- October 13, 2026
12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Who should sit at the counsel table in an arbitration? Ciarb Australia Young Members Group presents a well-spirited debate on the motion “Bigger is Better”, testing the case for large-firm teams against boutiques and independent practitioners, and the case for large-firm advocates against the independent bar.
As clients press harder on cost and efficiency, the composition of the arbitral team has become a live commercial question rather than a matter of habit. Four junior and mid-level practitioners from both sides of the profession will argue the point, and attendees will leave with a clearer view of how arbitration teams are likely to be built over the next decade.
The event takes the form of a debate rather than a panel discussion or the delivery of papers. Four speakers, drawn from the Young Members Group Steering Committee, the Victorian Bar and the co-host and other firms, will divide into affirmative and negative teams, with a moderator and an adjudicator who will deliver short reasons for the result. The format is intended to give junior practitioners an accessible way to take part in Australian Arbitration Week. A self-serve lunch is provided by Pinsent Masons.
Independent Arbitrator and Counsellor View profile »
Senior Project Manager, Johnstaff View profile »
Managing Senior Associate, Pinsent Masons View profile »
Senior Associate, Allens View profile »
Victorian Bar, Owen Dixon Chambers West (Young’s List) View profile »
Level Twenty Seven Chambers View profile »
Date: Tuesday, 13 October 2026
Time:
Registration: 12pm
Commence: 12.15pm
Networking: 1.30pm
Conclude: 2.00pm
Venue:
Pinsent Masons
Level 46, 101 Collins Street
Melbourne VIC 3000
RSVP: By no later than Friday, 9 October
Enquiries:
Kristian Maley
kristian.maley@ciarb.net.au
Phone: +61 412 424 626
About the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators
Since 1915 the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators exists for the global promotion, facilitation and development of all forms of private dispute resolution. In addition to providing education, training and accreditation for arbitrators, mediators and adjudicators, Ciarb acts as an international centre for practitioners, policymakers, academics and the business community. Our international membership of over 19,000 professionals spans more than 150 jurisdictions, connected by over 40 active Ciarb Branches worldwide. We support our members with learning and networking opportunities, qualifications, mentorship, research and resources, events and best practice guidance via our global branch network.
Ciarb Australia Branch, formed in 1995, provides tailored support for its membership and is involved in legislative policy and the development of legal principle. Branch membership comprises eminent and experienced professionals with globally recognised qualifications, resolving disputes in a wide range of sectors including major infrastructure and construction, transport, energy and resources, maritime, sport, finance, IT, the arts, media and government schemes.
