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.
Senior Public Speaking Competition 2025 - Online
Students will be required to submit an unedited video of a 6-8 minute speech on a topic of their choosing, which must be persuasive in nature. This will then be assessed by two DAV adjudicators who will provide a score and written feedback by email. Top ranked students will progress to a finals series, which will require a second video speech to be submitted. There is no limit to the number of students that can participate, but a maximum of three students per school will be permitted to progress to finals.
Who: Students in years 11 and 12
Format: Students will present one prepared speech* (6-8 mins)
Cost: $20 per student
* Students will present prepared speeches on a topic of their own choosing. This speech must be persuasive in nature.
To register, complete this form. Registration closes at 5pm, Friday 2 May or when we reach capacity.
Senior Public Speaking Competition 2025 - Face to Face
The Senior division is for students in year 11 and 12. Students will be required to present a 6-8 minute speech on a topic of their choosing, which must be persuasive in nature, as well as two impromptu speeches.
When: Sunday 4 May
Where: St Kevin's College
Cost: $45 per student, maximum 6 students per school
To register, complete this form. Registration closes at 5pm, 18 April 2025 or when we reach capacity.
Finalists will be notified at TBC.
To have a better understanding on how our adjudicators mark speeches, see Public Speaking Adjudication Criteria.