Our work

Ngalaya supports our members and First Nations people studying law through bursaries in times of financial need. Colin Biggers & Paisley have sponsored the annual First Nations Law Scholarship, and several supporters have helped Ngalaya to sponsor our members to attend legal conferences.

In 2022 we launched the First Nations Law Awards at our first annual Ngalaya Ball, to celebrate First Nations success in the legal profession. Each year we accept nominations for the First Nations Lawyer and Law Students of the Year, to be announced at the Ngalaya Ball.

Ngalaya works in collaboration with UNSW Sydney and UTS to run the Mooting Competition of Australia's First Peoples - Australia's first mooting competition for Indigenous law students. This is an opportunity for mob at all stages of their degree to compete in a mooting competition with their peers.

We work with law firms and government departments to offer First Nations law students with meaningful paid work experience during and after their law degree. Ngalaya Cadets receive ongoing support from Ngalaya and a First Nations mentor.

As the peak body for First Nations lawyers and law students in NSW and the ACT, Ngalaya is well-placed to draw on the expertise and passion of our members and elevate First Nations voices in law reform processes.

Ngalaya means 'allies in battle' - and providing space for First Nations lawyers and law students to network and connect is invaluable. We partner with law firms to host networking events, such as the annual First Year Indigenous Law Student Networking Event hosted and initiated by Gilbert + Tobin.

Our partnership with organisations including the Tenants Union, CLCNSW, and BarNet enable us to provide Ngalaya members with access to professional development opportunities and Jade.