Negotiations Competition!
Masterclass 31 July 2026
Heats 5-6 August 2026 (Register here to compete!)
Semi-final 19 August 2026 (spectators welcomed)
Final 28 August 2026 (spectators welcomed)
Summary
The University of the Sunshine Coast Law Students’ Associations’ Negotiation Competition provides students with an opportunity to focus on their practical legal skills required for negotiating.
The competition involves two teams, each consisting of two solicitors, discussing a dispute until they reach a settlement that if successful, mutually benefits both parties.
Both teams are provided with the same scenario as well as individual instructions from their clients, explaining their preferred outcome that the team should aim to achieve. Some facts may be revealed, although some may also be kept a secret from the opposing team. Teams will then have an opportunity to reflect then be provided with valuable feedback from the judges.
Negotiation is a fundamental skill for those in the legal profession, and this competition will provide students with valuable, real world experience. Students are also able to build relationships, and network with experienced practitioners who kindly volunteer their time to facilitate our workshops and judge our competitions.
For any questions please email the Competitions Executive Officer, Hannah Spnovic via: competitions@usclsa.com
Image of the 2025 Finalists Nadia and Ella, and Matilda and Blayne during their negotiation.
Documents & Info
The following relevant documents are available for download:
2026 Competition Dates
Registrations Open for Masterclass and Competition: Now!
Negotiation Masterclass: 31 July 2026, 5:45pm
Registrations Close and Materials Released: 1 August 2026
Sunshine Coast Heats: 5 August 2026, 5:15pm
Moreton Bay Heats: 6 August 2026, 5:15pm
Semi Final: 19 August 2026, 5:15pm
Grand Final: 28 August 2026, 5:15pm
Congratulations to our 2025 Negotiation Competition Champions!
Ella Forbes and Nadia Heigers
Ella and Nadia had the opportunity to compete at the national level, representing the University of the Sunshine Coast at the 2026 Annual Australian Law Students’ Association (ALSA) Conference in Adelaide. The winners greatly enjoyed the opportunity to meet like-minded law students and negotiate in front of legal experts from across the nation. They look forward to competing again and continuing to be involved with the Law Students’ Association.
Testimonies from Past Negotiation Champions:
“My 2021 Negotiation Competition experience was invaluable. It was an opportunity for me to step outside my comfort zone and challenge myself to become better at both oral advocacy and critical thinking.”
– Mac Tuomi, 2021 Winner
“The 2019 USCLSA Negotiation Competition was my first ever competition I entered during my degree. The competition provided a platform to develop my practical legal skills and build connections within the university as well as at a national or international level. The judges provided excellent feedback throughout the process, ensuring each competitor improved through every round.”
