Kirby Cup High School Competition
Join the 2026 competition now!
WSU School of Law invites high schools in Western Sydney to participate in the Kirby Cup High School Competition in 2026
The Kirby Cup 2026 Western Sydney University High School Competition is a mooting competition designed to introduce high school students to the practice of legal advocacy and courtroom procedure. Schools may enter one team of up to four students. Each team will be required to prepare written submissions and present oral arguments in a simulated court setting, based on a legal problem developed by the School of Law.
Kirby Cup 2026 Theme: Protest, Freedom and the Language of Law
One of the enduring challenges for modern legal systems is balancing individual freedoms with collective interests. In democratic societies, the right to participate in public discourse—through speech, assembly, and protest—is fundamental. Yet, these freedoms often intersect with laws designed to maintain public order, protect safety, and uphold institutional authority. This tension raises critical questions about how the law interprets and applies its own language in contexts charged with political and social meaning.
The 2026 Kirby Cup focuses on statutory interpretation in the realm of public order offences, asking competitors to consider how courts navigate the boundaries between forms of political expression and criminal liability. It invites competitors to consider how language - both in legislation and public discourse - defines the scope of lawful expression and underscores the judiciary’s role in balancing individual rights against public order.
Speak, Advocate and Shine!
The competition requires students to apply a range of skills including legal analysis, structured argumentation, persuasive communication, and teamwork. Teams will be assessed on the strength of their legal reasoning, the clarity and organisation of their written submissions, and the effectiveness of their oral advocacy.
The four best-performing teams from the preliminary rounds will progress to the Semi-Finals. Advancement will be based on the combined strength of both their written and oral submissions. These rounds will be judged by a panel of legal professionals and academics, offering students a valuable opportunity to experience the rigour and excitement of legal argument in a competitive setting. Finalists have the opportunity to present submissions before Justice Michael Kirby, one of the most celebrated former Justices of the High Court of Australia!
This competition is specifically designed for Year 10 and 11 high school students who may have aspirations towards a career in the law. However, it is not limited to those students enrolled in Legal Studies.
Participation in the competition is free of charge.
Key Dates for 2026
Benefits to Students
The competition provides high school students with a unique opportunity to develop practical advocacy skills in a simulated courtroom environment and to consider the way law interacts with society. By preparing written submissions and presenting oral arguments before experienced moot judges, students learn to think critically, structure persuasive legal arguments, and respond effectively to questions. The competition also enhances research and drafting abilities, fosters teamwork, and builds confidence in public speaking. Beyond the enjoyment and competitive spirit, the competition fosters professionalism, courtesy, and strategic thinking—core attributes for a successful legal career.
Support and Resources for Students and Teachers
Students are expected to collaborate as a team in developing their written submissions and advocacy strategies. A range of resources will be available to support both students and teachers.
Competing teams will have access to a dedicated Western Sydney University website which contains:
- Relevant case law and legislation
- Stimulus material and readings on the competition
- 2026 competition guidelines, outlining the moot format, advice on preparing written and oral submissions, and court etiquette;
- An online Q&A forum, allowing students and teachers to ask questions and receive answers prior to the competition commencing.
For further information please email Dillon Zhou, Admin Officer at engagement.law@westernsydney.edu