participation apply to The University of Melbourne Law Students’ Society (LSS) competitions.  

  • Mooting

    Welcome to LSS Mooting 2011! Mooting is a traditional law school competition that entails a 'mock' courtroom type scenario. In each round, two teams compete against each other in the context of a mock submission, usually an appeal from an earlier decision, with one team representing the appellant and the other representing the re- spondent. As such, the facts have already been agreed upon, and the two sides will be debating issues of law. Each team will be required to submit a written submission to the court, as well as make a brief oral submission to the judge.

  • Witness Examination

    Welcome to the Witness Examination page 2011! The Witness Examination competition is a simulated civil or criminal trial. Teams consist of two students, one barrister and one non-com- petitive witness. As the barrister, you will act as either counsel for the defence or counsel for the prosecution and your task will be to ascertain the facts of the case through the examination and cross-examination of witnesses. As a witness, you must memorize the facts of the case prior to trial and must testify in accordance with the facts. It is permissible to create facts that are not in the brief, but the facts created must always be consistent with the brief. You are emailed your brief approximately 24 hours prior to the trial. It contains statements from both the Defendant and Witness for the Pros- ecution, relevant laws and written instructions from your client.

  • Client Interview

    The Client Interview competition is a great opportunity for law students to develop their listening, client management and team skills. There is an increasing emphasis being placed on legal services being tailored for each client. After all, everybody is different, and what they will want to get out of a consultation with a legal professional is bound to vary. With this in mind, the client interview competition is perfect for anyone who would like to see how they would fare in a normal work environment. All students from all year levels participate each year. You will work in groups of two, with the setting of the competition being a client visiting two lawyers for a preliminary meeting. With only a short (and I mean short) memorandum briefly outlining the context of the meeting, you will begin to work your magic.

  • Letter of Advice

    For this competition, you are required to write a letter of advice to a client based on a hypothetical. The catch is that this time you're not striving for H1's but real-life prizes! You could win a prize! Who doesn't like winning prizes? The Competition will be made available to students on the LSS website from Wednesday 22nd July and responses will be due by 5pm on Thursday 30th July.

  • Paper & Oral Presentation

      Overview   The paper and oral presentation competition aims to promote legal scholarship, oratory skills and the chance to present controversial issues in an interesting and informative manner.  It is a great opportunity for law students to express themselves beyond the traditional formulaic writing required in class.   The competition is run in two stages.

  • The Connecting with Law Short Film Competition

    The Connecting with Law Short Film Competition is launching again with a new theme for 2011! This competition is available to all students currently enrolled in an Australian law degree. There is fun to be had, and cash prizes and kudos to be won. More information can be found at: www.oup.com.au/law Chose at least one definition from the from the Australian Law Dictionary from Oxford, and create a 2-5 minute film based around the definition/s that will educate and help students connect with the law. 1st Prize - $1500 2nd Prize - $500 3rd Prize - $250

  • The Connecting with Law Short Film Competition

    The Connecting with Law Short Film Competition is launching again with a new theme for 2011! This competition is available to all students currently enrolled in an Australian law degree. There is fun to be had, and cash prizes and kudos to be won. Choose at least one definition from the Australian Law Dictionary from Oxford, and create a 2-5 minute film based around the definition/s that will educate and help students connect with the law.   1st Prize $1500

  • ALSA National Competitions

    ALSA is proud to facilitate competition by the best of the best; the winners of each law school’s internal competitions. The national finals of legal competitions are held at the annual July Conference. In many competitions, the winners go on to compete at the international finals. Winners of the 2009 Melbourne LSS Competitions will receive the opportunity to compete in the 2010 ALSA Conference to be held in Adelaide!* The national finals of the following competitions are facilitated by ALSA:

  • Melbourne Law School Art Competition

    Presented by the Melbourne Law School, the Centre for Media and Communications Law, the Intellectual Property Research Institute of Australia, and the Melbourne University LSS and ILSS, the competition invites all current law students to submit artworks for an acquisitive exhibition in the Melbourne Law School.

• Careers

  Career-related information from the LSS.

  • Careers Overview

    As LSS Careers Directors we hope to continue the helpful, friendly and informative tradition of the portfolio while expanding its focus through the newly created Public Interest and International Careers co-opt positions. We will be actively coordinating and communicating with both the University’s expanding Careers Office and other student bodies to provide cohesive and efficient services and information for both the LLB students and for the expanding JD student body. Studying law provides myriad opportunities in both the legal profession and a variety of other sectors both at homeand abroad. We aim to provide access and support in pursuit of those opportunities. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or suggestions.

