2020 Careers Handbook

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS BLACKSTONE

2020 Careers Vice-President: Zac Bosnakis 2020 Marketing Vice-President: Karnabi Hughes 2020 Careers Sub-Committee: Catie Hughes, Shaneli Dias, Joseph Chan 2020 President: Andrew McDade

MAJOR SPONSOR

PRINTING

CONTRIBUTORS Adam Rompotis, Aidan Ricciardo, Aisyah Ishak, Alex Cook, Bella Hancock, Calvin Rokich, Deputy Chief Magistrate Elizabeth Woods, Eloise Hopkinson, Edward Greaves, Hon. Robert French AC, Hon. Stephen Smith, Hon. Wayne Martin AC, Isabella Cameron, John Scott, Joshua Sanchez-Lawson, Julia Henry, Kenneth Chen, Linda Nguyen, Patricia Cahill SC, Patrick Mackenzie, Siobhan Nims, Sue Holgate, Zoe Timms

CORPORATE SPONSORS Allen & Overy, Allens, Ashurst, Bain & Co, Baker McKenzie, BCG, Bennett & Co, Clayton Utz, Clifford Chance, College of Law, Corrs Chambers Westgarth, Curtin PLT, DLA Piper, EY, Gilbert + Tobin, HBA Legal, Herbert Smith Freehills, HHG Legal Group, HopgoodGanim Lawyers, Jackson McDonald, Johnson Winter & Slattery, Jones Day, King & Wood Mallesons, K&L Gates, Lavan, Lawyers on Demand, LegalSuper, Leo Cussen, Mills Oakley, MinterEllison, Norton Rose Fulbright, Pragma Lawyers, Sparke Helmore, Squire Patton Boggs, Steinepreis Paganin, Thomson Geer, Tottle Partners, Williams + Hughes, Wotton + Kearney 3


CONTENTS Acknowledgements Foreword Editorial

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CAREERS TOOLBOX Clerkships Victorian Clerkships Practice Group Insights Key Dates Application Application Tips cvMail Crafting Your CV Sample CV Cover Letters Sample Cover Letter Interviews Graduate Positions Admissions

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PRACTICAL LEGAL TRAINING The College of Law Curtin PLT Leo Cussen Centre for Law Piddington PLT

36 38 40 42 44

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COMMERCIAL FIRM DIRECTORY Allen & Overy Allens Ashurst Baker McKenzie Bennett and Co Clayton Utz Clifford Chance Corrs Chambers Westgarth DLA Piper EY Gilbert + Tobin HBA Legal Herbert Smith Freehills HHG Legal Group HopgoodGanim Lawyers Jackson McDonald Johnson Winter & Slattery Jones Day K&L Gates King & Wood Mallesons Mills Oakley MinterEllison Norton Rose Fulbright Pragma Lawyers Sparke Helmore Lawyers Squire Patton Boggs Steinepreis Paganin Thomson Geer Tottle Partners William + Hughes Wotton + Kearney

46 48 52 56 60 66 67 70 74 78 81 84 87 91 96 100 103 106 109 112 116 120 124 126 129 132 135 139 142 145 148 151


COURTS High Court Associate Federal Court Associate Supreme Court Associate

154 156 158 159

GOVERNMENT AAT ACCC & AEC ALRC ATO CCC CDPP Commonwealth Ombudsman DFAT DPC ICWA Legal Aid WA ODPP WA Ombudsman SSO

160 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 174 175 177

COMMUNITY LEGAL CENTRES Aboriginal Family Law Services Citizens Advice Bureau Consumer Credit Legal Service Employment Law Centre Environmental Defenders Office Fremantle Community Legal Centre The Humanitarian Group Mental Health Law Centre Street Law Centre WA Inc Sussex Street Legal Centre Tenancy WA Welfare Rights and Advocacy Services Women’s Legal Service WA Youth Legal Centre

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MANAGEMENT CONSULTING Bain & Company Boston Consulting Group Consulting at BCG

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ARTICLES FROM THE PROFESSION Day in the Life of a HSF Grad Pathway to HSF Working for a National Firm Path to Commercial Law Q&A: Life of a Graduate Disputes Innovation Tips for Young Lawyers Commercial Barrister Criminal Barrister Life as a Criminal Lawyer Life as a Family Lawyer On Being a Magistrate Life in Government Working in Government 180 Alternative Path: Business 182 Q&A: Academia 183 185 186 187 189 190 191 192 193 194 195

206 208 210 212 213 214 216 217 218 220 221 222 223 224 225 226 227 228

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FOREWORD Adjunct Professor The Honorable Wayne Martin AC QC Chief Justice of Western Australia 2006 - 2018 Recognition of law as an academic discipline appropriate for study at university level is a relatively recent phenomenon. Viewed in the millennial history of universities, law has only been studied academically for a little over two hundred years. Before then, and well into the twentieth century, the dominant paths to legal practice were forms of practical legal training in the workplace. The current Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia took that path into the profession. Lord Neuberger, recently retired President of the UK Supreme Court studied law for a total of 2 years and learnt the rest “on the job”. All that has changed. Law is now recognised as a field of study which prepares graduates for a wide range of careers - not only legal practice. This edition of the Careers Handbook, like its predecessors, will provide students with the practical tools and information needed to plot their preferred course in an increasingly complex vocational labyrinth. In the past, students had to rely on friends, or friends of friends, to gather the practical information needed to make informed career choices. This handbook gives all students a “friend” to whom they can turn for information on a wide range of career options. Practical guidance is provided to all aspects of the job market - from preparing applications and CVs, to interview preparation and etiquette, along with guidance on practical legal training. It surveys a broad field of opportunities, including commercial law firms, judge’s associate positions, government positions - legal and non-legal, legal aid, Community Law Centres, and other fields such as management consultancy. A few practical tips: 1. Try and find something you like doing. If you like doing it, not only will you have a happier life, but you will do it better than something you do not really like. 2. Don’t focus on the money. If you do your work well, because you like it, the money will follow. Almost all careers you are likely to follow using your legal training will enable you to live comfortably. The difference between a comfortable income and a really good income is a big tax bill. You don’t need a Mercedes and a skiing holiday every year to live well. 3. Plan logically - perhaps using a decision tree - eg. ask first if you want to stay in WA or move away. If you want to move - where to? As a graduate your options will initially be Australian based, but with more experience the world is your oyster (travel bans permitting!). Do you want a position that offers international possibilities? Next, do you want to practice law? If not, what else might you do - accounting, management consultancy, merchant banking, government, business etc.? If you want to practice - in what environment - perhaps a commercial law firm - and if so, large or boutique? - or a small law firm dealing with family law and small business, or government - and if so, State or Federal? I’m sure you get the drift. 4. Don’t look too far ahead. If you are planning to practice law, you won’t know what area of practice will suit you until you have tried it. I left law school convinced that I would be a criminal defence lawyer and found that I much preferred commercial litigation. Don’t plan on becoming a partner in a major firm until you have seen what work/life compromises that will require. Keep as many options open as you can. Around 5 years is a good range. 5. Go back to 1 - above all, try and find something you like!

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EDITORIAL Andrew McDade President

Karnabi Hughes Zac Bosnakis Careers Vice-President Marketing Vice-President

Welcome to the 2020 Careers Handbook! What am I going to do after I graduate from Law School? It is an easy question to answer for some and a tougher question to answer for others. This year’s Handbook is designed to help you answer this question by collating insights and advice from a range of legal and non-legal professionals. No matter your end goal, there are nuggets of wisdom to be gleaned from each piece. And who knows – if you haven’t yet decided upon your end goal, the experiences of those who have gone before you may help you find your path! The Juris Doctor provides us with a very broad foundation of knowledge, upon which our legal careers will ultimately be built. However, as students, our view of what it is actually like to apply that knowledge as a professional may seem somewhat obscured. It is hoped that the firm profiles and personal stories contained in this Handbook will provide you with a better idea of what it is like to apply the material that you are learning in commercial, non-commercial and government contexts. This year, we have recognised the growing number of students who wish to explore international legal careers. As such, we have added a helpful guide to admission in both international and Australian jurisdictions. We have complemented this with a short piece on secondments. As always, the Handbook features a large number of firm profiles. For the most part, these have been prepared by each firm’s Human Resources Manager. If you plan on applying for clerkships or graduate positions this year, it is worthwhile to remember that the same people who drafted those profiles will be assessing your application! If commercial law is not for you, then the ‘Articles from the Profession’ section is the place to turn to! There are a number of non-commercial law professionals who have shared their unique journeys for you to indulge in. Even though we are the editors of the Handbook, it is important to note that this Handbook is not the be-all and end-all. We urge everyone to put their best foot forward throughout the entire application process. No matter how polished your CV and cover letters are, how much you know about each firm that you are applying to, and how familiar you are with the recruitment process, there is always a large number of other things that can be done to improve your chances of securing the position that you desire. Not all of these can be adequately captured by a Handbook such as this. Growing your network by attending networking events, attending careers presentations, and staying up to date with current affairs and the legal climate are all things that can help. We would like to thank the Blackstone Careers team for their support. We would also like to thank the sponsor of this year’s Careers Handbook, Herbert Smith Freehills, for their ongoing support of the Blackstone Society and UWA law students. We hope you enjoy the Handbook and we hope you take away something useful that will assist you with any upcoming applications. We wish you all the best in your future beyond Law School.

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TOOLBOX The Careers Toolbox is designed to assist you through any application process. We have set out techniques for writing cover letters, writing CVs and attending interviews. We have also set out key information regarding clerkship and graduate information, including the recruitment dates for 2020. We hope the Careers Toolbox is useful during the application process, as well as in the future. The Blackstone Careers team has organised a variety of Careers Webinars during semester one to supplement the information provided here. You can access past webinars on the Blackstone website. If you have any questions throughout the year please do not hesitate to ask a Blackstone committee member.


CLERKSHIPS WHAT IS A CLERKSHIP?

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clerkship is an employment experience in a law firm or government department over the summer or winter holidays. They tend to run for 2 to 3 weeks and are generally paid. Clerkships provide students with an opportunity to gain an insight into what practical legal work is like and find the firm that suits them best. Students are given the chance to see how one works and operates in a professional environment. Firms will often offer graduate positions to high performers. Exposure to a variety of firms helps you to decide the career path you wish to pursue. Clerkships are regarded important because many of the large international and national firms tend to only hire graduates that have completed a clerkship with them. However, it is also critical to note that completing a clerkship does not guarantee a graduate position at the firm. Clerkships can give you an insight into the areas of law that do and do not interest you. Some students may even realise that practising law isn’t for them after completing a clerkship, which shouldn’t be alarming as a law degree provides students with so many other opportunities. Regardless, completing a clerkship will still give students invaluable real-life experience and skills that will help them regardless of which career path they pursue. Clerkships are designed for students in their penultimate year of study (students in their second to last year) and these students will generally receive preference over nonpenultimate. However, this does not mean that you cannot apply as a non-penultimate student. Some firms don’t restrict themselves to just penultimate students. If you are a nonpenultimate student, be sure to explain why you did not apply in your penultimate year or why you are applying early. Spend some time and do your research in order to determine which firms would be best to apply for.

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WHAT TO EXPECT

ou will be given real work for real clients. You may be given tasks including sitting in on client meetings and taking notes for your supervisor, attending court, drafting correspondence, researching case law or legislation on complex issues and writing memorandums detailing the findings of your research. If you work for government departments, professional services firms or in other internships, your work will vary. Expect the work you’re given to be quite different from what you’ve learnt at university and embrace it! Don’t forget that a clerkship is also an opportunity for you to figure out whether you would want to start your professional career with that firm or in that area of law.

WHAT IS EXPECTED OF YOU?

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irms do not expect their clerks to know everything. Firms will run a number of training workshops related to research skills, getting to know the firm’s resources, letter writing and drafting memorandums. These exercises will provide you with useful tips and skills, which can be transferred into the remainder of your university studies and future careers. It is important to be yourself! Firms want to see how you fit in with their culture and whether they should invest more time and effort on you. It is also expected that you will work hard and put in effort to meet and get to know the staff. It is important that you are enthusiastic and keen to learn more about the firm, even though the work can be tedious or difficult. It’s also important that you’re professional and courteous (and to handle yourself properly at Friday night drinks...).


BUDDY SYSTEM

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lot of firms have a buddy system in place which means you will be paired with a younger employee, usually a graduate lawyer. You will be partnered with them throughout your clerkship. Your buddy is there to help you with any questions you may have and to assist you when you need it. Don’t be hesitant to ask questions - your buddy was in your position not too long ago. Be sure to interact with your buddy and ask them to coffee if they don’t ask first!

SOCIAL GATHERINGS

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lerkships aren’t just about working! Many firms will organise social events which provide a good break from all the stresses of work and socialise with the wider community of the firm. If your clerkship is in December you will likely attend the firm Christmas party. If your clerkship is in either January or June, the firm will likely host a sit down dinner or cocktail night. Firms will generally host Friday night drinks or sporting competitions to engage with the clerks. It is important to make the most of these events. They are a wonderful opportunity to meet people from other practice groups in the firm and help you to determine whether you would be a good fit at the firm.

GENERAL TIPS

The night before Make sure that you have set your alarm and checked the train or bus times - you don’t want to be late. Make sure you have an early night because you want to feel fresh and ready to go - first impressions count! Dress code Most firms have a corporate attire dress code. For males, this means suits, including a tie. Some firms don’t require their staff to wear ties but it is recommended that you wear a tie on your first day. Be sure to also bring a tie to work just in case you need to go to court or a client meeting. For females, this means a mid-length dress or blouse with a blazer and dress pants. It is normal to feel nervous on your first day Your first day will usually consist of getting to know the other clerks, familiarising yourself with the computer systems, office tours and being introduced to your practice groups. Remember that the firm was confident enough in your ability to choose you among dozens of other candidates. Enjoy yourself!

OFFERS DAY What happens on offers day? If you are lucky enough to get an offer (or even a few offers), you will receive a phone call from the firm (usually HR or your interviewing Partner) any time between 9am and 11am.

Do I have to accept the offer straight away? No, you have until 1pm to decide. It’s very common to thank a firm for their offer and ask if you can call them back with your decision. This gives you the best chance to consider all options you have available. 11


VICTORIAN CLERKSHIPS CALVIN ROKICH

Final Year Juris Doctor Student at UWA

Applying for clerkships is perhaps the most stressful part of anyone’s law degree. For many it’s the first step in their journey to becoming a lawyer after they graduate. The process can feel all the more daunting if, like me, you are interested in working interstate after you graduate. However, fear not, I am here to assuage your fears and share my experience of applying in Melbourne. The Melbourne Process I made an effort to learn all I could about the clerkship process in Melbourne last year. To my delight, the system in Melbourne (unlike Sydney) is ostensibly the same as the one used here in Perth. That means that the information in the Careers Toolbox is transferrable to your applications over east. If, on the other hand, you are interested in Sydney, the process is considerably different, and I recommend checking out Stephen Puttick’s article in the 2018 Handbook to read about his experience applying there. The key difference between Melbourne and Perth are the Law Institute of Victoria’s (LIV) guidelines. These guidelines are signed by almost all of the firms, and are taken seriously by each signatory. I strongly recommend you familiarise yourself with these guidelines, as they have rules for students around how many clerkships you can undertake and how long you can hold your offers open for on offers day. They can be found here: https://www. liv.asn.au/Membership/Young-Lawyers/SeasonalClerkship-Traineeship-Guidelines. Another key difference is that Melbourne clerkships are slightly longer than their Perth counterparts, ranging from three to four weeks (rather than the two to three we have here). On the topic of timing, the relevant dates for clerkships in Melbourne are also unlikely to be completely in line with those in Perth. This meant that I was left waiting for a week wondering about my future while my friends all celebrated their offers. On the bright side, I had a little longer to finish my applications. Make sure you check the dates carefully – they can be found in the LIV guidelines, from which I have extracted the following dates, but make sure you check the dates for each firm you are considering applying for: • Applications open 9am Monday 6 July • Applications close Sunday 16 August • Offers made Wednesday 28 October 12

In relation to offers day, the guidelines require firms to make offers no earlier than 10am. While many firms in Perth make early offers, neither myself, nor any of my colleagues in Melbourne received early offers. This shows that firms take these guidelines seriously. It is also reassuring given we are three hours behind Melbourne in October! Applying from Perth While you can take some comfort in the process being largely the same, there are some obvious practical differences when you are applying to clerk from the other side of the country. The best piece of advice I can offer in this regard is to not neglect your Perth network. I strongly recommend you take advantage of all the Careers events Blackstone has to offer, to develop both your application skills and your network here in Perth. In particular, I strongly recommend still attending the Perth Law Careers Fair as I think it is unlikely you will have the opportunity to attend the equivalent event in Melbourne (nor do I think it is necessary to do so). I decided I wanted to call each firm I would apply to before sending my application. I found the easiest way to do this was to first get in contact with the HR representative of the Perth office (whom you may know from events like the Careers Fair), explain my ambitions to move and ask if they could connect me with their Melbourne counterpart. I found that these requests were always greeted with enthusiasm, and the ensuing phone conversations were incredibly valuable for my applications. First, the calming power of a phone conversation is not to be underestimated. I found my nerves settled after getting to know the person who would be screening my application. Second, I found the HR representatives to be incredibly transparent about their processes as well as having a wealth of knowledge about each firm. If you’re not able to get in touch through a Perth contact I suggest sending a polite email to the relevant HR representative and scheduling a time for your phone conversation. The East Coast LSS’ all publish guides like this one, and they are a great place to look for contact details! When you’re looking for them, just note that they are often called ‘clerkship guides’ or ‘clerkship handbooks’, so broaden your search terms. As for interviews, I strongly suggest you consider travelling to Melbourne. Through my phone conversations, I found that different firms seemed to have different attitudes around physical interviews,


with some strongly preferring it and others seeming to be indifferent. One firm was even generous enough to pay for my flights. However, having attended each interview in person, I can report that all of the firms at which I interviewed were grateful for the effort. I was in Melbourne for a 10-day period during which I interviewed at five firms (and attended the corresponding cocktail evenings). This was a very intense period, but it was manageable. I found firms were accommodating and willing to offer me the earliest interview slots in their available periods to shorten the length of my travel time. More importantly, I felt I was able to get much more out of the process in person. In particular, attending the cocktail evenings was a great way to both meet other students in Melbourne and learn about the firms. These events actually changed my mind about which offers I wanted to accept on offers day. However, I want to stress that all the major firms indicated these events were not essential (although they all suggest it is beneficial to attend), and I believe that they are not a core component of their decision-making process. A piece of advice I was given before applying was not to apply to two offices of the same firm. This is advice I would like to pass forward. In particular, if you are seriously considering applying interstate, you should think carefully about your reasons why. I was (predictably) asked at every interview why I wanted to move to Melbourne; and I suspect the answer of ‘I’m just applying everywhere and seeing where I get’ might not have cut the recruitment mustard. Although, of course, that is just conjecture. I was able to answer honestly that I was only applying in Melbourne with a view to move as a graduate. Remember, firms hire clerks as the first step in their graduate recruitment process! However, the benefit of applying in Melbourne (as opposed to Sydney) is that you can undertake up to three clerkships, and, therefore, could do clerkships in both Perth and Melbourne. I suggest that you think carefully about which firms you want to apply to in which state, and, in particular, about how you present your decision in your interstate interviews. Finally, remember that if you do choose to apply in multiple cities you won’t have the benefit of offers coming out on the same day. That means that you may be left in a position where you accept too many or not enough offers to fill all of your places. My advice would be to have a list of your order

of preference and a strong idea of which city you would rather accept a graduate offer in. That way you can allocate your risk accordingly. You should be thinking about this before you apply anyway, because you don’t want to be left in a position where you are compromising where you live for the firm you want to work for, or vice versa. Leaving the N(W)est I made the decision to apply in Melbourne largely because moving there has been a goal of mine since undergrad. As a law graduate, I also wanted to be exposed to the kind of work they get on the East Coast that we don’t get here in Perth. However, that isn’t to say that if you have aspirations of migrating east, that you have to take the leap at this early stage in your career. There is also merit in starting your career in Perth and moving once you have a few years’ experience under your belt. If you’re not sure which course of action you want to take, applying to some firms over east will give you the chance to interact with lawyers at cocktail evenings and in your interviews who may be able to offer some advice. I found that offices in Melbourne were incredibly diverse when it came to people’s home state (and country!). Having now completed a clerkship in Melbourne, I can even report that over 10% of my group was from interstate. One thing that you will learn (and probably get sick of hearing) is that there is no one career path in law, and everyone’s journey will be slightly different! On that, perhaps trite, note, the ghost of Careers VP past inside me also feels compelled to remind you all that clerkships are not the be all and end all of your legal careers, and there is a plethora of other ways to start your journey. If you have any questions about my experience, I’m usually floating about the law school so feel free to come and say hi or send me a message!

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PRACTICE GROUP INSIGHTS » » » » »

WHAT AREAS OF LAW DO CLERKS GET INVOLVED IN?

Litigation, Dispute Resolution and Insolvency; Commercial Law, Mergers & Acquisitions; Minerals & Resources and Environment Law; Projects, Real Estate and Construction; and Public Law, Constitutional Challenges, Native Title, Litigation for State Projects.

You may also hear the terms ‘front end’ and ‘back end’. This distinction refers to the type of work legal professionals do. Front end includes legal advice given in setting up business activities and operations (including mergers and acquisitions, and contract law) whilst back end refers to the work required when legal diputes arise, typically exclusive to litigation. During your clerkship, the firm will likely hold presentations and seminars from across the firm’s practice groups. These provide great insight into the areas the firm works in and areas you may be interested in. Even if you know what area of law you want to work in beforehand, always try to keep an open mind and try new things - you may find that an area which you first thought was very dull, is actually really interesting.

HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS

EMPLOYMENT, INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS AND SAFETY

Employment, Industrial Relations and Safety (EIRS) is among the most dynamic, interesting, people-focused and strategic of the practice areas large global law firms offer. The problems our team deals with are diverse — they require not only an understanding of the law, but also an appreciation of politics, economics, and human nature. The EIRS team is uniquely placed because we help clients with advisory work while matters are not contentious, but also handle large-scale litigation. Our EIRS team at Herbert Smith Freehills is market-leading, and has been the market leader nationally for decades. In the employment space, we assist employers across the whole employment lifecycle, from recruitment and employment contracts, to dealing with employee performance and conduct, initiatives to drive workplace productivity and change, workplace investigations, the complex outcomes of corporate restructures, and the enforcement of post-employment restraints of trade. We guide clients through dismissal-related statutory claims in the Fair Work Commission and Federal Court, and we also assist clients in dealing with common law claims in the District and Supreme Courts. In the Industrial strategic advice bargaining and to partner with 14

Relations sphere, we provide to our clients on enterprise industrial disputes. We get our clients in ensuring their

industrial relations strategy is aligned with their overall corporate strategy. This places us at the centre of our clients’ corporate strategy and gives us a real ability to shape strategy — we are not just another cog in the system. Our team works with the top industrial relations barristers in Australia on key industrial disputes. In these disputes we appear in the Fair Work Commission, Federal Court, and Supreme Court. Our safety matters range from us advising clients on safety compliance issues, to assisting them with defending prosecutions by regulatory bodies when safety incidents arise. These safety matters intersect with employment and industrial relations issues on a daily basis, and help our lawyers have a well-rounded understanding of how the legal landscape affects our clients and their employees. No two days are alike in the EIRS team. The law in our area is often at the centre of legislative reform, meaning it is constantly evolving. This makes our area not only challenging but dynamic and always interesting. Every business has one thing in common — it has employees. If you want to be at the centre of helping companies resolve issues every business faces and want an environment where you get to work on diverse matters on the advisory side and litigious side, EIRS is for you.


KING & WOOD MALLESONS PROJECTS

The Projects team at King & Wood Mallesons advises the largest companies in Australia on some of their most complex projects. These include mining and resource operations, commercial construction developments, major infrastructure works, oil and gas operations, and renewable energy technologies. The projects that our clients are involved in are incredibly diverse and, as a result, so is the work that you will do as a junior lawyer. In my first six months in the Projects team, I negotiated a mining tenement access agreement, undertook a review of royalty agreements for a major mining company, appeared in a case management hearing at the Federal Court for a native title application, assisted on the sale of a foreign oil and gas company, prepared and filed a statement of particulars in the Mining Warden’s court, carried out environmental due diligences for multiple project financings and prepared a presentation to a client on recent native title cases. During your graduate year, it’s not uncommon to be involved in areas of law that you never studied in Law School. This was certainly the case for me when I joined the Projects team. My team specialises in resources law, tenure, environmental law, planning and native title. Learning as much as I could about each of these areas was a difficult task, but also extremely rewarding. Australia has a comprehensive Commonwealth and State legislative regime in

these areas, and there is a large body of case law and policy. Our role, as projects lawyers, is to assist our clients to comply with that regime whilst also achieving commercial project objectives. Because of the knowledge that you develop as a Projects lawyer specialising in these areas, you will often be asked to help other teams across the firm. For example, the Banking & Finance team may ask you to prepare a due diligence for a mining project that they are financing; the Disputes Team may ask you about offences for breaches of environmental regulations in a construction dispute, the M&A team may seek your help to confirm the tenure needs and risks for a company or asset they are acquiring and the Property team may want to know how contamination risk can be managed in a sale and purchase agreement. It is an incredibly diverse role that touches a number of practice areas and industry sectors. As well as assisting our commercial clients, King & Wood Mallesons has a strong tradition of using our legal skills to give back to the community. Often these pro bono matters give junior lawyers the opportunity to take on more responsibility than usual. One of my favourite pro bono matters involved helping an Aboriginal arts group acquire a piece of land from the State Government so that they could set up an arts centre in Kununurra.

ALLENS

CORPORATE The life of a corporate lawyer is typically portrayed in film and on television as one of excitement and glamour. Although things are not exactly as Hollywood would have you believe, corporate law is still a very popular practice area among lawyers, and for good reason. The work is challenging, complex and often makes the headlines of the Australian Financial Review. Here in Perth, the Allens Corporate practice focuses primarily on mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and capital markets work. Our marketleading M&A team is regularly recognised as among the best in Australia and the wider AsiaPacific region. As a member of the Corporate team, you will have plenty of opportunities to advise large Australian and multinational companies on a variety of interesting and reputationally significant deals. The work of our Corporate practice is incredibly broad, and includes advising on the acquisition or divestment of listed companies (whether by scheme of arrangement or takeover bid), takeover defence strategy, joint venture arrangements, private share and asset acquisitions and divestments, and other corporate governance issues that may arise from M&A activity. We have also advised companies seeking to raise funds on the Australian Securities Exchange by

way of placements and rights issues. As a junior lawyer in the Corporate team, you will be fully immersed in many aspects of these transactions, including taking part in the initial due diligence, through to drafting key transaction documents, and providing advice on any post-completion issues that could surface later on in the piece. You may also be a key point of contact for clients, which is a great experience in itself. A major highlight of being in the Perth Corporate team is that you will work closely with Partners and lawyers of all levels, allowing you to learn and develop very quickly. The collegiate and supportive atmosphere is also indispensable when the work really picks up. Transactions involving public companies will undoubtedly attract increased attention from shareholders, regulators, government and, of course, the media. In this challenging environment, our clients have consistently trusted us to deliver bespoke and commercially sound legal advice, and to guide their boards and key executives through an array of regulatory and other major corporate issues.

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NORTON ROSE FULLBRIGHT Strategic and commercially-focused, Norton Rose Fulbright Australia is at the forefront of cutting-edge restructuring and insolvency work in Australia. We have the nation’s largest Financial Restructuring and Insolvency legal team and have built an outstanding market reputation over many years based on our significant involvement in many high profile domestic and international restructurings and insolvencies. The Perth Financial Restructuring and Insolvency team is led by partners Chris McLeod and Jeffery Black. The team comprises 9 fee earners, including lawyers qualified in Australia, England and Wales and New York. The team specialises in complex restructuring matters and provides strategic advisory services to lenders, insolvency practitioners and corporations. The team also specialises in security enforcement matters and banking litigation. Restructuring The team has significant experience in complex, cross-border and domestic restructuring and insolvency matters, both in and out of court. Jeffery spent 8 years working in New York on a wide range of transactions, including international restructurings and insolvency proceedings, distressed mergers and acquisitions, bankruptcy proceedings under Chapters 7, 11 and 15 of the US Bankruptcy Code and out-of-court workouts. Leveraging off this experience, Jeffery and the team provide clients with commercially focused advice on a range of restructuring options, and are uniquely positioned to assist lenders and large corporate groups with US and other cross border operations and exposures. Deals the team has recently advised on include: 1. advising a public mining resources company on a cross-border creditor scheme of arrangement recently approved by the Federal Court of Australia; 2. acting for the senior secured lender in relation to a key offshore oil and gas asset; and 3. advising a significant creditor in the McDermott International US Chapter 11 bankruptcy case, including advising on the implications of the US Bankruptcy on existing operations, and the pursuit of material domestic claims. Insolvency Advisory The team regularly represents lenders, insolvency practitioners and directors in relation to financially distressed companies.

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FINANCIAL RESTRUCTURING AND INSOLVENCY

The team are experts in advising on: 1. the validity and enforceability of security interests, including claims based on the priorities of securities under the Personal Property Securities Act 2011 (Cth); 2. safe harbour protections afforded to directors of financially distressed, but otherwise viable, companies and the restructuring opportunities the legislative framework can facilitate; and 3. voluntary administration of companies, deeds of company arrangements and liquidation scenarios, and the implications for lenders, other secured creditors and key stakeholders. Recently, the team has advised: 1. on one of the biggest insolvencies in WA history, representing the secured lenders and receivers appointed to an international mining services group (including the former ASX 200 parent company); 2. a domestic financial institution on the US Chapter 11 bankruptcy process in relation to an aviation and emergency services customer who, as a part of its global group, filed for bankruptcy in the US; and 3. an international bank on the enforcement of Australian facilities following the filing of US bankruptcy proceedings by a Fortune 500 global mining business. Banking Litigation The team also specialises in complex insolvency and financial services litigation and contentious security enforcement. Chris, currently the Chair of Norton Rose Fulbright’s Australian Partnership Council, has extensive experience in advising and conducting all aspects of complex insolvency litigation. The team have significant experience in the exercise of enforcement rights in connection with commercially sensitive matters, and advise their clients not only on their legal position and workout options, but also on the management of brand and reputational risks. The team has recently advised in relation to: 1. mothership proceedings relating to unfair preferences and other voidable transactions regarding a former ASX-listed building company; 2. court of appeal proceedings relating to security enforcement and the defence of allegations of unconscionable conduct in lending; 3. public examinations of former officers and investigations in relation to alleged misconduct of a number of directors regarding the failure of a publicly listed construction company and its subsidiaries.


CLAYTON UTZ

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION Our commercial litigation practice group acts for clients in a diverse range of disputes, whether it be a multi-million dollar contractual dispute, an investigation into workplace corruption, or a coronial inquest. We represent clients from a broad range of industries including mining and resources, banking and financial services and agribusiness. Clayton Utz is also a trusted Government adviser in respect of both contentious and non-contentious matters.

eastern states offices.

In addition to standard company vs company disputes, our Perth litigation teams have a range of specialities including intellectual property, insurance, competition law and anti-bribery and corruption. We also work seamlessly as part of the broader national commercial litigation practice group. Perth lawyers routinely work on national matters; assisting and receiving assistance from colleagues in the Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane offices. For larger matters, it is not unusual for Perth lawyers to be seconded for short periods to one of the

Reflecting a nationwide trend, an area of increasing focus is regulatory compliance. Commercial litigators give advice on compliance with the various regulatory regimes that affect our clients. We also advise clients investigations by regulators and represent them at commissions of enquiry, royal commissions or proceedings instituted by regulators (e.g. ACCC or ASIC).

Our commercial litigation teams represent clients in a range of courts and tribunals, from the State Administrative Tribunal to the High Court. However, our lawyers don’t spend all day in court - the litigation practice group also involves a range of advice work, from advising companies of their contractual obligations, to strategy and risk management.

ALLEN & OVERY

BANKING AND FINANCE With over 1,000 lawyers worldwide, we have one of the largest and most international teams of banking and finance lawyers of any global law firm. Few practices can match our top tier position across the full range of financial products. With the global reach and local depth of our practice, international and industry-leading ‘first-of-a-kind’ transactions are our hallmark. Renowned for our intellectual rigor and commercial expertise, our banking and finance lawyers regularly work alongside our other practice areas to develop innovative solutions for our clients. Our Perth banking & finance group works closely with our global network on market leading transactions, both domestic and crossborder (including the wider APAC region, North America, Europe and Africa). The expertise of our lawyers in the energy and resources sector is often drawn on by our other offices around the world. The team acts for project proponents, sponsors and banks on project financing, acquisition and leverage finance, syndicated bank facilities, convertible note and hybrid funding arrangements, commodity finance and equipment leasing transactions. We regularly advise on project structuring and development including joint ventures and offtake arrangements. Recent market leading transactions include acting for: • KfW, IPEX-Bank and NAIF on an AUD134m multi tranche project financing facility to Kalium Lakes for the development of its Beyondie SOP Project, a greenfield

90ktpa Sulphate of potash mine, together with associated infrastructure, including a power plant, gas pipeline, airstrip and accommodation facility, located in the East Pilbara region of Western Australia. This was a fully secured project financing with export credit agency cover from Euler Hermes and included intercreditor arrangements with the lenders to an associated infrastructure company. This deal is a finalist for the Energy and Resources Deal of the Year at the Australian Law Awards 2020. • Fortescue Metals on a USD1.4bn term loan facility with ANZ Banking Group and Industrial and Commercial Bank of China as arrangers, ANZ Banking Group as facility agent and a syndicate of ten Chinese and other international and domestic banks, and the USD1.025m amendment and extension of a USD525m syndicated revolving facility • Pilbara Minerals on its USD100m senior secured project bond issued in the Nordic bond market and used to finance the development of its lithium tantalum mine in the Pilbara region. This was the first Nordic bond issue by an Australian mining company and the winner of Metals & Mining Deal of the Year for IJGlobal Asia Pacific. We have also acted for Pilbara Minerals on an AUD80M convertible bond issue to POSCO redeemable at Pilbara Minerals election together with an AUD80M share issue to POSCO, a life of mine offtake agreement and key joint venture principles for a downstream processing joint venture. 17


KEY DATES

Applications Open

Summer 2020/21 and Winter 2021

Monday 13 July 2020

Perth Law Careers Fair

Friday 17 July 2020

Applications Close

Sunday 9 August 2020

Review and Interview

Late August - Early September

Offers Made

Friday 25 September 2020

Graduate Recruitment 2020 First Round Offers

First Round Offers Made

9am Friday 24 July 2020

First Round Offers Held Open Until

5pm Friday 24 July 2020

Applications Open

18

Graduate Recruitment 2020 Standard Offers

Monday 27 July 2020

Applications Close

Sunday 9 August 2020

Review and Interview

Monday 10 August - Friday 4 September

Offers Made

9am Friday 11 September 2020

Offers Held Open Until

5pm Friday 11 Sepember 2020


APPLICATIONS WHAT DO YOU NEED?

1. COVER LETTER 2. CV 3. MOST RECENT ACADEMIC TRANSCRIPT

Each firm will require you to submit a scanned and certified copy of your transcript, either through cvMail or directly with the firm (depending on the firm’s application process). This means you only need to purchase one official copy from the university.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS

A

s part of their application process, a number of firms require you to answer additional questions. These questions will usually focus on finding out more about you and your achievements, what you can offer the firm, why you decided to pursue a career in law and questions about your level of industry awareness. Typical questions will involve asking you about specific situations, usually outside of university and your studies. For example, you may be asked ‘what do you feel is your greatest achievement, and what challenges did you face in achieving it?’ In other situations, your responses should have the effect of convincing the firm or organisation that you are interested in pursuing a career in law and your willingness to work with that firm or organisation. Such questions may include ‘what is your motivation for seeking a career in law?’ or ‘what has attracted you to this firm or organisation?’ Lastly, firms and organisations want to know that you are interested in the industry and that you will be able to assist their clients and provide innovative solutions. It is important that you conduct research in preparation for these questions! An example question may be: ‘identify a current commercial issue that has attracted your attention recently. Why do you consider it important? Who are the key stakeholders and what are the implications for those concerned?’

I

ONLINE TESTING

n addition to a written application, a number of firms conduct online testing. The purpose of these tests is to assess your personality, your ability to work in a team environment and to guage how you deal with pressure. If you are asked to complete a test, it is recommended that you give yourself ample time to do so, as online testing can be time-consuming. When completing online testing, ensure that you find a quiet place where you will not be distracted.

19


APPLICATION TIPS

1

Always remember that first impressions count! Your written application is the first impression you make to a firm so give it everything!

2

In your written application, ensure you address the selection criteria that the firm outlines. These are usually stated on their website.

3

Try avoiding writing one generic cover letter that can be used for many applications. Every firm adopts different values and beliefs and therefore it is recommended that you tailor your applications to each firm.

4

It is always important that proof-read your application numerous times. You want to make sure that it is free from elementary mistakes.

NETWORKING EVENTS

Many firms host a networking evening or a cocktail function as part of their application process. Firms will usually invite those candidates that have been successful in receiving an interview with the firm. These events are designed to see how you interact with others in a social environment. They provide the firm with a good opportunity to get to know you in a more relaxed setting, away from the stresses of the interview room. At these events, it is best to speak to as many people as possible as doing so will help you to gain an understanding of the culture at the firm. It is also important to meet other applicants as this demonstrates that you are socialable and these people may even become your future colleagues. Tips • Always wear corporate attire; • Be on your best behaviour. Don’t be ‘that person’ who drinks too much; • Make sure you try to mingle and meet new people; and • Just be yourself! The firm has chosen you to be part of this stage of the recruitment process for a reason.

20


CV MAIL WHAT IS CV MAIL?

cvMail is an online platform run by Thomson Reuters which provides information about the legal industry. It is a portal for students to apply to firms for clerkships, graduate jobs and to schedule interviews online. A number of firms, across all the states, now prefer using cvMail as their method of receiving applications. Be aware that firms often vary their application process, so ensure you are aware of any changes before applying.

• •

• • • • •

HOW TO GET STARTED

BENEFITS

It is easy to use; It stores application data so that you can save time when completing multiple applications. It means that you only have to complete the firm-specific parts of the application; You only need to enter your personal and academic details once; It helps you to keep track of closing dates for each firm and the list of firms you have applied for; It enables you to book your interviews online; It allows you to browse detailed information about the firms and their application process; and It sets out other helpful tips such as what to include in one’s application and provides sample cover letters and CVs.

How do I use cvMail? Visit cvmail.com.au to register as a ‘First Time User’. Create an account by inserting your name, email address and a password. You can then login as a registered user using your email address and password. Personal Profile This will ask you to enter your personal information, such as full name, address, email, contact details and any language abilities. Academic Profile Create an education record for each relevant academic course. At first, this will require you to enter details for each course, such as the course name, length, institution, the units completed and the relevant marks. 21


CRAFTING YOUR CV A

Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume is a brief account of a candidate’s education, employment history, qualifications, extra-curricular activities, hobbies and interests. A candidate’s CV is usually sent together with a cover letter and should be tailored to highlight skills and experiences that are relevant to the firm the candidate is applying to. Alongside the cover letter, it is the employer’s first contact with a candidate and therefore quality, presentation, format and structure are all essential.

TIPS

» Use professional language; » Highlight skills and qualifications relevant to the firm’s application criteria; » Attempt to keep your CV to two pages in length; » Proofread your CV and ask family and friends to read over it as well. Spelling and grammatical errors can detract from the message that you are trying to convey; » There is no single correct structure to use. Choose a format that you like and ensure you are consistent throughout; » Use headings to divide your CV into sections, such as education, work experience, achievements and interests; » Avoid using large paragraphs for descriptions; and » Use short sentences and bullet points.

22


1

PERSONAL DETAILS You should include your full name, address, contact number and email address.

EDUCATION You should outline your educational history in reverse chronological order and include the name of the course, the institution and length of study. For tertiary study, you should include your GPA and/or WAM. Feel free to include your secondary study, including your university entry mark.

3

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY If you have extensive and relevant past experience, you may decide to include this first. You should outline all of your relevant work experience, in reverse chronological order, beginning with your present/most recent employment. Ensure you include your job title, start/end employment dates, name of employer and responsibilities. Be sure to include the skills you developed and any achievements or accomplishments if you believe they are relevant.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR In this section, include your involvement at school and university, alongside any community engagement. Examples include university societies, participating in competitions, sporting team or volunteering experiences. You should highlight the skills you developed in these positions, such as teamwork or leadership.

5

2 4

OTHERS You may decide to include other headings to suit your personal circumstances or which may be particularly relevant to the position and firm you are applying for. You can include other headings such as interests, achievements, leadership or completed courses such as first aid or computer proficiency.

REFEREES Referees may be included at the end of a CV as a point of reference which prospective employers may contact. Referees are usually former or current employers, a teacher, or someone who is able to comment on your work and skills in a professional setting. Try to avoid including personal references, such as family members or close friends. Be sure to read the instructions in the application process in respect of the number of referees required. If you decide to include referees, be sure to ask them for their permission and inform them of the position you are applying for and the skills required.

6

23


SAMPLE CURRICULUM VITAE KINDLY ANNOTATED BY CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH

Rachael Zane 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley 6009 | (+61) 778 815 234 | rachaelzane@gmail.com

ST A T E M E N T Whilst studying the Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Western Australia, I have been active in volunteer work, involved in organising and hosting many events, and been involved as the Fashion and Beauty Appreciation Society Vice President. I am a motivated person who enjoys solving problems. I enjoy using my skills and knowledge to find solutions to complicated problems. I am looking to establish a career in an organisation with strong culture where my skills and experience can be utilised and enabling me to further develop my skills to bring continual value to the organisation.

EDUCA T IO N

UNVERSITY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA 2019 – PRESENT

UNVERSITY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA 2016 – 2019

WESTERN AUSTRALIAN CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION 2010 – 2015

AUSTRALIAN MUSIC EXAMINATION BOAD 2013

Juris Doctor

Commented [Corrs3]: If you choose to include a Statement in your resume, make sure you reference your law degree and the content is relevant and up-to-date.

Commented [Corrs4]: Using clear, bold headings is a great way to layout different sections of the resume and make it easy for the reviewer to follow and read.

Consider removing the vertical bullets on the left as this can be distracting and adds nothing to the overall resume.

Bachelor of Commerce

Commented [Corrs5]: Don't forget to include your WAM and GPA for your law degree. If you won any unit prizes or awards, you can also include that information here.

Majoring in Accounting and Finance. (WAM: 75 | GPA: 6) Western Australia Senior High

Head Girl. Numerous awards received including the Caltex All Rounder Award & Most Conscientious Student. (ATAR: 80) th

7 Grade

Performed at the Graduation ceremony for high achievement.

SUEM & WYNN

Vacation Clerk

Aug 2017 – PRESENT

· ·

·

Commented [Corrs2]: Ensure your contact details are correct, and include your LinkedIn profile too, if you have one.

Expected Completion: End of 2022.

W O RK EX PER IEN CE

Commented [Corrs1]: Writing your name clearly at the top of your resume makes it very easy for the reviewer to identify the application.

Three-week full-time vacation clerkship with the commericial team Responsible for administrative duties, liaising with other departments and project problem solving. Involved attending client meeting, drafting documents, researching legal matters and document review.

FUN TRACK

Academic Tutor

Jan 2016 – PRESENT

Teaching, guiding and assisting a large number of students with their academic in preparation for Western Australian Certificate Education. Teach students ranging from year 10 to 12. My abilities to explain abstract concepts in different ways was highly develop through this journey.

