The Tasmanian Debating Union is Tasmania's premier debating organisation for schools level competition, training and development. The TDU was founded in 1981 and is the sole Tasmanian affiliate of the Australian Debating Federation.
The TDU organises and conducts schools competitions for all levels of secondary education in southern Tasmania, and works with partners in the north of the state and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association to conduct an annual statewide tournament.
The TDU also undertakes training and development of debaters and adjudicators across the state, and each year selects a team to represent Tasmania at the Australian Debating Championships.
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Registrations are now open for our Junior and Senior Development Programs for 2023-24, including the Junior Development Weekend for students entering grades 8 and 9 in 2024 and Debate Camp for students entering grades 10-12 in 2024.
Students entering grades 8 and 9 in 2024 are invited to register for our Junior Development Program. The Program will commence with a Development Weekend to be held in Hobart on 11 and 12 November, followed by five optional Advanced Development sessions. All interested students who will enter grades 8 and 9 in 2024 are encouraged to register; previous experience with debating is not required. There is no cost to participation.
Students entering grades 10-12 in 2024 are invited to register for our Debate Camp and Senior Development Program. Debate Camp will take place at Orana Guide Camp from 5-8 January 2024 and is open to all interested students entering grades 10-12; previous experience with debating is not required. Additionally, students are invited to attend five optional Advanced Development sessions to supplement the skills developed during the camp. Because Debate Camp is a residential event the cost of participation is $150, but financial assistance is available to cover all or part of this fee as needed. Attendance at Debate Camp is compulsory for students wishing to be considered for selection to the 2024 State Debating Team.
Please contact Charlie Pilkington at secretary@tdu.org.au or Kathryn Ellis at president@tdu.org.au or on 0488 469 161 with any questions.