THE 2025 ALSA
Negotiation
Challenge
Think you’ve got what it takes to strike the perfect deal?
Put your communication, strategy, and problem-solving skills to the test in the inaugural ALSA Negotiation Challenge - one of the most dynamic and intellectually engaging competitions on the ALSA calendar.
In teams of two to three competitors, participants will take on a complex negotiation scenario designed to mirror real-world legal and commercial challenges. Competitors will be judged on their ability to think critically, work collaboratively, and achieve creative, mutually beneficial outcomes under pressure.
There’s no cap on the number of teams per university, and participants are welcome to form teams with students from any Australian law school — making this an inclusive and truly national competition.
The Preliminary Rounds will be held online every Saturday from 15 to 29 November, giving teams the flexibility to compete from anywhere in Australia. Successful teams will advance to the Semi-Finals on 30 November, also conducted online.
The top two teams will then earn the opportunity to travel to Sydney to compete in the Grand Final on 13 December, showcasing their negotiation prowess before an expert judging panel of legal professionals and industry leaders.
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or new to negotiation, this is your chance to sharpen your advocacy and communication skills, expand your professional network, and represent your university on the national stage.
Key
Dates
Round 1 - 15 November
A property developer and an environmental NGO face off over a proposed coastal development, with both sides aiming to find a solution that supports economic growth while protecting the environment.
Teams will negotiate key issues including the scale and location of the development, environmental safeguards and offsets, public engagement strategies, and timelines for monitoring and compliance. Success will require creative problem-solving, strategic compromise, and the ability to balance competing priorities for long-term impact.
Can your team build a deal that satisfies both profit and preservation?
Round 2 - 22 November
A cutting-edge biotech startup and a global pharmaceutical giant are locked in negotiations over a groundbreaking new medical technology. The startup wants to protect its intellectual property and retain creative control, while the corporation seeks an exclusive license to commercialize the innovation worldwide.
Teams must navigate a high-stakes negotiation involving licensing terms, royalty structures, confidentiality, and future development rights, all while balancing legal precision with commercial strategy.
Can your team strike a deal that protects innovation and profits
Round 3 - 29 November
Two private aerospace companies are vying to secure joint access to a high-demand satellite launch site. With tight regulatory constraints, massive financial stakes, and international liability issues on the line, both sides must find common ground - without sacrificing their competitive edge. Teams will need to balance innovation, risk management, and diplomacy as they negotiate terms covering launch scheduling, data rights, and responsibility for potential damages.
Will your team keep the mission on track or crash back to Earth?
Semi-Finals - 30 November
Topic to be revealed!
Grand-Finals - 13 December
Topic to be revealed!
**Please note the full problem question will be released to students at least 4 days before the relevant rounds.
Registration is $49.50 per participant.
Click the on the Registration Link to secure your spot. Places are limited so don’t miss out!