The National Championships have been held annually for over 35 years. Each year, a different state will host the Championships in their respective capital city. This year, the National Championships will be held in Hobart. 

The National Championships last for one week, during which a series of round robin debates are held. After seven minor rounds, the competition moves to finals. The top two teams then meet in the Grand Final. 

Debates throughout the week are adjudicated by the most experienced adjudicators from around the country. Towards the end of the week, the official adjudicators from each state and territory meet to select the Australian Schools Debating Team. The Australian team will go on to represent the country at the World Schools Debating Championships. 

The 2009 National Debating Championships were held in South Australia from 16 – 25 July 2009. This Championship would not have been possible without the support of our sponsors and supporters. We thank them sincerely for their assistance.