Commented [Corrs6]: If you choose to include your high school information, highlight any key leadership roles, achievements or exceptional ATAR scores. Commented [Corrs7]: Remove anything from your resume that is too outdated or irrelevant - including primary school achievements is unnecessary! Commented [Corrs8]: Make sure the timeframes and dates match the time you spent at the organisation - eg. it says "Aug 2017 - present" but the detail refers to a threeweek full time vacation clerkship. Commented [Corrs9]: Proofread your work as simple spelling mistakes can indicate poor attention to detail. Commented [Corrs10]: Try to identify transferrable skills that will relate to working in a law firm. Be consistent with your formatting and use bullet points to outline your experience - as demonstrated with the work experience listed above.

Also, watch your grammar, use the same tense and be more specific - eg. consider including the actual number of students you tutored. Finally, outline how many hours/days per week you spend tutoring.

24


FASHION AND BEAUTY APPRECIATION SOCETY

Vice President

Supervised a team of 30 committee members, responsible for a $50K operating budget. Collaborated with other clubs and societies. The role largely involved stakeholder management, negotiations and crisis management

·

Dec 2018 – Dec 2019

· ·

Top 5 Key Achievements

ü Introduced new portfolios Sponsorship, Promotions and Marketing ü Increased profitability of the clubs by 390% ü Won Best Club, Best PAC Club, and Best Inclusive Event

DOGGY DOG WASH

Founder & Business Owner

2017 – 2019

· · ·

V O LU N T EER IN G

Teach Inc.

EGNITE MENTORING

Dog pampering service. Responsible for professional customer service. Developing clietn relationships and formation of contracts.

Performed support to primary school students from Kindergarten to Year 6 in mathematics. Designed to bridge the education gap for rural students. Mentor

2020

Pitched presentations and campus tours for students from low social economic backgrounds.

K EY SK ILLS • • • •

Leadership Problem Solving Critical Analysis Negotiation

T EC H N IC A L SK ILLS • • • •

Teamwork Communication Presentation Data Management

Commented [Corrs12]: As noted previously, be consistent with your formatting and use of bullet points. Commented [Corrs13]: Remove unncesssary information this can be implied from the name of the business.

Again, included how many hours/days per week you spent working in this role. Commented [Corrs14]: Proofread to avoid obvious spelling mistakes!

Rural Program Tutor

2017

Commented [Corrs11]: As noted previously, include how many hours/days per week you spent working in this role.

• • • •

MS Word MS PowerPoint Premiere Pro NetSuite

R EFER EES Junior Partner

Business Analyst

Suem & Wynn

Best Consultants

John Stamos

David Dobrik

John.stamos@suem&wynn.com

Daviddobrik@gmail.com

• • • •

MS Excel Photoshop Lightroom WordPress/Statmic

Commented [Corrs15]: Outline your volunteering experience the same way you would outline your work experience - put the most recent experience first, use consistent formatting, check your spelling and grammar and include how many hours/days per work you volunteered in each role. Commented [Corrs16]: Don't make the mistake of misspelling the name of the organisation you worked for! Commented [Corrs17]: Key skills sections aren't necessary. Instead, demonstrate and highlight these skills in your work and volunteering experience sections.

However, consider adding a separate section for any languages you may speak, if applicable. Commented [Corrs18]: Consider adding in the software package version you can use, and also your level of proficiency - such as beginner, intermeditate or advanced. Commented [Corrs19]: Reformat the referee details, so the person's name is in bold, rather than their position title.

Make sure the referees are current and, where possible, are people who have directly supervised you.

*Phone numbers can be provided on request

25


COVER LETTERS A

cover letter is a job application letter which candidates use to explain to an employer why they are qualified for the position and why they should be selected for an interview. It is the means by which an employer will be able to gain their first impression of the applicant, and provides candidates with an opportunity to make their application stand out from the rest.

THE ESSENTIALS

Y

ou should set out your personal details in the top right corner of your cover letter. Make sure to include your name, address, email and contact number. Below this, on the left-hand side, you should include the name of the person you are addressing your cover letter to, their position within the firm, the name of the firm and the firm’s address. The use of a heading (in bold) goes a long way to making the cover letter easy to read. Use this to state the position you are applying for - e.g. “Application for 2020 [Firm] Clerkship Program”. Start your cover letter with “Dear [name you are addressing the cover letter to]”. It is best to avoid addressing them as “Sir/Madam” or writing “To Whom It May Concern”, as it shows that you have not researched the firm. If you are ever unsure, ask the Blackstone Careers team or call the firm and ask. In most instances, the application will advise you to address your cover letter to a specific person, usually the Office Manager, Head of Human Resources, Managing Partner or Principal of the firm.

THE BENEFITS OF A GOOD COVER LETTER

A

great cover letter will show off your achievements and focus quite heavily on why you want to work at a specific firm. It highlights how a candidate can contribute to the firm. Further, it shows how a candidate has prepared for their application by researching the firm, the nature of the position and ensuring that they address the selection criteria. It will also give the candidate the opportunity to demonstrate their communication skills and clarity of written expression.

TIPS WHEN WRITING COVER LETTERS

» » » » » » » » » »

26

Make sure you state what year of study you’re in and when you intend to graduate; Keep your cover letter to one page; Ensure your cover letter is addressed to the right person; If you have a particular interest in an area of law you know the firm specialises in, make sure you mention this; Plan and write your cover letters well in advance; Highlight your strengths and how you can use these to benefit the firm; Write in first-person; Do not just repeat your CV. Give practical examples building on your CV; Proofread your cover letter. Be aware that poor spelling and grammar can make your cover letter look weak; and Avoid using big words and colourful adjectives. You should write in plain english and with clarity and concision.


SUGGESTED STRUCTURE

1

INTRODUCTION The introduction should outline the name of your degree, how far into your studies you are, the position you are applying for and when you are expecting to graduate.

ABOUT YOU This paragraph should set out the skills and qualifications you have that are necessary for meeting the selection criteria. You should support this with evidence or examples of your past employment history, extracurricular activities and volunteer positions. Ensure you are emphasising your skills. These skills could include attention to detail, leadership, teamwork and ability to manage multiple tasks at one time. Then, provide examples of how you demostrated those skills in a practical setting.

3

2

THE ORGANISATION This paragraph should outline why you are interested in the specific firm. Use evidence to support this, such as sharing similar values with the firm or identifying appealing aspects about the organisation. Additionally, conduct research into the firm, their various practice groups, any people you have met, interesting work that the firm is currently working on, recent matters the firm has completed or recent achievements or awards the firm has received.

CONCLUSION A conclusion should thank the person addressed for their time and consideration of your application, and state that you look forward to hearing from them. Sign off with “yours sincerely...” or “kind regards...”.

4 27


SAMPLE COVER LETTER KINDLY ANNOTATED BY NORTON ROSE FULBRIGHT

Harvey Specter

Commented [NRFA1]:

333 Bay Street PERTH WA, 6000 0712 345 678 | harveyisthebest@live.com RE: 2019 Clerkship Application

Dear Rand, Kaldor & Zane Human Resources,

I am writing to express my interest in working at Rand, Kaldor & Zane. I find it edifying that Rand, Kaldor & Zane, recognised as a national leader specialising in Commercial Law, has built its success with an emphasis on its people and their diversity. As a penultimate year student in the Juris Doctor at the University of Western Australia, I am looking to gain experience in the legal profession.

I am interest to be in a supportive and collaborative environment where I can challenge myself by learning and applying new skills to the problem at hand. At Rand, Kaldor & Zane, I hope to work with mentors to help them with their cases and clients to allow them to succeed and give back to the society and cultural lives of the community

Throughout my time at university, I have developed leadership, teamwork, analytical and reasoning skills both inside and outside of the classroom, as outlined in the attached curriculum vitae. Throughout my time as a student, I have also developed my legal knowledge and researching skills.

I believe this opportunity will be invaluable as it will allow me to develop my legal skills further while being surrounded by a positive and encouraging environment. I am attracted to Rand, Kaldor & Zane as the firm has an excellent reputation within the profession and values supporting the community through pro-bono work. In addition, the firm values working closely with both clients and community partners to create a socially responsible firm. I strongly believe that working at Rand, Kaldor & Zane will assist me becoming a well-balance and educated professional.

Thank you for considering my application. I welcome the opportunity to discuss this further and can be contacted on + 61 712 345 678.

Kind Regards,

Harvey Specter

28

Commented [NRFA2]: Address the letter to the relevant HR contact, making sure to spell their name correctly.

Commented [NRFA3]: It is beneficial to mention the University you currently attend and what year you are currently in (penultimate). Commented [NRFA4]: Check for grammatical errors before submitting the final copy. It’s often beneficial to have someone other than yourself review the cover letter to ensure it reads smoothly. Commented [NRFA5]: What are you wanting to gain or learn during a clerkship with us? Commented [NRFA6]: Insert full stop. Commented [NRFA7]: Check grammatical errors. Commented [NRFA8]: Amend so it reads “as a university student”. Commented [NRFA9]: Insert comma after further. Commented [NRFA10]: Whilst? Commented [NRFA11]: Amend so it reads “I am attracted to a clerkship program at Rand…” Commented [NRFA12]: Change to “the legal industry”. Commented [NRFA13]: This cover letter is an opportunity for you to provide insight into who you are as a person. Commented [NRFA14]: What are your hobbies? Tell us a bit more about your extracurricular interests and achievements. Do you know anyone currently working at Rand, Kaldor & Zane? (Did you meet an employee at the Career’s Fair or another event, if so what were your thoughts?) Commented [NRFA15]: Too many spaces.


PERTH LAW

CAREERS FAIR 17 JULY 2020

PERTH CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE

29


INTERVIEWS

INTERVIEW OFFERS

Congratulations! Receiving an interview means that a firm believes that you might be a good fit to work with them. The interview is a chance for you to elaborate on your CV, cover letter and achievements to showcase what you have learnt both inside and outside the classroom. This is a chance for the firms to assess whether you are a suitable fit to work at the firm.

TYPES OF INTERVIEWS

There are generally two types of interviews in the legal profession: individual interviews and group interviews.

Individual Interviews

Individual interviews are usually conducted by the human resources team along with another member of the firm in a traditional interview style set up. They are trying to get to know you better and understand how well you could fit within their firm. They are assessing your personality and characteristics and how you would fit into their office culture. They are looking for people they would like to work with, standing shoulder to shoulder. It’s important that you remain friendly and smile.

Group Interviews

Group interviews are designed to assess your ability to work in a team setting. More often than not, you will be required to discuss a problem scenario or case notes as a group. The problems tend to be generic in nature and often focus on ethics and technical related questions. It is important to communicate effectively with your team members and work together to achieve a common goal. Showcase both your ability to lead and your ability to work well as part of a team. If there is a member of your team who is being shy, ask them for their opinion on the matter and empower them to be included into the group. Be careful not to do this in a condescending way though! There will be one or two ‘silent interviewers’ present in the room who will observe the dynamics of the team and assess the problem scenario.

WHAT NOT TO DO

» » » » » »

30

Arrive late; Poor presentation, improperly dressed and or lacking in cleanliness; Bad manners, lack of eye contact; Addressing the interviewer by the wrong name; Inability to listen/not answering the questions properly; and Having little or no knowledge about the organisation.


BEFORE THE INTERVIEW Preparation

The interview stage is a great opportunity for you to set yourself apart from the rest. Be diligent and prepare for your interview by conducting research in order to gain a better understanding of the firm. Interviewers will want you to demonstrate your interest in the law, the firm and exhibit a desire to join them. You should conduct research into the firm’s culture, what they look for in prospective employees and, if you are told beforehand, the interviewers themselves. Be prepared to answer questions regarding some of the experiences that you have outlined in your CV and cover letter.

Be Yourself!

Don’t walk into an interview pretending to be someone else. You want the firm to hire you for who you are not the person that you are pretending to be. Who you are is something special. Read through your CV and cover letter thoroughly. Remind yourself of all the achievements and experiences that you have listed and be prepared to share anything you may have learned. Be honest. Be confident. Be YOU!

Research

The firm’s website is a good place to start when putting your applications together. You will find the firm’s values, various practice areas, employee biographies, recent transactions and information about clerkships and graduate programs. You may also discover whether the firm engages in pro bono or volunteering activities. The Australian Financial Review and Lawyers Weekly are also great sources to help you understand the commercial climate. Many firms will look for candidates that are up-to-date on current affairs, especially those that include clients of the firm.

Networks

Use the network of the people you know to ask them questions. This could be your peers, the Blackstone Committee, or relevant HR departments. Talk to people who work or have worked at the firm that you are applying to. Ensure that you are speaking to a range of people to gain a holistic perspective of the organisation. The key is to try to build relationships early and maintain them throughout the year, so your contact doesn’t feel ‘used’ when you need to ask them for help before an interview. Also remember that people love helping one another and that they will feel honoured that you are asking them for their advice and opinion, so never feel afraid to reach out! Perth Law Careers Fair is a great way to meet representatives from the major law firms in Perth. The Fair offers the opportunity for prospective candidates to ask questions about what they are looking for an applicant. Candidates should also ask representatives what it is like to work at their firm and how they would describe the firm’s culture. These will all form indicators for what the firm is looking for when they are hiring applicants. Whereas many firms would usually run events and presentations on campus, the COVID-19 pandemic has meant that firms have needed to improvise, adapt and overcome various challenges. Firms are doing their best to move their presentations and events online. These presentations will give you a valuable insight into the firm’s recruitment process. These presentations may give you another opportunity to speak to firm representatives to uncover more about the organisation.

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SAMPLE QUESTIONS Personal Questions • Tell me about yourself • Where do you see yourself in five years? • Describe a time you have demonstrated leadership skills? • What is your greatest weakness? • Have you ever had a conflict with another member of a team? • Describe a time when you were faced with a difficult problem. How did you approach it? • What has been your most enjoyable unit? • What has been your least enjoyable unit? • Tell me about a time you worked under pressure? • Why did you leave your previous job? • What is your greatest achievement? • What is your biggest regret? • Describe a time when you had to meet a difficult deadline. How did you approach it? Law Questions • What inspired you to take up a career in the legal profession? • Which areas of law interest you the most and why? • What is a current issue facing the legal profession? How do you see it affecting the future?

Firm Questions • What makes you want to work at this firm? • What skills can you contribute to this firm and this position? • What makes this firm different from other firms? Potential Questions for Candidates to Ask • What is the most exciting and interesting part of working for this firm? • Why did you choose to work here? • What attracted you to working in your practice group? • What is an average day as a clerk like? • How often is feedback provided? • Does the firm engage in any community activities? If so, what community activities have you participated in? • How would you describe the ‘culture’ at the firm? • Does the firm have policies in place for further studies? • How is the health and wellbeing of employees encouraged in the firms? • If you could change one thing about the firm, what would it be and why would you change it?

Towards the end of an interview, the interviewers will most likely ask if you have any questions for them. This is a great way to show your proactive nature and show them that you are prepared. Try some of the questions above to get the ball rolling.

TIPS

• Make sure your clothes are clean and professional; • Ensure you have all the relevant documentation; • Make sure you are on time - punctuality is crucial, so try to arrive at least 10 minutes early; • When you are introduced to your interviewers, shake hands and smile. It is important to remember their names; • Maintain eye contact throughout the interview as it shows confidence; • Being able to answer questions is only one part of the interview. Make sure you listen carefully to the question being asked; • Try not to be nervous. It is important to be relaxed and professional; and • The most important thing is to be yourself.

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GRADUATE POSITIONS A graduate position is the link between your studies and your entry into professional life. Graduate programs give you the practical training and hands on experience necessary to aid your entry into the profession. In the legal profession, a firm’s graduate program typically includes a year-long practical legal training course or articles.

WHEN SHOULD I START THINKING FINDING HELP ABOUT GRADUATE POSITIONS? Your Network Obviously, the earlier you plan for your future the better prepared you will be when the time comes to apply for graduate positions. As a rule of thumb, students should keep an eye on the market from the penultimate year of their degree, in order to make informed decisions about where they want to apply during their final year.

HOW DO I APPLY?

In most instances, an initial application will require a cover letter and CV. Depending on the firm, you may also have to undertake personality or competency testing, or answer further questions about the firm, the position and your suitability for the job. Even if you’ve clerked with the firm you are applying to, some firms may require you to interview again. Others may also host a social event where all applicants can attend and get to know each other.

WHERE CAN I BROWSE GRADUATE JOBS?

In most instances, graduate jobs will be advertised through a firm’s website. Like the clerkship process, research is the key to finding the firm and position that suits you. cvMail is a great starting point if you’re looking to apply for several positions quickly.

Make the most of the people you know! The legal community in Perth is very small, and people are always willing to help. Don’t be afraid to ask questions during this process, as help is always just around the corner. Your peers, Blackstone and HR departments are all here to support you during the recruitment period. Perth Law Careers Fair Building your network is an important skill when entering the workforce. The Perth Law Careers Fair is a great place to start! Here, you will have the chance to meet representatives from the major law firms in Perth. Take this opportunity to find out more about their firms and to ask questions about what they look for in applicants, so you can tailor your applications effectively. You’ll make the best impression if you approach the firms with some knowledge and questions ready to go. This Handbook is the perfect resource to gain foundational insight into some firms. The Fair is the perfect chance to clear up any questions you have. On Campus Events In addition to the Perth Law Careers Fair, Blackstone is running many events to prepare you for the applications ahead. Our webinars give you a valuable insight into the recruitment processes of the firms. Some upcoming initatives include the Blackstone Mentoring Network, Blackstone Chambers Program and the MinterEllison Personal Branding Workshop.

OFFERS DAY

What happens on offers day? Similar to vacation clerkship offers, firms will usually start notifying students of offers for a graduate position at 9am on the day. In contrast to vacation clerkship offers, your offer will be valid until 5pm, to provide you with some extra time to make up your mind. What is a priority offer? Priority offers are now made by many firms to applicants who have previously worked or undertaken a vacation clerkship with that firm.

What is an early offer? A number of firms offer graduate positions to students after the completion of their vacation clerkship. If you are lucky enough to receive one, it gives you assurance for the year ahead! What is a market offer? Some firms also use the standard offer system where all interested applicants are required to submit an application and proceed through an interview process before offers are made. 33


ADMISSIONS At the completion of a law degree, in order to be admitted into practice a prospective practitioner must complete a practical legal training (PLT) course that complies with the training requirements for admission. There are many courses available, including the College of Law, Leo Cussen Centre for Law, Curtin Practical Legal Training and Piddington PLT. These courses usually run for a year and require a prospective practitioner to complete additional study, whilst obtaining a certain number of hours of practical experience. Upon completion of the PLT course, prospective practitioners are required to file a Motion Paper with the Supreme Court at least two months prior to the proposed admission date. This requires you to locate a legal practitioner to move your admission at the ceremony. For more information, see the admissions section of the Supreme Court website. Within two days of filing the Motion Paper, you must then file a Notice of Application for Admission with the Legal Practice Board of WA, together with a copy of the Motion Paper and other supporting documentation. Following the receipt of the application, the Legal Practice Board will place the required advertisements and the Supreme Court will write directly to you to confirm arrangements for the ceremony. The Board will file a compliance certificate with the Court, at least seven days prior to the admission ceremony.

Australia

Western Australia In Western Australia, you are required to have gained a qualification of either a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or Juris Doctor (JD). Graduates must then complete their PLT in the form of Supervised Legal Training and Practical Legal Training Course by approved providers. You then make an application for admission. You will then take and sign the oath and sign the Roll. You will then apply for a Practicing Certificate to practise law in Western Australia. Federal Jurisdiction At a Federal Jurisdiction level, you are required to have gained a qualification of either an LLB or JD. Practitioners are required to be entitled to practice in the Supreme Court of their relevant State or Territory jurisdiction. You must then apply for the entry in the Register of Practitioners kept in the High Court of Australia. New South Wales In New South Wales, you are required to have gained a qualification of either an LLB or JD. Graduates must then complete a PLT in the form of Supervised Legal Training or a Practical Legal Training Course by approved providers. You must then lodge an application for admission, take and sign the oath and sign the Roll of Australian Lawyers on the admission day at the Supreme Court of New South Wales where they will receive their Certificate of Admission.

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After admission you may apply for a Practising Certificate issued by the Council of The Law Society of New South Wales in order to practise law in NSW. Victoria In Victoria, you are required to have gained a qualification of either an LLB or JD. Graduates must then complete a PLT in the form of Supervised Legal Training or Practical Legal Training Course by an approved provider. You will attend a ceremony in the Supreme Court of Victoria where you will take and sign the Oath and sign the Roll. Once admitted, a person may apply to the Victorian Legal Services Board for a Practising Certificate. South Australia In South Australia, you are required to have gained a qualification of either an LLB or JD. Graduates must complete PLT in the form of Supervised Legal Training or Practical Legal Training Course by an approved provider. These qualifications must be formally accredited by the Board of Examiners prior to admission. You must then lodge an application for admission to the Supreme Court of South Australia. Once you have been admitted and sign the Roll of Practitioners, you must apply for a Practising Certificate with the Law Society of South Australia.


International

New Zealand Under the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Act 1997 (Cth), as a registered practitioner in Australia, you are also able to practise in New Zealand. Once you are admitted in Australia, you will then need to be registered by the relevant court in New Zealand. United States The requests for admission vary in the United States from state to state. Generally speaking, either a JD or a Master of Law (LLM) is required before siting the bar examination in the relevant state. The difficulty of the bar examination varies from state to state. Canada Gaining admission in Canada is quite difficult. You are required to have your qualifications evaluated by the National Committee on Accreditation in order to get a ‘certificate of qualification’. The Committee may require you to sit exams on Canadian Law. You may also be required to complete additional courses at a Canadian Law School. In addition, there are specific requirements for each province, and you will have to undertake an articling program. You may need to do less time in this program if you are experienced as a lawyer in Australia. United Kingdom Admission in the United Kingdom requires an LLB or JD qualification. It requires you to take part in a PLT course. Lawyers who have been admitted to practise in Australia are allowed to practise in England and Wales as solicitors by transferring through the Solicitors Regulations Authority (SRA) under the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme (QLTS).

Europe Most European countries require both an LLM and LLB. You must then obtain a licence or diploma in one of the European countries which would allow you to practise in another. Membership of individual bar associations are sometimes required by States to use the title of ‘lawyer’, however, you may still practise law without it. Hong Kong In Hong Kong, you are required to be a valid legal practitioner in your jurisdiction of admission and to practise in the jurisdiction for at least three years. Hopeful candidates need to pass the Barristers Qualification Examination (BQE). Singapore You are required to be a qualified person (UWA graduate in the top 70% of your class), and a permanent resident of Singapore. You are required to pass the Bar before undertaking a five month training course in Singaporean law and finally a six month training contract with a law firm. If you have over three years of experience as a lawyer, you can take the Foreign Practitioner Exam to be admitted instead. Japan An Australian law degree won’t be of much help for practising Japanese law in Japan. You would be required to get dual qualifications. It is therefore more pragmatic to practise Australian Law in Japan as a registered foreign lawyer with the Japan Federation of Bar Associations (JFBA).

SECONDMENTS

A ‘secondment’ is where a lawyer or graduate joins an in-house legal team or travels to work at another location. Secondments can range from intrastate, interstate or even international. Some firms may have a national or international presence and you may have the opportunity to work in those offices for various lengths of time. Secondments are a great opportunity to experience what it is like to work in another country and jurisdiction. Usually, the firm will have processes and policies in place to make the practicing requirments more streamlined. Secondments are also a great way to experience different cultures.

“Several times a year Clayton Utz sends a lawyer on minisecondment to a CLC in Geraldton. I went in 2018 and can’t wait to get back.” - Henry Johnston, Lawyer from Clayton Utz

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PRACTICAL LEGAL TRAINING Practical Legal Training is the next step you will take after completing your law degree in order to be admitted as a lawyer. In this section, we feature profiles from the main practical legal training providers operating in Western Australia.


THE COLLEGE OF LAW Ground Floor,Durack Centre 263 Adelaide Terrace Perth WA 6000

waadmin@collaw.edu.au | (08) 9214 0200

collaw.edu.au/PLT

How does your course differ from other PLT courses? Leading, and in tune with your profession, The College of Law offers the largest range of flexible Practical Legal Training programs, all purpose-driven to put your hard-earned degree seamlessly into practice. With more study freedom, lecturer support and practical taskbased, hands-on learning, you’ll enter the profession with a profile that is more attractive to employers. How is the course structured? 1. Coursework Complete five compulsory subjects and two electives. You will learn through everyday scenarios that parallel real-life practice. More than 90% of your coursework will be delivered online with only 5 days face-to-face attendance. 2. Work Experience Designed to give you an insight into what it’s like to work in a real legal environment, this is your first opportunity to apply your skills to real-life problems. Choose from two formats:

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Short format: 25 days of approved work experience + Clinical Experience Module (CEM)

Standard format: 75 days of approved work experience 3. Continuing Professional Education Open your eyes to the importance of ongoing professional education and career development. Choose 10 units from two series: • Legal Series • Legal Business Skills Series: If you choose to complete all 10 unites from the Legal Business Skills Series, you will be awarded a Certificate of Legal Business Skills Series in addition to your GDLP. When does the course start? We offer more than 25 start dates a year in Perth so you can complete your Practical Legal Training at a time that suits you. How long does the course run for? Our full-time course is 15 weeks. Our part-time course is 30 weeks, and is a good option for students who work full-time or have other commitments.

How do graduates enrol? You can apply via our online application form that will take less than 15 minutes to complete. Simply visit collaw.edu.au What work experience are students able to choose from? We offer two formats for the work experience component of your training: • Short format: 25 days of approved work experience + Clinical Experience Module (CEM) • Standard format: 75 days of approved work experience College students have access to a local Career Coach who can help you with career planning and job searches, applications and interviews. Do you provide full-time and part-time options? You can complete your Practical Legal Training in one of three study modes: online full-time, online part-time or online part-time evening. Choose the mode that suits your goals, timeframe and lifestyle. More information Visit collaw.edu.au/PLT or contact us on (08) 9214 0200 or waadmin@collaw.edu.au.


Activate your career. Practical Legal Training

Ojo Osaigbovo Solicitor, Kirkeby & Co Graduate of the Practical Legal Training Program

Only 5 days face-to-face attendance More than 25 start dates a year in Perth 15 weeks full-time or 30 weeks part-time study options Study at our Perth CBD campus or Murdoch University Access to a local Career Coach to help you with career planning and job searches, applications and interviews. Part of the Western Australian legal profession since 2006

Learn more at collaw.edu.au/PLT

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CURTIN PLT Kent St, Bentley WA 6102

Curtin.PLT@curtin.edu.au | (08) 9266 7798

curtin.edu/plt

How does your course differ from other PLT courses? • Our Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice is the first and only PLT course to be delivered by a Western Australian university; • Online course material is supported through weekly faceto-face seminars and workshops with experienced members of the legal profession; • Practice management software integrated with coursework • Develop your advocacy skills through intensive advocacy training and practice opportunities with an experienced Barrister; • Options to guarantee legal workplace experience in the John Curtin Law Clinic; • Convenient CBD location and state-of-the-art facilities; and • No exams. Can you start before finishing your law degree? You may commence your PLT prior to completing your law degree provided you have no more than two electives of your law degree to complete and have obtained prior approval from the Legal Practice Board of Western Australia. Contact us to find out more about how to commence the Curtin PLT prior to completing your law degree.

How is the course structured? Seven coursework units: • Lawyers’ Skills; • Work Management and Business Skills; • Property Law Practice; • Civil Litigation Practice; • Legal Practice Capstone; • Commercial and Corporate Practice; and • Practice Area Specialisations (complete two electives through this unit). One legal workplace experience unit with a choice of two options: Legal Workplace Experience - 75 days work experience with up to 60 days prior legal workplace experience able to be recognised (subject to our Workplace Experience Rules) Or, Clinical Legal Work Experience – guarantee your work experience through a placement in the John Curtin Law Clinic. Complete ten weeks under the supervision of experienced legal practitioners. The John Curtin Law Clinic is a pro bono legal advice clinic established by Curtin University. You can gain a variety of experience including advising small businesses, individuals, start-ups and not-forprofits, in areas as diverse as dispute resolution, discrimination and commercial law. When does the course start? We offer two intakes per year, January and August.

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How long does the course run for and are there part-time options? The coursework component runs for: • Full-time: 20 consecutive weeks; or • Part-time: 33 consecutive weeks (the August part-time option has an additional period over the December / January holiday period) How do graduates enrol? To find out more or apply, please visit curtin.edu/plt or contact us via phone or email What work experience are students able to choose from? Legal workplace experience may be completed concurrently with the coursework units, subject to our workplace experience rules. Curtin PLT students may apply to volunteer in the John Curtin Law Clinic to complete some of their work experience for the Legal Workplace Experience unit. This option provides you with the flexibility of also gaining experience through opportunities that may arise through law firms and other legal workplace environments. The Clinical Legal Workplace Experience unit guarantees satisfaction of the legal workplace experience requirement and may be completed concurrently with the part-time coursework option.


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LEO CUSSEN CENTRE FOR LAW Building 465, 90 South Street, Murdoch WA 6150

pltadmin@leocussen.edu.au | 1300 039 031

www.leocussen.edu.au/plt

How does your course differ from other PLT courses? • More Career Support: Dedicated Careers Advisor to support your job placement and preparation. • More Mentoring: Receive comprehensive feedback and personalised support from your lawyer mentor, with regular one-on-one guidance as you work. • More Confidence: Build your confidence through continuous practical assessment and individual feedback on your progress. No exams. • More Legal Skills: Experience thorough and personalised training in client communication, negotiation and advocacy. • More Business Skills: Learn effective client engagement, management of deadlines and client billing, just like you’ll need in practice.

How is the course structured? The course is a blend of online and onsite training. In our blended program, you work predominantly online, and complete 13 days of faceto-face instruction over three training sessions. NB: Leo Cussen is here to support you to complete your PLT, whatever the circumstances. We have adapted our courses so you can trust Leo Cussen to continue to provide the finest practical legal training experience while Coronavirus is impacting all of us. In July 2020, the course may be delivered fully online depending on the situation at that time.

When does the course start and how long does it run for? Courses commence in February and July each year and runs for 21 weeks. A fourweek work placement must also be completed. The next course commences on 20 July 2020. How do graduates enrol? Graduates can enrol online at: https://www.leocussen.edu. au/enrol What work experience are students able to choose from? Students who enrol in the Leo Cussen PLT are required to complete a 4-week work experience placement. This placement can be completed in any area of law, anywhere in Australia. Leo Cussen has a dedicated work experience placement consultant to provide support to students. Do you provide full-time and part-time options? The Leo Cussen PLT is a fulltime course.

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We believe that Practical Legal Training should be just that — practical. Build more skills and confidence with a program you won’t find elsewhere.

Enrol now

Get more from your PLT with Leo Cussen • More Career Support Dedicated Careers Advisor to support your job placement and preparation. • More Mentoring Receive comprehensive feedback and personalised support from your lawyer mentor, with regular one-onone feedback as you work. • More Confidence Build your confidence through continuous practical assessment and individual feedback on your progress. No exams.

• More Legal Skills Experience thorough and personalised training in client communication, negotiation and advocacy. • More Business Skills Learn effective client engagement, management of deadlines and client billing, just like you’ll need in practice.

Enrol now

WA PLT intakes Mode

Course

Course starts

Online

Full-time

February

Online

Full-time

July

leocussen.edu.au/enrol

Practical Legal Training Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice Fast track your career with our simulated file program, designed to teach you how to run client matters from beginning to end. Learn e-files, e-conveyancing and investigate how new technologies are impacting legal practice. Stand out by gaining superior skills in client communication and advocacy through our unique program. Start PLT before finishing your law degree If you have 1 or 2 law degree electives outstanding, you can apply for approval to start your PLT while concurrently completing your electives. This means accelerating your pathway to admission.

1300 039 031 enrolment@leocussen.edu.au

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PIDDINGTON PLT Level 2/8-10 The Esplanade, Perth WA 6000

conrad@pidsoc.org.au | 0430 449 116

https://www.piddingtonsociety.org/plt

How does your course differ from other PLT courses? Our commitment to access to justice runs through everything we do. Piddington PLT places new law graduates in community legal centres and the Society directs funds to community legal centres (CLCs). Access to justice is one of the most pressing issues facing our profession, and each year Piddington’s programs facilitate thousands of hours of legal advice for those who otherwise would not receive it and thousands of dollars for community legal centres on the front-line of justice. When we began in 2011, we were focused on improving relations between practitioners. We continue to run social events and all of our professional development is teamed with collegial activities, particularly over cheese and wine. At our events we regularly see junior practitioners talking with some of the most senior. We make sure Piddington events are a place where meaningful professional relationships are made.

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At the end of every CPD event we host drinks for attendees to engage with each other, especially encouraging graduates and junior lawyers to meet with senior practitioners. The Piddington Society is where professional development, collegiality and advancing justice converge and where junior and senior practitioners meet. How is the course structured? The Piddington Society has been providing PLT focused on access to justice, ethics and collegiality since 2016. We initially delivered the Australian National University course. In 2018 our own course was approved by the Legal Practice Board of Western Australia, only the third ever. Piddington PLT is a highquality, work-ready course which is delivered on a bedrock of justice, ethics and collegiality. Graduates are required to attend in person classes. The first is the week long January intensive. After this are the First-Friday Tutorials held on

the First Friday of each month, 8 in total. Lastly is the second week long July Criminal Law Intensive. Some lectures will be provided by judges, silks and senior practitioners, and graduates would have access to a support network throughout the year. Each graduate is guaranteed a work experience placement at a CLC. The course was born out of a recognition that new law grads need pathways to admission and CLCs need finance and human support. Most people completing the course complete hours in CLCs. Piddington PLT is the only course that is designed to support access to justice. The course has removed boxticking exercises and focuses on skills needed to be a good lawyer. Many assessments are done “on the job� and with reference to access to justice.


When does the course start and how long does it run for? The Course begins midJanuary and concludes in October in time for admission in November. This Ceremony allows the graduates in your year to be admitted together in the same session. We think it takes some time to transition from being a university student to being a lawyer and Officer of the Court. All PLT courses involve the equivalent of at least 525 hours of programmed training. We think it is best to spread this out over a longer time frame, to allow you to engage and reflect on the material.

Do you provide full-time and part-time options? We have one intake per year which runs from JanuaryOctober with admission proposed in November. This involves coursework and workplace experience components, with approximately 16 scheduled face-to-face seminars throughout the year, including two week-long intensives with the remainders completed monthly. Typically, graduates meet inperson monthly.

How do graduates enrol? Filling in an application form on our website. 2021 applications will be available in August, expressions of interest are open now. What work experience are students able to choose from? We support graduates to meet the vocational workexperience requirements in the course by connecting them to community legal centres for volunteer placements. We also have graduates who have separately secured roles as judicial staff or in private firms. Graduates have also completed the course while working and living in regional WA.

“Piddington PLT is not an extension of law school – it focuses on developing core skills as well as building the support networks necessary to sustain you throughout your career.�

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COMMERCIAL FIRM DIRECTORY Gaining experience in a commercial law firm offers you an opportunity to develop legal skills and knowledge while working with various practice groups. The experience you recieve at these firms go beyond what is taught in law school. There is an abundance of commercial law firms in Perth so we recommend that you spend time learning about each firm’s culture to determine which firm is the right fit for you. We have collated firm profiles for our major sponsors outlining key information to assist you in making the right choice. Beyond the information provided, firm websites are a useful tool to gain a greater insight. A number of firms will attend the Perth Law Careers Fair. Attending the Fair will provide you with opportunities to expand your network and ask any questions you may have.

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ALLEN & OVERY Level 12, Exchange Tower, No 2. The Esplanade Perth WA 6000

Rachelle O’Keefe | australianrecruitment@allenovery. com | (08) 6315 5900

2 offices in Australia (Sydney and Perth). Globally 44 offices. www.allenovery.com/en-gb/global/ careers/australia

Banking & Finance, Corporate and Litigation.

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? London, United Kingdom. What are your firm’s core values? We strive to uphold our values in everything we do – they are there to guide us in the way we work, in the decisions we make and in the way we interact with people, to ensure we preserve the unique culture of Allen & Overy. Instinctively thoughtful We nurture relationships built on mutual trust, respect and inclusivity. Collectively ambitious We work together to turn opportunity into advantage

summer clerks tasks that will challenge, stretch and support them in advancing their careers. We have developed a culture of learning, where lawyers at all levels are committed to helping graduates and clerks to understand not just what needs to be done, but why it is important. We believe that our people perform best when they are given the very best resources, facilities, opportunities and encouragement to explore their full potential. We believe that teams perform best when they focus on performance rather than hierarchies, and where they are comfortable socialising together as well as working together.

Refreshingly open We thrive when we are open with each other, with our clients and to new ideas.

How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? A&O was the first global elite law firm to commence operations in Australia. The firm is fully integrated with the global A&O network and now has over 100 top tier lawyers in Sydney and Perth.

How would you describe your firm’s culture? At Allen and Overy (A&O), we believe in the fundamental importance of collaboration and teamwork, of giving lawyers, graduates and

At A&O, we advise on our client’s most strategically important business decisions. With a track record of advising on complex, Australian and cross-border matters for market leading organisations,

Insightfully inventive We stay ahead by combining expert insight and imagination.

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we are able to offer the best of both worlds: the expertise and resources of a global elite law practice coupled with seasoned practitioners with Australian and international experience. We focus on innovative and expert legal solutions for our clients across a broad range of areas: mergers and acquisitions; private equity; capital markets; regulatory and funds; anti-trust/ competition; litigation and dispute resolution; banking and finance; infrastructure and projects; energy and resources; communications, outsourcing and technology; tax and real estate. Notable awards • International Law Firm of the Year, IFLR Asia Awards 2019; and • Adviser of the Year and Global Legal Adviser of the Year, IJGlobal Awards 2019 What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? Litigation and International Arbitration: • An international gas company in a series of international arbitrations arising from a large construction dispute, with over USD 3 billion in dispute.


Banking: • KfW, IPEX-Bank and NAIF on an AUD134m multi tranche project financing facility to Kalium Lakes for the development of its Beyondie SOP Project, a greenfield 90ktpa Sulphate of potash mine, together with associated infrastructure, including a power plant, gas pipeline, airstrip and accommodation facility, located in the East Pilbara region of Western Australia. This was a fully secured project financing with export credit agency cover from Euler Hermes and included intercreditor arrangements with the lenders to an associated infrastructure company. This deal is a finalist for the Energy and Resources Deal of the Year at the Australian Law Awards 2020. Corporate: • Fortescue Metals on a USD1.4bn term loan facility with ANZ Banking Group and Industrial and Commercial Bank of China as arrangers, ANZ Banking Group as facility agent and a syndicate of ten Chinese and other international and domestic banks, and the USD1.025m amendment and extension of a USD525m syndicated revolving facility; and • Pilbara Minerals on its USD100m senior secured project bond issued in the Nordic bond market and used to finance the development of its lithium tantalum mine in the Pilbara region. The first Nordic bond issue by an Australian mining company and winner of Metals & Mining Deal of the Year for IJGlobal Asia Pacific. We have also acted for Pilbara Minerals on an AUD80M convertible bond issue to POSCO redeemable at Pilbara Minerals election together with an AUD80M share issue to POSCO,

a life of mine offtake agreement and key joint venture principles for a downstream processing joint venture. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? A&O is very active in the pro bono space, both globally and here in Australia. In Australia, we have established a committee comprised of staff from the Sydney and Perth offices that are dedicated to community volunteering and building our pro bono practice. All staff have the option of regularly donating to and practicing in charity events to support our global partner, Hope and Homes for Children. A&O’s Perth office has also built relationships with other local Western Australian organisations such as Lady Lawley Cottage - a residential respite care service for children with disabilities. We are also a stakeholder on the Law Access advisory committee overseeing the Western Australian Law Access clearing house, a system designed to help people obtain pro bono legal assistance in areas of law where there is limited or no assistance available from Legal Aid or any other agency. Our partnership with The Salvation Army continues to thrive. Our involvement with The Salvos has also lead to participation in a number of events and fundraising activities, such as: • The Beacon Homeless Facility: The Beacon offers accommodation, case management and a range of other support services to people experiencing homelessness. In 2018, we held a series of sessions as part of the Restorative Lifestyle Programme (RLP) at The Beacon. Its aim is to provide clients with a clear path back to self-reliance and independence, a key part of which is the RLP, which gives rough

sleepers skills they can draw on once they have re-entered the community. The sessions provided advice and guidance on how to prepare for formal situations, such as job interviews or applications for housing and focused on personal image, standing out and making a good first impression. The feedback received has been very positive and the residents were comfortable participating in discussions, asking questions and sharing their personal experiences. We have already witnessed some residents repeating the workshop and actively engaging the second time around in order to assist with their upcoming reentry into the workforce or community; • 2019 Red Shield Appeal – A&O representatives attended the launch breakfast of the 2019 Red Shield Appeal at Optus Stadium. Through the A&O Foundation Grant Fund, the firm contributed a donations to the Red Shield Appeal; and • NAIDOC Week Celebrations: A&O Representatives attended The Beacon’s NAIDOC Week function and client art exhibition giving expression to the 2019 NAIDOC theme Voice. Treaty. Truth.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? 10-12. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? During the program you will gain practical experience in one of our practice areas, where you will work alongside A&O partners and lawyers on real deals, disputes and 49


other client matters. Before you join us, we will ask you to indicate the areas that most interest you – this is a great opportunity to get hands on experience in an area of law that really appeals to you. In addition to your legal work you will attend training sessions and presentations aimed at broadening your understanding of our business and helping you to develop the skills you need to be a successful commercial lawyer. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? There’s no such thing as a typical A&O candidate. We’re open minded and interested in people who share that quality. Beyond strong academic performance, we want to see evidence of teamwork, motivation and drive, communication skills, planning and organisation, critical thinking, commercial awareness, and commitment both to a career in law and to a career with A&O. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Yes.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes. Applications for paralegal positions will only be accepted through our website at www.allenovery.com/engb/global/careers/australia. You can access the portal via the Australian sub-site of our careers pages. Candidates will need to attach a cover letter, curriculum vitae and latest academic transcript.

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GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION

What does your firm look for in a graduate? We’re open minded and interested in people who share that quality. Beyond strong academic performance, we want to see evidence of teamwork,motivation and drive, communication skills, planning and organisation, critical thinking, commercial awareness and commitment both to a career in law and to a career with A&O. What can future graduates do to stand out? One of the main aims of our summer clerk program is to, where possible, select our future graduates – and so, applying to our summer clerk program is important. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Applications for graduate positions will only be accepted through our website at www.allenovery.com/engb/global/careers/australia. You can access the portal via the Australian sub-site of our careers pages. Candidates will need to attach a cover letter, curriculum vitae and latest academic transcript. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? 3-5. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? A&O graduates and junior lawyers may also have the opportunity to apply and participate in a 6 or 12 month secondment to one of our Asian offices. During their secondment, secondees have the opportunity to expand their technical skills and experience a range of different practice areas in an international office, while immersing themselves in the culture of a new city. These opportunities are subject to regional business needs of the firm.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Your interview is an opportunity to substantiate what you have said about yourself in your application and for us to get to know you better, and vice versa. Naturally, if you’ve come this far you want to impress, so make sure you get the following basics right and remember to be yourself throughout. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? • Revisit your application before the interview. Interview questions are likely to include details on school and university, interests and achievements, work experience and why you have chosen this career; • University careers services may offer mock interviews – book one if you can. Getting feedback on this process can be really helpful before the event; • Expect to be asked about topical, commercial or business issues; • Be prepared to discuss your opinions. We want to find out what you think and why you think that way; • Dress appropriately, smile, maintain eye contact and offer a confident handshake; • If you have been invited to an interview, we already think you have potential, so remember this; • An interview is a two-way process so this is also your opportunity to see whether the firm is right for you. Prepare questions to ask at the end of the interview covering genuine interests; and • If you are unsuccessful at interview, ask for feedback so you know where to improve.


Face up to the challenge. Put the competition behind you. Make it to the top together.

IT’S TIME.

