Q: Who's allowed to come to Women's?

A: If you are

- female
- currently studying at a tertiary institution or in Year 12
-interested in debating with the best in Australia, improving your skills, attending social events, or just generally having fun

this tournament is for you.

...However if you are female and still at school, particularly in years 10-12 (particularly if you live in Canberra) we would love you come along and help at the tournament... with timekeeping, the chairing of debates and in the tally-room. We would really value your help. And we hope that through working with and watching some of Australia's very best debaters you will learn a lot about the art of debating and develop your own skills!

Q: What format will the debates take?

A: Women's is a British Parliamentary style debating tournament. This means that teams are composed of two members and debates are between four teams, two of which are affirmative and two negative. This might all sound a little scary, but don't panic! There will be an exhibition debate and training seminar at the beginning of the tournament, so if you've never participated in British Parliamentary style debating before, it won't be a problem.

A: Yes! The Championships are designed to help novice debaters improve their skills and gain confidence. There is a tournament requirement that all teams have at least one novice member (for further details see our policy page). And because it is an exclusively female tournament, the environment is a little more friendly and unthreatening and is just plain nice for women debaters in general.

Q: How much will it cost to compete?

A: $150. This covers accommodation for three nights, plus most meals and social events. It's a bargain!

Q: I know someone in Canberra - if I stay with them, will that make registration cheaper for me?

A: No. In order to keep costs down, we've instituted a flat registration price for all participants, so that those unlucky enough not to know people in Canberra don't have to pay more.

Q: What's this fairy party all about (click here to check out our planned itinerary); and
Do I have to bring a costume?

A: The fairy party is one of the fun social events we have planned for the Women's long weekend tournament. The party will basically be a light dinner, with snacks and drinks. We would really like everyone to dress up for this event, so get your fairy wings, glitter and flowy skirts out!

Q: Will there be t-shirts for this year's tournaments?

A: Of course! What kind of tournament would we be otherwise? We've got some great t-shirts made (with the assistance of some of our hardworking committee members) for sale on the weekend. T-shirts will be $15.