Twenty-three teams of law students from most states and territories competed in simulated AAT proceedings around the country to test out their skills as part of the 14th Annual AAT National Mooting competition.
The competition culminated in a grand final, held earlier this month at our Hobart registry, between the University of Notre Dame (WA) and the University of Tasmania. The final was adjudicated by AAT President Justice Thomas, Deputy President Bernard McCabe and Chris Merritt, Legal Affairs Editor with the Australian newspaper.
This year's final moot case grappled with whether ready-to-go salad bowls sold in supermarkets should attract GST. The University of Notre Dame ultimately won the competition and competitor Yasoda McGeary was named as best orator.
The moots are conducted over five rounds and involve problem scenarios drawn from a variety of administrative law areas. Each round concerns a different practice area of the AAT’s jurisdiction.
Interest in the Moot continues to grow. The competition is considered a highly effective practical exercise for law students. It plays a significant contribution in raising awareness amongst universities about, not only the AAT, but administrative law in general. Most importantly, it helps us contribute to the education in merits review of the next generation of lawyers.
Stay tuned for details about our upcoming competitions in 2019.