03/06/2026
Day 2 Legal Studies Excursion Sydney
"Our final day in Sydney began bright and early with breakfast at the hostel before setting off for another packed day of learning and exploration. Of course, no excursion morning would be complete without a second round of snacks on the way to our first destination!
We spent the morning at the Downing Centre as part of the Law Day Out program with the Rule of Law organisation. A highlight was meeting Minister Jihad Dibb, who spoke with us about how legislation is passed through Parliament and the important role the court system plays within Australian democracy. We then had the opportunity to observe courts in session, allowing us to see the law in action and connect our classroom learning with real world experiences.
After a quick lunch stop at Martin Place, we made our way to NSW Parliament House, where we were fortunate enough to witness legislation being read into Parliament for the second time. This was a fantastic opportunity to see another part of the democratic process firsthand.
We were also privileged to meet with our local Member of Parliament, Janelle Saffin, who generously gave her time to speak with us about issues affecting our electorate. Students asked thoughtful questions, shared their perspectives and discussed what matters most to young people in our region. A huge thank you to Janelle and our wonderful Parliament House guide for helping make this experience so memorable.
As we make our way home, there has been plenty of time to reflect on what has been an incredible two days. From courts and Parliament to ferry rides, city lights, Korean BBQ, cultural experiences and countless kilometres of walking, the excursion was packed with opportunities to learn beyond the classroom.
It was most certainly an incredible trip, full of culture, learning and lots of laughter!
We return home tired but with many great memories, new experiences and a deeper understanding of how our legal and political systems work in practice."
Student experiences:
“I loved walking around Vivid, talking with that guy in parliament, eating at butchers buffet and exploring China town and the museum.”
“I loved the whole experience whether it came to seeing Sydney for all its glory whilst VIVID was on, or when I got to see live courts in session and so much more!”
“I loved seeing all the old buildings and churches and sitting in on parliament”
“I learned that the age an Australia citizen can get sentenced as an adult is 10 and in general more about the parliament”
“I loved the all you can eat Korean barbecue”
“I loved the 24 kilometres walking through the city”