    • Suncorp Graduate Program

      If you're a recent graduate or you're about to be, we'd like to talk to you about an exciting, challenging and rewarding career with Suncorp. For details on vacant postitions, or to talk to the Suncorp team: Visit - www.suncorp.com.au/graduates Email - graduateprogram@suncorp.com.au Facebook - www.facebook.com/suncorpgroupcareers Phone - (07) 3030 8262

  • Seasonal Clerkship Guide

    The Seasonal Clerkship Guide is a useful resource which contains all the information you need when applying for seasonal clerkships. From both firm and student perspectives, the guide contains information about writing a resume, cover letter and provides interviewing techniques as well as what to expect from your experience. It will also include an extensive directory providing application dates and contact details for a variety of firms and organisations. Download the 2010 Guide LSS Seasonal Clerkship Guide 2010 (PDF, 5MB). This has been optimised for online viewing. Turn on "bookmarks" on your PDF viewer. The 2010 Guide is available in hardcopy on level 2. Please note, the HR contact for Lander & Rogers is listed as Liza Pitts. Liza has recently changed her name to Liza Ryan. You will not be disadvantaged by using either.

  • Seasonal Clerkship Seminars 2011

    Your friendly Careers Directors are pleased to confirm our schedule for Seasonal Clerkship Seminars for 2011. All students who are considering applying for a clerkship are warmly encouraged to attend. These seminars give valuable insight into the process of applying for and undertaking a seasonal clerkship. Monday 2nd May 2011 1-2pm, Room 108:             Baker & McKenzie: Why do a seasonal clerkship?

  • International Careers

    The LSS Careers directors and officers recognise that law school is a stepping stone on a much larger path to future careers and aspirations in law. This future focus is critical in shaping how students interact with their studies and approach the transition into the workforce.The International Careers portfolio is focussed upon delivering to students the necessary information and opportunities to realise a legal career with an international perspective. This includes developing a presence with international practicing law firms on your behalf, facilitatingvisits from international legal authorities and delivering practical career advice through the Careers Guidebook and career fairs.

    • Herbert Smith Internship Opportunities

      Herbert Smith is committed to recruiting the most ambitious and high-achieving graduates from a multitude of backgrounds. With that in mind we have worked to build links with top universities in Australia to be able to offer the opportunity for several law students to work in our London office.  We are offering up to six students the opportunity to attend a four week internship at our London office in November/December 2011.  Students are encouraged to apply in their penultimate year of study at an Australian university.    Applications for our 2011 Australian internship will open on 14 February and close on 31 March 2011.  We will interview selected candidates in Australia during April 2011.  

    • Melbourne Hong Kong Law Fair

      Interested in a legal career in Hong Kong? All students are invited to attend the Melbourne Law School Hong Kong Law Fair to meet firms and universities and hear about their job opportunities and the Postgraduate Certificate in Laws (PCLL) for admission to practice in Hong Kong.  

    • Uni-Capitol Washington Congress Internship 2012

      Want to learn more about the US legal and political system?  Live in the US for 2 months?  Immerse yourself in the US Congress? Melbourne Law students who are Australian citizens are eligible to participate in the Uni-Capitol Washington Internship program, which establishes internships in the US Congress in Washington DC.    The 2012 Uni-Capitol Washington Internship runs for nearly 9 weeks from 3 January 2012 to 2 March 2012.   

  • Public Interest Careers

    We are very excited to be taking on the new role of Pubic Interest Careers Officers. We will be working closely with the Careers and Equality Directors to promote public careers and organise events of interest to the student body. We look forward to liaising with faculty and the legal profession to ensure students have access to the wealth of information and opportunities that exist for students interested in pursuing a career in the public interest sector. Law school offers a vast array of career opportunities and pathways, and we are here to provide an avenue for those students interested in public interest careers. If you have any queries about being publicly interesting, please don't hesitate to contact Carmendy and Heather - we never leave the law school. Seriously. Heather Alexander and Carmendy Cooper

    • 2012 Attorney- General's Department Graduate Program

      The Attorney-General's Department offers graduates; three work rotations a tailored training and development program a competitive salary, and work/life balance. We offer tomorrow's leaders a long term career path. We value our people and endevour to inspire, encourage and empower them to achieve quality outcomes. If you are interested in helping Australia pursue a just and secure society, then the Attorney-General's Department is the workplace for you. Applicant for the Graduate Programe must be Australian Citizens and have, as a minimum, completed a qualification equivalent to a three-year Australian undergraduate degree by the time the program commences. Health, security and character clearances, as well as evidence of qualification must also be met. Applications open Thursday, 21 April 2011. Application close Thursday, 2 June 2011.