A career in Law | Australia 2020 Visit www.allenovery.com/en-gb/global/careers/australia

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ALLENS 37/250 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Rachael Bloom | student.careers@ allens.com.au | (08) 9488 3700

Four Australian offices https://www.allens.com.au/

Banking & Finance, Projects & Development, Corporate, Disputes & Investigations

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Sydney. What are your firm’s core values? • Driven by excellence; • Eyes on the horizon; • In it together; • Courageous & creative; • Fostering greatness. How would you describe your firm’s culture? Shaping the future is in our DNA – whether it’s helping our clients see around corners and take advantage of new opportunities; fostering growth and opportunity so our people can thrive, make a difference and be their very best; or contributing to the development of sustainable, diverse, equitable and just communities where everyone is recognised and included. Continuing to shape the future means committing to a truly purpose-led culture, built on values that reflect who we are, where we’ve come from and who we want to be.

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How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Comparing firms can sometimes feel like an impossible task. While we think there are a few things that make us unique – like our two-year graduate program which offers two 12-month rotations and a commitment to invest in your career for the long term, our illustrious list of alumni and the fact that we’re one of Australia’s longest running businesses – it’s our culture and the way we work together that really sets us apart. Culture can be a tricky thing to put your finger on from the outside. We’ve had almost 200 years to build ours, and it’s what we think makes Allens such a great place to build a career. But don’t just take our word for it. We’ve drawn back the curtain on our culture, so you can see whether it’s one you’d thrive in. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter and visit our early careers website for the inside scoop.

Notable awards • Top graduate employer by both the Australian Association of Graduate Employers (AAGE) and GradAustralia; • Clerkship recognised on the 2019 AAGE Top Intern Programs List; • Listed in the 2019 AFR BOSS 100 Most Innovative Companies (ranked 6th); • Employer of Choice for Gender Equality (WGEA); • Law Firm of the Year (> 500 lawyers) in the 2019 Australasian Law Awards; • Named a LinkedIn Top Company in 2019; • Tier 1 firm in 15 practice areas in Australia in the Asia Pacific Legal 500 rankings; and • An elite band one firm in 17 practice areas in Australia in the 2020 Chambers Asia Pacific results. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? • Wesfarmers – Allens has supported Wesfarmers in a number of key matters including on its recommended proposal to acquire ASX-listed lithium miner Kidman Resources and the Coles demerger;


• East Rockingham Waste to Energy Facility Allens has advised on the development and financing of the East Rockingham Waste to Energy Facility (the East Rockingham WtE Facility), in Western Australia which has reached financial close; • Chichester Solar Gas Hybrid Project- Allens has advised Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) on the provision of a loan of up to $90 million to Alinta Energy Pty Ltd (Alinta Energy), to fund the Chichester Solar Gas Hybrid Project (the Project). NAIF’s loan will help fund the construction of electrical infrastructure at Fortescue Metals Group Ltd’s (Fortescue) Chichester Hub iron ore mines, including a 60 megawatt solar panel plant and a 60 kilometre transmission line. Once completed, the Project will enable daytime operations at the mines to be among the first globally to deploy renewable energy to meet up to 100% of its daytime power requirement; and • Newmont Goldcorp Australia’s 50% stake in the Kalgoorlie Super Pit - Allens has advised the bank group to Northern Star Resources Limited (Northern Star) on the provision of new and existing debt facilities to fund the $1,160 million acquisition of Newmont Goldcorp Australia’s 50% interest in Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines Pty Ltd (KCGM) and associated assets. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? We see it as our responsibility to use our skills and resources to help others in the community.

Our people contribute their time and expertise to work with inspirational organisations and people on community initiatives and pro bono matters, with a particular focus on alleviating disadvantage, advancing reconciliation, improving access to justice and promoting sustainability. Our proud history of leadership in pro bono and community work has seen us lead the way on constitutional recognition, carbon neutrality, refugee rights and marriage equality.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer and Winter. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? 30-35. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Our clerkships are designed to give students first-hand exposure to life as a lawyer at Allens. Our clerks get involved in work as soon as they arrive, working alongside lawyers, partners, and their peers. The day-to-day tasks our clerks get are similar to those of a junior lawyer, including attending court hearings and client meetings. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? We’re proud that there isn’t an ‘Allens type’. We know that diverse perspectives help solve complex problems, strengthen teams and enrich client relationships. The more you enjoy working with a diverse range of people, the greater your success will be. While we celebrate our differences, it’s important to understand what unites us. These are attributes that

our people have in common. These help us to succeed as a team and individually: • Initiative: a curious mind is vital. The more adaptable you’re able to be and the more energy you bring with you, the more you’ll get out of a career at Allens; • Excellence: it’s a guarantee we give our clients. Intellectually rigorous, driven and eager to learn; • Commerciality: law is more than an academic pursuit; it’s about understanding the client – their objectives and the challenges they face – as well as the wider commercial environment in which we operate; • Flexibility: a key priority for the firm is to ensure our people feel they are trusted to work in a way that allows them to balance the needs of the firm alongside the pursuit of their own career and life goals irrespective of gender, age or life stage; and • Commitment: positive people thrive in our environment. We look for people who can build sustainable careers with us, and successfully juggle work and a personal life while maintaining their wellbeing. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Final year students are also welcomed to make clerkship applications.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? We take expressions of interest for Paralegal roles, and welcome pre-penultimate students to apply for our Dive In program. More information can be found on our website. 53


GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION

What does your firm look for in a graduate? We’re proud that there isn’t an ‘Allens type’. We know that diverse perspectives help solve complex problems, strengthen teams and enrich client relationships. The more you enjoy working with a diverse range of people, the greater your success will be. While we celebrate our differences, it’s important to understand what unites us. Initiative, excellence, commerciality, flexibility and commitment are all attributes that our people have in common. These help us to succeed as a team and individually. Building a culture of inclusion ensures our people can reach their full potential. For us, this starts with strong leadership. Our inclusion and diversity strategy is supported by an Inclusion and Diversity Council, chaired by our Managing Partner. This council provides sponsorship, role-modelling and drives initiatives across our firm. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? We typically recruit our graduates through our clerkship program; however, from time to time we will recruit graduates from the open market. We adhere to the open market recruitment dates set out by the Graduate Recruitment Guidelines. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? 10. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? In 2012 Allens and Linklaters formed an integrated alliance. Although we remain as independent firms, we work 54

closely together for the benefit of our clients around the world. Through the Linklaters alliance, our lawyers now have: • Opportunities to work on multi-jurisdictional matters with a broader range of clients; • Opportunities to work on global deals with market leading lawyers; • Access to global employment opportunities; • International assignment opportunities (short and long term); and • Access to leading training and development. Each year, graduates have the opportunity to spend their second year in either London, Hong Kong or Singapore.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Ultimately, we are looking for students who are driven and are ambitious, not only about the law, but have interests outside their university life and career. Our people are our greatest asset, and it’s having diversity and different personalities that we believe sets us apart. If you can demonstrate your ability to balance priorities, and exhibit that you’re a dedicated budding commercial lawyer, we would love to hear from you. And finally, as clichéd as it sounds, be yourself. We value authenticity. We want to work with clerks and graduates who value this too; we believe you’re able to build better relationships if you are true to yourself.

How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? • Understand what works best for you to help calm your nerves: It’s normal and completely understandable to have nerves during the recruitment process. It’s managing your nerves that is key; find out what works best for you, whether its meditation, avoiding caffeine, doing some exercise or using breathing techniques; • Do your research: The better prepared you are, the more relaxed and comfortable you will be when the interview begins. Ensure you’ve developed an understanding of the firm, the work they do, their values and why you want to secure a clerkship at that firm; • Make sure to come to the interview prepared with some questions: Not only does this give you the chance to gain some new insights, but it shows the interviewers that you’re engaged in the process and have given some thought to your interview; and • Realise that what makes you different can be your signature strength: As we said, we want to recruit unique individuals who bring something different, bringing diversity of thought. Consider what is your unique selling point and what makes you different, and embrace it.


Great change is here. Shape the future with Allens At Allens, we’re focused on equipping our people with the skills and experience they need to be the lawyers of the future. We’re ready to define tomorrow. Are you? With us, you’ll be more than a lawyer. Our people are technical experts, but they’re also trusted business advisers who think bigger, more broadly and more strategically. Together, we solve complex legal challenges, and collaborate across practice areas and disciplines to guide our clients.

We work across borders too, thanks to our alliance with Linklaters. This provides opportunites for our firm and our people, including annual rotations in Linklaters London, Hong Kong and Singapore being available to our graduate lawyers.

An early legal career at Allens includes highly tailored training through the Allens Academy. Developed in partnership with the Australian National University, our Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice will help you transition from law graduate to legal expert and trusted business adviser.

In a rapidly changing world, we seek opportunities to innovate, embracing creative thinking, new approaches and emerging technology. We don’t just seek opportunities to benefit ourselves and our clients, we believe strongly in driving positive change to do right by our community too, as demonstrated through our strong pro bono practices.

Our teams are open, inclusive and encouraging, giving you the opportunity to learn and grow while feeling supported. You’ll have the flexibility to drive your own career, and we’ll recognise your achievements and hard work as you progress through the firm. Are you ready to begin?

CLERKSHIP PROGRAM A clerkship at Allens is the first step in a rewarding legal career, and will give you invaluable insights into our work and culture. With support from a buddy and development supervisor, you’ll work on real matters for real clients and be involved in a variety of projects. The programs: run from three to 10 weeks; are available at our Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth

and Sydney offices;

feature ongoing support, including a buddy system; and include exposure to one or two practice groups.

GRADUATE PROGRAM In each rotation, you’ll gain a depth of experience that comes from seeing matters through to the end, and get exposure to stimulating legal challenges. At Allens, we don’t work in silos, meaning you won’t be limited to working with only one partner or by your practice areas. You’ll work alongside a range of partners and lawyers, giving you exposure to a wide variety of tasks. Working with different teams and leading organisations, you’ll grow a solid skills base and develop the agility needed to thrive in our ever‑changing world. The programs include: two 12‑month rotations in your areas of interest; secondment options in London or Asia, via our alliance

with Linklaters;

ongoing supervision, coaching and mentoring; completing a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice

(via Allens Academy); and

a 12‑month weekly legal seminar series

(Cornerstone Program).

Find out more at allens.com.au/yourcareer Allens is an independent partnership operating in alliance with Linklaters LLP.

18217D


ASHURST Level 10, 123 St Georges Terrace Perth WA 6000

Aileen Ferguson | Graduate. Programs@ashurst.com | (08) 9366 8000

28 Offices https://www.ashurst.com/careers

Corporate Transaction, Mergers & Acquisitions, Dispute Resolution, Energy and Resources, Employment, Insolvency

ABOUT THE FIRM What are your firm’s core values? • We strive to be the best trusted advisor; • We have a unique culture that shapes the way we work with each other; • We think differently, we are supportive and inclusive and we are passionate about quality; • Through close collaboration with each other we take a fresh perspective on situations, constantly finding new ways of working and overcoming our client’s challenges; and • With on-going support and coaching, you will have the opportunity to take ownership of projects and make the difference for your career, clients and community. How would you describe your firm’s culture? We are open minded, friendly, considerate – as people and as a firm we are good company. There is something about how we are with each other that leads naturally to collaboration. Actually, let’s go further – working together is how we thrive. 56

We are a community, and we want you to feel part of it. Don’t be fool – this is not the place to come for an easy ride. Performing at a high level is important to everyone here, and that can mean working long hours, under pressure and to tight deadlines. We are a lot of ourselves. On a personal and professional level, whether you are a partner or a graduate you know there is someone who cares about your wellbeing as well as your billable hours. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? As a global law firm with a rich history spanning almost 200 years, we have built a reputation for providing exceptional standards of service and established ourselves as a leading adviser to local and global corporates, financial institutions and governments, on all areas of law including Finance, M&A, Disputes and Competition. We are renowned for helping our clients navigate through a complex and constantly evolving global landscape. With 28 offices across the

world’s leading financial and resource centres in Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and the USA, we operate at the cutting edge of the financial, resources and infrastructure, corporate and new economy markets. In each, we offer advice that is commercially astute as it is technically accurate. Notable awards • In February of this year, we won the 2020 Most Popular Clerkship Employer at the GradConnection Awards; • Ashurst has been named one of Australia’s top 24 Employers of Choice for 2019 in the Australasian Lawyer’s Inaugural Employer of Choice rankings. The most impressive firms from around the country were chosen based on their approach to employee development, gratification, and overall wellbeing; • Ashurst has been named as a finalist at the Australasia Law Awards being held in Sydney on 21 May 2020; • This year, Ashurst was alo recognised for the Energy & Resources Deal of the Year for East Rockingham Waste-to-Energy Project (WA); and


• In November 2019, we were named Legal Week Law Firm of the Year. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? Ashurst advised the State of Western Australia on the partial commercialisation of the Western Australian Land Information Authority (Landgate). The appointment has realised A$1.41 billion in upfront proceeds, as well as ongoing revenue for the State. The Ashurst team was led by Corporate Partner Carl Della-Bosca with support from partner Anita Choi and Associates Joe Ablitt and Ivan Biros. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? At Ashurst we take seriously our responsibility to ensure that everyone has access to legal advice and representation regardless of means. As a law firm, the most effective contribution we can make is to use our knowledge and expertise to assist people and community organisations through the provision of legal services. We work closely with community-based legal and charitable organisations to understand the needs of our clients and to identify clients who are most likely to benefit from our services. Pro bono at Ashurst is considered a standalone legal practice. This practice works closely with, and alongside, the firm’s Corporate Responsibility programme. Pro bono is grounded in the ethics of professional responsibility and Ashurst’s pro bono practice allows our lawyers to fulfil this obligation and give back to the community. Ashurst is committed to creating a world leading pro bono practice and aims to do this by developing

leading local pro bono programmes in each office in Ashurst’s network and by developing cross-border pro bono projects which enable Ashurst’s offices to work together to tackle global and regional social justice issues. The Board has set pro bono targets, including a target of 52 hours per lawyer per year (from partners to graduates).

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer and Winter. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? At this stage we are anticipating 15-30 clerkship positions to be available in Perth across the three rotations, subject to business needs. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Clerks usually undertake the following tasks: • Drafting documents and advice; • Research activities; • Preparing file notes and case summaries for probono matters; • Attending court if a matter is being heard; and • Attending meetings and taking notes. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? • Excellent academic record and a passion to develop a career in an international law firm; • Highly developed communication skills; • Commercial awareness; and • Be actively involved with the team and demonstrate a willingness to learn.

Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? We generally only offer clerkships to penultimate year students.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes, we do offer some paralegal positions where our Perth practice teams need paralegal support. Details of paralegal positions are communicated to our vacation clerk cohort, and paralegal positions are always filled by our vacation clerk cohort.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? • Commercial instinct; • Flexibility and adaptability; • Analytical skills; • Being resilient; • Ability to communicate across all levels of the firm; • Teamwork; • Motivation and drive to succeed; and • Cultural fit. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? After successfully completing a seasonal clerkship you will be considered for a graduate role. If we need more candidates, we advertise these roles on our vacancies page. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? We expect to recruit between 4 and 8 graduates, subject to business needs.

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Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? Yes, international opportunities may arise from time to time and may be offered to graduates or junior lawyers. All international opportunities are subject to business needs.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? • Just be yourself; • Passion for the firm and their legal career; • Well prepared students; • An understanding of commercial law; • Considered questions that showcase the research they have conducted; and • Strong communication skills. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Research the firm, have a good understanding of the firm’s practice groups and be up to speed with current economic news and conditions.

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“We also give a lot to each other. Support is everywhere – from structured training, supervision and honest feedback.”


Make the difference at Ashurst As a global law firm with a rich history spanning almost 200 years, we’ve established ourselves as a leading adviser to corporates, financial institutions and governments, on all areas of the law including finance, M&A, disputes and competition. We’re renowned for helping our clients navigate through a complex and constantly evolving global landscape. With 28 offices across the world’s leading financial and resource centres, we offer the reach and insight of a global network combined with deep local market knowledge. Our people are our greatest asset. We bring together lawyers of the highest calibre with the expertise, industry experience and regional know-how to provide the incisive advice our clients need. As a global team we have a reputation for successfully managing large and complex multi-jurisdictional transactions, disputes and projects.

Ashurst around the globe

Glasgow London Paris Madrid

Brussels Frankfurt Munich Milan Luxembourg Abu Dhabi Jeddah Riyadh

New York Beijing New Delhi Mumbai

Dubai

Tokyo Shanghai

Los Angeles

Hong Kong

Singapore Jakarta

Port Moresby

Perth Melbourne

Brisbane * Sydney Canberra * Brisbane has two office locations

10

time zones

16

countries

Begin now at ashurst.com/students

28

offices

3,660 people

1,583 lawyers

Connect with us on

412

partners


BAKER MCKENZIE Melbourne Address: Level 19, CBW 181 William Street Melbourne Vic 3000

Natalie Mascarenhas | natalie. mascarenhas@bakermckenzie.com | (03) 9617 4200

76 offices in 46 countries https://www.bakermckenzie.com/en/ locations/asia-pacific/australia

Banking & Finance; Corporate (including Mergers & Acquisitions, Capital Markets and Private Equity); Commercial Real Estate; Construction; Dispute Resolution, Litigation and Insolvency; Employment & Industrial Relations; Energy, Resources, Infrastructure & Corporate; Environmental Markets; IPTech.

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? At Baker McKenzie, we are different in the way we think, work and behave. Like no other law firm, we were ‘born global’, so thinking and working globally is embedded in our culture. We opened our first office in Chicago in 1949, 70 years ago. Our next office was then opened in Caracas in 1955. We subsequently expanded throughout the US, South America and Europe during the following 3 years, and our Australian story began in Sydney in 1964. Our firm does not have ‘headquarters. All of our offices run locally, but have the benefit of being strongly connected and integrated. This provides our clients and people with unique and outstanding opportunities. What are your firms core values? Quality and excellence, together with integrity, honesty, team work and responsiveness are some of Baker McKenzie’s key values - and are central in us 60

delivering outstanding service to our clients. The values that make us a unique and great place to work are deeply embedded and you will notice our difference in all of your interactions with us, in Australia and across the globe. • We are passionately global, and leverage our global expertise for our Australian and global clients at every opportunity, recognising our strength is in our diversity; • We have a strong and diverse culture of friendship, inclusion and collaboration; • We are commercial pragmatists who make complex issues simple for our clients and we focus on our clients’ business needs; • We strive to stay ahead of the curve and encourage entrepreneurship; • We actively encourage and support contribution to the community, through our pro bono and community service programs; and • We want everyone at Baker McKenzie to reach their potential, so we invest in global, regional and local

world-class development and mobility programs for our people. We are at home anywhere in the world and we rely on our people to navigate cultures, borders and practices with ease. What sets Baker McKenzie apart is our ability to leverage different languages, cultures, generations and perspectives we have to create a truly international law firm that places a real focus on diversity and inclusion. Our award-winning diversity strategy, initiatives and programs are focused on six areas, in which all of our people can participate: • BakerWomen – gender equality and supporting the progression of women; • BakerDNA – ethnic, indigenous and cultural diversity; • BakerBalance – supporting carers and parents, and workplace flexibility; • BakerWellbeing – commitment to mental health and wellbeing; • BakerLGBTI & Allies – lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex diversity; and • BakerIndigenous Engagement - commitment


to engagement with our Indigenous community achieving better social, economic and cultural outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to making a real difference in the lives of our nation’s First Peoples. How would you describe your firm’s culture? Many of our seasonal clerks, graduates and lawyers say that the reason they join us is because of our people and culture. In Melbourne, the size of our office enables everyone to get to know each other plus we have the benefit of a strong global connection to our other offices, offering something unique and special to our people. Our people are genuinely friendly and diverse, and enjoy coming to work every day. Our social and sports committee contribute to the firm’s social glue - offering regular firm drinks, events and sporting activities. We also offer a range of social and financial benefits (including massages, discounted movie tickets, study assistance, corporate discounts, etc.). How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? In addition to our unique values, set out above, Baker McKenzie’s key difference is that, unlike other firms, we were ‘born global’. Our practices and culture are well established and integrated globally, which is why many clients and lawyers choose to work with us. We also have a global approach to development. Because we’ve been global from the beginning, we have well established regional and global programs and a deeply embedded culture of knowledge sharing, support and mentoring both within and across offices.

Our global development roadmap, the Development Framework, clearly explains what success looks like at each career stage at Baker McKenzie. It shapes the way we recruit, select, develop, manage and promote our lawyers. For you, it means always having a clear career roadmap, empowering you to plan and drive your development – formally and on the job – at every stage. Our lawyers benefit from an Australian professional development curriculum based on the Development Framework – from black letter law to practice-specific skills and knowledge development at the local, regional and global levels. Our lawyers also attend regional and global training events and conferences relating to their practices to help develop networks and legal skills. Further, they attend regional transition programs at each career stage which provide development in the key skills our lawyers need – like people leadership, business development and project management – and which enable them to foster relationships with international peers at the same career stage. Recently, programs have been held in Bangkok, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Singapore, Taipei and Tokyo. We also provide our lawyers with opportunities to attend USA summer school courses and provide scholarships for full-time legal study overseas. Additionally, the firm offers opportunities for lawyers at varying stages of their careers to work directly for clients or with our other offices globally.

Notable awards • World’s Best Law firm Brand - Acritas’ Global Elite Law firm Brand Index - 10th consecutive year; • Number one legal brand in the Asia Pacific region - Acritas’ Asia Pacific Brand Index 2019 - 3rd consecutive year; • Top global law firm for 2019 - Law360 (ranking of top 20 firms with greatest global reach and expertise) - 9th consecutive year; • Ranked number 1 firm in the world by number of cross-border deals for the last 12 years - Thomson Reuters; • Chambers Global released its 2020 guide ranking Baker McKenzie in 315 practice areas and in 406 lawyer categories.; • Baker McKenzie FenXun (FTZ) Joint Operation, co-established by Baker McKenzie and FenXun Partners, took home 16 awards at the China Business Law Journal’s China Business Law Awards 2020, including the coveted “Best International Law firm” award for four years running; • One of Stonewall’s Top Global Employers for 2019. The firm was one of only 14 companies worldwide to have been recognised for its work in LGBT+ inclusion. Plus, one of only 10 employers to feature in the ‘Top Trans Employer’ listing for a second consecutive year; • Identified as one of the best law firms for women by Working Mother magazine, Law360 and Euromoney; • Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) Employer of Choice for Gender Equality - 2020 10th consecutive year; • Silver Employer recognition at the LGBTI Inclusion Awards - The Australian Workplace 61


Equality Index (AWEI) 2019; and • Four of our lawyers have been given the prestigious ‘lawyer of the year’ awards: Anne-Marie Allgrove, Ilona Millar, Roy Melick and Penny Ward. Only one lawyer is recognised as the “Lawyer of the Year” for each specialty and location. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? Locally and globally, Baker McKenzie works on significant and high profile matters, for leading local and global clients. We have the experience, knowledge and expertise, both at a local and global level, to meet complex demands from our clients. • Advised Home Consortium on its AUD 325M IPO, the largest on ASX in 2019; • Acted for Orora on the sale of its Australasian Fiber Business in Australia/New Zealand to Nippon Paper; • Acted for RATCH-Australia on the majority stake acquisition of Yandin Wind Farm from Alinta Energy, Western Australia’s biggest wind farm; • Acted for Securitas in acquiring leading electronic security company, Fredon Security; • Acted for Afterpay in AUD 200M placement to and proposed strategic partnership with US technology fund, Coatue Management; • Acted for NASDAQ and TSX listed BRP Inc. on an agreement to acquire 80% of Telwater Pty Ltd, Australia’s leading manufacturer of aluminium boats and trailers; • Acted for Malaysian developer OSK Property in its agreement with Hilton Hotels & Resorts for the hotel group to manage a new hotel within the AUD 2.8 billion 62

Melbourne Square project in Southbank; and • Acted for Afterpay Touch Group on its UK expansion. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? Pro Bono and Community Service initiatives are an integral part of Baker McKenzie’s mission. We believe that the provision of pro bono legal services is a fundamental professional responsibility. Pro bono legal services Baker McKenzie is a signatory to the National Pro Bono Aspirational Target of at least 35 hours of pro bono legal work per lawyer per year. Last financial year, we significantly exceeded this target with our lawyers undertaking an average of 55.25 hours of pro bono work! Our lawyers regularly undertake a wide range of pro bono legal work for disadvantaged clients in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane as well as notfor-profit organisations. Some of our work includes assisting victims of domestic violence seek compensation; representing asylum seekers in Court who are seeking judicial review of decisions relating to their refugee status; assisting asylum seekers prepare their statements in support of protection visas; helping the elderly, seriously ill clients and young people exiting the child protection system with their legal affairs; working with various organisations to prepare submissions and advocacy papers to support law and policy reform; presenting legal workshops to vulnerable and at risk youth; and much more. Our pro bono work extends globally, including the Asia Pacific region. Community Service and CSR Baker McKenzie staff also have the opportunity to participate

in a variety of community service initiatives. Our community service programs include the LEAPS literacy and mentoring program in Sydney, and the MacChat program run by the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Melbourne where our staff volunteers visit patients during an evening and have a chat with them and keep them company. Baker McKenzie staff also have the opportunity to join their office’s Community Service Committee which is responsible for organising awareness and fundraising activities and events for each office’s nominated charities throughout the year. A highlight is the firm’s annual ‘bake-off’!

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? As Baker McKenzie currently does not have an office in Perth, our Melbourne office (and Sydney office!) welcomes applications from Perth law students. We have had a number of UWA law students interview with the Melbourne office for clerkship positions in the past. In Melbourne, we will be conducting three clerkship programs - a four week clerkship from end November to December 2020, throughout the month of February 2021, and from end June to July 2021 (dates TBC). How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? Approximately 16-20. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? At Baker McKenzie, our aim is to give our seasonal clerks the opportunity to experience life as a junior lawyer with our firm.


Right from the start, our clerks get involved in real work and are given real responsibility, just like our graduates and junior lawyers. You will be exposed to our Australian and international clients through client meetings and telephone calls, client events and shadowing, and you will often have the opportunity to deal with clients directly. More specifically, the type of work that clerks get involved in includes drafting correspondence, preparing Court documents, drafting advices or agreements, document review tasks, attending Court/mediations, attending meetings with counsel, attending meetings with expert or other witnesses, attending settlements, preparing client alerts - and of course, you get to put to work those excellent skills which you gain at university - undertaking legal research, preparing memoranda and preparing case summaries. Our clerks also have the opportunity to participate in community service initiatives and pro bono files. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? The clerks who have ultimately succeeded during a clerkship and in securing a graduate position have, of course, performed strongly displaying excellent legal and technical skills. But they have also displayed commercial acumen and awareness, strong communication and interpersonal skills, enthusiasm and a great attitude, the ability to use their initiative, a client-service focus, and a genuine interest (and excitement!) in working with us. They have also made an effort to be a part of firm life - attending social events and professional development sessions, and have made an effort to get to know our people.

Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Our preference is to take students in their penultimate year. However, we will consider final year students on a case-by-case basis.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes. To be added to our paralegal database, please email your CV and transcript to Natalie Mascarenhas, Talent Management Consultant, Baker McKenzie Melbourne.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? We generally recruit our graduates from our previous seasonal clerks. Therefore, the best way to secure a graduate position with our firm is by undertaking a seasonal clerkship with us. Apart from performing well during a clerkship, and exhibiting the qualities set out in the previous response, a good way to stand out and show your interest in the firm is to undertake a paralegal role with one of our practice groups, and/or make an effort to stay connected with the firm, and our people, postclerkship. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? We generally do not take applications from the market for graduate positions, as we tend to recruit our graduates from our previous seasonal clerks. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? 6-8.

Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? As set out above, our lawyers attend regional/ global training and events/ conferences relating to their practices to help develop networks and legal skills. Further, they attend regional transition programs at each career stage which provide development in the key skills our lawyers need – like people leadership, business development and project management – and which enable them to foster relationships with international peers at the same career stage. Recently, programs have been held in Bangkok, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Singapore, Taipei and Tokyo. We also provide our lawyers with opportunities to attend USA summer school courses and scholarships for full-time legal study overseas. In addition, the firm offers opportunities for lawyers at varying stages of their career to work directly for clients or with our other offices in the Asia Pacific region and globally. The most relevant (and exciting!) opportunity for you is our International clerkship program. Seasonal clerks who accept a graduate role with the firm are eligible to apply for an International clerkship, which is an opportunity to work in one of our overseas offices for a 4 week period. The firm covers costs like flights, accommodation, visas, etc. In the last few years, we have placed international clerks and lawyers in London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Paris, Stockholm, Chicago, Washington DC, New York, San Francisco, Toronto, Rio de Janeiro, Hanoi, Ho 63


Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Taipei, Singapore, Shanghai, Bangkok, Tokyo, Jakarta, Myanmar, Johannesburg and of course, we have had lawyers across our network come to work with our Australian offices too.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? As set out above, in our interviews, we want to get to know all about you – your experiences, your interests, your achievements, your strengths and your abilities. We also want to know why you want to work with Baker McKenzie. To that end, our interviews are a mix of ‘getting to know you’ questions and ‘behavioural’ questions, so that we can get to know you and you can make the best impression. Our global Development Framework also shapes the way we recruit and select our people, so our successful candidates will often display the key performance areas and personal qualities set out in the Development Framework. More generally speaking though, our successful candidates have displayed: • a genuine interest in our firm - and they have researched our firm beyond their Careers Guide or our promotional material; • strong communication skills and the ability to answer the actual question put to them in an articulate, concise and considered manner; • intelligence and an ability to think on their feet; • commercial awareness and business acumen; • an innovative approach; 64

• enthusiasm and engagement; • a growth mindset; • a global focus and interest; • a professional appearance; • an ability to highlight their experiences, interests, achievements, and strengths in their responses; and • an ability to build a rapport with their interviewers making them want to work with the candidate.

“Our practices and culture are well established and integrated globally, which is why many clients and lawyers choose to work with us.”


Your journey to a world-class career begins here

Baker McKenzie is Australia’s first global law firm. We’ve been developing global lawyers in Australia for more than 50 years – each started out as a law student, just like you.

Ready to explore our world? Natalie Mascarenhas +61 3 9617 4349 natalie.mascarenhas@bakermckenzie.com

Become a world-class lawyer. Join the firm that was born global.

www.bakermckenzie.com/australia#careers Find us at @BakersAUS

Find us on Facebook

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CLAYTON UTZ Level 27, QV.1 Building, 250 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Alison Tassiou | careers@claytonutz.com | (08) 9426 8000

6 Offices: Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Darwin https://graduates.claytonutz.com/

Banking & Financial Services: Project Finance; Commercial Litigation; Corporate, M&A & Capital Markets; Environment & Planning; Major Projects & Construction; Public Sector; Real Estate; Restructuring & Insolvency; Workplace Relations, Employment & Safety

ABOUT THE FIRM What are your firm’s core values? Trust, respect and cooperation. How would you describe your firm’s culture? Staying true to your direction is what defines Clayton Utz. At Clayton Utz, we’ve built a team of down-to-earth, collaborative lawyers who know that at the heart of exceptional client service is knowing what your client needs. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Clayton Utz is a leading Australian law firm, known for the strength of its independent culture and its confident and engaging approach. Notable awards • 2019/2020 Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) - Employer of Choice (Sixth Consecutive Year); • Who’s Who Legal Pro Bono Law Firm of the Year, London, May 2019; and • 2019 LGBTI Inclusion Awards - Gold Employer (Third Consecutive Year).

What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? • ConocoPhillips sale of Australia-West and East Timorese assets to Santos; • Woolworths sale of petrol business to EG Group; • Tyro Payments IPO; and • Nippon Paint takeover of DuluxGroup. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? Clayton Utz is serious about pro bono best practice. It’s embedded into the culture of the firm. We were the first large Australian law firm to establish an in-house pro bono practice; the first to appoint a full-time pro bono partner; and the first to sign the National Pro Bono Target. In 2018 we became one of only three firms in the world to appoint a second pro bono partner. In FY19, the firm averaged over 50 hours of pro bono work per lawyer for the fourth year in a row. Importantly, pro bono is about the real difference that our work makes to clients’ lives.

We remain focused on our clients’ needs; collaborate with the legal assistance sector and pro bono colleagues; and make pro bono work a part of each of our lawyers’ everyday practice.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer and Winter. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? Approximately 35. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Research, writing and drafting memos/letters, attending court and client meetings, pro bono, and assisting with preparation of matters for hearings. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? Clayton Utz employs people with a wide range of backgrounds, skills, interests and competencies. We look for people who can contribute new ideas, who take a creative approach to solving problems, are personable, practical, commercially-savvy, as well as flexible. 67


Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Yes - whilst the clerkship is aimed at students in their penultimate year of study, if you are in your final year of study, please outline in your application why you couldn’t complete a clerkship in your penultimate year by answering the relevant question.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes - on our website, students can create a profile and register a job alert for paralegal vacancies.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? We’re looking for people who are personable, practical, commerciallysavvy, as well as flexible. Our lawyers undertake complex and innovative legal work, so it’s important that our clerks and graduates are motivated individuals who are willing and ready to tackle challenges. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Apply for a clerkship, as we hire most of our graduates from our clerkship programs. Occasionally, additional opportunities may arise and these will be listed on our website. What can graduates do to stand out? Get involved in a range of activities and initiatives that allow you to develop core skills that you can draw on, on the job. Consider how a part time job could assist with developing your time management skills. 68

Alternatively, being a coach of a sporting team may assist developing your ability to explain concepts simply or influencing stakeholders. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? Approximately 9. Does your firm offer any nternational opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? Yes, we offer a CU Abroad opportunity for junior lawyers after they have finished their graduate program.

How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Spend some time on our website reading about our practice groups, research your interviewers and have questions prepared if they don’t naturally come up during the interview. Come prepared to share which areas of commercial law you’re excited to gain exposure to.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? A well-rounded candidate. We value all types of work experience, volunteer experience, extra-curricular activities, club participation, sporting or other involvement as well as unique experiences such as study abroad, travel or immersion programs. Strong candidates are able to demonstrate their personality, confidence, problem solving skills, flexibility, resilience and an eagerness to learn.

“Working at Clayton Utz is guaranteed to challenge you and also bring you enormous satisfaction - just ask the lawyer who threw the final dodgeball to seal Team Litigation’s 2019 victory in the annual Clayton Utz Corporate v Litigation sports day.” Karina Hanharan, Lawyer


STAY TRUE.

Staying true to your direction is what defines Clayton Utz. We’ve built a culture that’s unlike any other law firm, but don’t just take our word for it. A good lawyer needs compelling evidence so meet our people and judge for yourself. claytonutz.com/graduates

Academic brilliance certainly counts, but graduates who thrive here have something extra – a natural passion for connecting with people and a strong sense of self. That’s what staying true is all about. If you have these qualities, Clayton Utz is for you.

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CLIFFORD CHANCE Level 7, 190 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Mel Urqhart | Grads.Australia@ CliffordChance.com | (08) 9262 5555

32 offices in 21 countries www.cliffordchance.com

Litigation & Dispute Resolution, Banking & Finance, Corporate

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? London, United Kingdom. What are your firm’s core values?’ We have identified and embedded across our firm the core elements that make up our unique culture – the ‘Clifford Chance DNA’. These values, designed to unite, differentiate and help drive priorities and strategic action, make up the eight Clifford Chance Principles: • Exceeding clients’ expectations; • Local excellence, global standards; • An ambition for success; • Investing in talent; • An adaptable and approachable team; • Thinking ahead; • Strength through diversity; and • Community. You can learn more in the ‘About Us’ section of our website. How would you describe your firm’s culture? We are a premier global law firm committed to setting the standard for excellence

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in legal skills and client service around the world. Joining us means sharing that commitment, a drive to innovate and grasp new opportunities as we help our clients to address a wide range of business, financial and legal issues. We’re looking for the brightest and most talented individuals, irrespective of background – ambitious people who offer new ideas and fresh perspectives, and who will ultimately be able to give our clients a competitive advantage. If that sounds like you, and if your aim is to work at the cutting edge of commercial law, with outstanding legal and business training, and equally impressive ‘on the job’ experience, take a closer look at Clifford Chance. If global law firms are competing to provide the same kind of professional services, you might think we would all end up the same. The fact is, firms vary in spirit, culture and atmosphere. We’re one of the world’s largest law firms, but it often doesn’t feel like that. We have a professional, can-do culture. Partners are hands on with the work and newly

qualified lawyers are expected to demonstrate leadership behaviour from a very early stage. Every single person is critical to the success of the team. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? What makes Clifford Chance lawyers different? Firstly, our collaborative and adaptable culture. We work together across borders, languages and legal systems, sharing insights and expertise to achieve our clients’ commercial goals. Secondly, we’re pioneers, working on many ‘first of a kind’ deals. Finally, it’s the nature of our people. Highly professional and self-assured, with an entrepreneurial streak, they embrace our culture of learning and are more than happy to share their expertise and knowledge. Notable awards • FinanceAsia’s Achievement Awards 2019: Best Law Firm – Overall & Best Law Firm – Debt Capital Markets; • GlobalCapital China Awards 2019: Best Law Firm; • IFLR International Law Firm of the Year 2019; • Lawyers Weekly Australia


Law Awards: Banking and Finance team of the year; and • Refinitiv Project Finance International Legal Report 2019: League tables Project Finance ranked no. 1. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? • Clifford Chance advises China Merchants Capital on AU$350 million co-investment in the Propertylink Australian Logistics Trust II; • Clifford Chance advises Barclays on AU$1.7 billion acquisition financing by EG Group of Woolworths’ petrol stations; • Clifford Chance advises global fashion giant on AU$268 million takeover in Australia; • Clifford Chance advises Pemba Capital Partners on the sale of secure ID card business to ASSA ABLOY; • Clifford Chance advises on AU$128 million sale of higher education provider King’s Own Institute to China Education Group. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? We are committed to inspiring the trust of our stakeholders by making Responsible Business a central part of our strategy. We have over 6,000 people working for the firm, hugely talented and with a fantastic range of valuable skills and experience. Together, we can really make an impact. There’s also an important point here about individual development. Our people who are involved in this type of activity – whether it’s pro bono advice, mentoring local students, or working alongside clients on an environmental initiative – all have a much broader, more considered view of business life, and develop a wider range of really valuable life

skills and business skills. For our lawyers, it’s a great way for them to understand the context beyond the immediate confines of the transaction or case. Feeling that you can have a positive impact on some of the more pressing issues facing society is also hugely motivating, and that’s an important aspect of ensuring that everyone here feels that Clifford Chance is a really great place to work.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? 4-6. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Throughout the training or graduate programme you will be closely supported by both informal and formal mentoring from your supervisor in each of your seats. We will make sure that your energy and time are focused on activities that will best develop your legal and business skills. You could be drafting and proofing documents, conducting due diligence on a client’s acquisition target, meeting clients, preparing documents for a court hearing or creating a data room ahead of a major transaction. Most of your time will be spent working in teams where you will make an important contribution to their success – you may even run some smaller transactions for clients. As you might expect, life as a trainee or graduate can sometimes be challenging, particularly around deadlines. You will be expected to

deliver high-quality service consistently – often across different time zones, requiring commitment, energy and enthusiasm. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? Clients expect more from their lawyers than ever before. They look to us as business partners on their journey to achieve their objectives. It’s not just about precedents and compliance, but finding new ways to build relationships and deliver the results that matter. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Graduate offers are primarily made from within the clerkship pool, as such students within the clerkship must be at least penultimate year so that they are eligible for participation in the subsequent Graduate Program.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? The firm may occasionally have casual or part-time paralegal positions available. Where this is the case, roles are generally offered to past or future clerks.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? Our selection process is designed to identify people who have the right intellect, motivation and personal qualities to succeed as an international lawyer with Clifford Chance. To be successful you will need to demonstrate your potential to become a first-class lawyer and your willingness to take advantage of the

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many opportunities that you encounter. You will need to exhibit ambition, drive and commitment, the ability to articulate ideas clearly, and the desire to build relationships and deliver outstanding service. We’re also looking for business awareness, a keen commercial insight and a strong ability to lead and to manage. When completing your application consider how you can best demonstrate these qualities and try to provide examples from your academic life, work experience or other activities. We’re also looking for intellectual curiosity, common sense, strong interpersonal skills, an interest in business and the capacity to absorb detailed information quickly. These qualities will determine your future with us – not your background. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Graduate offers are primarly made from within the clerkship pool. Where we may decide to offer additional Graduate positions, these will be advertised and may be applied for on our careers website. What can graduates do to stand out? Above all, we are looking for people who aim for the very best in what they want to achieve and where they choose to work. Our selection process is one of the most rigorous you’ll come across. It’s designed to challenge you and ensure we recruit the most talented people, but it’s also an opportunity for you to show yourself at your very best. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? 2–4. 72

Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? Our extensive international network and the global nature of our business mean that it is both possible and beneficial for you to take one of your seats in one of our overseas offices. Secondments are an opportunity for you to acquire new skills and experience, develop your language skills and give you a valuable international perspective in a new business and cultural environment.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Clifford Chance is one of the world’s top law firms because we think differently. Tell us what makes you different – not what you think we want to hear. Tell us what makes you tick, because we’re not interested in recruiting a ‘type’. Competition is fierce and the process will be challenging, but the people we hire will relish the challenges it brings. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? As well as providing us with basic information about your background and education, this is your opportunity to tell us what it is that makes you exceptional – we receive many applications from people who’d like to join us, so think about how you’re going to set yourself apart. We want to know what you can bring to the work we do at Clifford Chance. This is a crucial part of the overall process, and we’ll be looking for excellent communication – make sure your answers do you justice.


GET TO KNOW US What areas of law do we practice?

How many graduate jobs do we offer?

Across Australia, our core areas of focus are Corporate, Banking & Finance, Litigation & Dispute Resolution and Antitrust & Competition.

Sydney: 4 – 6

Why are we different? Firstly, our collaborative and adaptable culture. We work together across borders, languages and legal systems, sharing insights and expertise to achieve our clients’ commercial goals. Secondly, we’re pioneers, working on many ‘first of a kind’ deals. Finally, it’s the nature of our people. Highly professional and self-assured, with an entrepreneurial streak, they embrace our culture of learning and are more than happy to share their expertise and knowledge.

Your contacts Kelly Byrnes, National HR Manager & Melissa Urquhart, HR Advisor Grads.Australia@CliffordChance.com

Clerkships Students must be at least penultimate year and eligible to participate in the 2022 Graduate Program

When are our clerkships held? Our Clerkship program in Sydney runs in Summer; in 2020, it will run from 30 November, 2020 – 12 February, 2021. Our Clerkship program in Perth runs in Summer; in 2020 it will run from 30 November – 18 December.

How many clerks do you take? Sydney: 4 – 6 Perth: 4 – 6

Perth: 2 – 4

Do we make graduate offers to the open market, or just through clerkships? Graduate offers are primarily made from the clerkship pool however applications from students unable to complete a clerkship program are still accepted and considered.

How / when should students apply? Sydney

Perth

Applications open: 9 June, 2020

Applications open: 13 July, 2020

Applications close: 5 July, 2020

Applications close: 2 August, 2020

What kind of work can a clerk expect to do? Our clerkship program is designed to provide you with a real insight to life at Clifford Chance in Australia. Throughout the program, you will work alongside all levels of lawyers, including partners, while you assist with real-time matters. You will have two seat rotations, allowing you to experience two different teams. Throughout the clerkship you will hear from various departments across the region, helping you to develop a comprehensive understanding of life in a magic circle law-firm.

Applications should be submitted online at https://careers.cliffordchance.com/apac/locations/australia.html

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CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH Level 6, Brookfield Place, 123 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Jennifer Jacobs | jennifer.jacobs@ corrs.com.au | (08) 9460 1666

5 – Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane & Port Moresby. graduates.corrs.com.au

Arbitration, Banking & Finance, Commercial Litigation, Corporate/M&A, Employment & Labour, Energy & Natural Resources (ENR), Projects, Property & Real Estate, Restructuring, Insolvency & Special Situations (RISS), Technology, Media & Telecommunications (TMT)

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Melbourne. What are your firm’s core values and culture? At Corrs, our culture is defined by excellence, collaboration, commitment and respect. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Corrs lawyers are known for their strategic approach with clients. We don’t just focus on legal advice – we go a step further by providing our clients strategic guidance to help them mitigate risks and achieve their business goals. Our lawyers work together across practice groups to deliver exceptional results and support you in building your future, wherever you want to take it. Our success is based on the success of our people. We encourage individuals to play to their strengths. And we bring our diverse and talented lawyers together to create top-performing teams. The combination of these factors creates a firm that celebrates its independence, 74

is open to new ideas, has the courage to think and act differently from the rest of the market, and thrives on new challenges and opportunities.

