State Team

Each year, the Australian Debating Federation convenes the National Schools Debating Championships, a prestigious week-long competition between the eight Australian states and territories. As the Queensland affiliate of the Australian Debating Federation, the QDU is responsible for sending a team to represent Queensland. At the conclusion of the tournament, the five best speakers are selected to represent Australia at the World Schools Debating Championships. Both the Queensland and the Australian teams have been highly successful at the Championships.

Applications for the State Team may be made through any school’s debating co-ordinator, or at the QDU Summer School, which is typically held in late February each year. Applications for the trial process are accepted from any Queensland student in year 10 or above. The trials are held over a period of approximately 6-8 weeks, in front of a board of selectors typically comprised of former Queensland team or Australian team representatives, experienced Senior A coaches and adjucators, and successful Intervarsity-level debaters. The team consists of four members, who will travel to the compeition, and two reserves.

Once the team has been selected, they are assisted by a coach and manager (these positions are advertised early each year), as well as former State team members. Their training is generally conducted over weekends and school holidays, with the specific dates varying depending on the date of the Nationals Schools Debating Championship. The QDU covers the cost of travel, food and accommodation for the duration of the tournament.

We encourage all interested students to apply, or contact the QDU for more information.