The Human Rights Law Alliance (HRLA) is opening its doors to accept a new intake of law students for its annual legal academy.
The academy is a week-long intensive course based in Canberra, accepting young Christians studying law who wish to enrich their chosen profession with their faith.
The academy, which will be held from 14-19 July in Canberra, seeks to equip students who want to practice law and Christianity in a holistic way, by offering inspiring and informative talks along with mentoring, and networking opportunities.
HRLA’s Chelsea Dempster said the academy typically focusses on the “significance of Christian character to the practice of the law”, the Christian worldview, and the historical impact of the faith in law and legal practice.
“Students will hear from world-class faculty comprised of eminent Christian lawyers who specialise in cases concerning freedom of religion and freedom of conscience, discrimination law and employment law,” she explained.
“They will also hear from distinguished Christian academics, politicians and communications experts who work domestically and internationally to promote the freedom to live and speak the truth.”
Dempster said the academy blends talks on law and culture with training in Christian formation and offers an “unparalleled opportunity” to connect with guests and faculty members.
“Towards the end of the week, time is also set apart for delegates to contemplate their own professional calling and put any questions they may have to our multidisciplinary faculty,” she said.
Attendees could choose to build their professional networks by joining the alumni community at the end of the course, she added.
“They will be connected with other Christian law students across Australia who have completed the program and will be exposed to both Australian and international professional networks, events and possible job opportunities,” she said.
Law student Deon Testore, who attended the academy in 2024, said it was a “holistically well-rounded experience” and encouraged those interested in attending to apply.
“The whole thing was actually phenomenal, I loved it,” he said.
He said the academy, in addition to providing a deeper understanding of the connection between faith and the law, was a good way to meet and network with fellow law students from around Australia.
“The benefit of meeting like-minded Christian law students who are passionate about using their profession to build up God’s kingdom is something that’s overlooked by law professors at university,” he said.
Another student, Constance Meehan, said the academy was an “eye-opening” experience.
“It really increased my understanding of faith and the law and inspired me to move forward with that,” she said.
Applications close 16 February. To register, please follow the link.