  • Allens Arthur Robinson: Indigenous Legal Internship

    Allens Arthur Robinson is offering legal internships to Indigenous law students in Melbourne. Our two-week internship is an opportunity to find out more about working in a commercial legal environment. Applications open: 21 April 2011 Applications close: 13 may 2011 Applications can be submitted on through the Allens Arthur Robinson online application system. For further information please visit www.aar.com.au/careers or contact Tiffany Rogers on Tiffany.Rogers@aar.com.au.

  • Beyond Law School

    Thank you to everyone who helped with, spoke at or attended Beyond Law School this year. It was a great success and we hope it will become a regular part of the Law Students' Society's calendar.   This year, the Careers Portfolio has teamed with the Equality Portfolio to run the inaugural Beyond Law School fortnight, two weeks of events between April 19 and 29. Each day features a specific area of legal practice with a variety of speakers giving an interesting and frank account of their work, career, opinions and experiences. Already lined up are panels, debates and cocktail parties, all held free for you at MLS. The days are:

  • Meet The Profession

    Melbourne University Law Students Society Careers Directors are pleased to announce we are running our ever popular Meet the Profession cocktail event in 2011. This is a fantastic opportunity to network with representatives from a variety of firms and get the inside scoop on working in a law firm. It will be held at The Essoign Club (Level 1, 205 William St) on Thursday 19th May between 6:30 and 8:30pm.   Tickets are limited to 100 and will be on sale from this Monday (2nd May) at the LSS office. The cost will be $20 (bargain). Don't miss this great opportunity!

  • Melbourne Law School Mentor Program 2011

    Student applications now open! The Program aims to provide first year JD students with a valuable opportunity to gain insight into the profession, develop networks and explore career options! Take advantage of this opportunity. Applications close 25 February. Don’t miss out! Apply now at http://careers.law.unimelb.edu.au/

  • Mock Interviews 2011

    We are pleased to announce that we will once again be running mock interviews. These interviews are run by HR reps from various firms and provide useful one on one feedback on how to prepare for and conduct yourself in a clerkship interview and invaluable for any student considering applying for a seasonal clerkship. They will be run following selected seasonal clerkship seminar 2nd-5th May, 9th-12th May, between 2.30-3.30pm with interviews lasting approximately 15mins each.  Those participating will be required to bring along their resume for the interviewer to look at as well.  

  • RRR Law website launch

    For information on legal careers in rural, regional and remote areas check out the Law Council of Australia's newly launched RRR Law website at http://rrrlaw.com.au/

  • Careers Guidebook

    The annual LSS Careers Guidebook provides information on the many career paths a law degree opens up to you. It will be of special interest to those graduating at the end of this year, but also is an invaluable guide to those wanting to know what career paths are open to them. Enjoy the Guidebook!

  • Work Experience Program

    Please look at the Melbourne Law School Careers Office Internship Program.

    • LSS Work Experience Program Applications

      Coming soon for 2010!

  • ALSA Careers Related Publications

    International Careers Guidebook It's a global legal marketplace, and Australian lawyers are in hot demand all over the world. This publication seeks to collate information about opportunities available, particularly to law graduates, in international law firms, non-government organisations and other employers. It also records the experiences of those who have worked over the seas. Download the 2009 Malleson Stephen Jaques International Careers Guide (PDF, 1.5MiB). Judges’ Associate Guide The Judges Associateship is a pit-stop taken by many law graduates on their route to professional practice. An associate is essentially a judge’s personal assistant, helping with research and courtroom tasks.

  • Law School Careers Office & Melb. Uni Careers Online

    Careers services run by Melbourne University

  • Boston Consulting Group Undergraduate Scholarships

    The Boston Consulting Group (BCG) is a global management consulting firm and the world's leading advisor on business strategy. BCG is currently accepting applications for two prestigious Undergraduate Scholarships     - each scholarship is worth $15,000     - we are seeking high-performing penultimate year students     - applications from any discipline are encouragedTo learn more about BCG and the Scholarship application process, visit www.bostonconsulting.com.au Applications are open until 9 August 2011