Women award in 2014).

Notable awards Corrs is consistently recognised as leader in its field. We’re proud of our many awards for world class service, client results and for being an employer of choice.

What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? We let our work speak for itself. We’re proud to work with some of the biggest organisations in the world on their most important matters.

Our lawyers are independently recognised by some of the legal industry’s leading publications and guides for excellence, commerciality and commitment to clients. Corrs is also ranked #1 – AU & NZ M&A deals by deal count (Bloomberg Global M&A League Tables 2019) and is ranked #1 amongst major Australian law firms – PE deals by value (Mergermarket Global M&A League Tables 2019). Our commitment to providing our people with the opportunity to build successful careers has made us a much sought-after employer. For almost 15 years, we’ve been recognised as an Employer of Choice by the WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality citation (replacing the EOWA Employer of Choice for

For more details on our recent awards and recognition, please visit our website.

Our clients include more than half of the top fifty ASXlisted companies, some of the largest privately-owned companies in Australia and a number of global Fortune 500 companies. We work with well-known organisations like AGL, Amazon, BP, Blackstone, CBA, Coles, eBay, Google, Johnson & Johnson, McDonald’s, NAB, PayPal, and Vodafone. We also work with governments, federal and state, as well as on major transactions that make the news. In the Perth office, we work with well-known organisations like Wesfarmers, Fortescue Metals Group, Hancock Prospecting, the Water Corporation, Cedar Woods,


CBA, Seafarms and the WA Government. Corrs acted for Wesfarmers on its acquisition of online retailer Catch Group Holdings Limited and we are advising the WA Treasury on the privatisation of the WA TAB and establishment of an entirely new legislative and regulatory framework for racing and wagering. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? From local schools to global organisations, we have a long and proud history of helping those in need. Corrs specifically provides pro bono legal services for disadvantaged individuals who might not otherwise have access to legal representation. As a graduate lawyer, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to pro bono matters. We perform around 20,000 hours of pro bono and volunteer work each year, helping those who need it most. We are the principal legal partner for the United Nations Refugee Agency in Australia. Other organisations we work with and support as part of our pro bono and community program include Hagar Australia, Justice Connect, The Salvation Army, The Big Issue, Very Special Kids, Oxfam and more. In Perth, Corrs provides legal representation and support services through our work with the Aboriginal Legal Service of WA; the Employment Law Centre, an independent, not-for-profit community legal centre specialising in employment law; and the Street Law Centre, a free outreach legal service for the homeless and those at risk of homelessness in WA. For each of these CLCs, Corrs provides one-day-a-week secondees. The Perth office also supports Law Access by providing legal advice and administrative secondees sourced from our legal assistants.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer and Winter. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? In 2020/21, Corrs Perth will offer three, three-week clerkship programs which will be held in either summer or winter. Each program will have approximately 8-10 clerks. Overall, we anticipate recruiting 30 clerks in 2020/21. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? The Corrs seasonal clerkship program gives you the opportunity to work alongside some of Australia’s leading lawyers on high-profile work for major Australian and international clients. Our three-week clerkship gives you the opportunity to connect with partners and lawyers across the firm, learn what a ‘day-in-the-life’ at Corrs is like, and experience the type of work we do and the clients we partner with. You’ll be exposed to a broad range of interesting matters. You’ll also have the chance to complete a broad range of tasks, such as conducting research, reviewing and presenting documents, attending client meetings, court hearings, mediations and settlements, as well as shadowing partners and lawyers in client meetings and business development activities. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? One of the best ways to stand out is to ensure your clerkship application is tailored to the firm you are applying to – demonstrate your knowledge of the firm by referencing partners or deals that interest you and reflect this in your cover letter or any questions

asked as part of the online application. If you are genuinely interested in a firm, make an effort to attend any campus events or competitions sponsored by the firm, or introduce yourself to the firm representatives at careers fairs – whether these events are in person or online! Finally, make sure you have taken the time to highlight your academic and personal achievements in your application. Be sure to proofread your application thoroughly, keep the cover letter to 1 page in length (addressed to the right firm!), and your resume to no more than 2-3 pages maximum. Please also ensure you include a copy of your original academic transcript – no screenshots please! Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Yes.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? We recruit casual paralegals to support our busy practice groups throughout the year. Please note that these opportunities are typically offered to candidates in our seasonal clerkship pool but, from time-to-time, we recruit from the open market. Expressions of interest for casual paralegal opportunities can be submitted via email to the local People & Performance Consultant for their review and consideration. Interested applicants will need to provide a copy of their CV and latest academic transcript, together with an indication of their availability.

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GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? As with our clerks, we appreciate diversity in our graduates and are not looking for identical or ‘cookie-cutter’ candidates. In particular, we look for wellrounded individuals who can demonstrate excellent academic performance, evidence of work experience (law or non-law related), as well as experience in leadership positions, volunteering or community service, and other extracurricular activities. In addition, we are looking for genuine, hard-working candidates who have great communication skills and approach their work with enthusiasm. We also look for candidates who are keen to learn, open to receiving feedback and continually improving themselves. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Previous clerks will be eligible to receive a priority offer for 2021 graduate positions. Corrs contacts eligible clerks about the priority recruitment process in June, with offers made in late July. If necessary, Corrs will open applications to the general market after the priority offer process. What can graduates do to stand out? During your time as a clerk or paralegal with Corrs, it is important to be genuine, approach each task with enthusiasm, complete tasks to the best of your ability and be open to receiving feedback and continually improving yourself. In addition to this, if you have a great attitude, communicate well and have excellent attention to detail, this will help you stand out from your peers. 76

How many graduate positions are available in 2020? 8-10. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? We invest in international experiences that help our lawyers grow their skills, cultural understanding and relationships worldwide. Our International Study Scholarship supports the continuing professional development of exceptional legal staff. The Scholarship provides financial support for the completion of further study at Oxford, Cambridge or a US equivalent (full-time on campus). Over the last seven years, we’ve sent 44 secondees to 14 countries worldwide. We have sent our lawyers on secondment to some of the world’s leading firms in the USA, UK, Japan, Singapore, China, Spain, France, India, Germany, Brazil, Indonesia and Hong Kong.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Interviews can be a stressful and daunting process, so being nervous is understandable and perfectly ok – most candidates are! With this in mind, we take a relaxed approach to interviews – think conversation, rather than interrogation. Ideally, we are looking for candidates who can build rapport with their interviewers and are comfortable articulating their experience, as well as demonstrating why they are studying law and pursuing a commercial law career. We want to know why you applied to Corrs and what you know about us as a firm. We also want to get to know you as a person, so

come ready to talk about your hobbies, interests or passions outside of the law too. The interview should also be a two-way discussion, so asking questions is definitely encouraged and welcomed. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Don’t underestimate the importance of good preparation for your interview, as a lack of planning will be evident to those interviewing you. A few key tips on preparing for an interview at Corrs are: • plan your trip: make sure you know where the firm is located and how you plan on getting there. Will you take public transport, drive in or get a lift?; • be well presented: organise what you are going to wear in advance and don’t leave it to the last minute. Is the outfit professional, comfortable and ready to go?; • arrive early: this ties in with planning your trip. Make sure you arrive 10 minutes early to your interview as this demonstrates you are organised, prepared and punctual; • research the firm: check out the firm website, as well as media or newspapers to pick up any current issues or news items relating to Corrs, our clients or the legal industry in general; • reread your application: this will jog your memory on what you submitted and allow you to easily answer any cover letter or CV specific questions you may be asked; and • relax: we want to get to know you as a person, so try to relax and go with the flow of the conversation, rather than being too stiff or rehearsed.


Be exceptional. Your journey from outstanding graduate to exceptional lawyer begins at Corrs.

From your first day at Corrs you will have the opportunity to accelerate your career in a high-performing and supportive environment. Our lawyers work together across practice groups to deliver exceptional results and support you in building your future, wherever you want to take it. graduates.corrs.com.au

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DLA PIPER Level 21, 240 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Gemma Bowles | graduaterecruitmentAUS@dlapiper. com | (08) 6467 6000

90 offices globally www.dlapipergraduates.com

Corporate, Employment, Finance, Projects & Restructuring, Litigation & Regulatory, Real Estate

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? London, United Kingdom. What are your firm’s core values? • Be bold; • be collaborative; • be supportive; and • be exceptional. How would you describe your firm’s culture? We are committed to attracting, developing and retaining the best people across our practice and business services groups. Our continued success relies on our ability to provide a supportive, inclusive and motivating environment where everyone has a role to play in supporting the delivery of outstanding service to our clients. We offer exceptional career opportunities to our lawyers, aspiring graduates and business support professionals, in an environment that is challenging, rewarding and, we believe, truly different from our competitors. 78

How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? We help the world’s top companies with their business-critical issues. Many of the deals we work on are complex and challenging – transcending not just practice areas, but borders, languages and legal systems. As a firm, we never stand still. We think nimbly and seize opportunities. We’re ambitious and are never afraid to innovate. So, if you possess these qualities too, there could be a bright future for you at DLA Piper. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? DLA Piper is one of the world’s largest law firms, with lawyers in the Americas, Asia Pacific, Europe, Africa and the Middle East, positioning us to help companies with their legal needs around the world. As trusted legal advisers to approximately a third of the ASX 100 companies or their subsidiaries and all levels of government, we take great pride in delivering quality and value to our clients through practical innovative legal solutions. Some of our

most recent work includes advising Link Group on its AU$2.3 billion listing on the ASX, advising the Australian Football League on the landmark acquisition of Melbourne’s Etihad Stadium and advising Investa Commercial Property Fund on the acquisition of a 75 per cent interest in Sydney’s landmark 420 George Street, to the value of AU$450 million. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? At DLA Piper we are committed to contributing to the wellbeing of communities around the world. We encourage our lawyers to do pro bono work that is meaningful, impactful and supports those in need. New Perimeter, our nonprofit, provides pro bono legal assistance in underserved regions around the world to support access to justice, social and economic development and sound legal institutions. Our Break into Law project is a worldwide initiative focused on removing barriers to employment within the legal profession and we have pledged $6.5m over


the course of our three-year partnership with UNICEF to improve child justice. We are proud to be signatories of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), as our support for the initiative underlines our commitment to responsible business.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? 30 nationally. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? As a summer clerk, you can expect a varied experience both in and outside the office. You will work in a creative, dynamic environment with some of the best legal professionals in the world, gaining first-hand experience doing real legal work. The clerkship is four weeks in duration, commencing with a two-day induction program in the Sydney office. We offer summer clerkships in November and January. The induction program will give you the opportunity to hear from the firm’s senior leaders, to participate in professional skills training, to attend networking events and to participate in responsible business activities. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? We hire clerks from all types of backgrounds. Not only does this allow us to serve our diverse client base better; it keeps our thinking fresh by opening up a wider range of perspectives.

While you could be studying from a range of degree subjects, you will need a strong academic record. But it goes further than that. You’ll need to be naturally inquisitive, have plenty of drive and possess a genuine commitment to your career path. Among other things, we’ll be looking at your extracurricular activities for evidence of these qualities.

be ready to hit the ground running and make a real contribution from the outset.

Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Yes. We accept applications from final year students.

How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? We usually recruit for graduate positions via our clerkship. If we have roles on the open market, then they will be advertised via our website.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? The firm sometimes offers paralegal opportunities and they are advertised on our website.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? We offer graduate programs in all our Australian offices and have one intake each year in February. The graduate program starts with a national induction in Sydney, allowing you to meet and network with graduates from across our Australian offices. We will also send you to London in August to attend the International Graduate Induction, giving you exposure to the senior partners and enabling networking opportunities with international graduates. You will have the opportunity to rotate in different practice groups. This will see you work alongside people at all levels of the business, including partners. As an integral member of the team, you’ll

While much of your learning will be done on the job, you’ll also receive formal business skills training. This will develop your abilities in areas such as networking, business development, commercial awareness and financial management.

How many graduate positions are available in 2020? 20 nationally. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? All graduates get the opportunity to go to London for the International Graduate Induction which takes place in August every year. This is a flagship event and an opportunity for all Australian graduates to meet their international cohort of colleagues in the UK and Hong Kong. We also offer the opportunity to undertake international secondments during the graduate program.

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ERNST & YOUNG 11 Mounts Bay Rd, Perth WA 6000

Chezzelle Chambers | perth. graduate.recruitment@au.ey.com | (08) 9429 2222

EY is spread across more than 150 countries with the Law practised in over 80 globally. www.ey.com/au

Tax Law, Estate Planning, Superannuation, Family Office and Related Corporate and Commercial Work, Employment, Corporate, Property, Technology Law, Entity Compliance, Governance

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Our Oceania headquarters is located in Sydney and our global headquarters is located in the UK. What are your firm’s core values? A distinctive culture starts with great people. We don’t deliver exceptional client service with PowerPoint decks and create lasting relationships built on trust by filling out checklists. We do it with great people who know how to team. How would you describe your firm’s culture? Our values define who we are: • people who demonstrate integrity, respect and teamwork; • people with energy, enthusiasm and the courage to lead; and • people who build relationships based on doing the right thing. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? We are different to a traditional law firm offering in that we are a national private client law team and are not segmented by geographic

boundaries. EY takes a whole firm approach when servicing our clients. This means that you will often find yourself working with your EY colleagues from other teams to provide the client a holistic solution. Our junior lawyers are directly involved in developing the solution and work closely with senior practitioners in our practice. This provides a hands on and supported learning opportunity. Notable awards EY Law Perth has been named for the fourth year in a row as the leading Tax Law Practice in WA and Chris Smailes, Partner has been again named as a leading practitioner. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? The team advises high net worth individuals and their private corporate groups. Recently, we have acted for multiple families preparing complex business succession plans and developing family arrangements for the transition of wealth between the generations. Another core aspect of our practice is advising on complex tax issues and developing

appropriate commercial and taxation strategies. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? We are in the process of developing our pro bono offering.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? 2-4. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Tasks include, but are not limited to, legal research, preparing legal memorandums, attending client meetings and drafting commercial documents. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? An open mind and willingness to learn. We don’t expect our clerks to be job ready, but we want them to be engaged in our practice and interact with our team.

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Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? No.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes, on a case by case basis depending on business need.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? We look for people who are technically capable but also those who are self-motivated and keen to make the most of the opportunities given to them. We look for people who are well-rounded, with good communication skills and enthusiasm, as well as those with a genuine interest in tax law and/or commercial law.

In addition to your academic achievements, highlight your non-academic achievements such as involvement in the community, extra-curricular activities and leadership positions. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? We recommend preparing for behavioural style interview questions and providing responses using the STAR approach. We also offer an information evening before applications close which we recommend candidates attend to gain further insight into our firm and our practice, but also the opportunities available.

How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? The first step is to submit an application at ey.com/au/ careers. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? 2-4. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? No

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Well presented, wellarticulated and people with a genuine interest in and understanding of the work our law team does. Our advice is to do your research and demonstrate your knowledge of EY and the role. 82

“Our culture of innovation at EY means embracing change in everything you do, from applying new technologies to making existing processes better.�


How do your choices today, build success for tomorrow?

EY law services in Perth has been recognised for the fourth year running as a Top Tier Tax Firm in Western Australia, and is part of the expanding global network which comprises of over 3,500 lawyers across more than 80 countries. The EY Perth team specialises in tax advice and tax disputes, trust law, business succession and estate planning, superannuation, not for profit and related corporate and commercial work.

Your exceptional EY experience begins now. The EY Clerkship Program is a great way to experience the working world during your summer (or winter) holidays. Show us what you’re capable of and you may be invited to join us after graduation in a full-time position. The EY Graduate Program will put your knowledge to the test and build your technical skills. We also offer the EY Game Changers Club and Career Compass Program to students who are due to graduate in 2022/2023. Visit ey.com/au/careers to find out more.

ey.com/au/careers

bit.ly/EYLinkedIn_CareersAUNZ

When deciding where I wanted to start my career, I was torn between the appeal of a large multi-national organisation with various training opportunities and exposure to a variety of practice areas, and a legal practice where I would be part of a global team and have direct access to senior leadership, as well as a level of responsibility at an earlier stage. The opportunity to start as an EY graduate fulfilled each of these requirements. As a legal services provider, EY Australia has a well-established graduate program within its legal services teams, receiving tax and law training with the opportunity to complete their Practical Legal Training. I have also had the opportunity to work with professionals in other countries on multi-national matters, providing me with wide-ranging experience at the start of my career. Being part of a leading tax law services provider with a global footprint enables me to be a part of a smaller team while working with other leading areas such as the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, the Middle East and the Americas, to provide comprehensive services to EY clients.

Naomi Zuvela

Solicitor, EY Law services

instagram.com/eyaucareers

83 facebook.com/EYCareersAustralia

© 2020 Ernst & Young, Australia. All Rights Reserved. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. APAC No. AU00003772 ED None. IN20204-000102.


GILBERT + TOBIN Level 16, Brookfield Tower 2, 123 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Lisa Harold | lharold@gtlaw.com.au | (08) 9413 8400

3 Offices www.gtlaw.com.au

Energy + Resources, Disputes + Investigations, Corporate Advisory

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Sydney. How would you describe your firm’s culture? At G+T, you will find talented and ambitious people who thrive on working on challenging, cutting-edge and rewarding projects, in a friendly and accessible environment. It’s a place that recognises and supports entrepreneurial drive and a willingness to contribute to the shared success of the firm. G+T’s brilliant cohort of partners, the size of our firm, our diverse and fascinating clients, along with the innovative way in which we approach our work, mean that we advise on some of the most complex, interesting and high profile matters in the market, both domestically and internationally. We are proudly independent, agile, nimble in responding to our clients’ needs, and at the core of our culture is a care and concern for every one of our employees on an individual basis. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? G+T’s structure is egalitarian with very little hierarchy 84

and bureaucracy. All legally trained employees are referred to as “lawyers”. With no formal band structures, lawyers are given opportunities and rewards as early as they are ready to take them, rather than being constrained by their job title. G+T allows its people to tackle new and complex work and to develop quickly, both professionally and personally. This flat structure enables our clerks and graduate lawyers to work directly with more experienced lawyers as well as partners on a variety of matters. Notable awards • Employer of Choice for Gender Equality; • Corporate Law Firm of the Year 2021; • Best Lawyers in Australia 2021; • 2020 Client Choice Awards; • 2019 Lawyers Weekly Partner of the Year Awards; and • Chambers and Partners 2020. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? • G+T advised newly listed United Malt on its first capital raising; • G+T advised Sargon administrators on the successful sale of the

• •

• •

Sargon business and assets to the Cloverhill Group; G+T advised eBay on the acquisition by its subsidiary, Gumtree AU, of Cox Australia Media Solutions; G+T advised on Whitehaven’s $1 billion refinancing of its senior debt facilities; Gilbert + Tobin advised clients on two significant capital raisings, including advising J.P. Morgan on their underwriting of Cochlear’s $880m institutional; Gilbert + Tobin advised Quadrant Private Equity on the sale of APM; and G+T advised KKR on the financing of its A$3.2 billion acquisition of Arnott’s.

What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? We assist with matters that impact on people’s day-today lives; matters such as challenging discrimination, ensuring they can access their employment entitlements, stay in appropriate housing, seeking victims compensation, applying for refugee status, legal planning for the future and on credit and debt matters.


We act for not-for-profit organisations supporting our pro bono clients on a wide range of matters. We help those organisations with their own legal needs so they can focus on helping those that they serve. We also work with clients to address social injustice through law and policy reform including drafting submissions, public interest litigation and general advocacy. In addition to the work we do at Gilbert + Tobin, we have a range of outreach programs where we provide legal advice to some of the most marginalised and disadvantage in our community. We provide advice at the Marrickville Legal Centre, MOSAIC, Matthew Talbot Homeless Shelter and the Asylum Seeker Centre on a weekly basis. We conduct legal clinics everywhere from Brewarrina to Campbelltown. Gilbert + Tobin is a pro bono pioneer; we appointed Australia’s first full-time inhouse pro bono lawyer in 1996 and we are proud to now have two partners, supported by a team of full-time lawyers committed to sharing our resources and expertise with our community.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer and Winter. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? Approximately 16. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? You’ll work directly with partners and lawyers who will assist with your professional development and challenge you intellectually. While your

main focus will be corporate work, everyone at G+T has the opportunity to assist on pro bono matters and participate in firm-wide activities. As you progress through your rotations you will develop invaluable skills and knowledge and gain first-hand experience of our various practice groups. Understanding the mechanics of legal practice through research, drafting memos, attending court and meeting clients will all help to build your confidence. You’ll also have the chance to jump right in and immerse yourself in a leading corporate law practice. And we’ll encourage you to contribute ideas and your own fresh perspective. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? Be authentic and enthusiastic. We are seeking high performing and driven students, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Sometimes.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes – apply via our website for paralegal positions.

What can graduates do to stand out? Take on as many opportunities as you can, show up for work every day with an enthusiasm to learn from some of the brightest minds and don’t forget to have some fun along the way. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? Sometimes, but these opportunities usually come up as you become more experienced and you have finished your graduate program and College of Law.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Enthusiasm and a genuine interest in our firm and areas in which we practice. A passion for the law and a drive to succeed. We are serious about the work we do and our clients, but we like to have fun too. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Apply to G+T if you are genuinely interested in working for Australia’s leading corporate law firm. Know your CV and do your research.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? Enthusiasm, high performing and intelligent minds. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Priority offers process or standard offers. All via our HR Manager. 85


THERE’S MORE

Not all corporate law firms are the same. A clerkship with Gilbert + Tobin is your chance to see if you’ll thrive here. To test yourself with meaningful work from day one. To learn skills and concepts beyond the legal scope. To be integral to an organisation that’s challenging the very way legal services are delivered. If you want to be part of something different then G+T is the place for you.

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gtlaw.com.au/careers


HBA LEGAL Level 20, 140 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

careers@hbalegal.com | (08) 9265 6000

6 (Perth, Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Canberra, Newcastle) www.hbalegal.com

Accident & Health; Casualty; Coverage Disputes & Fraud; Dispute Resolution; Financial Lines; Health Law; Motor; Professional Indemnity; Property; Risk Management and Workplace Health & Safety; Subrogated Recoveries; Workers’ Compensation; and SRC Act Recovery

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? ‘Headquarters’ is not really in our vocab at HBA: all our people, regardless of where they are physically situated, are equally important and valuable. We service clients nationally and internationally (out of the London insurance market) and part of our difference is that we put the best people on the job regardless of where they are located at no additional cost to the client. It means the work HBA lawyers do is not constrained by geographical boundaries. Our Perth and Sydney offices are the largest and equal in size, with a Director (who are also our co-founders) based in each location. What are your firm’s core values? We deliver our difference the ‘HBA Way’, built around four core values: Collaborative: we work in partnership with our clients and it starts with listening. We’ll take the time to understand our clients’ goals and drivers, and work with them to achieve them.

Generous: we spend time talking with all parties from the outset, including insureds and brokers. We’re sensitive to their needs and concerns. Creative: we work flexibly, creating the best team for our clients, and minimising costs through smart alternative fee-models and use of our inhouse ‘outsourcing’ provider, Pillion. Genuine: we have friendly people who simplify things and give it to our clients straight. We use plain English and clients feel confident in our clear advice. HBA partners with clients to take on their challenges, and our flexible approach means we structure service, fees and anything in between to suit each client. We talk like real people, and through our culture of innovation, we have fun finding ways to make things better. How would you describe your firm’s culture? A more evolved type of law firm experience. Our ‘One HBA’ business model harnesses the skills and experience of our entire national network, breaking

apart old school silos and restrictions to success. HBA Legal was formed to challenge the traditional law firm model and instead bring clients fast, efficient, and commercially savvy legal services. Our mission remains the same today as at the beginning – to simplify and solve clients’ problems across the insurance industry, working innovatively in all that we do. At its inception, HBA eliminated the shackles of bureaucracy and traditional thinking so often seen in the big firms, enabling true business partnerships where we focus on the clients’ business goals and we see significant success to that end. This is achieved the ‘HBA Way’, following NewLaw principles, which pivot on flexibility, accessibility and innovation. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? From an employee perspective, you get all the desirable benefits of working in a small to medium firm (i.e. flexibility, workloads being kept ‘in check’), but importantly the calibre of work you’re exposed to is

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what many would only expect to find in a big firm. HBA’s entire philosophy revolves around effective and timely solutions and working collaboratively with in-house teams. Big business can depend on HBA for a focus on optimal outcomes, resolution of matters at the first realistic opportunity, and a strong working partnership characterised by responsiveness and honesty. One of the factors that continues to set HBA apart from the rest, in our specific area of defendant insurance litigation, is our fixed fee structures and monthly retainers. Fixed fee and ‘no win, no fee’ scenarios are common in plaintiff “mum and dad” style firms. But HBA acts for big corporations and big business in defending claims made against them, and fixed fees/monthly retainers among HBA’s competitors are rare, if found at all. HBA is continuing to challenge the status quo in regards to legal fees. It means working with HBA is attractive to clients, and that means our lawyers get quality interesting workday-in and day-out. Notable awards • Winner: 2019 Australasian Lawyer Employer of Choice; • Winner: 2019 Australasian Lawyer Innovative Firms List; • 2019 Doyle’s Guide: Workers’ Compensation Recommended; • 2019 Doyle’s Guide: Medical Negligence Recommended; • 2019 Doyle’s Guide: CTP Recommended; • 2019 Doyle’s Guide: Public Liability Recommended; • 2019 Australian Law Awards: Finalist, Insurance Team of the Year; • 2019 Australian Law Awards: Finalist, NewLaw Firm of the Year; • 2019 Australasian Law 88

Awards: Finalist, Insurance Specialist Firm of the Year; • 2019 Australasian Law Awards: Finalist, Excellence in Technology & Innovation; • 2018 Doyle’s Guide: Leading Workers’ Compensation Law Firm (Defendant) WA; and • 2018 Doyle’s Guide: Leading Compulsory Third Party Insurance Law Firm (Defendant) WA. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? We act for top 20 ASX listed companies as well as state governments and the Commonwealth. In the past 12 months, we were one of a small number of firms appointed to the whole of Australian Government legal panel. Our clients are across industries such as retail, transport, hospitality and health and include car park operators, managers of shopping centres and cleaning companies (and their insurers). We work with underwriters, brokers, insurers, insureds, and large self-insured companies. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? HBA Legal is a signatory to the National Pro Bono Target, a voluntary and aspirational target of at least 35 hours of pro bono legal services per lawyer per year. We accept work via referrals from our pro bono partners: • Arts Law Centre of Australia: a community legal centre providing legal advice services to artists and arts organisations across the country; • Cancer Council (WA, QLD and NSW): helping people affected by cancer;

• Law Access (WA): assisting vulnerable people to obtain access to justice; • LawRight (QLD): assisting vulnerable people to obtain access to justice; • Legal Aid WA Disaster Legal assistance: assisting people who have been impacted by disasters to obtain access to justice; and • State Administrative Tribunal (WA): The SAT refers people involved in matters before it. In addition, we are committed to providing pro bono legal assistance to help those who are suffering as a result of the devastating Australian bushfires. We are working with the following organisations to provide that assistance: • NSW Bushfires Legal assistance: a partnership between Legal Aid NSW, community legal centres, the Law Society of NSW, Justice Connect and the NSW Bar Association; • Legal Aid WA Disaster Legal assistance; and • Disaster Legal Help Victoria: a partnership between Justice Connect and legal sector agencies.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes! Vacancies are posted on our website hbalegal.com as they arise. Click on ‘join us’. Feel free to also email careers@hbalegal.com with your CV and cover letter which we will keep on file and refer to if any suitable opportunities arise.


GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? First and foremost: a genuine interest in insurance law and a passion to forge a career in the defendant insurance litigation space. Also, a great attitude and an open mind to learning and evolving as a practitioner.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a graduate job interview? The real you! We don’t want you to tell us what you think we want to hear.

How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Vacancies are posted on our website hbalegal.com as they arise. Click on ‘join us’. Feel free to also email careers@ hbalegal.com with your CV and cover letter which we will keep on file and refer to if any suitable opportunities arise. What can graduates do to stand out? Be yourself. One of our core values is ‘genuine’. We are genuine and we expect the same in return. Cultural fit is critically important and that’s not something you can ‘study’ for prior to an interview. We want to see who you are and what interests and motivates you. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? Our people get the chance to be part of the work we receive from the London insurance market (while based in Australia).

“We are award winning insurance law specialists and one of Australia’s leading defendantonly insurance legal practices.”

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An evolved firm and NewLaw leader … HBA Legal is home to the most forward-thinking insurance litigation experts in the country. We keep bureaucracy to a minimum and strive for a culture of collaboration. Founded in Perth, with considerable growth over the past seven years, HBA brings seamless solutions to clients within the insurance industry across Australia and the London market. Our flexible approach means we structure service, fees and anything in between to suit each client.

hbalegal.com

Creative • Collaborative • Genuine • Generous

HBA Legal is part of the HBA Group, so there are lots of opportunities to grow an exciting career in the rapidly changing legal industry.

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hbalegal.com

Creative • Collaborative • Genuine • Generous


HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS 36/250 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Josephine Tse | josephine.tse@hsf. com | (08) 9211 7777

27 Offices across 19 jurisdictions https://www.herbertsmithfreehills. com/

Alternative Legal Services (ALT), Corporate (M&A and Energy and Resources), Dispute Resolution, Digital Law Group, Employment, Industrial Relations and Safety, Finance, Pro Bono, Projects and Infrastructure, Taxation, Technology, Media and Telecommunications, Real Estate, Environment, Planning and Communities

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Sydney and London. What are your firm’s core values? Connect, collaborate, lead and excel. How would you describe your firm’s culture? We’re proud of our culture. It’s supportive and it’s nonhierarchical. When you join us as a graduate, you’ll find that your growth is supported at all levels across the firm – whether you’re working on a high-profile takeover, catching up with an overseas client or taking on some challenging pro bono work. It’s an environment that will give you the skills you need to become a brilliant lawyer. And it’s an environment in which your perspective, ideas and experiences will make a real difference. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? We think it’s a combination of being a truly global firm and having a leading domestic practice. This means that when you join, you’ll be working on the most complex

and interesting matters and also benefit from having an international network, exposing you to overseas opportunities. Notable awards We take a lot of pride in our achievements as a firm. We do market-leading work and we are often recognised for this. Our most notable awards relevant to graduates; • GradAustralia – Top 100 Graduate Employers – 2015-2020; • Stonewall – Top global employers for LGBTI+ staff; • Financial Times Most Innovative International Law Firm in Asia Pacific 2019; • Financial Times Award for Innovation in Diversity & Inclusion 2019; • Lawyers Weekly – Law Firm of the Year 2018; • The Times – Best Law firm 2018; • The Australia – Top Graduate Employers 2018; • IFLR – Pro Bono Team of the Year; • Lawyers Weekly – Women in Law Awards; • Social Mobility Foundation – 15th in Social Mobility Employer Index 2018; and • Minds Count Foundation – Best Mental Wellbeing

Initiative in a Legal Workplace 2019. You can read about our most recent awards here; https:// www.herbertsmithfreehills. com/awards. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? As lawyers we have a professional responsibility to leverage our specialist legal skills to achieve justice for those in need. Globally, HSF lawyers performed over 50,000 hours of pro bono legal support last year. • HSF is a major project partner with the Australian Human Rights Commission on a project on the relationship between human rights and technology. The project looks at what technology means for our society and how we can harness it for good; • We partnered with the Public Interest Advocacy Centre in relation to their Sri Lanka transitional justice work by providing solicitors to assist with a conflict mapping project; • We provided pro bono legal advice to the Government of Sierra Leone to support the delivery of recovery,

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growth and sustainable development; and • We launched an innovative charity law tax app with Justice Connect to guide charities through complex tax laws and establish if they are eligible for income tax exemptions.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer and Winter. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? 35-45 positions. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? During this immersive experience, you’ll receive hands-on practical experience, actively contributing, as you work on some of the diverse challenges facing the team you’re collaborating with. You’ll truly discover what it’s like to work at Herbert Smith Freehills, working alongside lawyers and partners. We’ll support you throughout your time with us with extensive training, touching on all aspects of the firm. We’ll also invite you to an exciting range of workshops and events, giving you the opportunity to network with people across the firm and the diverse groups we engage with. This is your unique opportunity to show us who you are. “In Finance, your typical day could entail entering mark ups from more senior lawyers, joining your team members on a conference call, comparing draft documents, preparing execution versions, assisting lawyers with signings, and compiling and distributing executed versions of documents after financial close has occurred. In Disputes, your typical day could entail undertaking research tasks, preparing 92

indexes and briefs to counsel, preparing court books (including page turns) and assisting your team when they have court.” -Nicola Magyary (Vacation Clerk 2019/20). How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? We recruit people with the desire and ability to be exceptional, commercial lawyers. This means that we look for more than just a great academic record and strong technical aptitude. We seek people who are curious, empathetic and understand the importance of building relationships with clients and colleagues. We also look for an international mind-set and a desire to work within our global network, not just one office. We have prepared some more detailed information on our website: careers.herbertsmithfreehills. com/au/grads/join-us. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Yes. It is preferred that students are in their penultimate year, however we also welcome pre-penultimate and final year students to apply.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes. We often offer casual paralegal positions to law students. These opportunities are advertised on our website and through student law societies such as Blackstone.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? Great lawyers are both curious and creative. We encourage you to challenge assumptions and open yourself up to new ideas. It’s this growth mindset that creates opportunities for you and your clients. So, what exactly are we looking for? There’s no single path to becoming a commercial lawyer. We look beyond your academic record and your technical aptitude. We’re focused on finding people who have the curiosity to explore all the angles and the empathy to place themselves in their client’s shoes. Building great relationships takes a certain understanding and as our global village gets ever smaller, we look for graduates who think of themselves as citizens of the world. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? The best way to become eligible for a graduate position is to first be part of our vacation clerkship program. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? 10-15 positions. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? Yes. As an Australian HSF graduate, you will be given the opportunity to apply for an international graduate secondment within your first two years on the job. This secondment is for six months and all expenses are paid by the firm (accommodation, transport, weekly language lessons etc.) while you work in London, Hong Kong, Singapore, Korea or Japan.


Much of our work has a crossborder element and we aim to offer a seamless, integrated service. Our international offices share a number of clients and work together to advise on multi-jurisdictional matters and regulatory issues. We recognise that international secondments provide considerable benefits to our clients, to the firm and to our graduates. In 2019, we sent 14 Australian graduates to our international offices.

• don’t forget to include your hobbies and interests. Evidence of a balanced university life demonstrates time management skills, a drive to step outside your comfort zone and to challenge yourself; and • emphasise your strengths and potential.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? We aim to make the interview as relaxed as possible. It’s less about us asking a list of prepared questions and more about giving you a chance to tell us all about yourself. Even so, the interview is your opportunity to present yourself in the best light. We’re particularly interested in your work experiences, extracurricular activities and interests, and why you think Herbert Smith Freehills is the right place for you. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? • Be prepared. Do your research about the firm and what appeals to you when writing your cover letter. Tailor your cover letter to the job/firm you are applying for; • take the time to make sure your CV and cover letter has no errors; research suggests that just one typo reduces the chance of being shortlisted by up to 40%;

“Despite the global nature of the firm, you will feel supported and connected to your local teams.”

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We're looking for those who see things differently, the kind of people who bring new ideas and create innovative opportunities for our clients.

ABOUT US With over 25 offices spanning Asia, Europe, Australasia, and the Middle east, we can show you exactly what a world class commercial law firm has to offer, giving you the chance to work as part of an international team, on high-profile matters, for some of the most significant organisations in the market. Our focus is on the future: the future needs of existing and new clients, the future of the legal profession and investing in our future lawyers. That’s why we aim to attract the best talent from a broad range of backgrounds, ensuring we are optimising our position as a progressive, forward thinking professional services business. At Herbert Smith Freehills, you’ll be given the opportunity to develop the skills you need to help solve our clients’ most complex challenges in thoughtful and innovative ways.

WHAT WE LOOK FOR

CLERKSHIP PROGRAM

We select many of our graduates through our vacation clerkships. During this immersive experience, you’ll receive hands-on practical experience, actively contributing, as you work on some of the diverse challenges facing the team you’re collaborating with.

KEY DATES/DEADLINES PERTH Approximate number of positions

35-45

Clerkship programs

2 Summer & 1 Winter

You will gain a deeper understanding of life at the firm and what your future could look like if you join us. Some key features include the opportunity to:

Applications for all 2019/20 programs open

13 July 2020

• Sit within a specific team, delivering real work for key clients

Applications for all 2019/20 programs close

9 August 2020

• Before you join, submit a preference for a team to tailor your experience

Offers made

25 September 2020

• Navigate the first step of your career with partner and graduate mentoring support • Attend workshops and presentations covering all our practice areas • Contribute to our pro bono practice

Great lawyers are both curious and creative. We encourage you to challenge assumptions and open yourself up to new ideas. It’s this growth mindset that creates opportunities for you and your clients. So, what exactly are we looking for?

• Work with cutting edge technology through our innovation projects

There’s no single path to becoming an exceptional commercial lawyer. We look beyond your academic record and your technical aptitude. We’re focussed on finding people who have the curiosity to explore all the angles and the empathy to place themselves in their client’s shoes. Building great relationships takes a certain understanding and as our global village gets ever smaller, we look for graduates who think of themselves as citizens of the world.

JOINING US

• Networking opportunities to meet people across the firm

We offer a range of summer and winter clerkships across our Australian offices. If you have queries about graduate or vacation clerk positions, please visit our website: careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/au/grads/ vacation-clerkships or contact one of our graduate recruitment consultants.

Please note: An application should only be submitted to the office where you intend to start your career as a graduate. Multiple applications will not be considered.

Our global practice groups • Alternative Legal Services (ALT) • Competition, Regulation and Trade • Corporate • Dispute Resolution • Employment, Industrial Relations and Safety • Finance • Projects and Infrastructure • Real Estate

Contacts Josephine Tse Graduate Recruitment Consultant T +61 2 9322 4983 josephine.tse@hsf.com

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HERBERTSMITHFREEHILLS.COM

© Herbert Smith Freehills 2020 NOF186936_A4_Advertorials v3 /110520


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HHG LEGAL GROUP Cloisters Building - Level 8, 863 Hay Street, Perth WA 6000

Simon Creek | careers@hhg.com.au | 1800 609 945

4 Offices (Perth, Albany, Mandurah and Joondalup) hhg.com.au

Corporate and Commercial Law, Family & De Facto Law, Wills, Estates & Succession Planning, Property Law, Employment Law, Building & Construction Law, Criminal & Traffic Law, and Dispute Resolution & Litigation

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Perth. What are your firm’s core values? The six key values that define us as an organisation and guide our behaviour and growth are: • Teamwork. We are committed to establishing and maintaining collaborative, supportive teams with our colleagues and with our clients. We also encourage personal responsibility and accountability; • Client focus. We value our client relationships. We listen to our clients and respond to their needs with energy, enthusiasm and efficiency. We focus on solutions that create value for our clients. And we will always go the extra mile for our clients; • Respect. We are committed to building and maintaining an environment in which we respect each other, in terms of talents, personal qualities and differences. We appreciate diversity in 96

thinking and share what we know; • Integrity. We inspire trust as legal advisors. We deliver on our promises. We also maintain the highest possible ethical standards; • Continuous improvement. We believe in continuous learning. We embrace change. We reward goal-oriented effort and achievement. And we coach each individual to enhance his or her ability to contribute; and • Fun. We enjoy what we do. How would you describe your firm’s culture? At HHG Legal Group we are aware that our reputation will only ever be as good as the people behind us. That is why we are committed to attracting staff that not only demonstrates great legal knowledge, but who have the skills to communicate effectively and build close relationships with all types of clients. In addition, we look for those who display our standards of integrity and a commitment to helping those in need. HHG Legal Group’s philanthropic arm, HHG Giving Back” assists many vulnerable groups by

way of charitable giving and fundraising, sponsorships of community initiatives and via our pro bono commitment to Law Access and various community organisations. But at a fundamental level, everyone at HHG Legal Group enjoys what we do (and has fun doing it), but we’re not afraid to work hard either. We place great importance on working collaboratively across our four offices (Perth, Albany, Mandurah & Joondalup) which drives the opportunities to learn from each other and be a valued and vital team member. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? What really sets us apart from other firms is the HHG Service Guarantee. We understand that good service is subjective from client to client and guarantee that we will strive to deliver the best service, no matter how complex a matter is. We do this by checking in regularly and ensuring that our clients are receiving the level of service they want, in-line with their desired outcome and budget.


We can do this by ensuring: • Expertise - the best solicitor will be selected with the exact expertise for client’s mattera. As a full service firm you have the benefit of having access to multiple specialist solicitors across all areas of law covering every eventuality and giving clients peace of mind; • Knowledge - the solicitor will garner full knowledge and understanding of the client’s matter, insofar as possible, during their consultation; • Responsiveness - in a client’s matter is of the utmost importance. Depending on the urgency of action required we will guarantee to get back to them by the following business day at the very latest however in most cases it will be within a few hours, if not before; • Regular Communication – clients choose their level of service, if they so wish we can leave no stone unturned and reach out daily. However there are cost implications, so we’ll manage expectations from the outset. Equally client’s can opt for a light-touch approach and everything in between and regular communication ensure our clients are being serviced at the level they want; • Transparency of pricing we will set the standards and expectations from the outset and endeavour to give client’s full transparency when it comes to the scope of work involved and any unexpected variations; and • We care - ultimately, we want to offer the best service possible at what can be a very disconcerting time of your life. We value our relationship with our clients and want to build it for the long term.

Notable awards Over the last five years alone, HHG Legal Group has been recognised numerous times for its legal excellence and commitment to client service. Both the firm as a whole, as well as many of our capable and highly regarded practitioners, have been bestowed or been finalists for a number of legal and philanthropic awards such as: • Doyle’s Guides; • Lawyers Weekly Law Awards; • International Advisory Experts Awards; • The Law Society of Western Australia – Lawyer of the Year Award; • The Department of the Attorney General (WA) – Community Service Award; and • Best Lawyers in Australia. In just the last year, the HHG Legal Group team has received several accolades and recognitions including: • 2020 Australasian Law Awards Finalist – State/ Regional Firm of the Year; • Recognition in 2021 Best Lawyers in Australia list for work in Family Law – Simon Creek, Executive Chairman and Special Counsel; and • Recognition in 2021 Best Lawyers in Australia list for work in Real Property Law – Anne Hurley, Special Counsel.

on novel and complex applications of Personal Property Securities Act provisions; and • acted for an Indigenous Corporation’s subsidiary in partnership matters with Federal statutory body relating to a solar power facility. Wills, Estate & Succession Planning • Complex business and farming succession matters involving multiple entities and multimillion-dollar transfers and transactions; and • complex estate administration dealing with many types of assets, different trusts and companies, self-managed super fund issues, assets in Australia and overseas as well as beneficiaries’ resident in and out of Australia.

Further information relating to HHG Legal Group’s recognitions go to https:// www.hhg.com.au/awards.

Family & De Facto Law • Successfully represented a family law client in obtaining an order so that she retained the family home and half the husband’s superannuation portfolio; • provided difficult and complex advice to a 10-year-old child in protection matters where both parents have complex social needs; and • obtained a recovery order for the return of a child where the Father had ‘taken off’ with him, placing the child in danger.

