With more than 80 spectators attentively watching on, the competition was not only exceptionally argued but was extraordinarily tight, according to Bond University faculty of law deputy dean and director of the National High School Mooting Competition, Associate Professor Louise Parsons.

“Saturday’s grand final was very close. Both teams presented compelling legal arguments,” she said.

“Overall, the standard this year was incredible. I am blown away every year by the talent and high calibre of students this Bond competition attracts, and 2023 was no exception.”

This year, the number of entries to the Bond University High School Mooting Competition was capped, and 53 teams from across the country participated, featuring local teams from the Gold Coast and Brisbane as well as teams coming from as far as Darwin, Tasmania and New Zealand. Eight teams went on to be selected for the final rounds, held last week.

Students taking part in the grand final round presented their arguments in front of the Honourable Justice Robert Gotterson AO (retired judge of the Queensland Supreme Court of Appeal), the Honourable Judge John Newton (retired judge of the Queensland District Court) and esteemed academic Assistant Professor Jo Hintz.

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“This competition is such an important initiative as it provides high school students with exposure to legal advocacy and enables them to experience what it is like to be a lawyer,” Professor Parsons said.

“This real-world, authentic environment, at such a young age, is invaluable, and each year, our competition continues to attract attention, which is great to see.”