  • Mallesons Insight Program

    As the name suggests, the Insight program will give you a high level overview of how Mallesons is structured, what areas of law they practice and the type of clients they work with. You will also get an in-depth look at particular matters in the firm and a chance to listen to some of their staff talk about their experiences as legal professionals, including undertaking further study, working in one of their off shore offices and going on a client secondment. The Insight program is aimed at law students who are not yet able to apply for a summer clerkship i.e. 3rd year LLB or 1st year JD. However, if you are eligible for a clerkship this year but are unable to participate (e.g. overseas exchange), and would like to participate in Insight please contact Mallesons. For more information please visit 

  • Seasonal Clerkship Guide 2011

    Your MULSS Careers Directors are pleased to announce the release of the Seasonal Clerkship Guide for 2011!! We would like to thank the following sponsors: Platinum: Baker & McKenzieClayton UtzCorrs Chambers WestgarthDLA PiperMallesons Stephen Jaques Premier:Arnold Bloch LeiblerFreehillsGilbert + TobinJohnson Winter & SlatteryMaddocks Supporting:Allens Arthur RobinsonBlake DawsonMaurice BlackburnMinter Ellison We would also like to thank Drew Coughlan (www.drewcoughlan.com.au) for his design work and assistance in bringing this guide to publication.

  • Victorian Court of Appeal Research Associates

    The Court of Appeal is seeking to appoint three final year law students or graduates as Research Associates for 2012. The Research Associate positions will be full time for a period of 12 months. Applications close at 5.00PM on 24 June 2011. An information night will be held at 6:00 pm in the Green Court, at the Court of Appeal, 459 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne on Thursday 16 June 2011. All applicants are encouraged to attend. Mor information is available on the Court of Appeal website.

• Education

  Information about the LSS’ efforts to help you through your law degree.

  • Education Overview

    Harini Amarasinghe (LLB) and Aimee Nguyen (JD   As Education Directors, we are primarily here to promote and protect the interests of all Melbourne Law students. Through our regular meetings with the Associate Deans of both the LLB and JD degrees we put students’ needs on the agenda and take issues to the law faculty that individuals may not feel comfortable doing themselves. We also, as official student representatives, have the ability to see real action taken on issues of concern.  Representation of students is our biggest (and most valued) role. We would strongly encourage students to approach us with any issues relating to their education at the law school and to consider us their first port of call in these matters. We can always be contacted via email. Please click through to the following links for more information about the things we organise throughout the year. Law Students' Guidebook Student Tutorial Service (STS) Sir Anthony Mason Lecture Health and Wellbeing All the best for 2011! We look forward to an exciting new year. Harini Amarasinghe and Aimee Nguyen lss-education@unimelb.edu.au

  • Sir Anthony Mason Lecture

    One of the highlights of the Education Portfolio calendar is the annual Sir Anthony Mason lecture. The Sir Anthony Mason Honorary lecture was inaugurated in 1995, the year of Sir Anthony Mason's retirement as Chief Justice of the Hight Court of Australia. The lecture serves to celebrate Sir Anthony Mason's outstanding contribution to the legal profession and the common law of Australia, as well as offering the opportunity for students of the Law School to meet and hear those who have helped to shape the law as we study it. It provides a substantial contribution to legal debate within the Law School, as well as inspiration and insight to many students. The lecture discusses a pertinent and sometimes controversial issue within the legal and social community. As a result, the lecture cultivates debate and is has been highly successful in attracting large and enthusiastic audiences.

  • Law Students’ Guidebook

    Over summer we will be putting together a guidebook that has information about both core and optional subjects as well a range of other general informattion aimed at making everyone's lives just that little bit easier! We hope students find it a useful resource in the coming year. The Law Students’ Guidebook contains information about every aspect of being a law student including subjects, support services and societies that represent you. The 2011 Law Students’ Guidebook will combine information for both LLB and JD students. If you enjoyed a particular subject this year and can offer some advice and insight, we'd love to hear from you! Each piece should include:

  • Health and Wellbeing Guidebook

    Have a look at the handy Health and Wellbeing Guidebook, for tips to maintain a balanced, happy and healthy lifestyle.

  • Animal Law - Semester 2, 2011

    Due to demand, animal Law is being offered as an undergraduate subject at Melbourne University in Semester 2, 2011. Enrolment is open to undergraduates and cross-institutional enrolment is also available. The second offering of this subject reflects the popularity of animal law studies at international universities including Harvard, Columbia and McGill Universities, and the large enrolment last year when it was offered for the first time. This subject is ideal for students who are interested in justice in the wider community, and are interested in applying the skills learnt throughout their law degree to a novel and evolving area of law. Guest speakers will include world renowned ethicist Professor Peter Singer of Princeton University, who will deliver the second lecture.

