Welcome to the DAV Website
The DAV is a non-profit association which exists to promote debate. It
is the peak debating body in Victoria and runs large competitions for
adults and for schools across Victoria. It provides training and
resources for debaters, teachers and adjudicators.
Regional Debating Days
Throughout terms 2-4 the DAV runs a number of Regional Debating Days at host schools across Victoria. These programs are an excellent opportunity for students in years 5 and 6 to put their skills to use in ‘friendly’ debates with students from other schools. We welcome first time debaters as well as those who have previously participated in our programs.
Days are run within school hours, with teams of 4 to 9 students participating in three debates (two will have prepared topics and one will have a secret topic announced on the day). Accredited DAV adjudicators provide students with feedback after each debate.
No debating experience is required, although these days assume that students are familiar with the very basics of debating. Schools may register up to four teams per regional day, but are only guaranteed entry of two teams, subject to regsitration numbers. The cost per team is $105. Schools will also be charged a membership fee of $40.
- Click here to download the information pack
- Click here to download the host school guide
Please note:
- Timing for prepared speeches is 3-4 minutes
- Timing for secret topic speeches is 2-3 minutes
- Students not speaking in a debate may not assist speakers during the debate
- Teachers and parents should not assist students during secret topic preparation
- No electronic devices are to be used during debates or secret topic preparation
2026 Registration
To register for Primary Schools Program 2026, please fill out this form.
2026 Region Dates
Additional regions will be added as dates are confirmed.
| Status | Region | Venue | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| OPEN | Brunswick West | St Joseph's Brunswick West | Tuesday 8 September |
| CLOSED | Caulfield | Caulfield Grammar School (Shelford Campus) | Friday 31 July |
| OPEN | Caulfield 2 | Caulfield Grammar School (Shelford Campus) | Friday 16 October |
| CLOSED | Cranbourne | Tuliallan Primary School | Wednesday 6 May |
| CLOSED | Hawthorn | Scotch College | Friday 4 September |
| CLOSED | Preston | St Raphael's Primary School | Monday 15 June |
| CLOSED | Templestowe | Templestowe Park Primary School | Tuesday 23 June |
For more information, or to add your school to our mailing list, please contact the office.