Law Society NT

NT Young Lawyers

NT Young Lawyers Committee

The Northern Territory Young Lawyers (NTYL) represents lawyers in the Northern Territory who have been admitted to practice for less than five years, as well as GDLP clerks. Despite being called the ‘young lawyers’, there is no age restriction on membership, and junior practitioners of any age are most welcome to get involved.

NTYL are a subcommittee of the Law Society Northern Territory, and have a representative on the Law Society Council. In addition, the President is automatically a member of the Australian Young Lawyers Committee of the Law Council of Australia, which ensures young lawyers’ issues are promoted at a national level.

NTYL are responsible for organising professional development and social events. In particular, the organization of the annual NT Golden Gavel Competition.

Events

NT Young Lawyers Golden Gavel Competition

The NT Golden Gavel Competition is a public speaking competition was held in August/September each year.  The event is heavily sponsored by private firms, the Supreme Court and the wider legal profession. Young lawyers pit their skills with only 24 hours’ notice of the topic with judging carried out by senior members of the profession. The winner secures a spot in the National Golden Gavel Competition which is held in a different capital city each year.

Other Events

Other events, such as drinks events, quiz nights and formal balls are arranged by NTYL throughout the year to bring young lawyers together and facilitate professional collegiality.

Getting Involved

Becoming involved with NTYL is a great way to meet people, and network amongst your peers. Meetings are held approximately once a month, and any junior practitioner is welcome to come along and get involved. A junior practitioner is one admitted for five years or less, and also includes graduate clerks and GDLP students (even if not admitted yet, as long as the clerkship/GDLP has commenced). The commitment is not onerous, and committee members have the option of getting involved in as many or as little activities as they choose.

NT Young Lawyers Committee 2025

President:                                                          Rachel Shearer

Darwin Vice President:                            Sally Lavin

Regional Vice President:                        Harvie Stiller

Treasurer:                                                         William Edyvane

Secretary:                                                         Kelly Abrahams

General Committee Members:         Finn Clarke

                                                                 Timara Callaghan

                                                                 Elise Sibley

                                                                 Jessie Cornish

                                                                 Joe Cavanagh

Apply here to join the NTYL if you are a law student. 

Apply here to join the NTYL if you have been admitted as a legal practitioner. 

NT Young Lawyers Contact Details

Email: NTYL.Committee@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NTYLpage/

  • Last Modified: October 31, 2025
  • 10:29 am