  • Student Tutorial Service

    The LSS provides a voluntary tutorial service to students throughout weeks five—Swotvac. The tutes are aimed at complementing normal classes, and usually provide a broad overview of topics and resolve student’s particular questions and difficulties. The tutes are run by students who have previously studied the subject and achieved outstanding results. Their notes and advice are therefore invaluable! (Just ask anyone that goes). With an even larger intake of JDs in 2011 the challenge will be ensuring as many subjects as possible are covered and we will be working hard to make this happen. Be sure to get in quick though, as tutes are usually packed by Swotvac and those that have attended regularly throughout semester get priority.  Timetable Semester 2 2011 All tutorials run from 1-2pm Tuesday

  • Health & Wellbeing

    This aspect of the Education portfolio is one that we hope to expand substantially through 2011. We will be producing another edition of the Health and Wellbeing Guidebook which was a hugely successful initiative introduced in 2010. In addition, we will be running a series of health and wellbeing seminars designed to combat the high incidence of depression amongst law students, encourage good mental and physical health. This is a very important aspect of our portfolio in 2011 as we strongly believe that students' health and wellbeing is paramount, and its effect is directly linked to one's education. We will also be working closely with the Activities portfolio to introduce some sports activities.

  • FEE-HELP

    The FEE-HELP problem is of paramount importance for approximately 50% of students studying the Juris Doctor at The University of Melbourne. When students commenced the degree in 2010 the gap was approximately $3,000. This has quickly opened up to $8,618. Many students were not aware, upon commencing the degree, that FEE-HELP would not cover the entire cost of the course. Other students were not aware that the university would be increasing fees beyond inflation, causing the gap to increase at this rate. Many students have been left questioning how they will cover the cost of the degree and if they will be able to complete it. Read the full report here.

  • Depression in Australian Law Schools - ALSA Handbook

    ALSA, in conjunction with beyondblue, has published a handbook for Law Student Societies dealing with depression amongst law students. Download Download ALSA Depression in Australian Law Schools Handbook (PDF, 1.4MB)   The Tristan Jepson Memorial Foundation is also a very good resource, helping to deal with the issue of Depression.

• Equality

  Law students with a conscience. We help you to make a difference in the community around you.

  • Equality Overview

      The Equality Directors work together with the Women’s Officers, Environment Officer and Queer Officers to make up the LSS Equality Portfolio.  As your 2011 Equality Directors we (Beth and Clara) are working to highlight social justice issues and promote public interest careers and volunteer opportunities. This year we have a number of exciting initiatives in the pipeline: Living Book Scheme Beyond Law School EQUAL Magazine Social Justice Lectures

    • 'RIGHT NOW'

      'RIGHT NOW' OPPORTUNITIES   Right Now is a volunteer, not-for-profit media organisation led by young people focused on human rights issues in Australia.  

    • The New Face of Equality

      "The good we secure for ourselves is precarious and uncertain until it is secured for all of us and incorporated into our common life"                                       —Jane Addams 1. The Equality Portfolio Welcome to the New Face of Equality! We hope that through our diverse events and publications—beginning with the Equality Launch—you will be better equipped to gain more:

  • The Book Fairy

    Applications are now closed for the Book Fairy 2010. Thanks to everyone who applied and we hope you've enjoyed your visit from the Book Fairy! Stay tuned for when the Book Fairy visits again at the beginning of 2011!   *** Finding those law books just a bit too much for the budget this year? Sounds like you need a visit from The Book Fairy! The Book Fairy is the newly revamped version of the Living Book Scheme – where if you are in need of financial assistance you can apply to have your books paid for by the Book Fairy. This year the scheme is going to change to a reimbursement scheme, so you can get your books a whole lot quicker. The system will now follow these three steps:

    • The Book Fairy

      Finding those law books just a bit too much for the budget this year? Sounds like you need a visit from The Book Fairy! The Book Fairy is the newly revamped version of the Living Book Scheme – where if you are in need of financial assistance you can apply to have your books paid for by the Book Fairy. This year the scheme is going to change to a reimbursement scheme, so you can get your books a whole lot quicker. The system will now follow these three steps: Step 1: Apply for TBF Step 2: If you are accepted, go and buy your books from SPP Medical & Legal Books.

  • Queer

     

    • MLSQ Film Night - 'Milk', Munchies and More...

