Lunch Law Talks: Topical conversations on contemporary legal issues

Please join us for our monthly Lunch Law Talks - topical conversations on contemporary legal issues hosted by Professor David Heilpern 

Southern Cross University Law has built on the momentum of three highly successful conferences in recent years by exploring new ways to share our passion for legal scholarship with the wider community. During a planning session at The Campus Grind, our team identified an exciting opportunity to use this welcoming space to host a series of lunchtime conversations on engaging, law‑related topics.

These sessions will feature guest speakers from a variety of disciplines, offering diverse perspectives on contemporary legal issues. We also plan to record selected discussions as podcasts, extending their reach beyond the campus. In collaboration with The Campus Grind, we aim to offer an affordable lunch option on event days to encourage participation from students and staff alike.

Where relevant, the series will also include topics aligned with HSC curriculum areas, providing local high school students with valuable insights into legal studies and university life.

We are delighted to bring this initiative to the community and look forward to piloting the program in 2026.

Event Details

Date: Tuesday 10th March, 2026

Time: 1pm-2pm 

Venue: Campus Grind, Lismore Campus

To launch our event we have two fascinating panellists who will personalise and inform on the issue of cannabis law from a criminal law and health regulation perspective. Our Dean of Law, Professor David Heilpern will facilitate.

This will not be a political rally cry or even centred around law reform – instead we want to explore the personal and professional journeys of two key figures in the debate, and place this within a legal context.

Michael Balderstone somehow drifted from London stockbroker to Nimbin based activist for drug law reform. He helped kick off (with David Heilpern) the very first MardiGrass, which has continued as Australia’s leading talk-fest on all things drug law for over 30 years. Michael has lived, breathed and lobbied on this issue for over 35 years – why, where does he find the energy, and how can you be an effective advocate when you are stoned much of the time? Or is he?

Jon Wardell……

This will be a riveting conversation, and there is nothing like being there live to ask questions, heckle or snigger. Please, bring your friends and your enemies, your work colleagues and your family for our inaugural Lunch Law Talks.

Let’s make Campus Grind buzz like it was the 70’s. Be there or be square. No need to book.