• Posted on 1 Jun 2026

Celebrating Indigenous leadership in Law

Apply Now for the 2026 Bird & Bird Indigenous Student Leadership Prize!

UTS Law is excited announce that applications for the inaugural Bird & Bird Indigenous Student Leadership Prize are now open. This prize celebrates the outstanding achievements, vision, and leadership of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Law students.

The $1,000 prize, offered in partnership with global law firm Bird & Bird, reflects our shared commitment to empowering Indigenous leaders in the legal profession. Together, Bird & Bird and UTS celebrate and amplify the voices of students whose leadership is making a meaningful impact both on campus and in the wider community.

This partnership forms part of UTS’s ongoing dedication to supporting Indigenous excellence and leadership through targeted programs, prizes, and scholarships.

Who is eligible

The prize is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students currently enrolled in the UTS Faculty of Law who:

  • Are enrolled in a Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Laws combined degree, Juris Doctor, or Juris Doctor combined degree in the year of the award.
  • Are identified and recognised as an Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and can provide either:
    • A Confirmation of Aboriginality from a Local Aboriginal Land Council or other Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander organisation; or
    •  UTS Statutory Declaration form accompanied by two written references from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people from the applicant's community who can confirm their identity
  • Are currently in their penultimate or final year of study.
  • Have maintained an academic grade of Credit (WAM 65 +) or higher.
Application Process

Please complete the application form via the Apply Now button.

  • Your academic record to date; and
  • A written reference in support of your application
Selection process

Shortlisted applications will be presented to a Prize Selection Panel, which will select the recipient. The panel will consist of:

  • the Associate Dean (Indigenous Leadership and Engagement) 
  • the Director of Students
  • the Donor

How to apply

Apply now and have your leadership and achievements recognised across the UTS Law community. Submit your application through the UTS Student Forms portal and take the next step in your leadership journey.

Key dates

  • Applications open: Monday 01 June 2026
  • Applications close: Monday 06 July 2026
  • Winner announced: Between 13–20 July 2026
  • Award presented: UTS Law Awards Night - Wednesday 15 October 2026

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Written by Mia Porter

Law and Communications Intern