What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? Corporate & Commercial Law • Successfully represented financial planners pursuing damages for a seller’s misleading conduct and breach of obligations in a business sale; • assisted many in-house and private lawyers

What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? Over the last twenty years there have been significant and unprecedented cuts to Legal Aid funding, placing vulnerable individuals further at risk. To lessen this gap, HHG Giving Back provides free legal assistance clinics and not-for-profit sponsorships, ensuring that 97


help is accessible to those in need. In addition to this, HHG Legal Group is a very active contributor to Law Access, which assists hundreds of Western Australians per year who cannot personally fund or access government funded legal services. In addition to Law Access, HHG Legal Group assists other communitybased legal services with pro bono work, these include, but are not limited to, the Peel Community Legal Service, Women’s Legal Service, Alzheimer’s WA, Fresh Start Recovery Programme and B2Me,

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Typically, HHG takes on clerkships anytime from October through to January however we tend to recruit graduates throughout the year, as required. What sets us apart is we can offer unrivalled exposure to matters across all disciplines and client types, whether commercial, government or private clients. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? Four - one per practice group: • Family & De Facto Law; • Wills, Estates & Succession Planning; • Corporate & Commercial (including Employment Law) and Property Law; and • Dispute Resolution and Litigation. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Legal research; and drafting legal articles and media briefs. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? • Solid academic record; • world view/travel; and • altruistic/good community experience. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? 98

HHG Legal Group offers clerkships to both penultimate students as well as those completing their final year of studies.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? At HHG Legal Group, we are always on the lookout for enthusiastic law students and graduates who want to gain real life experience within the firm. A number of our Law Graduates commenced their HHG life as casual interns, gaining a real feel for our processes and culture prior to being offered a formal graduate position.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? We look for people who are: • personable – we have a collegiate and team culture across all practice areas; • good initiative for getting relevant experience, even if not in the legal space; • good life references; • amenable to working WA wide, Great Southern and Peel region in particular; • emotional intelligence; and • commercial nous (across all practices). How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Applicants can apply through our career microsite at https:// hhg-legal.breezy.hr/ - we suggest they visit our website to find out about our values and practice areas at https:// www.hhg.com.au. What can graduates do to stand out? • Convey their passion for the law; • Llook for solutions not just problems; • commercial thinking –

good social media profile and exposure; and • show initiative. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? At HHG Legal Group we do not have a fixed number of law graduates places each year, it will depend on the growth of the practice areas and the capacity of the supervising lawyers. Last year (2019) we proudly took on 3 graduates.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? As mentioned above, HHG Legal Group looks for candidates that displays the following characteristics: • personable – we have a collegiate and team culture across all practice areas; • good initiative for getting relevant experience, even if not in the legal space; • good life references; • amenable to working WA wide, Great Southern and Peel region in particular; • emotional intelligence; • commercial nous (across all practices); • clearly conveys their passion for the law; • looks for solutions not just problems; • commercial thinking – good social media profile and exposure; and • shows initiative. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? • Research, research, research…we won’t identify where because we want candidates to show initiative; • identify relevant experience for the practice area you are keen on; • be prepared to be asked why you are looking at that practice area; and • establish your passion for the law, and rationale for why you are where you are today.


1800 609 945

T R U S T E D S I N C E 19 19

®

Our reputation will only ever be as good as the people behind us, that is why HHG Legal Group are looking for well-rounded candidates who are personable, who have clearly demonstrated initiative in their lives, who are commercially minded and who show a strong commitment to supporting the community.

| careers@hhg.com.au

Join a highly awarded, full service firm that has been proudly assisting WA families, businesses, local governments and individuals for more than 100 years.

A graduate or intern position with HHG Legal Group can provide you with exposure to both private client and commercial legal work across all our practices.

BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT SERVICES

» » » » » » » »

Commercial & Property Law Trusts & Corporate Structures Building & Construction Employment Law Competition & Consumer Law Mergers, Sales & Acquisitions Administration Law Commercial Litigation

hhg.com.au

PRIVATE CLIENT SERVICES

» » » » » » » »

Family & De Facto Law Wills, Estates & Succession Planning Probate & Deceased Estates Director & Executive Services Taxation & Superannuation Private Wealth Services Dispute Resolution & Litigation Criminal & Traffic Law

PERTH | MANDURAH | ALBANY | JOONDALUP 99


HOPGOODGANIM LAWYERS Level 27, Allendale Square, 77 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Maddie Johnston | careers@ hopgoodganim.com.au | (08) 9211 8111

Two Offices, Perth and Brisbane https://www.hopgoodganim.com.au/

Commercial Property, Corporate and M&A, Litigation and Dispute Resolution, Planning and Environment, Resources and Energy

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Brisbane. What are your firm’s core values? • Trusted – trusted experts in our fields; • Pride – pride in who we are and the quality of the outcomes we produce; • Respect – respect for who we are and genuinely privileged to help our clients; • Care – we take ownership of our clients’ problems and value the relationships we foster; and • Collaborative – proud of our combined capability and stronger when we work together. How would you describe your firm’s culture? We describe our culture as ‘The HG Way’ and central to this is a theme of ‘Business Mateship’. Business Mateship was a phrase coined many years ago to capture the culture of friendship created by our founding Partners and to describe how the people of HopgoodGanim, our clients and other stakeholders come together and interact. 100

That is, we believe in treating each other, and our clients, as we would treat our friends. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? More than 40 years ago, HopgoodGanim was founded by two great friends with a focus on commercial litigation and family law. Today, HopgoodGanim is a large and fully integrated national law firm offering solutions to commercial problems across the full spectrum of legal services. We continue to house one of Australia’s largest and most well-regarded family and relationship law practices. We do our very best work when we know our clients personally and we know their businesses inside and out. Inside our firm, people genuinely like each other, refer to each other as friends and work collaboratively to achieve the best outcomes possible for our clients. We are fiercely independent, possess a unique culture and we are uncompromising in the protection of our vales.

What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? We have an active pro bono program and signatory to the Australian Pro Bono Centre’s aspirational pro bono target.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? October/November 2020, February/March 2021, April/ May 2021 and June/July 2021. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020/21? 10-12. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Real legal work including: research tasks, client meetings, court and mediation attendance, drafting of legal advice and correspondence, contributions to articles and alerts. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? Seek feedback, take on the extra opportunities across the firm, work hard and have a genuine passion for law and enjoyment for working at HG.


Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Yes.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes. These opportunities are typically reserved and offered to students who have clerked with us previously.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? Relationships are crucial We’re looking for graduate lawyers who will thrive in our relationship culture. Your training will see you in front of clients most days of the week. Being able to connect and form a positive and professional relationship with colleagues and clients is important. Commercial acumen While good results at university are highly regarded, the ability to understand commercial problems is equally as important in the people who join our team. Commerciality is something that we train for, but we also look for graduate lawyers who are passionate about learning about an industry or market sector. Deliver a real service Hand in hand with our relationship culture is the importance of delivering an exceptional client experience consistently. Every single member of the HopgoodGanim team has a role to play in what our clients experience when they work with us and our graduate lawyers are no exception to this.

Change is coming The future of the legal profession is exciting. Our graduate lawyers will shape the future of this firm, the services we deliver, how we deliver them and how we work, so we’re looking for people who are excited by the changes. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Visit our website to apply online. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? Yes - secondments and exchange programs are offered at HG.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Those with unorthodox experiences and backgrounds. We want to hear about how you managed to juggle fulltime university commitments with a full-time/part-time job.

“You may have asked yourself what makes HopgoodGanim different to any other firm? We believe it is the close relationships we have with our clients and each other.” 101


Discover extraordinary opportunities We are HopgoodGanim. A leading legal and advisory firm that helps achieve exceptional outcomes. From Perth and Brisbane with clients in all corners. We solve the big problems for large corporates, private business, government and private clients.

HopgoodGanim enjoys a reputation as a firm where people love to come to work. We nurture a working culture that acknowledges there is life outside the law. We also offer our people challenging and interesting work with a national and international client base and the chance to learn from industry-leading practitioners who are experts in their fields.

Find out more hopgoodganim.com.au/careers Search HopgoodGanim Lawyers on LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook 102


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JACKSON MCDONALD Level 17, 225 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Melissa Young | hr@jacmac.com.au | (08) 9426 6611

Perth is our only office. www.jacmac.com.au

Dispute Resolution and Litigation; Projects, Infrastructure and Construction; Insurance & Risk; Property, Planning & Environment; Corporate Commercial; Workplace, Safety & Risk; Energy & Regulation

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Perth. What are your firm’s core values? Jackson McDonald’s values guide the choices we make and how we engage with each other. Our values reflect our commitment to our clients, our people, and our community. Honesty and ethics – acting with personal and professional integrity. Client focus – building strong relationships with our clients and understanding their industries to achieve the best outcomes for them. Complete professionalism – maintaining and applying the highest standards of skill and knowledge. Mutual respect and teamwork – showing trust and consideration for our colleagues and achieve results through effective teamwork. Contribution to the community – contributing to the legal profession, charities, and community issues.

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How would you describe your firm’s culture? At Jackson McDonald, you’ll find a supportive culture where we work together to further our goals. Collaboration is encouraged at every level. Partners, lawyers and support staff all work together to achieve common objectives. Our staff live by our values, champion the highest levels of professionalism, and give back to the community wherever they can. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? What defines every JacMac professional is the courage to be bold. To identify the most salient issues and proceed with confidence. To be honest and speak up for what we believe in. To take a stance and see it through. To leave things better than we found them. We live our brand promise of experience, confidence, and clarity. Notable awards In recent years Jackson McDonald has been recognised in: • Chambers Asia Pacific and Chambers Global Directory - an independent legal directory that uses client

interviews to rank the world’s top commercial law firms and lawyers; • Doyle’s Guide - Doyle’s uses peer review and client interviews to rank top legal firms and their lawyers; • Best Lawyers Australia - a peer-review guide to the best law firms and lawyers in Australia; and • Legal 500 - a clientreviewed legal directory of the world’s best law firms and lawyers. We have also received recognition in the Asia-Pacific Financial Times’ Innovative Lawyer Awards, Australasian Law Awards, and NAWIC award for innovation. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? We are proud of the range of pro bono legal assistance we have been able to provide. We have done so with many charities and Indigenous trusts as well as various community legal centres and other worthy organisations. Our contribution is made possible through the collegiate and generous community spirit of our people. As a firm, we strive to strengthen the community in which we live and work.


CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? We do not have a vacation clerkship program, but we certainly hire law graduates, which we recruit either internally or via the market directly.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? We provide opportunities for law students to obtain work experience in our Legal Technology Support team as casual paralegals. We also host law students through formal work experience programs organised by the universities. Please send expressions of interest for these opportunities to hr@ jacmac.com.au.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? Whilst your university grades are important, they are not the only consideration. We look for people who are passionate about what they do and whose values match our own. What can graduates do to stand out? Tailor your application to the opportunity you are applying for. We look for graduates who have a genuine interest and passion in the area of law they are looking to practice in. Ensure your application includes a cover letter (no longer than 1 page), a succinct and clear CV, and your academic transcript.

How many graduate positions are available in 2020? This number varies but is approximately 4-6 per year. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? Jackson McDonald is a Western Australian based law firm.

INTERVIEWS How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? You can best prepare for a graduate job interview by considering why you are the best person for the job you are applying for. What makes you stand out? It’s also great to see students come prepared with questions for us! This shows that you have put some thought into your questions. It also gives you a better understanding of the position and the firm to assess if we are the right fit for you.

“Our pro bono legal work includes representing individuals who are identified and referred to us by Law Access as being in genuine need of legal assistance.”

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JOHNSON WINTER & SLATTERY Level 4, 167 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Wilma Lewis | Wilma.Lewis@jws.com. au | (02) 8247 9630

5 Offices www.jws.com.au

Transactional & Advisory and Dispute Resolution

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Adelaide. What are your firm’s core values? At JWS, each of us has an opportunity to make a significant impact on the culture of the firm. These values to which all members of the firm are committed include: • to conduct ourselves with integrity and a positive intent with a view to constructively advancing the position of the firm and clients; and • to facilitate a structure and environment which promotes and rewards collaborative behaviour. How would you describe your firm’s culture? The culture of the firm is authentically: • friendly; • professional; • focused; • dynamic; • open; • collaborative; and • enabling. Our partners are committed to ensuring that: • members of the firm conduct themselves

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with integrity, while encouraging open communication, reliability and accountability; and • we maintain a professional environment which promotes and rewards collaborative effort. Teamwork and collegiality are also fostered informally through a variety of social activities, Associates and Partners Conferences, and firm based sports teams. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? JWS is a national law firm where young lawyers play a meaningful role in strategic and complex transactions and disputes, and build relationships with executives from Australia’s most successful companies through close client contact. Notable awards • Energy Law “Law Firm of the Year” in Australia Best Lawyers 2020; • Best Professional Services Firm (Revenue $50M-$200M), Best Law Firm (Revenue $50$200M), Best Value Firm, Financial Review Client Choice Awards 2017; and • 43 leading individual

rankings and 21 ranked practice groups, Chambers & Partners 2020. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? • Advised Infrastructure Capital Group on its successful bid to acquire Enwave Australia from Brookfield Infrastructure Partners; • advised Carlton & United Breweries (CUB) on its acquisition of Gold Coast craft beer business, Balter Brewing Co; • advised rural services company Ruralco Holdings Limited in relation to the competition aspects of its proposed acquisition by Nutrien; • secured a $13.25 million settlement of a class action against BankSA relating to an alleged Ponzi scheme; • advised Potentia on its Australian term loan B facilities from Tanarra financing its acquisition of PC-EFTPOS; • advised AP Eagers with all aspects of its financing requirements in connection with its takeover of Automotive Holdings Group Limited (ASX:AHG), including the refinancing; and


• acted for Grafil Pty Ltd (Grafil) and Robert Mackenzie (director of Grafil) in relation to a criminal prosecution brought by the NSW Environment Protection Authority. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? We are committed to supporting the needs of low income, disadvantaged and marginalised members of the community, and the organisations which support them, via our pro bono practice. We support a number of initiatives and notfor-profit organisations across Australia by providing pro bono legal advice. We’re also signed up to the Australian Pro Bono Centre’s National Pro Bono Target as a part of our ongoing commitment to the community. Working with our pro bono clients gives you a chance to not only give back to the community, but is also a great way to broaden your skills and experience. Everyone in our firm is encouraged to support our pro bono efforts. Our pro bono clients include charities, NGOs and marginalised individuals. We have more than 30 not-forprofit organisations that we work with regularly providing legal advice to help them act on opportunities, mitigate risk and deliver better services to the communities they support. Our lawyers have the chance to go on secondments to community legal centres, work on strategic litigation projects with community based lawyers, participate in projects with LegalAid, public advocacy and human rights organisations and to be involved in policy and submissions which work on issues relevant to disadvantaged and marginalised members of our community.

We also support a range of cultural, artistic, scientific and sporting organisations.

During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer and Winter.

of their technical and commercial skills; • are excellent communicators; • will thrive in a collaborative environment; and • demonstrate a genuine interest in the commercial affairs of our clients and Australian commerce.

How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? 10 - 12.

Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? No.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION

What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Examples of work done by the clerks at JWS include: • research on a particular case law or matter; • preparation of a brief for counsel; • drafting of letters for a corporate takeover bidder and ASIC; • review of an Investment Management Agreement; • drafting of directors’ resolutions; • preparation for and attendance at a meeting in relation to trademark applications; • preparation of the documents needed for a witness interview; • attendance at court to hear closing statements on a case; • preparation of a full summary report for a client on discussion and orders made at a directions hearing; and • research and preparation of a memorandum summarising points on the legislative history of continuous disclosure obligations. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? We look for candidates who: • are enthusiastic about succeeding in a service driven environment; • have excelled academically; • are committed to the continual development

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes. To learn more about current opportunities, please visit our website https://www. jws.com.au/en/firm/careers and read about our latest opportunities.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? The primary criteria for assessment of graduate applications are outstanding academic achievement, excellent communication skills, and a demonstrated interest in commercial law.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? You should be able to articulate why you consider JWS appealing, and why you want to work with us. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Explore our website and understand our business and what makes us different. You will also be able to find information on recent matters that we have worked on. 107


Your career. Your choice. Join our clerkship program and experience a snapshot of your future with us. www.jws.com.au/careers

SHAPE YOUR CAREER Develop strong technical and client service skills, and benefit from professional development programs and mentoring from Australia’s best lawyers. THRIVE WITH NO BOUNDARIES Collaborate with diverse teams of specialists across the country, and work side by side with experienced partners. Dip your toe in various practice areas, free of financial targets. EMBRACE YOUR AMBITION Build relationships with Australia’s most successful company executives. Contribute to our reputation for practical commercial solutions and outstanding client service, and play a meaningful role in complex transactions and disputes.

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JONES DAY Central Park, 51/152-158 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Catherine Davies | catherinedavies@ jonesday.com | (08) 6214 5700

43 offices globally, 4 offices in Australia – Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Melbourne https://www.jonesdaycareers.com/ en/locations/australia/welcome-tojones-day-australia

Global Disputes, Labour & Employment, Energy

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? In the US. What are your firm’s core values? Jones Day’s key differentiator is that we are One Firm Worldwide. This means shared values, shared methodologies and a shared commitment to superior client service. Teamwork, respect for and from colleagues, and shared credit are essential and form the Firm’s core values. Every facet of the Firm is structured to promote an environment that’s client-focused and team-oriented. How would you describe your firm’s culture? As a Jones Day graduate, you will have the chance to work closely with the Perth Partners and Associates, who are widely recognised as some of the leading lawyers in the country. The size and structure of the Perth office means you will quickly become a key member of the team while being exposed to a wide variety of complex work, both domestic and cross-border. You will also be deeply involved with our other

Australian and international offices. Jones Day is a global law firm with more than 2,500 lawyers in 43 offices across five continents. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Our unique structure and philosophy of “One Firm Worldwide” fosters interoffice and cross-practice teams, assembled to ensure that clients receive the best possible guidance and representation, without regard to barriers conventionally imposed by geography, borders, time zones or language. Our global presence means we work on some of the largest and most complex matters across a wide variety of practice areas. Firmly part of this integrated network, our Perth office is recognised for its leading disputes presence, and its expanding front-end practice in the construction, energy and infrastructure sectors. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? Clients include Australian and multi-national companies across a range of industry sectors including financial services,

energy and resources, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, technology and telecommunications, health care, agriculture, retail and consumer goods, manufacturing, and chemicals. Our lawyers in Australia represent these clients in a variety of practice areas including mergers and acquisitions, private equity, capital markets and securities law, company and commercial advice and transactions, employment and employee benefits, intellectual property, litigation, restructuring and insolvency, energy and resources and competition law. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? Through our “One Firm Worldwide” ethos, Jones Day’s Australian offices participates in the Firm’s global pro bono initiatives which often involve high profile issues of international importance. We also participate in domestic initiatives to contribute to the local community.

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GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? We are looking for exceptional and independent individuals with strong analytical and communication skills. Apart from strong academic achievements, it is important to demonstrate an ability to deal effectively with people in a professional environment. You should be flexible and creative in your approach to work, and be able to work cooperatively and responsibly in a teamwork setting. Overall, we are seeking people who want to do the highest quality work in a friendly and cooperative environment, who demonstrate the ability to rise to a challenge and who are committed to constant growth in a dynamic professional environment. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Graduates in the Perth office typically commence employment at Jones Day as paralegals while they are completing their law degrees. We consider applications from paralegals at all stages of their legal studies. Working as a paralegal gives students the flexibility to work a few days a week while simultaneously completing their university degrees. We believe that the longer timeframe and a more permanent role lets students better experience the Firm, learn more about us, and become more deeply involved in the work we do. We recruit paralegals on a rolling basis so to apply, send your cover letter, CV and academic transcript to PerthRecruiting@ jonesday.com.

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What can graduates do to stand out? Although strong academics are important, it is only one thing that we’re looking at in your application. We want to know about you. The incredible culture at the Firm is a result of our people and our main priority is to ensure that we’re hiring people who will fit in well and thrive with the team. So tell us what you enjoy outside of work and studies; it always shines through when a student tells us about something they’re passionate about. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? 3. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? As members of our New Lawyers Group, graduates receive practical and relevant training from our Partners and Associates. One of the highlights of this program is the “New Lawyers Academy” which brings together all new Associates from across the Firm in Washington DC, for a week of hands-on training and meetings with firm leaders.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? We’re looking for the real you. We want to see that you have a passion for the law and understand why you want to start your career with Jones Day. So come prepared and ensure you have read your application and are able to answer any questions on it. However, to the best of your ability try not to memorise “pre-rehearsed answers,” but listen to the interviewer to ensure you’re answering the question asked. Most importantly, try and relax and enjoy the interview.

How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Jones Day seeks employees who see and seize opportunities. We look for well-rounded, motivated individuals with the potential to develop into exceptional lawyers and leaders in the profession, and who will embrace the Firm’s principles and values. So do your research on Jones Day and be ready to talk about how you’d be a good fit for the team.


Working at Jones Day… One Firm WorldwideSM Jones Day is a global law firm with more than 2,500 lawyers in 43 offices across five continents. The Firm is distinguished by: a singular tradition of client service; the mutual commitment to, and the seamless collaboration of, a true partnership; formidable legal talent across multiple disciplines and jurisdictions; and shared professional values that focus on client needs. The Firm’s 125 years of sustained growth—in experience, reputation and successful client interaction—have been built by its dedication to a ‘One Firm Worldwide’ philosophy, which fosters the creation of interoffice and cross-practice teams, assembled to ensure that clients receive the best possible guidance and representation, without regard to barriers conventionally imposed by geography, borders, time zones or language.

Australia Jones Day’s presence in Australia has grown significantly. The Firm has added new offices in Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane over the last five years in addition to our office in Sydney, reflecting our commitment to expanding our service to the Australian market. Our lawyers work in a dynamic and stimulating multidisciplinary environment by collaborating with colleagues from different practices and different offices worldwide. We continue to attract many of the legal industry’s most highly regarded and sought-after lawyers while maintaining our focus on promoting internal talent through the ranks.

The New Lawyers Group Jones Day recognizes that many law students leave law school not knowing which practice they want to enter. We also believe that a more well-rounded lawyer is a better lawyer and that a wide range of experience is valuable to a new lawyer. Accordingly, many years ago Jones Day created the New Law yers Group, which allows new associates to gain exposure to different practice areas and lawyering styles at the Firm before making a commitment to a specific-practice.

We provide extensive training through the New Lawyers program. Each November, we bring together new associates from across the Firm at the “New Lawyers Academy” in Washington for three days of hands-on training and meetings with Firm leaders. In addition to helping them understand Jones Day’s culture, organization and operation, the Academy gives our new lawyers the opportunity to meet their peers in the Firm’s other offices.

Graduate and Summer Clerkship Program We run a summer clerkship program at Jones Day across our offices in Australia that offers selected positions to talented students who are at their penultimate year at university. We give our summer clerks real work for real clients, to provide them an opportunity to learn what the practice of law at a large firm is all about. Providing challenging assignments also allows us to assess summer clerks’ potential to deliver first-rate legal services and to flourish in Jones Day’s culture. We aim for summer clerks to become future graduates of the Firm.

A Culture of Client Service and Collaboration Jones Day’s commitment to client service means our lawyers work together in a collaborative atmosphere where teamwork is essential, respect for and from colleagues is the norm, and credit is shared for a job well done. In fact, every facet of the Firm is structured to promote an environment that’s client-focused, but also professionally fulfilling for lawyers at any career stage. We expect our lawyers to focus completely on a client’s needs, with the full support and encouragement of their peers. We recognize that partners and associates alike contribute to the Firm in a variety of ways, and we reward lawyers for their overall contributions to the Firm and for promoting the Firm’s values.

Applications must be made online. Please visit us at www.jonesdaycareers.com/australia.

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K&L GATES Level 32, 44 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Jamie Lambert | jamie.lambert@ klgates.com | (08) 9216 0900

44 offices across 5 continents www.klgates.com

Corporate and Transactional; Litigation and Dispute Resolution; Real Estate

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? K&L Gates is an international law firm based in the United States. Our head office is located in Pittsburgh, USA. We have 4 offices in Australia: Perth, Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. How would you describe your firm’s culture? Practising commercial law challenges all lawyers in so many ways. The rewards of developing commercial experience, long lasting relationships with colleagues and clients are realised through hard work, persistence and passion for the work that you do. At K&L Gates, we talk openly about the potential impact that work and lifestyle can have on wellbeing and encourage everyone to understand their own limits as well as look out for others. We encourage everyone to proactively manage their wellbeing and put in place strategies for themselves. The firm offers sporting activities through its Sports Club, connection with others through its Social Club as well as flexible working to enable

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the balance between life needs and work. We encourage our lawyers to proactively plan annual leave and offer additional leave through our Purchased Annual Leave program. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? There are many law firms to choose from. But what if there was a law firm that really is different from the others? • Law firms often talk about many of the same things - having great lawyers, delivering excellent client service, offering global capabilities. At K&L Gates, we consistently provide all those things to clients, and indeed, we often surpass expectations in those areas; • K&L Gates is about more than practising law or making a living. It’s about building something amazing - creating a legacy for you, the firm, our clients and the communities we serve. We thrive in an inclusive and socially conscious environment that embraces our diversity and takes a holistic approach to the career evolution of all our

professionals, an approach that ultimately enables us to serve clients more effectively. Here, you can make a difference, lead the way, and let your innovation shine; • We are all in it together. We come up with big ideas and then roll up our sleeves to get the job done. We are a global community of entrepreneurs and selfstarters. We are nimble and ambitious with a high level of integrity, resolve, and strength of character. Although we take pride in our willingness to run through walls for clients, we also value the importance of laughing with clients, colleagues, or friends. We genuinely enjoy working with each other and for our clients. We expect you to work hard, but we don’t want you to be a robot; and • We have doubled in size in the last decade. You don’t do that by waiting for someone to show you the way. There is no “that’s the way it’s always been done” at K&L Gates - instead we have adapted and evolved as we’ve experienced our exponential growth. We guide our clients through


their most complex legal issues while they shape their futures, businesses and industries. The net result of building a unified and globally integrated law firm is that we are confident that we can do this better than our competitors. At K&L Gates, we are looking for smart, imaginative and hard-working people with diverse backgrounds, experiences and ideas to join us. Perhaps our search for talented visionaries and your search for important and impactful work lead to the same place. And hopefully, you’ll agree that we are different from all the other law firms - and the right place for you to grow your career. Notable awards • K&L Gates was again among the top three firms — out of more than 14,000 ranked — for most national first-tier rankings in the 2019 U.S. News-Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms” survey; • For the seventh year in a row, K&L Gates was ranked by Law360 in the publication’s Global 20 survey as one of 20 leading globally law firms based on international presence and the capabilities to handle complex cross-border matters; • A broad cross-section of our lawyers continue to be listed amongst Australia’s elite in the Chambers Asia Pacific and Asia Pacific Legal 500 legal directories, and the annual Best Lawyers listing published in the Australian Financial Review; • Listed by Australasian Lawyer as one of Australia’s most innovative law firms for our ground-breaking CLE On-Demand offering; and • The firm is consistently

recognised by the Australian Government Workplace Gender Equality Agency as an Employer of Choice for Gender Equality. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? We actively encourage our lawyers to provide pro bono legal representation and to participate in other charitable, community, educational and professional activities. Our lawyers have a minimum number of pro bono hours they must achieve each year. Our lawyers handle hundreds of pro bono matters each year in an effort to pursue justice and strengthen communities around the globe. Our work includes litigating civil rights cases; establishing and advising non-profit organisations; providing guidance to young people who face adversity; supporting the homeless; protecting victims of online abuse, human trafficking, and discrimination; and otherwise working to improve the lives of those who face hardship with little access to legal services. One example is our acclaimed Cyber Civil Rights Legal Project, which assists victims of non-consensual pornography. Another example is the collaboration by lawyers in our Australian and U.S. offices in producing a widely-adopted best practice guide to assessing applications for asylum on the grounds of sexual or gender identity. Each year, the firm highlights a selection of recent pro bono work and awards in For the Public Good, an internal Pro Bono publication.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? 10. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? During your clerkship at K&L Gates, you will benefit from being involved in real legal work. This will include participation in client meetings and court visits, research and drafting of advice and general support within one of our practice areas. At K&L Gates you will participate in a comprehensive induction program that continues throughout your clerkship to learn important skills to lay the foundations for a successful legal career. You will work closely with partners, senior associates and have the support of a junior lawyer as a buddy. There are also a number of social and sporting activities that are organised to help you to network with others across the firm and, most of all, have fun! How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? We believe in hiring individuals who will become a part of our collaborative, committed and diverse team. More specifically, to be successful at K&L Gates, you will have: • Leadership experience: You’re a self-starter committed to personal and professional development, and you’ve demonstrated initiative, tenacity and potential; • Curiosity: You’re a strategic thinker who solves problems creatively; 113


• Maturity: You possess sound judgement and have excellent people skills. You’re confident and professional; • Passion: You are dynamic, enthusiastic and excited about our firm; • First class communication skills: You possess the ability to speak and write clearly and intelligently; • Team player: You’re approachable, adaptable to a variety of situations and enjoy participating in group activities. You’re a good listener, and you’re always willing to share thoughts and ideas; and • We want to see that you are able to demonstrate all of this, but most importantly, we want you to be yourself! Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Yes.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes. We recruit casuals from candidates who completed our Summer Clerkship program.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Graduate offers are made solely from the group of previous Summer clerks. What can graduates do to stand out? We generally recruit our graduates from those who completed our summer clerk program. Standout candidates are often enthusiastic and eager to learn with great academic and extra-curricular achievements. 114

How many graduate positions are available in 2020? We have 2 graduates taking part in our 2020 Perth graduate program, with 27 graduates nationally. Both of our 2020 graduates have previously completed our clerkship program.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? We want to see that you are able to demonstrate your passion, great communication skills, enthusiasm, but most importantly, we want you to be yourself! How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Spend some time researching the firm, look on the K&L Gates website, K&L Gates’ graduate recruitment Facebook page and prepare some questions linked to your own interest.

“With a proactive and disciplined approach to managing wellbeing, we believe that our lawyers will enjoy a long and healthy career in the law for many years.”


DISCOVER Looking for a law firm that really is different? Where you can be empowered to DISCOVER quality work and clients, DEVELOP through opportunities to learn more while growing your career, and THRIVE in a diverse and inclusive culture? Then join our global community of talented visionaries. To learn more about how you can discover, develop, and thrive in a dynamic global law firm, visit klgates.com/careers.

THE K&L GATES EXPERIENCE. K&L Gates LLP. Global legal counsel across five continents. Learn more at klgates.com.

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KING & WOOD MALLESONS Level 30, 250 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Shenae Djulbic | shenae.djulbic@ au.kwm.com | (08) 9269 7000

27 offices globally www.kwm.com/en

Banking & Finance, Dispute Resolution, Projects & Real Estate and Mergers & Acquisitions

ABOUT THE FIRM What are your firm’s core values? • Client centric - putting our clients (inside and outside the firm) at the centre of everything we say and do; • Dynamic & entrepreneurial - we are passionate about challenging the market to create a shared future, together. Bold in our aspirations and confident in our execution; • One team, one firm our belief in the power of together delivers the best results for our people, our clients, and the firm. We operate as one family, one firm working collaboratively and supporting each other across all cultures; • Excellence & innovation - we combine quality and creativity, with the ability to get the right results through innovative solutions; • Stewardship - we will build a stronger firm for the future generations by nurturing clients and our colleagues to excel at everything they do; and • International perspective - connecting learning 116

and understanding to open doors and unlock opportunities in our local and international markets. How would you describe your firm’s culture? King & Wood Mallesons (KWM) is a firm with a community feel with room for everyone to make their mark. Our people are the difference and we believe the power of together delivers the best results for our people, our clients, and the firm. We are committed to supporting a culture that encourages and embeds diversity and inclusion, both within the firm and across the broader legal sector. We are results orientated and have a track record of high achievement and performance in life, not just in our professional and academic careers. We also have a strong focus on recognising and acknowledging our staff’s contributions and at our core are client centric – partnering with each client to help them to achieve their business goals. Many graduates state one of the main reasons they joined the firm was the people. Here’s what our people have

to say: “KWM staff are extremely supportive and welcoming to all clerks and graduates. The teams are made up of diverse and sociable people, who come from a variety of different backgrounds. This diverse network of people helps foster a true sense of community within the firm.” – Laura Jackson, 2019 KWM Law Graduate. “It is a given that you will work on high-calibre and interesting matters at KWM. One of the main reasons I chose KWM was the culture. The people at KWM are hardworking, but down-to-earth and generous with their time. You will learn a lot through hands-on experiences and will be asked to take responsibility for your work from the start.” – Emily Bell, 2018 KWM Law Graduate. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Our ability to connect Asia to the world and the world to Asia, is our key differentiator. With all the facets of a worldclass law firm and unique Asia perspective, we act as a bridge between East and West and help our clients cut through the cultural,


regulatory and technical complexities of getting deals done in new markets. KWM is a unique employer for a number of reasons. As the only global law firm that can practise Chinese, Hong Kong, UK, European and Australian law, we offer real depth and local connections in China. Our Australian practice spans international, local and regional clients. With an ambition to help clients to shape their business for the future – we can help you to shape your world too. That’s because our people are our future and a significant source of pride to us at KWM. We have a legacy of excellence spanning more than 200 years but we know that our future is in the hands of the next generation of lawyers. As such, we make your development our priority, and encourage our lawyers to be innovative and creative in meeting our clients’ challenges. Notable awards • WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality; • Australian Financial Review - Client Choice Awards Law Firm of the Year (>$200m); • The Global Lawyer Finance Firm of the Year and Asian Law Firm of the Year; • FT Innovative Lawyers Innovation in legal expertise: Accessing new markets and capital – World’s first blockchain Bond; the Bond-I; Innovation in legal expertise: Creating a new standard – HKEX’s launch of The Qianhai Mercantile Exchange (“QME”) commodity trading platform in Qianhai, Shenzhen; Innovation in the business of law: Strategy and changing behaviours – KWM International Center (KWM-

IC); Most innovative law firm in Asia-Pacific (AsiaPacific headquartered); • Asia Legal Awards Firm of the Year - Finance Firm of the Year; Firm of the Year - Securities Firm of the Year; Firm of the Year - Asian Law Firm of the Year; Finance Deal of the Year (Acquisitions) - Tianqi Lithium’s acquisition of SQM; Securities Deal of the Year (Equity) - Jaier D-share listing in Frankfurt; Private Equity Deal of the Year - Ant Financial series C financing; and • 100 Women of Influence (Australian Financial Review) Board and Management - Sue Kench. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? KWM is proud of the ongoing contribution that we make to the community. ‘KWM Community Impact’ is a multifaceted, national integrated strategy that uses the skills of our lawyers and nonlawyers. We give back to the communities in which we live and work through financial contributions, pro bono support and volunteering which everyone in the firm is encouraged to get involved with. Some examples of pro bono work our graduates have been involved in include attending the Street Law Clinic one day per week as a graduate, and involvement with the National Children’s and Youth Law Centre.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer and Winter. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? Dependant on business needs.

What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Our clerkships give you a clear picture of what it’s like to be a lawyer at KWM. You’ll get to know our people, the way we like to work, our culture, practice areas, clients and more. During a clerkship at KWM, you’ll learn about: • the operational “nuts and bolts” – our technology, real-world financial systems, research and support resources, firm policies, procedures and the structure and approach of the firm itself; • the day-to-day skills to get you started – taking instructions, meeting with clients, drafting memos/ documents, managing your practice and professional relationships; • our core practice teams – who they are, what they do, how they’re structured, the clients they work for, and of course, your role within them; • our culture – you’ll be exposed to (and encouraged) to get actively involved in the many activities and events that define KWM; and • our people – you’ll find that people from every part of the business will help you along, sharing their knowledge, and ensuring you have everything you need to succeed. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? • Get involved! – join in with various social and team based activities; • ask questions – we have an open and honest culture, it’s fine to ask questions and we actively encourage you to do so; • share your thoughts and ideas – the ‘power of together’ is all about sharing your thoughts and ideas to improve what we 117


• •

do, think differently and create value for clients and each other; build connections – genuine and authentic conversations, be yourself; team player – help solve problems through teamwork, collaboration and engagement; legal knowledge – aim to demonstrate a logical and systematic approach to understanding concepts and legal issues; and research – ensure you know the firm and show your interest.

Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? No. However, we do have a program in the Perth centre called “KWM Insight” aimed at pre-penultimate year law students. Details on the program can be found at https://careers.kwm.com/en/ graduates-australia/insightprogram.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? • Results orientation – a track record of achievement and performance in life, not just your academic career. Individuals who, through commitment and resilience, have demonstrated their ability to identify and achieve stretch goals; • intellectual curiosity - to us, intelligence is not measured by your GPA. We want deep thinkers who seek out information and diverse views to reach a practical and efficient solution to business problems; • client centricity – we work in our clients’ worlds and partner with them to achieve their business goals. We need people who can stand in the shoes of the client and 118

experience it from their perspective; learning agility – the international legal landscape is changing every day. We need people who demonstrate personal flexibility and an openness to dealing with change; broad perspective – we are growing the international law firm of the future. We seek out people with diverse perspectives who through challenger thinking help to create new insights and innovative opportunities across our global network; commitment to a legal career – we recognise that it is rare for people to have 20 year careers with the same employer. We are looking for people that will have a commitment in the medium term to KWM. In return we will steer you to become your best self by identifying your key strengths and developing you into the best possible lawyer; and team work – we operate as one family, one firm working together and supporting each other across cultures. We want people who build relationships and rapport with others through emotional intelligence and a collaborative working style.

How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? KWM’s Perth office follows the first round offers process. Former vacation clerks and law clerks will be eligible to apply for a graduate position via our careers website [www. kwm.com/careers]. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? Dependant on business needs.

Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? We offer a domestic and international secondment program where we regularly transfer partners, lawyers and other staff between our offices. A transfer can be for a short period of 3 to 6 months or for a longer period of up to 3 years. Transfers between offices assist with the sharing of knowledge and experience around the firm, with benefits both to our people and to the firm’s clients, and help in the development of future leaders of the firm.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Though interviews can be nerve-wracking, try to relax as much as you can (little things like turning up early and having a read over your cover letter and CV can really help!). Remember that the interview is just an opportunity for the firm to learn more about you and for you to learn more about the firm. It also helps to do some research beforehand, as it will help you frame why you want to be at KWM, which in turn will help you formulate questions about the things we do that you find most interesting. Also, don’t be afraid to let your personality show – there is no single “type” at KWM. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? • Research the firm and interviewers (if known); • know your CV/application; • think about your experiences; and • prepare questions.


Welcome to a new dimension of Law careers.kwm.com/en/graduates-australia

As an elite international law firm headquartered in Asia, we are reshaping the legal market by challenging our people and our clients to think differently about what a law firm can be today, tomorrow and beyond. We thrive on exceeding the expectations of our clients, and as such the world’s leading organisations turn to us to unlock their biggest opportunities and deliver clever solutions to their most vexing challenges. Where others see limitations, we see possibility. With ambitious thinking and innovation in our DNA, we partner with our clients to bring to life pioneering solutions which will help them to adapt, reinvent and grow. We believe innovation comes from giving our people room to grow, and as such actively encourage input and ideas from all levels of the firm. Our people are encouraged to shape their own career path, supported at every step of the way, with world-class training, coaching and hands-on experience. There is no ‘one size fits all’ career model, and we offer multiple opportunities for our lawyers to gain experience and thrive.

KEY STATISTICS • #1 ranked law firm in Australia and China* • Top 15 global elite brand** • 28 international offices; • One of the largest international legal networks in the Asia region with 500+ partners and more than 2000 lawyers; • Our clients range from a mix of global financial and corporate powerhouses through to new industry-makers and all levels of government • With an unmatched ability to practise Chinese, Hong Kong, Australian, English, US and a significant range of European laws under one integrated legal brand, we are connecting Asia to the world, and the world to Asia. *Source: Chambers and Partners 2020 **Source: 2020 Acritas Global Elite Law Firm Brand Index GLOBAL REACH The King & Wood Mallesons network extends across the following regions: • Asia Pacific (Australia, Mainland China including Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore) • Europe • Middle EastNorth America

OUR PROGRAMS SEASONAL CLERKSHIP PROGRAM Applications open: 13 July 2020 Applications close: 9 August 2020 How to apply: Via our online application system at kwm.com/careers We offer clerkships to give you a clear picture of what it’s like to be a lawyer at King & Wood Mallesons. You’ll get to know our people, the way we like to work, our culture, practice areas, clients and more. During your clerkship, you’ll learn: • The day-to-day skills to get you started – taking instructions, meeting with clients, drafting memos and documents, managing your practice and professional relationships.

Your role Clerks usually work in one or two different practice groups, depending on the length of the clerkship. You’ll be allocated a supervisor in each of your practice groups and you’ll work closely with the partners, senior associates and solicitors in that team. It’s a hands-on role, so you won’t just be watching from the sidelines. GRADUATE PROGRAM We offer a unique future-focused training experience and invest heavily in development to support you to fulfil your potential. You will benefit from a bespoke comprehensive learning and development program tailored specifically for our graduates. As a graduate you will take part in graduate technology bootcamps. These bootcamps will provide you with exposure to the many different types of emerging legal technologies, which are available at our firm. These skills will help prepare you for the future and ensure that we continue to evolve to meet our clients’ changing needs. We also offer a Practical Legal Training (PLT) course with the College of Law to our Australian Law graduates, ensuring that you meet the requirements for admission to legal practice. The program also promotes and supports the mobility of our staff across our offices by giving you the opportunity to apply to go on exchange in one of our interstate or overseas offices. Through this, you can access a greater choice and variety of destinations and on-the-job experience. VIRTUAL EXPERIENCE PROGRAM Wherever you are in the world you can now experience what it is really like to be a lawyer at KWM with our Australian-first legal virtual work experience program (VEP). Originally launched in 2017, the platform features two programs – ‘Intro to Law’ and ‘Advanced Law’ – which each include five learning modules curated by KWM based on real life firm matters and activities. Through this program you can build real skills and the confidence to excel in a commercial law career before you even step into one of our offices.

• The core practice teams at King & Wood Mallesons – who they are, what they do, how they’re structured, the clients they work for, and of course, your role within them. • Our culture – working within your team, you’ll be exposed to (and encouraged) to get actively involved in the many activities and events that help create our unique culture. • Our people – you’ll find that people from every part of the business will help you by sharing their knowledge and ensuring you have everything you need to succeed.

