Moot Court Program 2026
We invite Expressions of Interest (EOI) from VPELA members and non-members to participate in VPELA’s VCAT Moot Court Program 2026. The purpose of the program is to provide participants with experience in the preparation and delivery of a case before VCAT. It is targeted for people who are taking the step of appearing at VCAT, either as an advocate or an expert witness. The program will deliver principles and training with the aim of participants gaining knowledge and experience in preparing, and appearing, before VCAT. All disciplines are encouraged to nominate.
In 2026, the Moot Court will include:
- three lectures / workshop sessions (in person) led by some of the industry's most experienced legal counsel; and
- an online presentation from senior figures in relation to the preparation and giving of expert evidence.
These will take place on the following dates:
- Lecture/workshop dates are scheduled for Thursday 10 September, Thursday 17 September, and Thursday 8 October 2026, commencing at 5.30pm and running for approximately 1.5 - 2 hours. They will be held in-person at a Melbourne CBD Location.
- The online presentation is scheduled for Thursday 1 October 2026, commencing at 8:30am.
- The Moot Court will be in-person at VCAT on Tuesday 10 November 2026, commencing at 5.30pm. Details for attendance as an observer will be made available closer to the event.
Attendance at all sessions is essential. Registration is limited to ensure an interactive environment and individual participation and practice. Sessions will not be recorded. Information in relation to the format of the program and Moot Court will be advised to selected participants following EOI close.
Cost
VPELA regards the Moot Court as a valuable training and professional development opportunity. The cost to participate is $315.00 for members and $400.00 for non-members. The course price includes attendance at the moot court (plus one guest).
Cancellation Policy
If you are no longer able to participate in the program and wish to cancel, a refund will only be given if at least 14 days’ notice is given before the first workshop.
EOI Details
Your EOI should include the following details:
- Your name
- Professional qualification/s and area of expertise (e.g. planning / urban design / traffic engineering / law, etc)
- Employer details and company position (where relevant)
- The details of any prior experience as an advocate or expert witness at VCAT or other like forum (and, if so, on how many occasions or for how many years)
- Whether you would like to participate in the program as an advocate or an expert
- Confirmation that you can attend all the sessions
- In not more than 200 words, why you would like to participate
As interest in this training program is expected to be popular, and as places are limited, those interested in participating are asked to email an EOI to
Grace Hamilton [email protected] by
5pm on Thursday 13 August 2026.
If you have any questions, please emails Board members
Lucy Eastoe [email protected] or
Grant Logan [email protected]