      So, have you guys heard?Everyone's favourite muscle-man action figure and beefcake extraordinairre Arnold Schwarzenegger has declared an annual day of recognition for pioneering gay rights activist, Harvey Milk! http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/10/13/2712503.htmThose lucky Californians will be celebrating and remembering this amazing man on May 22. But we've decided to kick things off a little earlier - October 21st - with a screening of Gus Van Sant's 2008 biopic 'Milk'!It's the first of many exciting events we've got planned for MLSQ, and it'll also be an opportunity to meet your LSS Queer Officers for 2009/10 - Lee and Chris - as well as meeting and hanging out with your fellow Melbourne Law School queers.

    • Queer Contacts

      Law Faculty LSS Queer Officers Lee Carnie & Chris Summerslss-queer@unimelb.edu.au http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/group.php?gid=103403098077&ref=ts Queer Students’ Equal Opportunities Liaison Officer Lisa Sarmas l.sarmas@unimelb.edu.au Student Union (UMSU) Queer Office BearersClaire Opperman & Ed Yapqueer@union.unimelb.edu.au8344 4817 Queer Department, UMSU IncFirst floor Union House, University of Melbourne, VIC 3010

    • Queer Networking

      Online Student Forum This year we are launching our online student chatroom for queer students. The forum is being hosted by Queer Uni Students Online—an independant website set up to facilitate networking between queer students across university campuses in Australia. The Queer Officer has a profile on the forum—MULSS_queer_officer. In addition there is a University of Melbourne forum and a Melbourne Law School forum on the same site. How to Join Register an account by following the supplied link, or go to Queer Uni Students Online home page and follow the links on the left hand side of the page.

    • Queer Newsletters

      Download the latest Queer Newsletter! Newsletter 06-08-09    

    • Queer Officer Profile

      Chris Summers is a Creative Arts/Law student passionate about queer rights, activism and the arts.

  • Social Justice

    Social Justice officers are here to get Melbourne Law School students thinking about how they can help build a society where people feel free and in control of their lives, connected to those around them, and hopeful for the future. The flagship Social Justice activity will be the series of regular discussions on a variety of social justice themes.

    • Memory, Trauma and Reconciliation in Post-War Bosnia & Herzegovina

      Tuesday 23rd March 2010 6pm – Welcome & Drinks6.30 pm – Forum Starts Room G08, Melbourne Law School, 185 Pelham Street, Parkville Ron Adams, ethno-historian at La Trobe University Maria Tumarkin, Research Fellow at the Institute of Social Research, Swinburne University Hariz Halilovich, Research Fellow at the Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne. This forum will explore the impact that memories of war and its associated trauma have on Bosnians. It will highlight the importance of reconciliation initiatives for the first post-war generations, who did not experience the conflict first-hand, but who live with its ongoing effects nonetheless. The forum will also consider the global resonance of the Bosnian conflict, in particular the way in which social and historical memory of the war impacts on the Bosnian diaspora.  A forum presented in support of Most Mira (Peace Bridge) Youth Festival, a UK-based charity aiding reconciliation in Northern Bosnia through work with young people 

    • Using International Treaties for Local Change

      Shadow Reporting under Human Rights Conventions Emily Chew of the YWCA, Project Coordinator of Australia’s NGO Shadow Report under CEDAW. Rachel Ball, Lawyer with the Human Rights Law Resource Centre (HRLRC). 1:00pm–2:00pm, Wednesday 6 May 2009Room 223, Melbourne Law School

    • An Australian Human Rights Act: Dispelling the Myths

      A public lecture featuring The Hon Catherine Branson QC, President of the Australian Human Rights Commission. 6:00pm–7:00pm, Tuesday 19 May 2009Room G08, Melbourne Law School, 185 Pelham St, Carlton Vic 3053

      • Submission to the National Human Rights Consultation

        The LSS recently sent a formal submission to the National Human Rights Consultation Committee, which is currently  reviewing the public's perception of human rights protection and promotion in Australia. The purpose of the submission was to holistically represent the diverse spectrum of views and experiences expressed by our student body, which was facilitated by an online survey. We would like to take this opportunity to thank those students who participated in our survey during this extremely busy period of the year. Furthermore, the winners of our book voucher prizes will be contacted shortly via email. View the formal LSS submission (PDF, 94KB). For more information about the National Human Rights Consultation, please visit the official website.

