Year 12 student Sebastian has been selected as one of only 120 students from across Australia to attend the 30th National Schools Constitutional Convention (NSCC), held at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, Canberra.
The NSCC provides senior students with an opportunity to engage in national discussions about Australia’s Constitution and governance. This year, delegates will explore the topic, ‘Revisiting Sections 51ii and 90 to Reimagine Australia’s Fiscal Federalism’, guided by experts in the field.
Sebastian’s journey to selection was highly competitive. “There were two big stages in my journey,” he explains. “First, I had to write an application advocating for a specific law reform—I chose discrimination law. Once my application was accepted, I moved on to the New South Wales SCC, where 120 students from across the state voted on the 30 delegates to represent us at the National Convention. Luckily, I won that vote and was selected!”
Sebastian’s passion for constitutional law and governance stems from a desire to enact meaningful change. “I want to see change in our system, and the best way to achieve that is through politics,” he says. “Australia’s Constitution is such a unique document, and I’m fascinated by the structures that govern us and how they can be improved.”
His time at The King’s School has been instrumental in fostering his interests. “Even in Prep, our teachers encouraged us to engage with issues relevant to us and share our opinions. That struck me as fascinating even then. The opportunities to further my passion since have been uncountable,” he reflects.
A talented public speaker, Sebastian has honed his skills as Debating Captain and through programs such as Debating, the Twelve Club and the Student Colloquium. “King’s has provided so many opportunities to engage in informed debate, which has given me the confidence to express my beliefs and have them tested against different perspectives.”
He also credits the mentorship and support he has received at the School. “The guidance of my history debating coach and NSCC mentor, Ms. Squillacioti, has been invaluable. She has helped me develop informed opinions and the knowledge necessary to participate and succeed.”
At the Convention, Sebastian is most excited about engaging in discussions on fiscal federalism with fellow students and experts. “It’s a fascinating and often overlooked topic, despite its importance to how Australia functions. Comparing our system to other federal nations and debating its future is an opportunity I’m really looking forward to.”
Beyond this event, Sebastian aspires to a future in international relations and diplomacy, with a possible path into politics. “There is a lot of change I’d love to see, so I could definitely see myself entering politics. But I also love languages and global affairs, so diplomacy would be an incredible field to work in.”
For younger students hoping to follow a similar path, Sebastian has simple advice: “You only have a limited time at school to engage with new ideas and challenge yourself. Don’t wait—start as early as possible so you can do as much as possible. Law and governance are such wide fields, and if you get in early, you can figure out what you love the most.”
The King’s School congratulates Sebastian on this remarkable achievement and looks forward to seeing him make his mark on the national stage.