Mal’s mission

For Mal Athauda, university is all about learning, growing, and making a real difference. Sure, lectures and exams are part of it, but what really drives him is putting his studies into action to support his community and promote fairness for all.

“It was social justice and community advocacy that really drew me to law,” he explains.

Born and raised in Newcastle, with Sri Lankan roots he shares, “I’ve lived in Newcastle my whole life. Studying here means I get to stay close to my family, friends, and everything I love about this city.”

Mal’s studying a combined Bachelor of Criminology / Bachelor of Laws (Honours), mostly at NUspace, with a few electives at Callaghan. He came straight from high school through the Year 12 Early Entry Program .

“I saw university as not just an interesting learning experience for studying my degree, but a stepping stone for my future career goals,” he says.

When he’s not studying, you’ll find Mal painting, walking along the beach, at the gym, playing badminton with his dad, or catching up with friends. He’s always on the move.

A big part of what makes university enjoyable for Mal is the people he meets and the communities he’s part of.

“I have met some wonderful people through university. I have friends in older years within the Law degree too who provide me with advice and support as I navigate my first year.”

He’s also involved in the University of Newcastle’s Law Students Association, the University of Newcastle Criminology and Criminal Justice Society, and the Newcastle University Sri Lankan Association, “which have all provided me with meaningful friendships with students from all years and from different degrees,” he explains.

For Mal, combining law and criminology just made sense.

“I chose to study law due to my passion and drive to be an advocate in the area of social justice, and Criminology offers a more psychological understanding of offenders and victims and the impact of the law on society as a whole,” he explains. Together, they give Mal the perspective and practical skills he needs to make a real difference in the community.

The hands-on experiences in the program are a highlight for Mal.

“The quality of my education is incredible. As a first-year Law student, I can sit in and observe real client interactions at the Newcastle Legal Centre,” he says.

Later, he’ll take part in Law on the Beach, offering free legal advice in a relaxed, community-focused setting, and complete a placement in his final years.

“These practical experiences allow me to see first-hand how the theory operates and applies in practice.”

Mal is also gaining practical experience outside the classroom, working as a Legal Assistant at a Newcastle law firm.

“It’s helping me get practical skills like file management alongside my studies,” he notes.

When it comes to classes, Introduction to Criminology 1 (CRIM1010) stands out.

“It was so interesting to learn about the theories each week as to why people commit crime,” he shares.

“The tutorials within this course were always focused on real examples or case studies, and the class discussions really deepened my understanding.”

Support from lecturers and tutors also makes a difference.

“They’re really passionate, and I can chat to them about the course whenever I need,” he notes. He also enjoys elective courses, which let him explore topics outside his degree.

He loves the Newcastle’s City campus, NUspace, which is conveniently located near the Newcastle Law Courts. The collaborative classrooms, great study spots, and nearby food options make it perfect for catching up with friends. For quieter study sessions, you might find him at the Auchmuty Library on Callaghan campus.

“These spaces have low-lit lighting, have monitors, and are also nice to bring friends to due to the meeting rooms that we can book for the day,” he says.

Mal is a proud Ma and Morley Scholar, which he says has “helped immensely”. The Ma and Morley Scholarship has helped Mal centre his values or equity, justice and cultural respect within his studies of law and form meaningful friendships with diverse people.

Looking ahead, Mal’s aiming high.

“I plan to use my knowledge and skills to work in-hand with organisations that provide legal advocacy for the disadvantaged, such as Legal Aid. My long-term goals are to start a pro bono clinic specialising in human rights cases for vulnerable groups, and eventually become a Law professor through postgraduate studies,” he shares.

He encourages other students to dive in and explore everything the program offers.

“Look at all the opportunities offered for your specific interests and passions within the law program,” he says.

“This, combined with all the practical experience that is embedded through the Newcastle Legal Centre, will provide for endless opportunities for improvement and real-world experience in the legal sphere to achieve your individual goals.”

For Mal, what started as an interest in social justice has grown into a clear path forward. Through hands-on learning, supportive communities, and real-world experience, he is building the skills and confidence to make a lasting impact in the legal field.

The quality of my education is incredible. As a first-year law student, I can sit in and observe real client interactions at the Newcastle Legal Centre.