    • Shakespeare in Carlton

      'Shakespeare in Carlton' began as a beautifully idealistic proposal by 4 students of the Melbourne Law School (Adora, Charlene, Gillian, Stella) to organise a Drama and Filmmaking Workshop cum Fundraising for a Weekly Drama Club for the African-Australian Community in Carlton.  

    • The NT Intervention: Coercion vs. Cooperation

      A free public lecture featuring the Hon Ron Merkel QC, former Judge of the Federal Court of Australia. Presented in conjunction with Engineers Without Borders. 6:30pm–8:30pm, Monday 5th October 2009Room G08, Melbourne Law School, 185 Pelham St, Carlton Vic 3053

  • Environment

    2010 will be a very important year for environmental issues, not only in Australia, but for the Law School. Recent bushfires, floods and drought have all highlighted the need to take climate change seriously. As students, we are in an excellent position to push for change and to make sure environmental issues are very much on the political and social agenda. As Environment Officer, my overall objective is to create a forum where environmental issues can be discussed and initiatives taken within the Law School. To this end, I aim:

  • Women’s

    As Women's Officers in 2011, we hope to encourage diversity of ideas in the Melbourne Law School. The year will kick off with a bang with International Women's Day - come along and be inspired. Stay tuned for lots of careers networking events, so you can get to know women in the industry who will welcome you in to the fold. We are also here to be your advocate in dealings with the Law Faculty - it can be a bit of a boys' club around here sometimes! Please feel free to come into the LSS office or send us an email if you have any ideas, questions, or just want to chat. We would love to hear from you. 2011 Womens' Officers lss-womens@unimelb.edu.au

    • International Women's Day

      International Women's Day has been getting bigger and better every year at Melbourne Law School. Every year, a prominent legal mastermind joins MLS students for an enlightening discussion on what it is like to be a woman at the top. This year will be no exception -  the LSS is very excited to be welcoming The Honourable Marilyn Warren AC, Chief Justice of the Victoria, to impart the wisdom she has gained in her pioneering career in the law. She has been the 'first' to do almost everything, so you don't want to miss this! Join the woman herself on Monday 21st March at 6pm in G08 to hear her take on the headline issues, and, well, whatever takes her fancy. As always, stay around for the post-lecture chatter, with refreshments on the ground floor reception area at 7pm. Put it in your calendars!

    • Mentoring Program - Applications open NOW!

      Applications are now open for the 2011 Law Student Mentoring Program, presented by the Victorian Women Lawyers. Now in its fourth year, the program matches second year female law students with professionals, to allow students to gain valuable insight into the reality of working life and the opportunities your law degree will give you. Apply through the online form at www.vwl.asn.au. Applications are open until 8th April but places are VERY limited, so make sure you get in quick to make the most of this opportunity.  

  • Second Year Rep

    Hello I’m Lyndal and I’m the Second Year Rep for 2011. My main role is to provide a voice for second years to faculty and ensure all second year students feel involved and are a part of the LSS. I will be working closely with the relevant portfolios of the LSS and the faculty to ensure that issues and ideas that students have are acted upon. So feel free to contact me with any ideas for events, improvements for the law school or problems that may be occurring anytime via email, facebook or come up and chat to me. Lyndal Ablett lss-secondyear@unimelb.edu.au

  • E-Qual - Equality Journal and Volunteering Guide

    E-Qual (2010/2011) Now Accepting Submissions! E-qual now accepting submissions!E-qual is the new Equality LSS publication being launched in 2010!Things you should know: 1. The best submission this year will be rewarded with a $500 apple store gift voucher! (submissions will be shortlisted and judged by a panel including a representative from faculty and our sponsors Clayton Utz and the Leo Cussen Institute).2. This is a great opportunity to get published.

  • MUL Mentoring Program - Applications Close Wed 30th!

    The Lawyering with a Conscience: Melbourne University Law Mentoring Program is a brand new initiative to connect students who wish to do law from disadvantaged backgrounds with Law Students, giving them a mentor to help, guide, and show them that their dream is possible. Stand out from the crowd and be a part of something special – be one of the mentors in the inaugural Melbourne University Law Mentoring Program of 2011.  MUL Mentoring Program Application Form

  • First Year Reps

• Services

  Information about various publications and marketing by the LSS. Also any queries over the website can be directed to the IT officers

  • Newsletters

    Every Monday the LSS emails its weekly newsletter to all Melbourne Law Students. Please find the .doc file archives of each newsletter below. 2010 Semester 1 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 6 Week 7   2009 Semester 1

    • Semester 1 - Pre-Semester Bulletin

      Welcome back everyone to Semester 1 2009! …. Well not yet, but the LSS will be trying a few things new this year, and one of those is a pre-semester newsletter to inform all students about the opportunities available in the early part of semester 1… before the semester actually begins! It should allow everyone a heads up whilst we all enjoy our last week of holidays.   You will also notice a new format to these newsletter emails, in order to allow for easier browsing.  

