The Society of University Lawyers existed as an informal meeting of University lawyers for many years, principally based in Victoria. In 2004, SOUL become a national association of Australian University lawyers, based on the model of a similar organisation in the United States, National Association of College and University Attorneys (NACUA). SOUL Inc is now an association incorporated in the Australian Capital Territory. Under its constitution, the objects of SOUL are to:
- foster and promote the exchange of information relating to legal matters affecting Universities and tertiary education generally;
- promote collegial relationships between legal practitioners who act for Universities;
- provide support, services and assistance to, and promote the interests of its members by fostering professional development and other activities which enhance the ability of members to provide advice to and represent Universities;
- host an annual conference dedicated to educating members about legal issues affecting Universities and practice issues for in-house legal practitioners acting for Universities.
Ordinary membership of SOUL is open to legal practitioners employed by a University in the capacity of legal advisor.