SHENAE DJULBIC People & Development Advisor, Perth +61 8 9269 7643 shenae.djulbic@au.kwm.com

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MILLS OAKLEY Level 2, 225 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Stephanie Croker | scroker@ millsoakley.com.au | (08) 6167 9800

5 Offices www.millsoakley.com.au

Commercial Disputes and Insolvency, Insurance, Property, Workplace Relations Employment and Safety, Corporate Advisory, Family

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Melbourne. What are your firm’s core values? Meritocracy: promoting and rewarding talented people is part of our firm’s DNA. Our mantra is reward follows performance. We have clear criteria for promotion and we promote anyone who meets these. Creating a legacy: we believe in making investments in the longer term improvement of our firm and our profession. We are particularly passionate about new technology and start-ups which are capable of delivering meaningful change for practitioners and clients. A collegiate, respectful culture: we are committed to cross-practice and national collaboration in a diverse, respectful environment. We recognise that our culture is driven by the behaviour we foster and encourage – and the behaviour we refuse to accept in our firm Integrity and value for clients: client value doesn’t necessarily mean being the 120

cheapest. We believe value lies in offering genuine insight into the client’s business. For example, identifying a ‘pain point’ at the outset, before it becomes a major problem. The true measure of the value we provide is the effectiveness of the client outcome – and an unwavering commitment to integrity and transparency in every aspect of the client relationship. How would you describe your firm’s culture? Mills Oakley is known for its friendly, down to earth culture. We are not part of the conservative legal establishment. We are a challenger brand. We pride ourselves on being more nimble and innovative than our ‘big end of town’ rivals and that means empowering our people to think and act independently to achieve great results for our clients. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? We are an independent Australian firm. That means decisions about the firm and your career are made locally and unlike many of our competitors, we don’t need to run those decisions via London or New York. It’s a faster, friendlier way to run

a firm. We are also one of the few firms to offer clerks and graduates the opportunity to experience private client areas such as Family Law as well as traditional “big firm” areas such as Corporate or Commercial Dispute Resolution. Notable awards • 2019 – Employer of Choice (Attraction Firms Survey), Lawyers Weekly; • 2019 – Winner, Australasian Lawyer Innovative Firms List; • 2019 – Finalist, Law Firm of the Year, Australasian Law Awards; • 2018 – Employer of Choice (Attraction Firms Survey), Lawyers Weekly; and • 2018 – Winner, Australasian Lawyer Innovative Firms list. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? • Advised Coca Cola Amatil re construction and development of new production facility in Lae, Papua New Guinea; • advised Malaysian pension fund KWAP and property manager Investa on $192m sale of commercial office building at 737 Bourke Street, Melbourne, to Charter Hall;


• advised eBay on competition related matters in respect of its Australian business; • represented Mazda Australia in largest class action in Australian history relating to Takata airbags and other matters; • advising Korda Mentha on recovery of Timbercorp Finance’s loan book, valued at over $500m; and • acted as Australian counsel to Universal Coal plc in respect of $175m hostile takeover bid made by TerraCom through a wholly owned subsidiary. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? Our principal community partnership is with the Salvation Army and the humanitarian law firm Salvos Legal. We collaborate with Salvos Legal to provide pro bono advice to disadvantaged and vulnerable members of the community. This occurs via a dedicated telephone advice service and in some locations, we advise at free legal clinics operated by Salvos Legal. This collaboration has been active since 2014 and last year and we assisted over 300 pro bono clients. In addition, our social functions usually incorporate fundraising for a charitable cause. Recent events have assisted Choice Passion Life (Cerebral Palsy League) and children’s cancer charity Camp Quality.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer and Winter. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? 6. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? We understand that the beginning of your career in law is a critical building

block for your future, so our program is designed to provide an insight into ‘life within a firm’ and for you to experience first-hand our open, supportive and friendly culture. A variety of tasks are provided to seasonal clerks including research, drafting memos, attending court and meeting clients. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? Your application should be targeted and subjective, making sure that you pay attention to detail and show your personality. Let us know why you think Mills Oakley is the place for you and how you can see yourself being part of the firm long-term. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Applications are open to penultimate year law students with the right to work in Australia.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes. After the clerkship period many clerks have stayed on to conduct paralegal work for various teams. Previously opportunities have also arisen for law students to work casually, clerking with the administration team. Positions like these are advertised on our website.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? A graduate should understand the firm culture and values and should adjust to each practice area they are rotating into. We encourage you to jump straight into the work and not be afraid to ask questions and gain an in

depth understanding of the matters you are working on. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Through our website: https:// www.millsoakley.com.au/ graduates. What can graduates do to stand out? Your application should be targeted and subjective, making sure you pay attention to detail, show your personality and be genuine. Prior experience is looked upon favourably. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? Generally, around 2. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? Not to work on an international basis as we are primarily an Australian national firm, however there is scope to work on international matters dependent on practice group.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? In an interview, a graduate should show that they have conducted research on the firm, made a connection between their strengths and that of the firm and emphasise their adaptability and flexibility. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Complete research on the firm, its people, achievements, notable matters and professional highlights. Do not come with many preprepared answers; answer the questions as they come honestly and to the point. 121


INTRODUCING MILLS OAKLEY Mills Oakley is a leading independent Australian law firm with 100 partners and more than 700 staff located at Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra and Perth. We are a top 10 Australian law firm by size. Our mission is to provide a superior service experience while operating an efficient business model that delivers value for clients, without compromising quality. Mills Oakley has been recognised by ALPMA as one of Australia’s most innovative law firms. Working in partnership with AI, software and design experts at Swinburne University, we are committed to developing new technology and processes. Mills Oakley is known as a challenger brand with a friendly and down to earth culture.

CLERKSHIP PROGRAM Our Seasonal Clerkship program offers students the opportunity to work closely with our experienced lawyers and gain practical knowledge about your chosen areas of interest. We understand that the beginning of your career in law is a critical building block for your future, so our program is designed to provide an insight into ‘life within a firm’ and for you to experience first-hand our open, supportive and friendly culture.

PERTH CLERKSHIP DATES 2020/21 All clerkships consist of two rotations through to of our practice groups. Our Perth clerkship program is a four week clerkship over summer. Applications Open

Monday 13 July 2020

Applications Close

Sunday 9 August 2020

Offers Made

Friday 25 September 2020 (9:00am)

Clerkship Intake 1

November/December 2020 (4 weeks)

Clerkship Intake 2

January/February 2021 (4 weeks)

CONTACT US MILLS OAKLEY PERTH Level 24, 240 St Georges Terrace Perth, WA 6000

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WWW.MILLSOAKLEY.COM.AU

HR@MILLSOAKLEY.COM.AU


Our origins are in Australia’s law institutes & societies. We have managed the retirement wealth of the legal community for 30 years and today, we remain dedicated to the community we were founded by.

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MinterEllison has given me great exposure to different teams and access to a diverse range of experiences – from transactional, to advisory, to litigious work. That has allowed me to find out what type of law I want to do and where I want to do longer term.� William Vu Lawyer

MinterEllison is a leading law firm. But we think beyond the law. Why? Because we have big ambitions to grow our firm in a world of relentless disruption. Because now is the time to reimagine the future so that we can create lasting impacts with our clients, our people and our communities. Never underestimate the power in you to make an impact.

Your future. Your choice. Choose to make an impact.

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graduates.minterellison.com


Your future. Your choice. Choose to make an impact. Our clerks and graduates become well-rounded, technically excellent lawyers who help to solve some of our clients’ most complex challenges. But we’ll empower you to be so much more. Never underestimate the power in you to make an impact We’re driven by a strong sense of purpose: to create lasting impacts with our clients, our people and our communities. As one of Asia Pacific’s leading law firms, our clients look to us to help them address their most complex legal challenges. But we know, in a world of relentless disruption, we also need to think beyond the law. We’re driving digital transformation and embedding a culture of curiosity and innovation. We’re investing in adjacent consulting capabilities that enable us to provide seamlessly integrated solutions to our clients. And our people are committed to making a meaningful difference in the communities they live and work in.

We support you to succeed Our award-winning clerk and graduate programs will expose you to a wide variety of business areas, skills, teams and challenges, helping you to understand where your strengths and interests lie. You’ll accelerate your legal and business acumen by working alongside high-performing partners, lawyers and professionals in a diverse, collaborative and innovative environment. You’ll have the opportunity to gain international exposure through our broad network of offices and industry partnerships.

Your success is our success We celebrate and invest in our people. We’re committed to helping our people achieve their best and progress in their careers. Our development programs and initiatives are second to none. We’ll work with you to provide you with challenging and career-building experiences, and we’re always working to open more doors for you.

Contact Sandra D’Souza Talent Business Partner sandra.dsouza@minterellison.com graduates.minterellison.com Clerkship positions Number of positions available: 7-8 Opening date: Monday 13 July 2020 Closing date: Sunday 9 August 2020 Method of application: graduates.minterellison.com

MinterEllison Virtual Internship Want to experience a true-to-life day of a MinterEllison lawyer? Our interactive virtual internship offers you an insight into the commercial work we undertake here at MinterEllison. Curious?

graduates.minterellison.com

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NORTON ROSE FULBRIGHT Level 30, 108 St Georges Terrace, Perth 6000

Brooke Wheeler | brooke.wheeler@ nortonrosefulbright.com | (08) 6212 3222

5 offices in Australia, 58 offices worldwide https://www.nortonrosefulbright. com/en-au

Litigation, Employment & Labour, Construction, Banking & Finance, Financial Restructuring & Insolvency, Real Estate and Corporate

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? London. What are your firm’s core values? Quality, unity and integrity. How would you describe your firm’s culture? Our values of quality, unity and integrity are the foundation of our culture. Our focus is on providing consistently high quality legal services to clients across the business as industry experts. We operate in a team culture, collaborating and sharing information and knowledge across disciplines and markets to achieve the best results for our clients. We value our people – they are our most important asset and we promote a culture of respect for the individual. We build long term relationships with our clients and colleagues by being trustworthy, open and fair. We value our culture and work hard to preserve it. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? By being industry experts, prioritising diversity & 126

inclusion and ongoing learning and development. Knowing how our clients business works and understanding what drives their industries is fundamental to us. Our lawyers share industry knowledge and sector expertise across borders, enabling us to support our client’s anywhere in the world. We have a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. We aim to be an employer of choice worldwide by valuing difference, promoting a culture of respect for each individual, and encouraging workforce diversity in all aspects and at all levels. We offer educational assistance and support to all staff and design and deliver development programmes addressing our employees specific needs. Our award winning International Academies are delivered to associates, senior associates and special counsel at the relevant stages of their career. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? Our Perth office acts for prominent local and

international energy, resources, infrastructure and financial markets clients on some of Australia’s largest financings, corporate M&A transactions, project developments and disputes. We also have extensive experience in real estate, employment and in restructuring and insolvency. Examples of our recent work include advising Woodside on the negotiation of arrangements with TimorLeste and Australia associated with the development of the Greater Sunrise Project, advising Perth Airport on the successful closing of its A$950m syndicated bank debt refinancing and a successful outcome in the liability phase of a $400 million arbitration for one of the world’s largest oil and gas companies. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? We focus our CSR efforts in support of human rights, Indigenous rights, rights of the LGBTI community, rights of women and children, rights of homeless people and rights of those in the community who are otherwise less fortunate. We do this through pro bono legal support, charitable giving and fundraising, volunteering,


our environmental sustainability initiatives and through the actions and initiatives identified in our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). In light of the recent bushfire crisis across Australia, we have donated to the bushfire appeals across the Australian Red Cross, New South Wales RFS and Victorian CFA. In addition, we are also working to support a number of charities and local causes actively seeking to support bushfire affected communities.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? One, 10 week summer clerkship. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? Up to 6. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Our summer clerkship programme offers a real taste of life as a graduate, including attending client meetings and teleconferences, visits to court, research, preparation of court documents, drafting deeds/contracts, discovery and much more! There will also be additional activities for you to take advantage of including: • Key skills training with our Learning and Development team; • Q&A sessions with our leaders; • presentations about practice areas and deals; and • networking and social events. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? • Be authentic and bring your whole self to work; • be curious and get to know your practice groups and

the firm; • be proactive and willing to take on all tasks; and • be involved in team and firm events and activities. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? No.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? We require casual paralegals from time to time. Students can apply for positions and access these opportunities through our online jobs board.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? Strong academic results are important, but not the only criteria. Norton Rose Fulbright seeks well-rounded candidates who have strength beyond academia including work experience and extracurricular interests. We also look to candidates with strong commercial awareness, a global outlook, open mindedness and long term motivation for a career in the law. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Through the Norton Rose Fulbright job board. What can graduates do to stand out? By being themselves throughout the selection process, and demonstrating a genuine interest and knowledge in our firm and the opportunities it has to offer.

How many graduate positions are available in 2020? Up to 6 graduates. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? Our graduate program provides you with the opportunity to do a 6 month secondment in one of our international offices within your first two years with the firm. So far, our graduates have done secondments in the United Kingdom, Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai, South America and the United States of America.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? • Prepare for your interview by researching our firm, your interviewer and be ready to explain your interest in Norton Rose Fulbright; • be yourself and be honest in your responses; • be prepared to provide specific examples of situations where issues or obstacles arose and how you overcame it, rather than giving generalisations; • make the most of opportunities to meet Norton Rose Fulbright staff during the recruitment process; and • remember, interviews are a two way process so make sure you ask questions to ensure we are the right fit for you. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? In addition to the points above, arrive early, do your best to calm your nerves and know your resume inside out! 127


Nina is a change navigator When you’re playing futsal, you attune to a pace that’s fast. Fast and critical thinking as part of a team comes naturally to Nina. Currently on our graduate program, she’s putting her speed of thought to good use on secondment, walking – or running – in the shoes of our client. We’re providing the next generation of lawyers like Nina with the knowledge, skills and understanding to help our clients achieve their goals on the global stage – always staying one step ahead of the competition. We don’t simply adapt to change. We thrive on it. Law around the world nortonrosefulbright.com

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PRAGMA LAWYERS Level 1, 254 Rokeby Road, Subiaco WA 6008

Sandra Ursino | careers@pragma. law or hello@pragma.law | (08) 6188 3340

1 Office www.pragma.law

Dispute Resolution & Litigation, Employment Law, Commercial Law, Insolvency

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Subiaco. What are your firm’s core values? • Ethical; • pragmatic and solutions focused; • open and transparent; • team players and forward thinking; • leaders in the community; • supportive and mindful of each other; and • healthy. How would you describe your firm’s culture? Pragma Lawyers is not a “traditional” law firm. We pride ourselves on being nimble and outside-the-box thinkers. We engage new technologies in order to help us deliver efficiencies to our clients. Pragma has lead the way in legal innovation, being one of the first firms to implement a fixed-fee early mediation. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Pragma’s values are etched into our Pragma culture, these core values underpin everything we do and helps to differentiate us from our competitors.

Notable awards Pragma has been recognised as one of the fastest growing law firms in Australia (Australasian Lawyer Magazine, October, 2016); we were nominated as a finalist in the Australian Law Awards; are listed in Australasian Lawyer Innovative Firms for 2016 and recently Pragma Lawyers was selected for the Australasian Lawyer Employer of Choice List for 2019. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? Advising on the sale of significant mining tenements to an international purchaser (encompassing both insolvency and commercial advice), successfully defending a defamation claim brought in the Court of Appeal, advising on the sale of The Subiaco Hotel and commencing and resolving a mothership insolvency claim against 24 defendants in the Supreme Court of Western Australia. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? Consistent with our values, Pragma undertakes a wide range of pro-bono work including litigious matters such as debts owed to migrant

employees, defending violence restraining orders for the elderly and defending claims brought by banks against individuals.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Pragma doesn’t offer clerkships as such, we like to get to know you and how you work over a longer period of time. For this reason, we offer casual vacancies each year to become a clerk at the firm. This will give you the experience of all areas that we practice in and allow you to have a go at all tasks. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? 2. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? We get that clerks don’t want to be put in the corner and do endless research tasks. For this reason, we get our clerks actively involved in attending court and client meetings with lawyers, preparing substantive documents for matters and finding out about how a firm is run. 129


How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? Be confident and comfortable in yourself and let your own qualities stand out, while acknowledging the new environment you may be coming into. Due to the requirements of work, having someone around who is a pleasure to be with is most important.

Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? No, we don’t. Although at Pragma you will get plenty of opportunities to be involved in matters with our local, national and international clients.

Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Yes.

What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Know why you want to be in the interview. There are many firms around that are unique in their own ways, find out what those differences are and seek interviews at firms that align with you and your goals.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes, we are always wanting to hear from great people so feel free to send us a cover letter and your CV.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? Great people who are engaged and have the potential to become great lawyers. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Pragma typically employs our graduates from our pool of clerks. If you’re interested in joining us email through your cover letter and CV. What can graduates do to stand out? Be yourself, complete each task to the best of your abilities, ask questions and be a team player. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? 1 to 2.

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INTERVIEWS

How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Know your stuff. We don’t want you to repeat our website back to us but know our practice areas and why you want to join what we do. Seek out information from fellow students, there are plenty of great clerks that work with us currently that can give you insights.

“Pragma helps its clients avoid and resolve disputes so they can focus on what’s important to them.”


A culture like no other. Pragma Lawyers was founded in 2014 to offer a more pragmatic approach to law that better aligns with our client’s interests. During our first six years, we have established ourselves as one of the dispute resolution firms of choice in Western Australia. In our view, too many lawyers are going through the motions rather than identifying their client’s goals and making a beeline for that outcome as quickly as possible. At Pragma, we put in the extra 1%, we think outside the square and we celebrate the wins. Join our young, dynamic team reach out careers@pragma.law

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SPARKE HELMORE LAWYERS Level 11, Eastpoint Plaza, Perth WA 6000

Erin Tomicic | erin.tomicic@sparke. com.au | (02) 6263 6355

9 Offices https://www.sparke.com.au/

Commercial Insurance, Corporate & Commercial, Workplace and Firm Advisory and Services

ABOUT THE FIRM What are your firm’s core values? Client-first — putting our clients at the heart of everything we do. Honest — always being authentic, ethical and behaving with integrity. Respect and inspire people — enabling people to be their best. Agile — open to change, adapting to challenges and uncertainty. One-firm — working collaboratively towards achieving our goals. Walk the talk — leading by example and showing the way. By behaving in these ways, staying focused, working together as one team and streamlining our processes, we really do put our clients at the heart of everything we do. How would you describe your firm’s culture? Covering a big country needs a big team — we’re more than 950 people now and still growing. And in true Australian spirit, we’re friendly, approachable and easy to work with. And when you work with one of us, you get the expertise of all of us. 132

How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? We want to be a marketleading Australian professional services business that our clients choose for outstanding people, legal expertise and our ability to connect. We expect the people who join our team to want that too.

• Australasian Lawyers, Employer of Choice 2019.

We think that’s why we get interesting work from great clients, many of whom are household names, ASX 100 companies, international insurers and other multinationals, and large government departments and agencies.

What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? Sparke Helmore has offered pro bono services to clients for over a decade and became a signatory to the legal profession’s National Pro Bono Aspirational Target in 2013. We exceeded the target of 35 hours per FTE in 2018/2019. It’ s more than just a tally of hours or the dollar value of our financial support that we’re proud of — it’s the very personal results and outcomes where we can see our people making a difference in the community and the lives of individuals.

Notable awards • Winner - Australian Lawyers, Employee of Choice 2020; • Finalist - 2020 Australasian Law Awards; • Finalist - Inclusive Employer 2019 – 2020 Diversity Council of Australia; • 2019 Diversity Law Firm of the Year, Lawyers Weekly Women in Law Awards; • Finalist – 2019 Australasian Law Awards, Insurance Specialist Firm of the Year; • WGAE Employee of Choice for Gender Equality; and

Through our Pro Bono Practice, we provide access to justice for individuals experiencing disadvantage and support for eligible notfor-profits charities and social enterprises with their legal needs on a pro bono basis or for a substantially discounted fee. We strive to cultivate a shared value between the firm and its clients. We contribute to a culture where our people can give back to the community. We encourage all partners and staff to participate in our pro bono and community activities.


CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes, all roles are advertised on our website.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? Our people are key to our success. We are always on the look-out for graduates with potential to progress, who fit with our culture and align with our values, and who demonstrate, among other things, intelligence, interpersonal skills, commitment, energy and commerciality.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Candidates being honest and authentic so we can get to know the real you! How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Research the firm and know what we are all about – our culture is important to us, we want our future graduates to fit with our culture and align with our values.

Sparke Helmore graduates are: • all-rounders, who are engaged in extra-curricular pursuits as well as their studies; • team players; • clear and concise writers; and • confident and articulate communicators. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? All roles are advertised on our website.

“To get there, we work together and put our clients at the heart of everything we do.”

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Sparke your career with us… Deciding on the firm that’s right for you is a big decision. Is the culture right for me? Will I receive quality work? Will there be people genuinely interested in my growth who can point me in the right direction? Does the firm embrace technology and take innovation seriously?

Why choose Sparke Helmore?

What do we look for in our lawyers?

Sparke Helmore offers its lawyers a challenging and rewarding environment.

Our people are key to our success. We are always on the look-out for lawyers with potential to progress, who fit with our culture and align with our values, and who demonstrate, among other things, intelligence, interpersonal skills, commitment, energy and commerciality.

Working at Sparke Helmore provides all employees with a unique range of opportunities to expand their knowledge, with access to: • Market-leading expertise—we are a full service national law firm. This means you will have the opportunity to gain experience in each of our Insurance, Government, Workplace and Corporate & Commercial practice groups. • Real legal work—from your first day, you will have the opportunity to get involved in legal work that contributes to the firm and its clients.

Sparke Helmore lawyers are: • all-rounders, who are engaged in extra-curricular pursuits as well as their studies • team players • clear and concise writers, and • confident and articulate communicators.

• Training and development—a combination of formal and on-the-job training that covers technical and soft skills. • Mentoring and networking—we have a proud reputation for mentoring and facilitating relationship building across the firm in a way that fosters personal and career development, networking and the sharing of knowledge, experience and learning. • Opportunities to give back—through our Pro Bono and Community Programs.

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www.sparke.com.au/join-us/graduate-program/ adelaide | brisbane | canberra | darwin | melbourne | newcastle | perth | sydney | upper hunter


SQUIRE PATTON BOGGS Level 21, 300 Murray Street, Perth WA 6000

Hannah Robins | hannah.robins@ squirepb.com | (08) 9429 7444

45 offices, 20 countries globally www.squirepattonboggs.com

Corporate, Property, Litigation, International Dispute Resolution, Labour and Employment, Energy and Natural Resources, Real Estate, Construction Law

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Squire Patton Boggs does not have a ‘headquarters’. Instead, we operate on the philosophy of ‘One Office, Many Locations’. Our 45 offices spread across 20 countries are encouraged to work seamlessly and collaboratively together without an overly bureaucratic ‘head office’ approach. What are your firm’s core values? Our values play an integral role in our everyday operations assisting to shape our daily actions and decisions. • Collaboration - we work together globally to build trusted relationships with each other and our clients; • Professionalism - we act ethically and uphold the highest standards of professionalism; • Excellence - thinking differently, we continuously innovate and inspire others; • Diversity - we value diversity; we recognise and embrace each person and their contribution; and

• Responsibility - we are accountable to ourselves, our teams and to ensuring the firm’s success; we support the wellbeing of each other and our communities. How would you describe your firm’s culture? Our culture emphasises and rewards collaboration, accountability and responsibility; we work to support our clients, our people and the wider community. Our core values are intrinsically linked to our culture; these values are not just words on a page but provide the foundation of the decisions that we all make daily. We recognise the value that each individual person is able to make to the firm. While we enjoy the challenging nature of our work, we also understand the importance of coming together to spend time in a more informal social setting. With this in mind, we provide opportunities for staff, ranging from social functions to volunteering days and sporting activities. We also have generous wellbeing programs to keep our people happy and healthy in both mind and body.

How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Our founding clients included the entrepreneurs of the day, such as the legendary JD Rockefeller. They invented, created, discovered and built. That spirit is reflected in our culture, which emphasises agility, creativity and pragmatism. While our global network provides an extensive pool of resources, connections and international expertise, our Australian offices are boutique in size and nature providing you with access to hands on, client-facing legal work from day one. Our people, including paralegals and graduates, are working directly with partners and clients, providing you with the chance to contribute in a meaningful way from the very beginning.

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What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? Like most business law firms we do a broad range of commercial law work for a diverse group of clients. Some highlights over the past year include: • we assisted the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) in connection with their investigation of financial crimes under State and Commonwealth legislation. We provided advice and assistance to identify offences and to prepare briefs to the Department of Public Prosecutions; • our Corporate team regularly advise on significant and high-profile transactions and have recently acted on deals for Midland Brick and IDOM Automotive Group; • we have played a role on most of the major redevelopment projects around Perth including; Yagan Square, Elizabeth Quay, Perth Hub and The Ritz Carlton; • our Construction and Projects team specialises in complex constructionrelated disputes and international arbitrations. We are currently acting on multiple disputes and international arbitrations for large companies within the Energy and Resources sector including several large scale LNG and iron ore projects; and • we have provided advice on venture capital transactions for technology startups and their investors. Our experience in this area is enhanced by one of our partner’s Silicon Valley experience and dual US/Australian qualifications.

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What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? Our pro bono work is focused on: • disadvantaged youth; • homelessness; • alleviation of poverty; and • access to justice. Over the past three years we have provided almost $1.8 million worth of fee support and more than 4,000 hours support on pro bono matters. Some of the causes we have supported include: • Law Access; • Cancer Council; • YouthCare; • Bloom; • Many Rivers; • Busselton Women’s Refuge; • Community Housing Coalition of WA; and • Classroom of Hope. We are a signatory to the National Pro Bono Target and are committed to undertaking at least 35 hours of Pro Bono legal work per lawyer per year.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes. We advertise directly on seek and through our website as opportunities become available. Keep an eye out from emails from your law society representatives who will be kept in the loop if we are currently recruiting casual paralegals.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? We are looking for collaborative people who will thrive in our culture. Some key characteristics that we look for are proactivity, initiative, resilience, curiosity, enthusiasm and passion to contribute to the success of our firm. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Our firm does not participate in the standard graduate recruitment dates. A lot of our graduates are recruited from our current casual paralegals that work across our offices but should an opportunity arise, we will advertise through our website and seek. Your law society representatives will also be notified in this case. What can graduates do to stand out? In your cover letter, choose three qualities that you think you possess that will make you a match for our culture (hint: look to our graduate brochure for inspiration). Those individuals that demonstrate this together with innovation, entrepreneurial qualities and a hunger for a challenge at our firm will put themselves ahead of the pack and make yourselves stand out in our application processes. We look for people who will contribute positively to our collaborative culture, and continuing growth and success. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? 6 across Australia.


Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? These opportunities do arise in our offices. We have had paralegals and graduates travel to places such as Fiji and Singapore in the past, with one graduate travelling overseas in their first month of starting with us! Most recently, we have offered an opportunity for our UK trainees and AU associates to apply for an international secondment swap whereby they can apply for a 4 month rotation within our UK offices, and vice versa. We are currently working towards this occurring in May 2020 and are hoping this can be offered on a regular basis between our UK offices in the future.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Your unique personality shining through. We want to learn about you and for you to tell us about yourself, not what you think we want to hear. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Be yourself. We want to recruit like-minded people who will thrive in our firm. We want to get to know you and what drives your passion for the law.

“We work hard to build a diverse and inclusive culture that makes coming to work each day a pleasure.�

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Be One of Us Be commercial. Whether they are household brand names that have changed the way we work, live, shop or play, or start-ups just about to shake things up all over again, our clients are clever, creative and commercial. So are we. You will learn how to adapt what you’ve learned about the law to real-time scenarios. Be connected. From day one, you will be part of our global office – working alongside lawyers across the country and all around the world. Be committed. Our culture emphasises and rewards collaboration, accountability and responsibility. We support our clients, our teams and our community. Be empowered. From the very start we give you the tools, know-how and options you need to set your own challenges and define your career path. If you want to be part of the fastest growing global law firm in Australia, be smart and talk to us about career opportunities at Squire Patton Boggs. Be one of us.

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Squire Patton Boggs

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Squire Patton Boggs Careers


STEINEPREIS PAGANIN Level 4, 16 Milligan Street, Perth WA 6000

Elaine Whelan | ewhelan@steinpag. com.au | (08) 9321 4000

2 Offices www.steinpag.com.au

Corporate, Commercial

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Perth. What are your firm’s core values? Growth, reliability, excellence, accountability and teamwork.

What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? Partnering with local charity 12 Buckets for their legal enquiries and to provide mentoring to young people through their 12 Buckets schools program.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION

How would you describe your firm’s culture? Collaborative and supportive team who work together to deliver high quality client outcomes. Focused on personal growth and development.

During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer and Winter.

How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Flat structure with the ability for lawyers at all levels to work directly with partners and clients and to gain valuable experience in a wide range of transactional corporate matters.

What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Due diligence, research and drafting on live client matters.

Notable awards Doyle’s Guide recommended for the last 3 years. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? High volume of IPOs (20% of all completed in Australia).

How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? 16.

How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? By demonstrating our values in their approach to work and the team ethic we have as a firm. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Yes.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? We offer ongoing clerkships for students in their final year for 1 or 2 days a week.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? An interest and willingness to learn. A team player with attention to detail and someone who can apply what they have learned to future tasks. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Through our graduate applications on our website and also by completing our clerkship program, although this is not the only route. 50% of our team completed clerkships with us and 50% did not! What can graduates do to stand out? Demonstrate the above.

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How many graduate positions are available in 2020? 2-3. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? No.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? We like to see the real person and to understand their drivers and what they will bring to our team to add to what we already have. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? By being themselves and by knowing that they have an interest in the corporate and commercial space and that they enjoy a fast-paced environment with ongoing learning opportunities.

“We are a collaborative and supportive team who work together to deliver high quality client outcomes.�

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Overview Steinepreis Paganin was established in October 1997 by founding partners Roger Steinepreis and David Paganin. We are one of Perth’s largest independently owned corporate law firms specialising in corporate, energy and resources and commercial matters. Now with offices in both Perth and Melbourne.

AREAS OF PRACTICE

Our Clients We act for a large number of ASX listed and private company clients around Australia and overseas in the areas of mining and resources, technology, biomedics, agriculture and other general commercial industries.

Other Benefits

Type of work Lawyers at our Firm can expect to be exposed to some or all the following transactions: Equity capital markets – IPOs, Chapter 11s Rights issue/ offer documents / prospectus Due diligence / verifications Notice of Meetings Takeover bids and mergers Scheme of arrangements Corporate restructuring

Learning and development focus through our comprehensive annual training roadmap Social responsibility and giving back through the Steinepreis Paganin Charitable Foundation and volunteering days Genuine care for health and wellbeing through our EAP program and flu vaccines Teambuilding opportunities through our calendar of social events Support and development focus through our mentoring and buddy schemes

Our Values

Working Culture

At Steinepreis Paganin we live and breathe our values of Growth, Reliability, Excellence, Accountability and Teamwork as we believe they make us GREAT at what we do. We pride ourselves on delivering quality work for our clients in an efficient way and we look to bring on graduates and clerks who reflect these values through their behaviours, both personally and professionally.

Friendly and social working environment Team oriented and collaborative approach to work Open door policy and approachable partners Knowledge sharing culture

What our Graduates say about us “The best thing about being a Graduate at Steinepreis Paganin is that you are given the opportunity to take on work early in your legal career whilst also being provided with a strong support network to draw upon if you need help. The learning and development of all lawyers, but especially Graduates are one of the firm’s central goals.” J McAuliffe “Being a Graduate at Steinpag will quickly develop your legal skills as the firm provides its graduates with a high level of responsibility and the opportunity to communicate and interact with clients from the beginning. It is also a great team environment where all the lawyers are approachable and invested in your learning and development.” S Rodriguez

For further information please contact: Elaine Whelan, Human Resources Manager Email: ewhelan@steinpag.com.au Ph: 9321 4000 Mob: 0438 509 307

Phone on 9321 4000 or

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THOMSON GEER Level 27, Exchange Tower, 2 The Esplanade, Perth WA 6000

Kirsty Dunn | hr@tglaw.com.au | (08) 9404 9100

5 Offices tglaw.com.au

Property, Construction and Infrastructure, Environment and Planning, Corporate and Commercial, Health, Aged Care and Retirement Villages, Litigation and Dispute Resolution, Competition and Regulation, Class actions, Collections, Insurance Law, Transport & Logistics, Franchising

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Adelaide. What are your firm’s core values? Thomson Geer strives to deliver best practice legal skills to our clients, doing so efficiently, reliable and with an authentic and transparent approach. We are focused on enhancing the competitive position of our clients in whatever circumstances they find themselves in. This philosophy extends to the way we interact with each other - honestly and transparently supporting each other to be the best lawyers and people we can be. How would you describe your firm’s culture? The law is an incredibly rewarding profession, but we recognise it can be demanding. For this reason, we have created an environment that is flexible, friendly, personable, collegiate and professionally stimulating. 142

We work hard to enhance this culture through transparent, authentic communication, and by ensuring we are respectful and accountable to each other every day to provide an environment where our staff can grow personally and professionally. Our clients are at the centre of everything we do; so it is not only the openness we demonstrate in our dealings with each other, but also the well-established and trusting relationships we have with our clients, which make Thomson Geer a great place to work. Our wellbeing@work program supports employees to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Our employees love to get involved in activities such as mixed sporting teams and they enjoy healthy breakfasts and snacks. We also provide support for your health through the provision of flu vaccinations, skin checks and an independently provided Employee Assistance Program. We also have an active social committee, providing lots of opportunities to develop close relationships with your colleagues.

How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? We are not the only large law firm in Australia that: • is retained for similar quality work by similar client classes; and • has a deep cultural commitment to the highest ethical standards and strong independent Australian legal counsel. However, we believe we are amongst a select class of large Australian law firms that offer a depth of quality legal skills and know how across Australia coupled with strong value driven standards and settings. We have access to high quality work for major institutional clients in sectors such as banking, construction, energy, health, telecommunications, property development and gaming and leisure. This provides our lawyers exposure to excellent work while maintaining small teams where each lawyer gets to develop and learn from senior lawyers, including partners.


Notable awards Our firm, many of our practice area teams and people individually are recognised in Chambers, Legal 500 Asia Pacific, Best Lawyers in Australia and Doyle’s Guide What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? Some of our recent notable matters nationally include advising: • AustralianSuper in relation to the Royal Commission into misconduct in the banking, superannuation and financial services industry; • QSuper on all matters associated with its establishment of QInsure - the first non-profit super fund to launch its own life insurance company in a move that the AFR reported sent shockwaves through the A$44 billion life insurance sector; • Tesla in relation to the development of the Hornsdale Battery Project and the world’s largest Virtual Power Plant with solar panels and batteries to go to 50,000 homes. Both projects sponsored by the Government of South Australia; • Far East Consortium in a $1 billion staged four residential tower development including approximately 2500 apartments together with retail and hotel components; • Government of South Australia on the reform of the compulsory third party insurance sector including the associated sale of its property portfolio – 11 buildings across Australia; • Linc Energy associated parties in an environmental prosecution regarding what has been described as possibly ‘the biggest pollution case in Queensland history’, as

reported by The Weekend Australian; Three NSW energy providers and Western Power, Perth on complex contractual arrangements for the rollout of the NBN on 2 million+ power poles with a project value of around A$50-A$100 million; Domino’s Pizza Enterprises (DPE) on its entry into the German market including joint venture arrangements with Domino’s UK and the acquisition of Joey’s Pizza, the then largest pizza delivery chain in Germany for €79 million; CountPlus on the acquisition of Count Financial Ltd from the Commonwealth Bank of Australia; Lendlease Real Estate Investment on the $700 million divestment of its share in Westfield Marion, the largest shopping centre in South Australia; and Kimberley Ports Authority on the landmark $110 million Kimberley Marine Support Base project in the Port of Broome.

What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? At Thomson Geer, we understand the importance of giving back to our community. This involves helping to ensure that all members of that community have access to legal representation and advice, and seeking opportunities to provide support for worthwhile causes.

target of 35 hours of pro bono legal work per practitioner per year (in fact, our lawyers can spend up to 50 hours per year on approved pro bono matters and receive financial credit for this time). We are constantly looking for ways that we can connect our lawyers with pro bono opportunities that will utilise their skills to make a meaningful contribution to our local communities. The firm offers pro bono services to many clients aligned with the firm’s priorities and positioning. This includes clients such as (this list is not exhaustive): • Get Real Conscious Impact; • St Vincent’s Hospital; • Choice Passion Life (formerly Cerebral Palsy League of QLD); • The Charlie Teo Foundation; • Ellavation; • Lilla Foundation; • Melbourne Symphony Orchestra; • Milk Crate Theatre; • Global Centre for Modern Ageing; • Australasian Stroke Academy; • Australian Schools Plus; • HIV/AIDS Legal Centre; and • Diabetes NSW ACT. The firm also works with a number of structured pro bono referral programs such as (this list is not exhaustive): • Justice Connect; and • Homeless Persons Legal Service.

An initiative our firm is committed to is the provision of pro bono legal advice to marginalised and disadvantaged groups across the states in which we operate. Thomson Geer is a signatory to the National Pro Bono Resource Centre’s aspirational 14 3


Connect with us... tglaw.com.au Thomson Geer @ThomsonGeer

ADVICE | TRANSACTIONS | DISPUTES Domestic & Cross Border www.tglaw.com.au Sydney | Melbourne | Brisbane | Adelaide

ARRIVE... at a large Australian corporate law firm We have more than 560 people, including 116 Partners operating out of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide. We are one of the 10 largest law firms operating in Australia, and the 5th largest independent Australian law firm.

WHAT IT’S LIKE TO WORK FOR US The law is an incredibly rewarding profession, but we recognise it can be demanding. For this reason we create an environment that is flexible, friendly, personable, collegiate & professionally stimulating. Our clients are at the centre of everything we do; so it is not only the collaborative, supportive relationships we have with each other, but also the well-established, trusting relationships we have with our clients, which make Thomson Geer a great place to work. Wellbeing has a significant impact on motivation, morale and performance at work. Our wellbeing@work program supports employees to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Our employees love to get involved in mixed sporting teams and they enjoy healthy breakfasts and snacks. We also have an active social committee, providing lots of opportunities to develop close relationships with your colleagues. 144

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide

Our industry coverage and client work is diverse and we are regularly engaged on challenging, complex commercial work.

ARRIVE... AT THOMSON GEER To find out more about Thomson Geer and what it’s like to work for us, please visit our website or contact us hr@tglaw.com.au


TOTTLE PARTNERS Level 40, 108 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000 1 Office www.tottle.com

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Perth. What are your firm’s core values? Tottle Partners values expertise, service and value. Expertise: our clients benefit from the extensive capability, experience and consistency of our talented lawyers, who are specialists in the areas in which they practise. Service: we pride ourselves on providing a personalised, direct service. We are well resourced and committed to understanding our clients and their interests and forging strong relationships with them over years of working with them. Value: we are focused on results, not process driven. We have a strong pragmatic and ‘value for money’ approach. We understand our clients’ need for certainty regarding costs.

Rhea Wood | careers@tottle.com | (08) 9217 6700 Administrative & Health Law, Building, Construction & Engineering Law, Corporate Advice, Employment & Workplace Relations Law, General Commercial Law, Insolvency Law, Insurance Law, Intellectual Property & Technology Law, Litigation & Alternative Dispute Resolution, Media and Defamation Law, Mining and Resources Law, Property, Conveyancing & Leasing

How would you describe your firm’s culture? The Tottle Partners culture is founded on all of our staff supporting and respecting each other and knowing that they are valued for their contribution. We are proud of our down to earth culture, where we work hard but know there is more to life than the daily grind. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Our lawyers do not have to wait years to do challenging and interesting work; they work directly with our clients and senior lawyers from day one. We operate an ‘open door’ policy and do not work in a rigid hierarchy or team structure, which provides our lawyers with the opportunity to work with many of their colleagues in the firm and gain experience in a range of practice areas. With many of our partners having left large national firms to join Tottle Partners, we know the importance of flexible work practices and enabling our staff to achieve a positive work/life balance.

Notable awards The firm and its lawyers have repeatedly been recognised locally, nationally, and internationally in reputable peer and client guides as leaders in the areas in which we practice. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? • Represented the WA Bell Companies Administrator Authority established by the State Government in an effort to resolve the long running disputes arising from the collapse the Bell Group of companies in the 1990s; • provided advice and representation to the builder of the largest solar farm in Australia; and • acted in the high profile winding up of Bux Global Ltd, a company used to facilitate a long running investment scam. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? We act pro bono for a range of not-for-profit and community organisations.

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CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Our clerkship program is open to students in their penultimate year of study, running for a period of 2 weeks throughout the summer and winter university holidays. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? 8. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Our program provides clerks with the opportunity to gain experience in multiple areas of commercial practice and have direct access to partners. They are not limited to working within only one practice group. Applicants can read about one of our recent clerk’s experiences at www. tottle.com/careers, which is indicative of the tasks are clerks usually undertake. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? By being enthusiastic, proactive and embracing Tottle Partners’ core values and culture. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? No.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? We offer those positions from time to time. Those opportunities would be advertised on Seek and through available university resources.

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GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? We look for our graduates to be enthusiastic, proactive and to embrace Tottle Partners’ core values and culture. What can graduates do to stand out? Future graduates can demonstrate that they have a broad range of experiences, initiative, intelligence and a genuine interest in practising as a lawyer. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? 1. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? No.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? We like to see somehow who is well prepared, interested in the firm and the values and culture we have, and enthusiastic about an opportunity to join the firm as a clerk or graduate. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Students can research and gain an understanding of the firm, our lawyers and the areas of practice in which we specialise.


our firm

Tottle Partners is an independent, boutique commercial law firm providing legal services in Perth, Western Australia and to our clients Australia wide and in the Asia Pacific region. Since we were established in 1995 we have forged a reputation in Western Australia and in other Australian jurisdictions as a leader in the areas in which we practise.

we specialise in Administrative & health law Building, construction & engineering law Corporate advice Employment & workplace relations law General commercial law Insolvency law Insurance law Intellectual property & technology law Litigation & alternative dispute resolution

Mining and resources law Property, conveyancing & leasing We have the legal skills, experience and technical resources required to conduct complex litigation. We conduct cases in Western Australia and also in the other major Australian jurisdictions. We are also represented by correspondent firms in other jurisdictions. The firm is focused on understanding our clients and their interests and servicing them efficiently and cost effectively, using an innovative and pragmatic approach. Our clients include major national and multinational corporations, insurers, government agencies, public authorities, statutory bodies, educational institutions, private companies and high net worth individuals. This client base is a testament to the skill and experience of the firm's talented lawyers We currently have 9 partners (all of whom are litigation specialists) and an additional 15 legal staff. Our partners come from leading Australian national and boutique law firms and have translated that experience into a structure ideally suited to providing a personalised service to our clients. They have been repeatedly recognised as market leaders in the profession – by peers and clients alike.

Media and defamation law

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WILLIAMS + HUGHES 25 Richardson Street, West Perth WA 6005

Dominique Engelter | careers@ whlaw.com.au | (08) 9481 2040

2 Offices whlaw.com.au

Commercial Litigation (incorporating Insolvency, Regulatory Litigation, Trade Practices, Contract, Corporations Act Disputes, Trusts and Estates, Intellectual Property Litigation, Negligence and other Common Law Claims), Commercial Transactions (including General Commercial Transactions, Property, Corporate Law, Regulatory Compliance, Trusts and Estates, Intellectual Property)

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? West Perth. How would you describe your firm’s culture? Practical, independent yet collegiate. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? • Acted for seller of large software company with global footprint to private equity group; • acting for ASX listed Kalamazoo Resources in relation to their IPO and subsequent tenement acquisitions and divestments; • acted for Coogee Chemicals-Mitsubishi joint venture for construction and operation of $100m+ Port Bonython diesel fuel terminal, including FEED study, build, terminal services, terminal lease and shareholders agreements; • advised an ASX listed company in relation to restructuring of $87 million gold price linked debt facility including negotiations with security trustee and hedge funds;

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• acting for Fogarty Wine Group, WA’s largest wine producer, on numerous acquisitions, including Evans & Tate brand purchase and transactions with McWilliams; • acted for the sellers of Perth’s largest independent pathology business (Perth Medical Laboratories) to Australian Clinical Laboratories (private equity owned); • cting for buyer of Titan Digital and Titan Brand businesses (120 staff across Australia and South Africa), including all sale and related transaction documents; • preparing construction contract documents for Tier 1 international data centre operator for multisite upgrade program across Australia; and • advised various family groups in relation to $100+ million debt facilities, including club and syndicated bank debt. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? Individual lawyers perform an array of different pro bono services at their discretion. Some examples are Cancer Council WA, Bush Heritage Australia, Rotary

Club of Crawley Charitable Foundation, Sussex Street Community Law Services, Dogs Refuge Home (WA) Inc, and Legacy.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer and Winter. How many clerkship positions are available for 2020? 20–25 in total, spread between summer and winter. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Predominantly research work across a broad range of matters. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? By being brilliant, practical, and personable. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Yes, if the student has at least completed the core law units.


CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? Yes. This is available to students that have clerked with us.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? Someone smart and articulate, who seems to understand the professional nature and obligations of a legal practice yet is business-minded, who is personable but able to work independently. How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? Follow the process described in the careers section on our website. What can graduates do to stand out? Be brilliant, practical, and personable. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? 2. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? Yes. There are opportunities for junior lawyers to be involved in “exchange” visits with other firms within the international Meritas network.

“Working at Williams + Hughes gives you an outstanding opportunity to forge your own career in law.”