  • Law Revue 2011

    What the!? What is this “Law Revue” you speak of? The Melbourne University Law Revue is an annual sketch show extravaganza that showcases the best in student comedy talent.  Each year a collection of dynamic students come together to  create the most outrageous skits, twisted political parodies, screwball slapstick comedy, pop culture lampooning, an array of song and dance numbers, and the occasional incendiary impersonation, brought to you live over several nights of performances. It’s a great night out full of laughs, fun, drinks, as well as some sweet tunes – what’s not to love?

    • All hail your 2011 Law Revue Cast ...

      Proudly introducing the cast of the 2011 Law Revue ...  Sarhys Page Charles Hopkins Will Stoltz Tom Carmody Georgie Bitcon Rob Chislett

    • All hail your 2011 Law Revue Director ...

        Charlie Shute!  and he isn't just any ol' Melb Uni law student ...Charlie has been involved with the international comedy circuit since 2009, when he worked at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Since then, he has worked in venue management at both the 2009 and 2010 Edinburgh Fringe Festivals. Charlie also wrote a regular comedy column while studying at the University of Edinburgh. He has been involved in numerous dramatic productions, and has performed his own stand up comedy in Australia, the UK, and the US.2011 sees Charlie producing shows at both the Melbourne and New Zealand Comedy Festivals, and making his debut as a director with the 2011 Melbourne University Law Revue.

    • Law Revue 2010

      Congratulations to the Cast of 2010! I am very excited to announce the cast for this year's revue and we're incredibly fortunate to have such a diverse and rich range of talent. Beau Fitzpatrick Simone French Damon Hughes Marion Slatter Will Vann Elke Wakefield What is the Law Revue? The Melbourne Comedy Law Revue is annual show that showcases the best in student comedy talent and donates all its funds, every year, to a range of charities.  The Law Revue has a long and illustrious history including such graduates as Steve Vizard, Rob Sitch, Magda Szubanski and the entire Working Dog crew.

  • Earthquake in Japan

    In the aftermath of the significant damage caused by the earthquake and subsequent tsunami in Japan on the 11th March, the Melbourne University Law School is conscious of the distress students may be experiencing, especially the students with loved ones in Japan.  Melbourne Global Mobility has spent most of this morning trying to reach Melbourne University students who are on exchange in Japan and they will continue to monitor the situation daily. If you are concerned about Australians who are in Japan then the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade recommends that you should try to contact them directly, in the first instance, and if unsuccessful then to contact the DFAT 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or 1300 555 135.  The International Committee of the Red Cross has established a website to help restore contact between people who have lost touch because of the earthquake in Japan: 

  • IT

    Lucas Rutten & Rory McNeice, 2011 IT Officers. It's going to be a bumpy ride...

    • LSS Survey

      This survey is for students to provide feedback on their experiences with the LSS.

    • LSS Survey

      Here at MULSS, we're keen to get some feedback from students on the services and support we offer. If you're a Melbourne Law School student, we'd love for you to tell us what you think. Head over to mulss.com/lss-survey and give us your feedback - it only takes a few minutes, and your responses help us ensure we're providing you with the services and support that you want. If there is anything you feel the survey doesn't cover that it should, please let the IT Officers know by emailing lss-it@unimelb.edu.au.

  • Purely Dicta

      Purely Dicta is Melbourne Law School’s student magazine, written for students by students. The publication’s purpose is to be the voice of the student body - with content focussed on the myriad of issues that affect and involve law students. It is also a space in which we can let our hair down in a somewhat academic manner, and politely (albeit often politically incorrectly) poke fun at ourselves.  

    • Edition One is Out Now!

      Purely Dicta Edition One is out now! Come by Level Two and grab a copy off the newsstands. Download a copy to your iPhone or computer by clicking here. Submissions are now open for Edition Two. To submit an article, email lss-purelydicta@unimelb.edu.au.

    • Purely Dicta Edition One 2010: Content Ideas

      Purely Dicta Edition One will be published during Semester 1, 2010. We're excited about it and think you should be too. The deadline for submissions is Wednesday April 14. For a list of article suggestions, click here. Visit our blog here.