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INTERESTING + CHALLENGING Our litigation and dispute resolution team is one of the larger dedicated commercial litigation teams in Western Australia. Our lawyers deal with a wide range of disputes across various sectors, for local national and international clients. We look for gifted graduates that are not only smart but can develop into competent advocates. Our commercial law team has dedicated industry experience working on large and varied commercial transactions across Australia. Our ASX listed and high net worth clients require discretion but offer complex and interesting transactional work in return. We look for technically astute and commercially savvy graduates who aspire to progress quickly in their careers and become trusted advisors with industry expertise.

SUPPORT + MENTORING

Working at Williams + Hughes gives you an outstanding opportunity to forge your own career in law. Direct access to multiple Principals and senior lawyers ensures you are exposed to a variety of work, have the opportunity to see and learn from a selection of different styles, and be mentored by a group of people with expertise in different areas. We encourage our lawyers to take on responsibility and to work closely with clients.

LOCAL OPPORTUNITY + GLOBAL REACH

Williams + Hughes retains its identity as an independent Western Australian firm whilst being a member of Meritas, the world’s largest global alliance of independent business law firms. Meritas is recognised as a Tier 1 elite global legal alliance and is rated in the top 10 law firm networks in the world (Chambers and Partners 2018). Our membership with Meritas opens doors to interstate and international secondment opportunities for our lawyers. WHLAW.COM.AU

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WOTTON + KEARNEY Level 49, 108 St Georges Terrace Perth WA 6000

Jessica Meyer | Jessica.meyer@ wottonkearney.com.au | (08) 9222 6900

6 Offices https://www.wottonkearney.com.au/

General Liability (including Property Damage, Personal Injury, Product & Public liability) and Financial Lines (including Professional Indemnity, Directors & Officers, Construction & Contract works, Subrogated Recoveries)

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Sydney. What are your firm’s core values? Relationships Relationships are the cornerstone of our business. Whether it’s the relationships we foster with our clients, or the internal relationships that make our results possible, teamwork is key. Excellence We’re the best in the business for what we do. Excellence differentiates us – from the value we deliver to our clients, to the standards we set for ourselves in service, expertise and integrity. Continuous self-improvement and seeking opportunities to grow and be stretched are mantras we live by. Diversity Diversity underpins how we treat each other. Diversity is evident in that we treat each other with respect and value the different ideas that are generated by a team with a variety of backgrounds, strengths, experience and ideas. Through diversity comes our ability to innovate, as we recognise that the way we

did things yesterday may not necessarily be the way we do things tomorrow. How would you describe your firm’s culture? Culturally, it is important to us that you feel valued for your contribution. Some of the ways to achieve this goal: • incentive rewards; • flexible work arrangement; • involvement in our Community Footprint Program through pro-bono legal services and CSR initiatives, allowing you to give back; • ongoing investment in your career progression and development; • social events throughout the year; and • access to health and wellbeing initiatives. Notable awards • Our clients rank us as leaders in insurance law, evidenced in our band 1 position in Chambers Asia Pacific for every year since 2015 and as a Top Tier Firm in The Legal 500 Asia Pacific; and • Employer of Choice 2019. What significant work has your firm undertaken recently? Our instructions include working on some of the biggest cases with clients at the big end of town.

When the banks were being sued – we were there. When Australia’s oldest department store faced a securities class action – we were there. When Christchurch crumbled in the earthquakes – we were there. What kind of pro bono work does the firm engage in? We are committed to our pro bono and corporate social responsibility program, Community Footprint, and proud of the help that we’ve provided to our communities. Contribution to the communities in which we live is a way of life for our lawyers. Our Community Footprint program was established in January 2012. Since then, we’ve nurtured it under the leadership of our dedicated Pro Bono & CSR Partner, Heidi Nash-Smith, to become a key initiative across all our offices. Our lawyers advise on a wide variety of matters and assist many vulnerable members of our community. Through our partnerships with organisations like Justice Connect, LawRight, the Refugee Advice, Casework Service and Refugee Legal.

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Community/CSR We have formed long-term partnerships with local charities across Australia and NZ. We participate in many CSR, community and environment initiatives and sponsorships to make sure that we are creating a better future. Our 2020 charity partner is Black Dog Institute who are dedicated to understanding, preventing and treating mental illness.

CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? We don’t do clerkships. Instead we have created a new junior program, Pathways, that we think is the best way to build legal skills and commercial acumen. You’ll join the Pathways program as a paralegal (WooKie), working part-time during your final year of your law degree. It’s an opportunity to sink your teeth into large-scale litigation, get mentorship from some of the best minds in the business and grow with a firm that’s dedicated to relationships, excellent and diversity. As a Pathways “WooKie” you will: • Be assigned to a champion team of lawyers; • get straight into complex and interesting matters; • gain exposure to leading local and global clients; • have a “buddy” you can go to for advice and answers; • keep up-to-date with the latest legal and insurance industries development through seminars; and • attend social and networking events. How many positions are available for 2020? 1-3. What tasks do Pathways paralegals usually undertake? • Prepare chronologies; • prepare briefs to counsel; • prepare a research memo; • prepare a list of documents; • accompany a solicitor to a mediation; and 152

• Attend a trial if there is an opportunity. How can they stand out or make a good impression? • Be passionate about contributing to the premier insurance legal team in Australia; • be a team player (of course!); • be curious about your learning and selfdevelopment as well as our clients and their businesses; and • be open to working with new technologies and systems. Do you offer Pathways to non-penultimate year students? To be eligible to join our Pathways program you must be in your final year at university.

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Does the firm offer any casual or part-time employment? All our Pathways paralegals are on casual contracts. If there is scope to recruit for an office assistant, we often will advertise on university platforms for a third-year student with the possibility of considering them for a Pathways position once they are in their final year.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? Same as what we look for in a Pathways paralegal! How can students apply for a graduate position at your firm? If we are recruiting outside of our Pathways paralegal “pool” we will advertise on university platforms and our website. You can also submit a cover letter and CV to join.us@ wottonkearney.com.au

What can graduates do to stand out? Our Pathways paralegals are hired with the intention that they stay on as a graduate. How many graduate positions are available in 2020? 1-3. Does your firm offer any international opportunities for graduates or junior lawyers? At W+K, we want our lawyers to experience, first-hand, how our clients operate. However, not all clients are the same and gaining an insider’s knowledge of what is important to them through secondments makes us better lawyers and gives us a unique perspective on how to help clients resolve claims. You will be actively encouraged to pursue secondment opportunities, in the Australian market, as well as in one of the international offices of our Legalign Global alliance partners, as part of our talent exchange program. This opportunity is offered to solicitors and above.

INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? We are looking for candidates who have done their research on the firm and are genuinely interested in the insurance space – we can tell if you are not! Being confident and being able to hold a conversation is key. We can teach you and give you tools to be successful at W+K but we cannot teach you soft skills. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Research and research! Also be self-aware, know your strengths and limitations and be able to talk about them. Be able to back your answers up with examples.


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Your pathway to a top-tier legal career Insurance – it’s not just cars and homes. Insurance is everywhere: class actions, catastrophic events and sensitive cases making news headlines. Trust us when we say that Insurance Law is fascinating. The insurance market is a rapidly changing local and global market. Wotton + Kearney is the law firm that local and global insurers, brokers and other industry participants turn to for help in managing traditional and emerging risks and disputes from the everyday to market-leading claims. When big companies suffer loss or get sued our clients get the call. They call us because we’re the best at what we do. W+K partners and seniors are routinely recognised amongst Australia’s best insurance and dispute resolution lawyers.

As a Pathways “Wookie” at Wotton + Kearney, you will:

• be assigned to a champion team of lawyers who are invested in your career development • get straight into complex, interesting and cutting-edge matters and take on all of the tasks commensurate with a paralegal role – you won’t be bored!

• gain exposure to leading local and global clients • work alongside recognised experts and be allocated a supervisor who will help you manage your workload

• have a “buddy” you can go to for advice and answers • keep up-to-date with the latest legal and insurance industry developments through regular seminars and workshops; and

• attend social and networking events.

W+K has been ranked a Band 1 insurance law firm in Australia by Chambers & Partners for eight consecutive years.

W+K’S PATHWAYS PROGRAM We don’t do clerkships. We think our Pathways Program is the best way to build your legal skills and commercial acumen. It’s your opportunity to sink your teeth into large-scale litigation, get mentorship from some of the best minds in the business and grow with a firm that’s dedicated to relationships, excellence and diversity. You’ll join W+K as a paralegal, working part-time during your final year of your law degree.

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COURTS Associateships are the best way for students and recent graduates to get a real taste of the courtroom experience. As an associate you will be working closely with one or more judges, usually for a period of one or two years. In this section we have compiled profiles from associates working in various courts to help you understand the work they do and how to apply.

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HIGH COURT ASSOCIATE ADAM ROMPOTIS

Associate to the Hon. Justice Edelman 2019-2020

Why did you apply to be a Judge’s Associate? There were several reasons. I will highlight two. First, I was attracted to the breadth of legal subject matter forming the Court’s work, and the difficulty and importance of the questions that ultimately come to the Court. My interest in the law traverses all areas of public, private, commercial and criminal law. In my time at the Court, I have been fortunate to deal with interesting, challenging, and important issues in each of those areas. Secondly, I have strong interest in litigation and advocacy. I saw the Court not only as an opportunity to see exceptional advocates in action, but also to get invaluable insight into the Justices’ reactions to their advocacy and forensic decisions. I also saw the role as an opportunity to practice my own written and oral advocacy skills in a less formal environment than a courtroom, but with an equally discerning audience. Having the opportunity to regularly discuss and debate legal issues with Justice Edelman has been by far the most rewarding aspect of my time at the Court. What does your work involve? An Associate supports their Judge to fulfil their judicial functions in all manner of ways, both in court and out of court, and in relation to both legal and administrative matters. Associates may also assist with the Judge’s extrajudicial commitments, such as researching for speeches, articles, and books. The work of an Associate varies between Chambers, but one common aspect is that Associates are responsible for reading, researching, and communicating with their Judge, whether by written memoranda or discussion, about the Court’s current cases. This includes appeals, applications for special leave to appeal, and matters in the original jurisdiction of the Court, which are dealt with by a single Justice or the Full Court. There is a lot of reading, but it is all very engaging material. During hearings, Associates are responsible for ensuring their Judge’s 156

materials are organised and at hand when needed. After hearings, we move on to support our Judge in preparing their reasons for decision by undertaking further research, discussing the cases, and proofing judgments. How and when can interested students apply for a position? This varies across the different Chambers. The High Court website will usually advertise when vacancies are open or will call for expressions of interest to be provided before a certain date. Many Justices hire Associates several years in advance, so it is important to check when the next available positions are open. You can also do this by calling or emailing the Justice’s Chambers. It is likely that the current Associates did the same thing, so you can expect a helpful and friendly response. Applications are usually sent by email or post directly to the relevant Justice’s Chambers, but there is also an option to write to the Chief Executive and Principal Registrar if you do not have a preference. Who can apply for a position, and what are the requirements? Again, this varies across Chambers. At the very least, you will need to have an exceptionally strong academic record and research experience. This generally means first class honours or an equivalent in the Juris Doctor course. Most Justices prefer applicants to also have experience as an Associate in another court, or as a practitioner. Some Justices prefer applicants to have completed postgraduate study. Some Justices prefer applicants to have done both. However, these requirements are not universal, and you should check any published selection criteria. For example, I had not completed further study or another associateship, but had a few years’ experience as a solicitor before commencing my associateship. As applications are open quite far in advance of the position becoming available, it is important to remember that you will have time to gain practical experience along the way. Explain in your application any plans you have committed to in the interim period.


What does the application process involve? Again, this varies across Chambers. Your application should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and academic transcript. It is important at this stage to have a clear vision of why you want to work at the Court and with the particular Justice to whom you are applying, and to articulate that in your cover letter. The Judge will then select applicants to interview for a position. This may be in person, by video, or by telephone. The interview is an opportunity for the Judge to get to know more about you, and for you to get to know the Judge. There may or may not be an element of legal discussion in the interview, depending on the Judge. Think of every step as an opportunity to persuade but, and though it may sound like a platitude, be yourself throughout the process. An Associate works so closely with their Judge that is important to know if you are compatible from the outset.

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FEDERAL COURT ASSOCIATE AISYAH ISHAK

Associate to the Hon. Michael Barker AC QC 2016-2017

Why did you apply to be a Judge’s Associate? To be honest, when I submitted my application, I didn’t know the first thing about being an Associate or working in a Judge’s chambers. However, as a final year law student, I craved the opportunity to learn about other areas of the law, particularly public law, and to observe court hearings before taking my first steps into legal practice. I hadn’t quite appreciated, at the time, how fortunate I would be to work closely with, learn from and be mentored by one of the greatest legal minds in the profession. One of my fondest memories is having my Judge sit on the bench during my admission, smiling reassuringly at me as I swore my Oath, shortly before, himself, retiring from the Court. I continue to keep in contact with my Judge, as well as the string of past Associates, all of whom provide ongoing support and advice. Being an Associate is truly a unique and rewarding experience, and one that has shaped my early career. What does your work involve? Federal Court chambers are comprised of the Judge, the Executive Assistant and the Associate, or two Research Associates. Chambers staff therefore work closely with one another and each chambers may do things differently. Typically, the Associate is responsible for corresponding with parties and the Registry, conducting legal research, proofreading judgments, administratively maintaining files and court documents, assisting the Judge in court hearings and entering orders. As an Associate, you will have the opportunity to observe the court process from behind the scenes and quickly familiarise yourself with civil procedure and advocacy. An added bonus is travelling interstate for Court hearings and to beautiful remote areas in WA for on-country native title hearings and determinations. The types of cases you will deal with depend on the individual Judge’s ‘docket’. The practice areas within my Judge’s docket included Native Title, Commercial and Corporations, Administrative, Constitutional and Human Rights (predominantly Migration), and Employment and Industrial. 158

How and when can interested students apply for a position? Applications open early in the preceding year, usually around March. Chambers will circulate a job advertisement, including to the various universities, with the relevant criteria. Who can apply for a position, and what are the requirements? The application criteria will be advertised by the particular chambers. Applications will be open to law students in their final year and recent graduates across Australia (it is not uncommon for successful applicants to travel from other states for the job!). No particular experience is necessary, but strong academic performance and a demonstrated interest in the law is highly regarded. In addition, given the close proximity that Associates work with chambers staff and other court staff, strong communication skills and personability are also important. What does the application process involve? Applicants apply directly to chambers with a cover letter or written statement addressed to the judge, a CV and an academic transcript. There is one round of interviews, which is sometimes followed by a tour and a chat with the current Associate. The successful applicant is usually notified relatively quickly, within a few weeks. Do you have tips for potential candidates? There are many qualified applicants, but in the end, it will come down to the Judge’s personal preference. Each chambers is different, but you will generally be expected to work cohesively and collaboratively with the Judge and the Executive Assistant/Associate. It is therefore a matter of who is the best fit for the particular chambers. It may be useful to research the particular Judge so you have an idea of his or her background and practice areas. Judges’ profiles can be found on the Federal Court of Australia website. As with any application, make sure to address the application criteria and always proofread!


SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATE JOSHUA SANCHEZ-LAWSON

Research Associate to the Hon. Chief Justice Quinlan Principal Associate to the Hon. Chief Justice Quinlan 2019-2020

Why did you apply to be a Judge’s Associate? First, the exposure to advocacy. As someone who had considered (but was unsure about) a career in advocacy, the opportunity to sit in court and see advocates in action sounded fantastic. I wanted to learn the basics, see the best in action and have a better understanding of the world of advocacy before deciding if it was the right thing for me.

During court, Associates assist their Judge to ensure the hearing runs smoothly and all records are duly kept. This may involve playing media over AV systems, taking notes for the Judge to refer to later, or marking and filing exhibits tendered during trial. Associates might also spend the hearing preparing paperwork to release persons in custody out on bail, or drafting orders for their Judge to sign later on.

Second, the breadth of exposure to different areas of law. Supreme Court Associates see matters such as multi-million dollar commercial disputes, claims brought by selfrepresented litigants, prosecutions for murder and arson, and reviews of Ministerial decisions. In addition, Associates see mediations, conferences and case management hearings which aim to settle or streamline a dispute before it even gets to trial. I thought it would be valuable to see the breadth of work that lawyers can do at an early stage in my career.

After court, Associates often play a significant role in the preparation and delivery of the Judge’s reasons for decision. Whilst this differs between Judges, Associates are generally asked to conduct legal research, proofread the decision, or summarise submissions and other materials for the Judge to review.

Third, having been involved in community volunteering throughout my studies, I liked the idea of dedicating two years to an institution with justice at its core. Finally, (and while this is not particularly sophisticated) I just thought it would be cool to work for a Judge! I saw Associateships an incredible way to improve my legal skills, learning directly from some of the sharpest legal minds in Australia. What does your work involve? As legally-trained personal staff, our role is essentially to support the Judge we work for to carry out their functions as a member of the Judiciary. An Associate’s day-to-day work will depend on their Judge’s preferences. Broadly speaking however, I’d say our work truly revolves around court hearings, with distinct responsibilities at each stage of the hearing process. Before court, associates work to ensure the hearing is fully organised. I like to think of it as ‘party planning’. We invite all the guests (notifying counsel for the parties and arranging for persons in custody to be transported from prison); organise the venue (identifying and booking suitable courtroom spaces); and test the AV-equipment (testing audio exhibits or videoconference links with parties over east).

How and when can interested students apply for a position? The Associateship Recruitment Drive opens in the first half of the year for positions commencing in the year following. Interested students should keep an eye out for the advertisement on the Supreme Court website, which is traditionally circulated to all Law Schools in WA. Applicants send their applications directly to the Associate of the Judge they are interested in working for. Who can apply for a position, and what are the requirements? Generally, applications are expected from final year students. The advertisement calls for a completed, or nearly completed, law degree. In addition, the advertisement calls for a high level of academic achievement and demonstrable skills in research, analysis, verbal communication, written communication, proofreading and editing. That said, what each Judge is looking for in an Associate is entirely up to them, and can vary significantly between Judges. What does the application process involve? Applicants send a covering letter, resume and academic transcript to the Associate of the Judge they are applying for. Once those application materials are received, select applicants will be invited to attend an interview. The interview might be conducted by the Judge alone, or with their current Associate. 159


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GOVERNMENT

In this section, we have compiled a directory of various Government departments that students should consider applying to if they are interested in working in the public sector. One of the benefits of working for the Government is the unique nature of the work that each of the various departments offer. Some professionals choose to work for Government departments rather than commercial firms because of the structured working hours. This helps promote a healthy work/ life balance.

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ADMINISTRATIVE APPEALS TRIBUNAL Level 13, 111 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

recruitment@aat.gov.au | 1800 228 333

www.aat.gov.au

Child Support; Commonwealth Workers’ Compensation; Family Assistance; Paid Parental Leave; Social Security and Student Assistance Migration and Refugee Visas and Visa-related Decisions; Taxation; Veterans’ Entitlements

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) conducts independent merits reviews of administrative decisions made under Commonwealth laws. It reviews decisions made by Australian Government ministers, departments and agencies and, in limited circumstances, decisions made by state government and non-government bodies. It also reviews decisions made under Norfolk Island law. How does the organisation seek its employees? Members of the Tribunal are statutory office holders appointed by the Governor-General. From time to time the AAT seeks to appoint persons with professional skills or knowledge in areas such as aviation, actuary, social work, specialist or general medicine, compensation law and so on. The AAT also employs staff under the Public Service Act 1999. Staff are Commonwealth public servants and perform a range of duties including management of the AAT’s Registries, conducting conferences, legal research, provision of client services and support services to Members. The AAT has offices in all states of Australia and in the Australian Capital Territory. The AAT is an equal opportunity employer which upholds the APS employment principles and actively encourages a diverse and inclusive workplace.

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How do you apply to work at the organisation? The tribunal uses a web-based e-recruitment system for lodgement of job applications. When applying via the e-recruitment system the for the first time you will need to register and provide a valid email address. This will then generate an automatic email that will be sent to your nominated email address and contains a password that allows you to resume or review your job application. When submitting an online application, you will be required to provide a written statement that contemplates the selection criteria. Your statement against each criterion should be clear, concise, relevant and generally no longer than half a page (approximately 400 words). It is recommended that you check the job advertisements via the link on this page for any specific application instructions. You will also need to attach a current CV. Please check the individual job advertisement for any specific job requirements. Prepared by The Blackstone Society


ACCC & AUSTRALIAN ENERGY COMMISSION Level 5, 1 William Street, Perth WA 6000

hrrecruitment@accc.gov.au and gradjobs@accc.gov.au | (08) 9325 0600

https://www.accc.gov.au/ https://www.aer.gov.au/

Competition Policy; Consumer Protection; Industry Regulation

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is an independent Commonwealth statutory authority whose role is to enforce the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 and a range of additional legislation, promoting competition, fair trading and regulating national infrastructure for the benefit of all Australians.

skills and other professional development training. What is an interesting piece of work that the organisation has recently engaged in? Takata airbags, the NBN, electricity pricing, financial services, digital platforms, the dairy industry, criminal cartels, consumer data and more.

The ACCC also regulates national infrastructure industries where competition is low. The ACCC includes the Australian Energy Regulator (AER), which is responsible for the economic regulation of the Australian energy sector. Our priorities are reflected in four key goals: 1. maintain and promote competition and remedy market failure 2. protect the interests and safety of consumers and support fair trading in markets 3. promote the economically efficient operation and investment in monopoly infrastructure 4. increase our engagement with the broad range of groups affected by what we do.

What qualities does the organisation look for in future graduates? Successful candidates for the ACCC/AER 2021 Graduate Program will: • be interpersonal • analyse, critically evaluate and problem solve • be conscientious • acquire and apply new skills and understandings quickly • deal with uncertainty, be resilient and respond appropriately to situations • convey an understanding of and contribute to the ACCC/AER’s purpose and functions

What kind of work do employees at the organisation do? Duties will vary from rotation to rotation, as the work completed in each of our Branches is very different. However, as an ACCC/AER graduate you will be expected to: • perform a broad range of tasks across different work areas, such as: analysing information, assisting with investigations, responding to correspondence, undertaking research, contributing to meetings and staff papers/recommendations, and presenting to committees; • build professional relationships and work cohesively with others; and • participate in all formal training as required, including orientation, investigation skills, regulation skills, presentation skills, writing

How do you apply to work at the organisation? Check the ‘current vacancies’ section of our website.

Does the organisation offer any opportunities to students who are still studying? We offer flexible working conditions, including the ability to work part-time (minimum 30 hours per week), so that you can continue studying, manage other commitments or just enjoy a little extra work-life balance

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AUSTRALIAN LAW REFORM COMMISSION Level 4, 119 North Quay, Brisbane QLD 4000

(07) 3248 1224 | info@alrc.gov.au

www.alrc.gov.au

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) is a federal agency operating under the Australian Law Reform Commission Act 1996 (Cth), and the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (PGPA Act). The ALRC conducts inquiries – also known as references into areas of law at the request of the Attorney General of Australia. Based on its research and consultations throughout an inquiry, the ALRC makes recommendations to government so that government can make informed decisions about law reform. What is an interesting piece of work that the organisation has recently engaged in? On April 2019, the Attorney General issued Terms of Reference requesting the ALRC to conduct an inquiry into the Framework of Religious Exemptions in Anti-Discrimination Legislation. The Terms of Reference were altered by the Attorney General on 29 August 2019. On 2 March 2020, the Attorney General amended the ALRC’s reporting deadline to be 12 months from the date the Religious Discrimination Bill is passed by Parliament. What qualities does the organisation look for in future graduates? Excellent legal research and writing skills, experience in policy development, the ability to synthesise complex information, and the capacity to contribute and work within a team.

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What are your student and graduate opportunities? How can individuals apply? The ALRC provides opportunities for current law students in their penultimate or final year to work alongside Commission members and legal staff as legal interns. Interns work on a voluntary basis and may work with the ALRC for one day each week for a semester, or for three weeks over the summer break. Internships provide an opportunity for students to increase their awareness of law reform issues while also allowing the ALRC to benefit from students’ research and writing skills. Interns are supervised by a staff member, and undertake research work determined by the needs of the ALRC. What advice would you give students seeking to apply to the organisation? The ALRC will only consider applications that address the selection criteria: • strong legal research skills; • ability to analyse and communicate complex information; • excellent written communication skills, including the ability to write clear and concise documents, including research briefs and memos; • ability to work independently with professional guidance; and • work experience, or interest in, law reform and/ or social policy development. Prepared by The Blackstone Society


AUSTRALIAN TAXATION OFFICE 45 Francis Street, Northbridge WA 6003

ATOUniversityPartnershipProgram@ ato.gov.au

www.ato.gov.au

Taxation

What is the main focus of the organisation? Their role is to effectively manage and shape the tax and superannuation systems that support and fund services for Australians, including: • collecting revenue; • administering the goods and services tax (GST) on behalf of the Australian states and territories; • administering a range of programs that provide transfers and benefits to the community; • administering the major aspects of Australia’s superannuation system; and • being custodian of the Australian Business Register. What kind of work do employees at the organisation do? Applications are open throughout the year and vacancies arise according to the ATO’s business needs. Supported by your manager, employees would work in accordance with the ATO’s priorities and procedures while exercising some autonomy. You may undertake procedural, clerical, administrative support and operational tasks.

What qualities does the organisation look for in future graduates? Candidates must possess relevant work-related qualities to be suitable to work for us. As part of assessing your suitability, the ATO considers: • your ability to perform the role being filled; the ATO uses a range of assessment approaches such as video interviews, online testing, behavioural interviews and assessment centres; and • personal qualities such as honesty and integrity, as well as cultural fit. What advice would you give students seeking to apply to the organisation? As a student, visit the University Partnership Employment Program (UPEP) page on the ATO website. Positions for the UPEP are open all year round. For graduates, visit the ATO Graduate Program page on the ATO website. Prepared by The Blackstone Society

What are your student and graduate opportunities? How can individuals apply? There are opportunities for both students and graduates at the ATO.

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CORRUPTION AND CRIME COMMISSION Level 5, 45 Francis Street, Northbridge WA 6003

info@ccc.wa.gov.au | (08) 9328 1751

www.ccc.wa.gov.au

To expose and disrupt serious misconduct and corruption, giving the WA community confidence that public officers act in the public interest

What is the main focus of the organisation? To improve the integrity of the public sector by reducing the incidence of serious misconduct, corruption and organised crime. What kind of work do employees at the organisation do? The legal work offers many rewarding and valuable experience, including the opportunity to appear as Counsel Assisting the Commission, to appear in the Supreme Court as Counsel representing the Commission, to be intimately involved with skilled investigators on highly sensitive, topical investigations, to work with the full range of the Commission’s coercive and investigative powers. What is an interesting piece of work that the organisation has recently engaged in? Their work is exciting, interesting, challenging and diverse. You can read about their latest investigations on their website – ccc.wa.gov.au/ news and stay up to date by following them on Twitter and LinkedIn. What are your student and graduate opportunities? How can individuals apply? They are constantly on the lookout for hard working individuals who value transparency and integrity. They have a highly collaborative and agile workforce and inspire and support their people through strong leadership across all levels. If you would like to work with the Commission, register an account with www. jobs.wa.gov.au and set up your profile to stay up to date with current vacancies available at the Commission. We encourage all law graduates to apply for any opportunity that interests them.

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What advice would you give students seeking to apply to the organisation? They are a vibrant workplace where people are inspired and committed to work collaboratively to achieve a corruption free public sector. You can be inspired by viewing their work first hand - visit our website to download our reports (www.ccc.wa.gov.au/reports) and when we have public examinations you can view them online via their website. Prepared by The Blackstone Society


COMMONWEALTH DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS Level 1, 226 Adelaide Terrace, Perth WA 6000

recruitment@cdpp.gov.au | (02) 6206 5666

www.cdpp.gov.au

Criminal Law And Commercial Law

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Office of the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) is an independent prosecution service established by Parliament to prosecute alleged offences against Commonwealth law. They aim to provide an effective, ethical, high quality and independent criminal prosecution service for Australia in accordance with the Prosecution Policy of the Commonwealth. What kind of work do employees at the organisation do? Commonwealth criminal activity continues to evolve and expand, reflecting changes in contemporary society and posing significant threats to Australia. Rapid technological development and the increasingly international nature of society enables innovative, highly coordinated and sophisticated criminal activity. A large part of the CDPP’s practice involves serious and organised criminal activity as offenders constantly look for vulnerabilities to exploit for criminal gain.

What are your student and graduate opportunities? How can individuals apply? For information regarding any current vacancies or recruitment opportunities, you can contact the CDPP Recruitment team or visit the CPDD website for more information regarding vacancies. What qualities does the organisation look for in future graduates? They’re looking for people who value integrity, honesty, impartiality and who want to make a difference. Working alongside their experienced prosecutors, you’ll have the opportunity to actively participate in shaping our organisation and work with our partner agencies to deliver services that contribute to a safer Australia. Ideally, candidates will have a strong academic record, enjoy collaborating as a member of a team and be willing to embrace new ways of working in a digitally enabled workplace. Prepared by The Blackstone Society

The prosecution of terrorism offences aims to deter those who seek to threaten to harm Australia and its people by politically motivated violence, attacks on Australia’s defence system and the promotion of communal violence.

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THE OFFICE OF THE COMMONWEALTH OMBUDSMAN

489/469 Wellington Street, Perth WA 6000

recruitment.twenty@ombudsman. gov.au

www.ombudsman.gov.au

Administrative Decision Making and Practices in Public Authorities

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Office of the Commonwealth Ombudsman safeguards the community in its dealings with the Australian Government. They also have oversight of some private sector organisations.

What are your student and graduate opportunities? How can individuals apply? Positions open from time to time and can be found on the Office of the Commonwealth Ombudsman website.

If an Australian Government agency has treated someone unfairly or unreasonably, they can help them find a solution. Their service is free, and they are independent. They make sure the actions of agencies are fair and responsible by: • handling complaints; • conducting investigations; • performing audits and inspections; and • encouraging good administration

What qualities does the organisation look for in future graduates? The Office of the Commonwealth Ombudsman provides a list of duties and traits outlining their ideal candidate for each of their vacancies.

What kind of work do employees at the organisation do? It is dependent on the type of job. For a list of current vacancies, visit www.ombudsman.gov. au/what-we-do/careers/current-vacancies.

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What advice would you give students seeking to apply to the organisation? Be aware of the current vacancies page for information regarding jobs. Prepared by The Blackstone Society


THE DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS & TRADE Level 25, Exchange Tower Sherwood Court (off St Georges Terrace), Perth WA 6000

gradrec@dfat.gov.au | (02) 6261 9811

www.dfat.gov.au

International Law, Trade and Development Policy Advice

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Department’s purpose is to make Australia stronger, safer and more prosperous by promoting and protecting Australia’s interests internationally. What kind of work do employees at the organisation do? During the course of these programs, you will undertake a tailored learning package delivered through the Diplomatic Academy. You will develop a broad knowledge and understanding of the Government’s foreign, trade and aid policy priorities and the department’s financial and corporate context. You will also complete four work placements, giving you first-hand experience of the department’s priorities, namely Policy and Corporate Management. What qualities does the organisation look for in future graduates? The Department operates in a complex and dynamic international environment. In their employees, they value: • responsiveness to the Government we serve, and to a wide range of other clients, such as businesses and individual members of the Australian public; • knowledge of the international environment and issues relevant to the promotion and protection of Australia’s national interests; • The capacity to operate with sensitivity in many distinct cultural environments, while projecting clearly and confidently our Australian identity; • vigilance in the protection of sensitive information handled in the department, both in Australia and overseas;

• high standards of ethical and personal conduct, especially overseas where, as representatives of Australia, officers have a real impact on our international reputation; • contemporary management approaches, encompassing best practice, family friendly policies, continuous improvement, performance evaluation, strict accountability and a strong commitment to training and development; and • personal and corporate flexibility, versatility and adaptability, all of which are necessary in a portfolio characterised by a uniquely diverse agenda and an often demanding and unpredictable environment. What are your student and graduate opportunities? How can individuals apply? Only graduate positions are available at the Department. Their two-year graduate programs will kick start your career in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. In 2020, the Department will offer two graduate programs based in Canberra: policy and corporate management. Prepared by The Blackstone Society

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THE DEPARTMENT OF PREMIER AND CABINET Dumas House, 2 Havelock Street, West Perth WA 6005

hrrecruitment@dpc.wa.gov.au | (08) 6553 5848 | (08) 6552 6153

www.wa.gov.au

Administration of the Executive, Government Servicer and Government Policy Management

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Department of the Premier and Cabinet (DPC) supports the Premier as head of the Western Australian Government. DPC is responsible for providing quality policy and administrative advice and support to enable the Premier and Government to serve the WA community well. DPC was established in 2001 under the Public Sector Management Act 1994. What kind of work do employees at the organisation do? As a graduate you can expect to undertake a range of duties throughout your rotations. Examples of some of these duties are: • Negotiating with other public servants, community members and companies; • Drafting correspondence, internal memos, briefing papers and reports; • Drafting briefings for senior executives, ministers and the Premier, and submitting Submissions and Comments to Cabinet • Responding to Parliamentary Questions and drafting speeches; • Preparing discussion papers for the community, looking at feedback and making recommendations for Cabinet; • Researching and writing up issues from other jurisdictions; • Participating in Departmental or Interdepartmental Committees; • Meeting people who want to charge a government decision or solve a problem; and • Attending official functions involving dignitaries and community members.

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What qualities does the organisation look for in future graduates? DPC hires people with a wide range of experiences and is particularly interested in recent university graduates who enjoy working in a team environment, can adapt quickly to change and have excellent communication skills, initiative and determination. As future leaders in the public sector, passion, commitment and a thirst for knowledge are essential. You don’t need a specific academic background, as long as you can demonstrate academic achievements, have an interest in issues that affect the community of Western Australia, and want to think, talk and write about how Government might solve some challenges. You will need to be a good communicator who thinks clearly and is not scared of putting up original ideas. You will need to understand that there are rules and processes around what we do in the public sector, but be willing to ask why. What are your student and graduate opportunities? How can individuals apply? The DPC offer a graduate development program. Check the DPC website for updates. Prepared by The Blackstone Society


INSURANCE COMMISSION OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA 221 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

hr@icwa.wa.gov.au | (08) 9264 3333

www.icwa.wa.gov.au

Motor Injury Insurance, Government Insurance

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Insurance Commission of Western Australia (ICWA) is a statutory corporation and Government Trading Enterprise owned by the Western Australian Government. We are the State’s insurer providing injury insurance to motorists and self-insurance to Government. We provide motor injury insurance to 1.9 million drivers and 2.9 million owners of registered vehicles in Western Australia. We also provide self-insurance arrangements for Government, covering 111 agencies for workers’ compensation, property, liability and more.

What are your student and graduate opportunities? ICWA offers opportunities in a dynamic, flexible and innovative work environment for talented people. We value innovative thinking from people who are team players committed to delivering excellent results to their customers and stakeholders.

What does the organisation’s graduate program involve? ICWA actively seeks graduates and young professionals to join their organisation. They offer training and professional development to build your career and help you achieve your goals. Working with ICWA will provide you with public sector experience and a skill set that is transferable to the global financial services and insurance industries.

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LEGAL AID WA 32 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

positions@legalaid.wa.gov.au | (08) 9261 6222

https://www.legalaid.wa.gov.au/ about-us/careers

Criminal, Family, Civil

What is the main focus of the organisation? Legal Aid WA is an independent statutory body set up by the Legal Aid Commission Act 1976. Our vision is to create equitable access to justice to support a fair and safe community. Our mission is to assist the community by providing quality and timely legal information and services to those in need. What kind of work do employees at the organisation do? Graduate lawyers provide a range of services in the areas of family, criminal and civil law including duty lawyer services, legal advice and minor assistance, court representation, alternative dispute resolution, community legal education and community outreach. Working for Legal Aid WA means making a real difference to the lives of disadvantaged people in our community. What are your student and graduate opportunities? How can individuals apply? Legal Aid WA have limited opportunities for law graduates to undertake their practical work experience hours with us, as part of their enrolment in an approved practical legal training course. Law graduates who have completed their practical legal training requirements and are eligible for admission or have recently been admitted to practice can apply for Legal Aid WA’s Regional Graduate Lawyer Program. Successful applicants receive comprehensive training in our Perth office before being relocated to work in one of our regional offices across WA. Positions are for a fixed term of two years, commencing on 1 July. 172

Other opportunities for admitted lawyers to join Legal Aid WA in entry level positions arise from time to time. Recruitment for all of the above opportunities is via the WA Government Jobs Board website. What qualities does the organisation look for in future graduates? • A strong and genuine desire to serve the community, especially those who are socially and economically disadvantaged, and a demonstrated commitment to social justice; • experience with our client group which includes children, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from nonEnglish speaking backgrounds, people with disabilities and people with mental illnesses or impairments; • an ability to show empathy and sensitivity; • a commitment to the type of work we do; and • excellent written and oral communication skills - plain English. Legal Aid WA is also committed to providing equal opportunity employment. We encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities and people from culturally diverse backgrounds to apply for positions within our agency.


What advice would you give students seeking to apply to the organisation? Where possible, choose to study units at university that reflect your interest in legal aid work - for example, family law, criminal justice, social justice or dispute resolution. Get as much experience as possible dealing with our client group and refer to this in support of your application. Relevant experience does not just have to be legal - for example, customer service experience is useful too. Demonstrate your commitment to social justice through action, for example, through volunteering. Ensure your application is well written - use plain English and headings, check that your spelling, grammar and formatting are correct, and keep to the page limit. Make sure you address the selection criteria. Does the organisation offer any opportunities to students who are still studying? Legal Aid WA offer a limited number of unpaid internships for final year law students through our Voluntary Intern Placement (VIP) Program. Recruitment for the program occurs annually in accordance with the university recommended recruitment dates and is via the WA Government Jobs Board website. Legal Aid WA also offer some placements to students through the various university internship programs. These opportunities are by agreement between the university and Legal Aid WA.

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OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS WA Level 1 International House, 26 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

jobs@dpp.wa.gov.au | (08) 9425 3999

www.dpp.wa.gov.au

Criminal Law

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for Western Australia (ODPP) is the independent prosecuting authority for the State of Western Australia, responsible for the prosecution of all serious offences committed against state criminal law. The ODPP acts independently of the Government in decision-making on criminal prosecutions. The Director is, however, responsible to the Attorney General for the operation of the Office. The ODPP does not investigate crime - that is the role of investigating agencies such as the WA Police and the Corruption and Crime Commission

Does the organisation offer any opportunities to students who are still studying? Yes. The ODPP actively contributes to the training and development of future lawyers by running a vacation clerkship program. The ODPP offers a number of vacation clerkships during the mid-year (winter) and end of year (summer) university semester breaks. Vacation clerkships are offered to law students who are typically in their last, or second last year of study. During the two-week clerkship period, students will be provided with an opportunity to learn about the nature of the work that the ODPP performs.

What are your student and graduate opportunities? How can individuals apply? To apply for the vacation clerkship program with the ODPP, please refer to the advertisement posted on the WA Government jobs board.

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OMBUDSMAN WESTERN AUSTRALIA Level 2, Albert Facey House, 469 Wellington Street Perth WA 6000

mail@ombudsman.wa.gov.au | (08) 9220 7555

www.ombudsman.wa.gov.au

All aspects of Public Law

What is the main focus of the organisation? The office of the Ombudsman provides access to justice, advances human rights for vulnerable and disadvantaged populations and promotes the rule of law. The Ombudsman is an independent and impartial officer of the Parliament who reports to the Parliament rather than the Government of the day. The office of the Ombudsman utilises all aspects of public law in undertaking their work. What kind of work do employees at the organisation do? The office of the Ombudsman has four principal functions, which are: • providing access to justice to Western Australians regarding the administration of government; • making recommendations about ways to prevent or reduce child deaths and family and domestic violence fatalities through the undertaking of reviews; • undertaking major investigations with the powers of a standing Royal Commission; and • undertaking a range of inspection and monitoring functions of particular powers given to agencies of the State. What is an interesting piece of work that the organisation has recently engaged in? Under the Criminal Organisations Control Act 2012, the Ombudsman was required to scrutinise and report on the exercise of certain powers by the Western Australian Police for a five-year period commencing in November 2013. These powers were conferred on the WA Police with the objective of disrupting and restricting the activities of organisations involved in serious criminal activity. A report was prepared by the Ombudsman each year for four years and

provided to the Minister and the Commissioner of Police. At the end of the five-year period, the Ombudsman was required to prepare a report on the Ombudsman’s activities related to the whole monitoring period, including any observations or recommendations that the Ombudsman considered appropriate to make about the operation of the Act. The Ombudsman’s report considered the exercise of certain powers under relevant legislation in Western Australia and other jurisdictions, alternative approaches to achieving the policy objectives of the Act and information received from Western Australian Police. On 2 April 2019, the Ombudsman’s report on the whole monitoring period was tabled in the Western Australian Parliament and included nine observations and one recommendation about the operation of the Act. What are your student and graduate opportunities? How can individuals apply? Each year, clerkships are advertised on the Western Australian Government jobs board ( jobs.wa.gov.au) and the office also informs universities when the program is advertised. What qualities does the organisation look for in future graduates? Most positions at the office of the Ombudsman require excellent conceptual and analytical skills, a high level of written communication skills, strong interpersonal skills and an understanding of the principles of independence, reasonableness and procedural fairness. People from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply for vacancies at the office of the Ombudsman.

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What advice would you give students seeking to apply to the organisation? Contact the person in the job advertisement to obtain an understanding of the advertised role and information about the job, and provide a comprehensive CV that details your qualifications and your duties and achievements in your current and previous work. The CV needs to show that you have the skills, knowledge and capacity to do the work of the advertised position. Does the organisation offer any opportunities to students who are still studying? The Ombudsman provides law students an opportunity to apply for the office’s clerkship program during the university vacation period.

“The office of the Ombudsman provides access to justice, advances human rights for vulnerable and disadvantaged populations and promotes the rule of law.�

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STATE SOLICITOR’S OFFICE David Malcolm Justice Centre, 28 Barrack Street, Perth WA 6000

Jenette Schoch | ssohr@sso.wa.gov. au | (08) 9264 1888

www.justice.wa.gov.au

All aspects of Government Law

What is the main focus of the organisation? The State Solicitor’s Office provides legal advice and representation across all areas of law to the Western Australian State Government and Ministers as well as individual client departments, statutory authorities and instrumentalities of the State. The Office receives several thousand requests for advice and representation each year. Our practice areas include: • advice, policy and public law; • litigation (including civil matters and public and general law); • counsel; • native title and state lands; and • commercial. What kind of work do employees at the organisation do? Working at the State Solicitor’s Office as a graduate involves rotating through our practice areas and engaging in the full range of work that each of those areas undertake. This will include actually appearing in court on a range of interlocutory and other matters, contractual drafting and assisting in preparing advice and client correspondence, as well as having the opportunity to observe other more senior practitioners in court. As a restricted practitioner you’ll have your own prosecutions to conduct in the Magistrates Court, your own advice files and you will assist on bigger matters as part of a team. There is substantial in-house training for junior staff (including mock court sessions before you head to court on your own) and continuing professional development opportunities throughout your career.

Upon the completion of your restricted practice years, you will transition into one of our practice areas. Those with a passion for a particular area of law can develop expertise in that area but the opportunity remains to maintain a wide variety of work over the course of your career. Employees have access to a range of interesting and challenging secondment and placement opportunities, including the Coroner’s Court, the Corruption and Crime Commission and WA Police. What is an interesting piece of work that the organisation has recently engaged in? The State Solicitor’s Office undertakes a very interesting and diverse range of work. Some recent examples of the work that the Office has been involved in include: • assisting the Corruption and Crime Commission and client agencies in relation to matters involving investigation of serious misconduct; • representing the Attorney General in the Full Court of the Federal Court and the High Court in the Timber Creek compensation claim, a native title compensation test case; • advising the Minister for Works on the ongoing dispute with John Holland Pty Ltd with respect to the design and construction of the Perth Children’s Hospital; • legal advice to facilitate the drafting and introduction into parliament of various legislative reforms, including Bills relating to high risk offenders and voluntary assisted dying; • work on Royal Commissions, including the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect 177


and Exploitation of People with Disability and the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety; and • conducting prosecutions on behalf of the WA Police, including a recent prosecution of a serving police officer for assault in connection with the tasering of a member of the public. What are your student and graduate opportunities? How can individuals apply? Due to circumstances related to COVID-19, we have had to make the difficult decision to run a targeted recruitment process for our 2021 Law Graduate Program. As a result, applications for our 2021 Law graduate program will only be accepted from professional assistants currently employed at the State Solicitor’s Office, and vacation clerks from our 2018/19 and 2019/20 intakes. What qualities does the organisation look for in future graduates/ employees? While the State Solicitor’s Office looks for graduates with excellent results in their law degrees, we also want to employ people who have a commitment to public service, and understand that working in government can be different to working for private clients in a private practice. Graduates should be able to work well with others, and at the same time work independently when required. We need graduates who are not afraid of public speaking, and who are prepared to take on the challenge of advocacy work at an early stage in their career. We want to employ those who are committed not only to legal excellence but also to contributing to the positive and supportive culture that all State Solicitor’s Office employees are privileged to be a part of. What advice would you give students seeking to apply to the organisation? A career at the State Solicitor’s Office requires not only a sharp legal mind but a passion for administrative and public law, and a genuine commitment to public service. You should apply to the State Solicitor’s Office only if you are willing to rise to a challenge, including spending some time in court as an advocate in the early years of your career.

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In preparing your application, do your research and be sure to demonstrate your understanding of what the State Solicitor’s Office does. Highlight what you have done throughout your years at law school (or beyond) that show you are well placed for a career in the Office. Working at the State Solicitor’s Office is different than working in private practice and is a unique opportunity for a law graduate. Make your application stand out and be prepared to show us why you are right for the opportunity. Does the organisation offer any opportunities to students who are still studying? The State Solicitor’s Office offers a number of paid summer and winter vacation clerkships for students in their penultimate or final year of study. Our structured programme ensures that all our vacation clerks are able to experience as broad a range of the work of the Office as possible, whilst being supported and mentored by both junior and senior lawyers in the Office. In addition, the State Solicitor’s Office employs professional legal research assistants on a full-time basis for two years to undertake an interesting and diverse range of legal tasks including drafting research memoranda on discrete legal issues, assisting with litigation related tasks including the preparation of submissions and attending meetings with clients and other stakeholders. These positions are a unique opportunity for very capable law students to work closely with the State Solicitor, State Counsel and the Solicitor-General.


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COMMUNITY LEGAL CENTRES We have compiled profiles of the major Community Legal Centres in Perth. Volunteer positions are a great way for students to get involved and give back to the community whilst developing the skills you will need for a career in law. Volunteer positions at Community Legal Centres (CLCs) can provide you with an opportunity to aid the socially and economically disadvantaged, whilst giving you exposure to various areas of law. The tasks that volunteers at CLCs undertake are wide ranging including identifying legal problems, writing memorandums of advice, conducting legal research and other administrative duties. Some positions may give you the opportunity to communicate directly with clients.

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ABORIGINAL FAMILY LAW SERVICES 890 Albany Highway, East Victoria Park WA 6101

Nicky Davison | office@afls.org.au | (08) 9355 1502

7 Offices www.afls.org.au

What is the focus of the CLC? The Aboriginal Family Law Service (AFLS) assists Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to live free from family violence and sexual assault. They aim to provide holistic family legal services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Western Australia. What does work at the CLC involve? They offer services that range from free legal services to community education and early intervention and prevention programs. Do you take on volunteers? Yes. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? A position at AFLS is incredibly rewarding. One of the most beneficial elements of a position is getting an understanding of the impact of family violence within the Indigenous community. How can students apply? Call or email our Human Resources Manager. Blackstone suggests you include your CV, academic transcript and cover letter detailing why you are interested in volunteering at the AFLS when you make contact to apply.

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How many positions are available? Around 2. What attributes do you look for in an applicant? The most important attributes in applicants are honesty, dedication, compassion, passion and commitment to assisting victims of family violence. Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Yes. Prepared by The Blackstone Society


CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU (CAB) Level 1, 25 Barrack Street, Perth WA 6000

Elena Mauen | manager@cabwa.com. au | (08) 9325 4217

10 Offices www.cabwa.com.au

What is the focus of the CLC? Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) doesn’t have means test or eligibility criteria, which means we have an extremely diverse range of clients, including vulnerable people. Our primary service is to provide information and referrals on a wide range of issues. We aim to empower our clients to make their own independent decisions. We also have a low cost legal and mediation service. What does work at the CLC involve? We assist clients who are experiencing relationship breakdowns, domestic violence issues, financial hardship, grief, trauma and who may also have literacy issues or English as a second or third language. Last financial year, we assisted approximately 65,000 clients; most of them received information and referrals provided by our volunteers. A typical day in the life of a CAB Information & Referral Volunteer includes time on the telephone, answering queries from our clients and booking appointments for our legal team. They’ll also spend time talking to clients face to face on our reception desk, handling cash and providing information and referrals. Do you take on volunteers? Yes. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? Our Information & Referral volunteers are in direct contact with clients and are able to conduct interviews to find out more information on clients that need help. Our volunteers are trained to assess the clients’ individual situation and provide the appropriate service, which

includes information and referrals, booking legal appointments or suggesting options such as mediation. Volunteers/law students gain hands-on experience which allows them to associate concepts learnt in university with real life scenarios. Volunteer paralegals work closely with the Principal Solicitor to draft legal documents such as Wills, Enduring Powers of Attorney & Guardianship, Probate applications, Letters of Administration and some Family Court documents. Full training and ongoing mentoring and support are provided to our volunteers. What kind of tasks are student volunteers expected to undertake? Duties include answering queries from clients on a wide range of issues (not always legal), provide information and referrals, book legal appointments, carry out conflict check, record stats and handle payment. In addition to this, volunteers are also required to perform some admin tasks. Contact with clients can be done face to face (reception/mediation) or on the phone (Infoline/ paralegal). How can students apply? Via our website http://www.cabwa.com.au/ become-a-volunteer. Direct email: manager@cabwa.com.au. Through advertised positions on Seek and Volunteering WA. 183


How many positions are available? It varies; please enquire or send your expression of interest to manager@cabwa.com.au. What attributes do you look for in an applicant? • Excellent Communication skills; • great attention to detail; • computer literate; • team player; • positive and professional attitude; and • organised and able to prioritise tasks. Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Not currently.

“We aim to to empower our clients to make their own independent decisions.”

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CONSUMER CREDIT LEGAL SERVICE Level 1, 231 Adelaide Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Allison Sampson | hr@cclswa.org.au | (08) 6336 7020 (Admin)

1 Office www.cclswa.org.au

What is the focus of the CLC? Banking & finance and consumer law.

How can students apply? https://cclswa.org.au/about-us/volunteers/.

What does work at the CLC involve? Volunteer paralegals operate the telephone advice line. They take instructions, draft and deliver advice under the close supervision of the supervising solicitor. Volunteer paralegals also assist solicitors with case file work, in the delivery of community legal education and in drafting law reform submissions.

How many positions are available? 50.

Do you take on volunteers? Yes. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? Volunteer paralegals get direct client contact by providing front-line legal services. They also receive close supervision, mentoring and ongoing training throughout their time at CCLS.

What attributes do you look for in an applicant? Our volunteers are passionate about the law, and we have a strong team that works hard to assist our clients. Our clients may be having a difficult time, so resilience is a key skill that we need from our volunteers. You will also need to be in your penultimate or final year with at least a credit average. Some legal or clerical work experience is helpful, but not essential. Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Yes.

What kind of tasks are student volunteers expected to undertake? They provide volunteers with the opportunity to do hands on practical tasks. You will answer the phone to the public and take their instructions. You will then do research and draft advice for them regarding how they can remedy their personal situation. This is checked by a solicitor before you have the opportunity to deliver it back directly to the client. Volunteers also help write submissions for law reform projects and deliver community education to the public.

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EMPLOYMENT LAW CENTRE Perth

Sara Kane | (08) 9227 0111

www.elcwa.org.au

What is the focus of the CLC? The Employment Law Centre (ELC) provide free employment advice, as well as education and advocacy, representation, information and referrals to vulnerable, non-unionised employees in WA. They also work on areas of law reform and educating the WA community to promote a better understanding of this complex area of law. This work is informed by our clients and our own experiences. We assist with issues such as unfair dismissal, adverse action, unlawful termination, underpayment of entitlements, breach of contract, bullying, equal opportunity and occupational health and safety. What does work at the CLC involve? Volunteers have the opportunity to work with experienced solicitors and gain an understanding of how a busy legal workplace operates. Further, they have the opportunity to aid vulnerable people and gain a more in depth understanding of employment law in Western Australia. We work hard to give our volunteers tangible legal and practical skills from their experience with us. Do you take on volunteers? Yes, they hire paid paralegals and have volunteer opportunities for law students. What kind of tasks are student volunteers expected to undertake? Paralegals at the ELC provide legal advice to vulnerable WA workers under the supervision of the solicitors.

Volunteers take phone calls on our advice line, determine whether callers are eligible for their services and take instructions from clients. Some volunteers also assist solicitors with client appointments, research and develop community legal education materials How can students apply? If students are interested in applying for a position, we encourage you to email them at administration@elcwa.org.au with your CV, academic transcript, and a cover letter telling them about why you want to volunteer at ELC. What attributes do you look for in an applicant? Volunteers must have a demonstrated interest in social justice issues and are able to make a regular commitment each week. They prefer volunteers with some legal experience. For example, paralegals or students who are at least in the second year of their law degree. They prefer that volunteers are able to commit to volunteering for at least 18 months. The following attributes are important in an applicant and should be addressed in applications: • strong written and verbal communication skills; • sound judgement and ability to work under pressure; • good time management and organisation skills; • efficiency and ability to complete quality written work; • attention to detail; and • strong computer and research skills. Prepared by The Blackstone Society

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ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENDERS OFFICE Unit 18 CityWest Lotteries House 2 Delhi Street West Perth, 6005

edowa@edowa.org.au | (08) 9420 7271

www.edowa.org.au

What is the focus of the CLC? The Environmental Defenders Office (EDO) is committed to the WA community and the environment is at the core of our organisation. We aim to empower the community to protect and preserve the environment through understanding, applying and improving environmental laws. What does work at the CLC involve? Students studying law and related disciplines frequently volunteer their time to help meet the demand for the EDO’s services. Volunteers without legal training also have a role in providing invaluable support by assisting with administrative tasks, fundraising and general research. Do you take on volunteers? Yes. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? The work you will do will look great on your resume. Volunteers will learn to find their way around the Supreme Court library and undertake legal research with a real practical focus and application. You will also work in a fantastic office and meet some great people, including volunteers from around the world. What kind of tasks are student volunteers expected to undertake? Volunteers will be expected to make a commitment to work at least one day per week for at least three months. Legal volunteers are exposed to a broad range of work, including: • legal research on matters concerning biodiversity, climate change, pollution,

planning and mining and water law; • assisting with the preparation of court documents, drafting letters and legal advice; • assisting solicitors with case work and litigation in Court; • engaging in public interest legal environmental work for a broad scope of clients; • drafting submissions and participating in law reform work; and • assisting solicitors in the preparation of educational materials for the community. How can students apply? If you would like to volunteer, please get in touch and outline the skills and experience you have to offer, at (08) 9420 7271 or edowa@ edowa.org.au. Blackstone suggests that you consider including a resume, cover letter and academic transcript in your application. Your academic transcript should include administrative law and a completion of at least one of the following three subjects, with a ‘credit’ grade or higher: • environmental law; • energy/natural resources law; or • maritime law/law of the sea. The EDO would also like to see a short sample of written work or research relevant to environmental law (3 pages or more).

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What attributes do you look for in an applicant? The EDO volunteers must have administration and other specialist office skills, such as; marketing, fundraising, research and reporting, video production and editing, communications and project management. Skills in Excel are highly desirable. Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Yes, law students with an interest in environment or planning law can apply to complete their practical legal training at the EDO. Completing your PLT at EDO will undertake a wide variety or legal research tasks, assist in the preparation of legal documents and answer our telephone advice line under the supervision of a Senior Solicitor. Prepared by The Blackstone Society

“We aim to to empower the community to protect and preserve the environment through understanding, applying and improving environmental law.�

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FREMANTLE COMMUNITY LEGAL CENTRE Level 1, Suite 31 Fremantle Malls 35 William Street Fremantle WA 6160

fclc@fremantle.wa.gov.au | (08) 9432 9790

www.fremantle.wa.gov.au/fclc

What is the focus of the CLC? Fremantle Community Legal Centre (FCLC) is a non-profit organisation which provides legal services to low income members of the community. FCLC offers a range of services to disadvantaged, disempowered and vulnerable clients. Disadvantaged people are more likely to experience large numbers of often substantial legal problems. FCLC offers a comprehensive set of services to effectively meet the needs of its target group. That target group includes people with a disability, single parents, unemployed people, people subject to family violence and abuse, people living in disadvantaged housing and/or homeless and indigenous people.

What kind of tasks are student volunteers expected to undertake? Student volunteers will have an opportunity to be involved in the following services that the FCLC offers, including: • document drafting; • limited court representation; • mediation; • information and referrals; • non-legal support; and • community legal education.

What does work at the CLC involve? FCLC provides legal information, advice and assistance to the community and limited representation regarding restraining orders at the Fremantle Magistrates Court. This is provided to the most disadvantaged, vulnerable and CALD clients.

How many positions are available? Between 8 and 12 depending on the number of active internships being supervised.

Do you take on volunteers? Yes. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? Volunteers gain hands-on experience in an empathetic and supportive learning environment.

How can students apply? Applicants should send a resume and cover letter to fclc@fremantle.wa.gov.au.

What attributes do you look for in an applicant? Applicants should have great people skills, strong research skills, ability to adjust to different areas of practice and a strong commitment to justice and equality for all people before the law. Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Yes, they have placements through the ANU College of Law programme in conjunction with the Piddington Justice Project, but have also offered placements where the student shows dedication to our clients and the law. Prepared by The Blackstone Society

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THE HUMANITARIAN GROUP Ground Floor, 445 Hay Street, Perth WA 6000

Kathy Bogoyev | communications@ thehumanitariangroup.org.au

https://thehumanitariangroup.org. au/

What is the focus of the CLC? The Humanitarian Group is focused on empowering vulnerable people by providing professional and accessible migration assistance, legal advice and education. They help people new to Australia from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, including humanitarian visa holders, asylum seekers, refugees and people who are otherwise disadvantaged in their access to legal services. What does work at the CLC involve? The work at The Humanitarian Group involves providing migration and legal assistance. Volunteers assist with both legal work and administrative support, we also have a number of bilingual volunteers. Do you take on volunteers? Yes. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? Volunteers will develop invaluable legal skills in an environment where you are well supported and supervised. They will also have the opportunity to work independently with clients. They will also have the satisfaction of using their skills and knowledge to assist vulnerable people. How can students apply? They ask that volunteers are able to commit to at least one day per week for a minimum of 6 months. Information on how to apply is available on the volunteer page of their website.

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What attributes do you look for in an applicant? The following attributes are desired in applicants: • legal knowledge; • strong written and verbal communication skills, including demonstrated ability to communicate with people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and working with interpreters; • excellent organisational skills, with the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment; • high level of computer literacy; and • interest in social justice. Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Yes. If you are interested in completing a PLT placement with them, please send an email to them with your: • expression of Interest addressed to the Principal Solicitor; • CV; and • academic transcript. Prepared by The Blackstone Society


MENTAL HEALTH LAW CENTRE 255 Hay Street, Subiaco WA 6008

reception@mhlcwa.org.au | (08) 9328 8012

https://mhlcwa.org.au/

What is the focus of the CLC? Legal representation of people who have mental health issues in the following areas: • criminal law; • guardianship and administration; • all matters under the Mental Health Act 2014 (WA); and • Violence Restraining Orders. What does work at the CLC involve? The Mental Health Law Centre (MHLC) provides a range of services to clients such as: • assistance for clients and other professionals via our Telephone Advice Line; • representation for involuntary patients under the Mental Health Act 2014 at their Mental Health Tribunals; • representation for clients who are appearing before the Start Court at Perth Magistrates Court; • assistance and representation at the State Administration Tribunal for Guardianship and Administration matters; • representation for our clients with criminal matters; and • if we are unable to assist, we will offer suitable and professional referrals to other organisations. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? • Practical experience in applying the law to people’s situation & legal issues; • developing communication skills in speaking to people with complex needs; • developing legal skills necessary for a successful career in law; and • volunteering also enhances your career options.

What kind of tasks are student volunteers expected to undertake? • Managing the Telephone Advice Line where we provide legal advice for clients with mental health issues; • assisting the lawyers with case files and preparation for MHT hearings; • legal research and drafting documents; and • administrative duties to assist with the smooth running of MHLC. How can students apply? Email your current resume, academic transcript and availability to reception@mhlcwa.org.au. What attributes do you look for in an applicant? An applicant must: • be in their last or second last year of a law degree; • be able to commit to one (or more) days a week for a period of 6 months; • have strong written and verbal communication skills; and • have strong legal research skills. Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Yes.

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STREET LAW CENTRE WA INC PO Box 6236 East Perth WA 6892

(08) 9221 7661

www.streetlawcentre.org.au

What is the focus of the CLC? The Street Law Centre (SLC) is committed to supporting the homeless and those at risk of homelessness across WA. We provide free legal information, advice, assistance and casework services. They aim to drive change to eliminate homelessness by providing access to justice for people experiencing homelessness.

What kind of tasks are student volunteers expected to undertake? You will have to undertake a variety of tasks, for example: • research in specific areas of the law; • direct client services; and • working on tasks independently prior to being briefed.

What does work at the CLC involve? Their work includes, letter writing, negotiation and minor court work services in the following legal areas: • fines and infringements; • criminal law; • criminal injuries compensation; • ID documents; • debts; • discrimination; • guardianship and administration applications • police complaints; • freedom of Information applications; and • violence restraining orders (initial advice).

How can students apply? They recruit for their students and graduate law volunteering positions two to three times a year. The best way to keep up to date with recruitment is to follow SLC on Facebook or LinkedIn. Alternatively, you can contact the office for information on recruitment.

Do you take on volunteers? Yes. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? People working at SLC have the opportunity to work in diverse areas of law and provide access to justice for the disadvantaged. Volunteers also have an opportunity to gain on the ground experience and exposure to legal issues.

How many positions are available? Around 6 positions are available. What attributes do you look for in an applicant? SLC generally only accept volunteers who are in their final year of law school or who have graduated. Previous experience in law is highly regarded. The following attributes are desirable in applicants: a demonstrated interest in social justice, attention to detail, strong written and verbal communication skills, an ability to work under minimal supervision and good research skills. Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Yes. Prepared by The Blackstone Society

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SUSSEX STREET COMMUNITY LAW SERVICE 29 Sussex Street, East Victoria Park WA 6101

(08) 6253 9500

www.sscls.asn.au

What is the focus of the CLC? Sussex Street Community Law Service Inc is a ‘non-profit’ non-government community based organisation that provides access to accountable, non-judgemental and effective legal services to low income people in the community. What does work at the CLC involve? The Night Legal Service is run on Monday and Thursday nights to provide advice to those unable to afford legal advice or obtain assistance through Legal Aid. Without the ongoing pro bono assistance provided by the many solicitors on our roster the service could not operate.

What attributes do you look for in an applicant? Applicants who will uphold Sussex Street Community values are ideal candidates. These attributes include: • high quality client service; • working within a community development framework; • access and equity; • acceptance of diversity in the community; • use of funds with integrity and accountability; • responsiveness to changing community needs; • collaboration and consultation with stakeholders; and • involvement of the community in service.

Do you take on volunteers? Yes, we do hire volunteers if we have space available. Check our website for updates on available positions. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? Deliver legal and social services, community education and law reform to promote social justice. How can students apply? Please check the website for available positions and application instructions.

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TENANCY WA 2/18 Plain Street, Perth WA 6004

(08) 6263 8500

https://www.tenancywa.org.au/

What is the focus of the CLC? Tenancy WA is a not-for-profit specialist community legal centre that provides quality legal services to residential tenants anywhere in Western Australia. We are committed to supporting the fundamental human right to safe, secure and affordable housing. What does work at the CLC involve? We mostly provide our clients with tenancy advice. We conduct all of our appointments are over the phone. Do you take on volunteers? Tenancy WA relies on volunteer students and graduates to assist in providing some of our services. All volunteers work under the supervision of an experienced solicitor. If you are a law student or recent graduate, you are welcome to contact us for more information.

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How can students apply? Students can apply via email to admin@ tenancywa.org.au with a cover letter and CV. How many positions are available? 15-20. What attributes do you look for in an applicant? Our volunteers must show the following attributes: • desire to help people in need; • ability to relate to and work with clients in a positive manner; • willingness to undergo training; • ability to accept and seek supervision; • commitment to completion of agreed tasks; and • willingness to work in a team. Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Yes. 2 positions are available each year.


WELFARE RIGHTS AND ADVOCACY SERVICES 98 Edwards Street, Perth WA 6000

Kate Beaumont | welfare@wraswa. org.au | (08) 9328 1751

www.wraswa.org.au

What is the focus of the CLC? Welfare Rights and Advocacy Service (WA) is a not-for-profit community legal centre, specialising in social security law and tenancy law. The Centre provides independent advice, information, referral, representation and advocacy in relation to Centrelink, Family Assistance, Tenancy and Social Security prosecution matters. What does work at the CLC involve? Providing legal advice and representation to clients in the areas of law we work in, delivering community legal education and providing input into law reform work.

How can students apply? Send an email to welfare@wraswa.org.au with a CV and short statement including your experience and availability attached. What attributes do you look for in an applicant? Applicants should be able to relate to vulnerable people, be reliable, interested in social justice and in learning about social security law. Prepared by The Blackstone Society

Do you take on volunteers? Yes. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? They are a small organisation, so volunteers get the opportunity to be involved in all aspects of our practice.

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WOMEN’S LEGAL SERVICE WA Level 1, 445 Hay Street, Perth WA 6000

info@wlswa.org.au | (08) 9272 8800

www.wlswa.org.au

What is the focus of the CLC? They are a not-for-profit community legal centre that provides legal advice and assistance to women experiencing financial disadvantage in WA in the areas of family law, care and protection, family violence and criminal injury compensation. What does work at the CLC involve? They provide legal advice, assistance with some legal tasks (e.g. drafting court documents) and in some cases representation in court (Family Court of WA, Children’s Court and sometimes Magistrates Court). Additionally, they undertake policy development and law reform activities to ensure that the needs and rights of marginalised women are adequately acknowledged, represented and met. Do you take on volunteers? Yes. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? They are very active in policy and law reform activities and are connected to and contribute to national networks and activities. They have more discretion than other CLCs which means they can be more creative in finding opportunities for volunteers to help our clients. What kind of tasks are expected to undertake? The work volunteers do projects that occur. The volunteers may undertake

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student volunteers depend on specific type of work their includes:

• legal research; • assisting on client files (including attending client meetings and assisting in preparation of court documents and work on files); • attending court with a lawyer in a non-legal support capacity and assisting in follow up tasks; • assisting with research and drafting of law reform submissions; • drafting and formatting legal information materials for our website or use in community legal education sessions; • providing administrative support to our volunteer solicitors during the Family Law (Property) Legal Clinic; and • assisting with non-legal administrative and operation tasks. How do students apply? Email info@wlswa.org.au with your CV and brief cover letter explaining why you would like to volunteer and what you hope to get from the experience. Their Principal Lawyer will meet you to discuss potential opportunities to see what might work for everyone concerned. How many positions are available? 4. What attributes do you look for in an applicant? A genuine belief in and commitment to gender equality and advancing women’s rights, genuine desire to help others who have experienced disadvantage. Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Yes. Prepared by The Blackstone Society


YOUTH LEGAL SERVICE Suite 3/12 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

David Kernohan | david@ youthlegalserviceinc.com.au| (08) 9202 1688

1 Office www.youthlegalserviceinc.com.au

What is the focus of the CLC? Young people up to the age of 25 years.

How many positions are available? 2.

What does work at the CLC involve? Youth Legal Service provides: • legal advice and information for young people; and • legal representation in the Children’s Court.

What attributes do you look for in an applicant? • Good communication skills; • attention to detail; and • Ability to be a “self-starter” rather than always needing to be directed.

Do you take on volunteers? Yes, on a limited capacity. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? The youth area is a specialist area and provides volunteers with experience working in a community legal centre.

Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? No.

What kind of tasks are student volunteers expected to undertake? • Taking phone calls from clients and obtaining intake information; and • legal research. How do students apply? Send your resume youthlegalserviceinc.com.au

to

david@

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MANAGEMENT CONSULTING Graduating with a law degree opens doors to a wide range of careers, including management consulting. As a management consultant, you will help businesses improve and optimise their performance. This section compiles some profiles and articles from management consultancy firms which will you give you an insight into the life of a management consultant.

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BAIN & COMPANY Level 40, Exchange Tower, 2 The Esplanade, Perth WA 6000

Madeline Massara | australia. recruiting@bain.com | (02) 9024 8600

58 offices across 37 countries. 3 offices in Australia: Perth, Sydney, and Melbourne. https://www.bain.com/careers/

ABOUT THE FIRM Where is your firm headquartered? Boston, Massachusetts, United States. How would you describe firm culture? We’re a global consultancy that helps the world’s most ambitious change makers define the future. We work alongside our clients as one team with a shared ambition to achieve extraordinary results, outperform the competition and redefine industries. We complement our tailored, integrated expertise with a vibrant ecosystem of digital innovators to deliver better, faster and more enduring outcomes. Notable awards • Glassdoor’s Best Place to Work in 2020; and • We’re the #1 consulting firm on Glassdoor’s Best Places to Work list, the only consultancy in the top 10. For more information, check the awards section of our website.

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INTERNSHIP INFORMATION Do you offer any internship opportunities for Juris Doctor students? Regrettably, we do not offer internship opportunities within our Australian offices. We do offer opportunities in our other offices globally – more information can be found on our website.

GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION Do you offer Graduate Associate positions for Juris Doctor students? Yes – we run a graduate recruitment campaign in February/March each year, for start dates the year following. What can an applicant do to stand out? We look for applications that demonstrate client readiness, resilience, ability to work in a team, and strong academic track record, amongst other qualities. It is difficult to paint a picture of the perfect applicant, as each candidate is so different! We encourage students to get involved in their community further than their academic requirements, be involved in society initiatives

and activities, and where possible, branch out and work towards advancing their professional development and experiences.


Choose extraordinary.

We champion the bold to achieve the extraordinary, and we want you to join us. As an Associate Consultant, you’ll make an impact from day one, continually building new skills and solving challenging problems. The training and support you’ll receive will be second to none, and you'll embark on a global career path that will help you maximise your potential in any industry. We’re looking for talented individuals who like to work within a culturally diverse, intellectually stimulating, fast-paced and highly collaborative environment. If that describes you, reach out and connect with us. We look forward to meeting you.

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CONSULTING AT BCG BELLA HANCOCK Associate

What kind of work have you undertaken at BCG? A real variety. My first case was in the public sector, working with a central agency on their strategy for pricing. I was surprised at how much I drew on my JD throughout the case – from applying principles of equity, to all of the joys of public law! Since then I have worked with the Technology function of a resources company, been involved in an organisational re-structure and assessed opportunities for a company to optimise decision-making using analytics – all of which have been vastly different to anything I learnt at law school. There’s no one ‘kind of work’ at BCG, which is exactly what I was looking for when I joined. Why did you choose BCG following your law degree? Three main reasons. Firstly, as mentioned above, I was looking for a role which would allow me to experience the full spectrum of commercial problems, across all industries. For the first 4-5 years at BCG you are given the freedom to be a true generalist, and I saw this as an exciting opportunity to build an understanding of business that could underpin the rest of my career. Secondly – the opportunity to work with interesting and diverse people. There is no one degree or background that BCG draws from, and I was seeking a role where working with people with different perspectives and life experiences was the norm. (And I haven’t been disappointed - it makes for interesting conversation when someone in your team used to be a fighter pilot, or advised the Prime Ministers of Haiti and Mongolia!). Finally, the mobility and learning opportunities. I’ll speak more about the mobility opportunities below, but from a learning and development perspective, BCG has a generous policy around supporting consultants to take time to pursue further study. I’ve always wanted to do an MBA, so the way this is prioritised at BCG was an important factor in my decision. What do you enjoy most about working at BCG? Hmm that’s a tricky one. For all of the reasons I discussed above! One aspect that I’m particularly enjoying at the moment is how closely we work with clients over the course 204

of a case. From Monday to Thursday we are generally co-located with the client, which means the problem-solving process is highly collaborative and you share the wins and challenges with the client team. What social opportunities are there at BCG? We have a few different ‘levels’ of social opportunities. We have a range of internal committees, such as Women@BCG, Thriving (focusing on initiatives to promote mental and physical wellbeing), Social Impact and Champions for Change, which allow us to get to know people with similar interests and to have an impact outside cases. Casually, we have Friday night drinks (now over Zoom!), seasonal events such as Oktoberfest and monthly office meetings, complete with an office quiz. On alternating years we get together as a local office or a whole-firm for a few days away. This year we were heading to Queensland, but who knows how things will play out. Is it possible to go on secondment internationally? Are there any locations you wish to be seconded to? Yes, BCG offers some great mobility opportunities. After your first 12 months, you can express interest in doing a case abroad, which is a great way to experience another city for a few months and gain exposure to an industry type of problem that may not be available in Australia. After 18 months you can apply to spend an entire year in another system. I’ve got my eyes on Amsterdam at the moment! There is also the opportunity to undertake an industry secondment, where you work in another organisation for a year. Social Impact secondments are a popular option, and definitely something I would also consider. What advice would you give to students wishing to apply to BCG? BCG-ers are diverse, but the common threads are a keen interest in problem solving and an ability to both structure your thought and think analytically. So my advice would be to clearly highlight your strengths in those areas. I’d also encourage you to do your research; speak to as many people at BCG as possible about what they have worked on and understand the ins and outs of their experience. The recruitment process presents many opportunities to connect with people from within the firm, so definitely make the most of them.


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ARTICLES FROM THE PROFESSION This section of the handbook is a compilation of articles relating to the many areas of law. These articles have been written by a range of legal and non-legal professionals. The purpose of these articles is to highlight the various careers you may choose to enter after or during your law degree. For those with aspirations in certain areas of law, we hope these articles impart some valuable information which can aid you as your career progresses

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DAY IN THE LIFE OF A HSF GRAD LINDA NGUYEN

Solicitor at Herbert Smith Freehills

6.00 AM After snoozing my alarm multiple times, I reluctantly roll out of bed and get changed to take my dog out to the park. 7.00 AM After realising I spent way too long marvelling at other dogs, I rush home and quickly get ready for the day. I hop onto the bus and start scanning through my emails, but not before I read through the latest news headlines. 8.00 AM My day at work starts with my morning ritual at Smooth Operator, my favourite coffee shop. I visit Smooth with my friend, another solicitor in the Project team, and order a coffee and toastie. We sit and chat about what’s on for the day and any weekend plans, before having to head back to the office. 8.30 AM As part of our graduate program, you get to complete three six month rotations in three different teams. I previously rotated through the Corporate, Mergers and Acquisitions team and am now in my second rotation in the Banking and Finance team. Luckily for me, the Banking and Finance team are usually late starters and roll in at a time that suits them. After getting back into the office, I use the quiet time to clear my emails and start planning my to-do list for the day. 9.30 AM As most corporate lawyers will tell you, there is no ‘typical day’ in the life of a lawyer at a commercial law firm. This morning I get called into my partner’s office and jump on a client phone call for a new matter. After the phone call, my partner gives me further background on the matter and instructs me on all the documentation required for this financing. In this matter, we are acting for a large mining client who is looking to borrow a casual billion dollars from a syndicate of different banks around the globe. As a learning experience, I get to have the first crack at drafting the Syndicated Facility Agreement, which is the main loan agreement for this transaction.

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Work in the Banking and Finance team usually involves transactional work, including drafting contracts as opposed to legal research. Juniors in the team are typically responsible for reviewing and drafting agreements, drafting ancillary documents such as resolutions and verification certificates, drafting legal opinions and getting involved in due diligence. 11.00 AM I take a break from drafting and have a quick tea and biscuit break in the kitchen with a fellow grad in the Corporate team as my stomach is rumbling for lunch. 12.00 PM It’s finally lunch time! Today we are attending a graduate CLE session where we get to upskill on different areas of law over lunch. In today’s CLE, a lawyer from the Corporate team gives us a presentation on various aspects of mergers and acquisitions law. 12.45 PM After the CLE, I head out with a few of my fellow grads to enjoy some much needed Vitamin D. We head out for a nice walk around the block, to enjoy some time out of the office. 1.00 PM I head back into the office and go up to our client floor for our monthly Perth Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Committee meeting. As a graduate at Herbert Smith Freehills, we are encouraged to get involved in a range of different internal committees. In our office, these include the social, wellbeing, community, and diversity and inclusion committee. I often look forward to the D&I meetings, as it’s a chance to have meaningful conversations with people who are passionate about creating a more diverse workplace. As a member of the D&I Committee, I’ve organised a celebratory Lunar New Year lunch, a national Islam awareness event and an International Women’s Day campaign. This supportive and inclusive culture is at the heart of our firm and is one of the main reasons why I am proud to work here.


1.45 PM I head back to my desk, reply to a few Skype messages and start to prepare for a 2.00pm client meeting. My partner tells me he would like me to come along to learn about the client’s plans for an upcoming refinancing that I would later be assisting with. Although there wasn’t much to prepare for the meeting, I quickly undertake some research into who the client is and the industry the client is in. This is for my own benefit so that I have some sort of background walking into the meeting. 2.00 PM When the client arrives, we head up to the client floor as my partner introduces me as the graduate in the team. Discussions start about the client’s intentions for the refinancing and the issues it is facing whilst doing a corporate restructure. My role in these meetings is usually to observe and take notes. Once the meeting is done, I debrief with my partner and ask a number of questions on any confusing concepts discussed in the meeting. 3.00 PM When I get back to my desk, I am flooded with Skype messages from colleagues on the floor reminding me it’s ‘Tea at 3’ time! A few of us take a break from work and head to the kitchen to make ourselves a tea (or coffee) and have a quick catch up. 3.30 PM Feeling caffeinated and rejuvenated, I head back to my desk and continue my earlier drafting of the Syndicated Facility Agreement. I get stuck on a few points and decide to ask my buddy and partner a few questions. They are both very happy to answer my questions and guide me in the right direction. 6.30 PM After a solid day of drafting, I check in with my team to see if anyone needs help with anything else this evening. Judging from my team’s responses and my own workload, I decide to call it a day. After heading home and cooking dinner, I tucker into bed and enjoy the latest Netflix show to wind down.

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PATHWAY TO HSF ALEX COOK

Solicitor at Herbert Smith Freehills

Tell us about yourself – what was your pathway to HSF? How was your pathway different to other people’s? I had an atypical entry into HSF; I turned down the clerkship offer at HSF during my legal studies as I didn’t think I was the right fit for the firm. I was looking for a career that really met my interest of working at the intersection of law, commerce and technology and at the time, I didn’t think there were any commercial law firms that could offer me that type of experience. Thinking that commercial law was not for me, I wrote my thesis on the comparative regulation of novel technologies – and ended up joining the founding team of a financial technology startup that worked to commercialise distributed ledger and digital asset technology. I spent almost two years in that role, managing relationships with legal and commercial advisors across Western Europe and the Asia-Pacific region and helping design, develop and deploy our products into the consumer market. From that experience, as well as observing what was going on in the legal industry (such as the explosion of venture capital investment into legal technologies and the rapid digitisation of legal services and products), I made the decision to return to law, get admitted, and further develop my substantive legal knowledge. I was introduced to Natasha Blycha, Global Head of Digital Law at HSF at a conference, and after I heard what HSF was working on decided that it was the right place for me to start my legal career as a graduate. I’ve been at HSF for a year, and I’m in a split-role across three different areas of the firm. I am: • A Solicitor in our Perth Technology, Media and Telecommunications practice, working in a team that advises clients on data privacy, cybersecurity and technology procurement challenges; • A permanent member of the firm’s Digital Law Group - a multidisciplinary, global team that is working to both commercialise smart legal contracts contracts that computers can understand and perform and advise clients on digital transformation; and • Heavily involved in HSF’s joint venture with IBM and CSIRO’s Data61 to deploy industry-agnostic smart legal contract infrastructure. 210

In addition to my role at HSF, I’m an academic at the UWA Law School, with a teaching and research focus on the impact of technology on legal practice and the law more generally. It is difficult to juggle my various commitments at times, but the flexible culture at HSF means that I haven’t needed to make too many sacrifices. What were your expectations before joining HSF? How did your experience match or differ from your expectations? I didn’t let myself have any expectations about joining HSF; I knew I was going into a new role in a new team, so was prepared for anything! HSF has a great global network, fantastic work, and a brilliant culture. However, to be frank, you’ll probably hear the phrases “global network”, “fantastic work” and a “brilliant culture” from many of the big firms. For me, there were two reasons to join HSF: the learning and the people. I’ve been exposed to world-leading technical, commercial and legal experts and the ability to complement the formal training that HSF provides with the informal conversations and training that organically occurs is fantastic. I’ve had the opportunity to work with colleagues from London, Dubai, Paris, Seoul, Singapore, Bangkok, and all of our Australian offices since joining the firm. I’ve also had the opportunity to travel quite frequently, and it’s good to know that in whichever city you end up, chances are there is a HSF employee (or alumni) ready to show you around and go for a meal. Can you describe a typical day at HSF? It’s a cliché, but there isn’t one. Working across different teams and projects helps keeps things pretty interesting! Can you think of a time when you had a meaningful impact at work? I think our work on smart legal contracts is a significant evolution for the firm and industry as a whole. The evolution of legal contracts into smart legal contracts – that comprise both natural language and machine readable/executable language - is completely changing the way that businesses interact. Being able to contribute to the research and development into this area is very rewarding and I’m glad that HSF has invested a lot of time and effort into the space.


More broadly, lawyers have an incredibly important role to play in the development and deployment of new technologies. A conscious combination of ethical stewardship, commercial pragmatism and technical excellence is key – and the ethical training, perspective and framework that is unique to the legal industry has a lot to offer. As the legal, technical and commercial worlds converge and grow in complexity, the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration will only increase. If you could sum up your experience in a picture or a short story, what would it be? Since I joined the firm, HSF’s Digital Law Group has grown into a global team and I now work with colleagues from other offices on a daily basis. Recently, all APAC Digital Law Group members gathered at Rottnest Island for a week of intensive technology training, planning, and bonding. While the training was great, it was even better to spend time with an extremely diverse, talented and global group of colleagues – even if it did show everyone that I am absolutely HSF’s worst cricketer.

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WORKING FOR A NATIONAL FIRM ELOISE HOPKINSON

Senior Associate at Clayton Utz

My name is Eloise, I’ve been working at Clayton Utz for almost 4 years now. I work in the Public Sector team here in Perth. For me, flexibility is a huge advantage of working in a national firm. I started out as a lateral hire in the Melbourne office about 4 years ago, in the Major Projects and Construction team. However, when an opportunity arose for my family to move back to Perth a year ago, I was able to come across to the Perth office and continue working for Clayton Utz. The fact that my life was able to proceed as normally as possible, with minimum disruption, was a perfect example of a “National Firm” operating at its best. I didn’t have to leave a job I loved – they made it work for me. You can take advantage of employment opportunities across the country without while continuing to work with a great firm. It also means you have wonderful opportunities to work with people all over Australia. I’ve worked on matters run out of Melbourne, Perth, Sydney and Canberra. It’s useful because it means you have exposure to clients’ needs and expectations on an Australia-wide level, which you simply don’t get when only working within a state-wide market. I have also been able to develop and build internal relationships with lawyers in all of those offices. That means you aren’t just working with industry-leaders in your own office, but have constant exposure to industry-leaders across the country. It makes you a better lawyer. It also means you’ve got lots of builtin buddies when you attend practice group retreats or firm-wide seminars! With a national firm comes travel opportunities, too – and I know that these opportunities are appealing to young lawyers. I’ve travelled across the country with Clayton Utz, which of course is fun and exciting. I’ve got friends in the firm who have been lucky enough to travel to Germany and South Africa to attend arbitrations and visit clients. Meeting clients and lawyers in new places gets you out of your comfort zone.

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Working for a national firm also means access to extensive firm resources. There are more opportunities for mentoring, greater access to precedents and cross-referenced advice, as well as larger budgets for the best research tools. And because our non-legal advisory teams are based around the country, someone is always available to assist you. For a city like Perth, it’s a great feeling to be part of a hugely integrated national network. You’re only an instant message, video or phone call, or email away from assistance. That makes a huge difference if you’re working to a tight deadline. With a national firm also comes rewarding and interesting pro bono initiatives and opportunities. Clayton Utz has an extremely strong pro-bono practice group that spans practically every jurisdiction in Australia. We are the first law firm in Australia to provide 500,000 hours of pro bono assistance (and counting). That means there’s great opportunities to find pro bono matters which you particularly identify with and care about, and make some meaningful change in that space. You have the opportunity to work on matters assisting vulnerable people in avoiding eviction and elder abuse, recovering stolen wages, and obtaining compensation for women and children who have survived family violence. It’s great to work at a firm where there are so many opportunities for picking up pro-bono matters across the country with just the click of a button. Before working at Clayton Utz, I was at a global firm. Although I really enjoyed my experiences, the benefit of working for a national firm means you’re less beholden to market and personnel forces outside the jurisdiction. A national firm isn’t required to answer to a head office in Europe, the UK or the United States, and with that comes a sense of freedom for both management and its people. Finally, a national firm often has benefits with respect to its brand and reputation. That means you are exposed to the most interesting and challenging matters – because our clients are aware of our excellent national reputation. That’s important: it gives young lawyers the chance to grow their capabilities and challenge themselves.


PATH TO COMMERCIAL LAW ZOE TIMMS

Laywer at Clayton Utz

The point that many of you are at in your legal careers and uni journeys is both an exciting and potentially stressful one. Obsessing over job applications and possible careers pathways is certainly how I recall my penultimate year of uni playing out. One thing that changed my perspective on the job application process was applying for (and ultimately accepting) an Associateship at the Supreme Court. I was initially hesitant to apply, intimidated about the very high standard of academic achievement advertised as the requirement for the role. However, it was ultimately a question of what do I want, and what do I have to lose, that led me to apply to the court. The process of interviewing with Judges of the Supreme Court was a pleasure, each judge charming, interested and interesting. These interviews differed a lot from corporate interviews, which may not be as informal. The Judges were each interested in the work I had done while at uni, my interests outside the law and the type of person that I was, which although we should expect from our interviewers, is often not the case. I ultimately accepted a position as the Associate to Justice McGrath in 2018, which was for me a nobrainer. The Associateship was a challenge at first, with an incredibly steep learning curve. However, I found that the other Associates and I flourished under the pressure and excitement of the role, as well as the support, patience and good humour of the Judges that we worked for. Justice McGrath was predominantly a criminal judge, meaning we had a lot of in-court work involving the Commonwealth and State Departments of Public Prosecutions and criminal defence lawyers. Justice McGrath also administered the single judge appeal and general division appeal lists, which meant that I had a lot of administrative work to do in managing these files as appeal notices were filed and applications made. I also had the opportunity, at the end of my year at the court, to work as the Associate to the then Acting Justice Strk (Principal Registrar of the Supreme Court). In this role I worked predominantly in the civil jurisdiction.

Justice McGrath and Principal Registrar Strk were both amazing to learn from and taught me absolutely invaluable skills that I have carried into my work at a commercial law firm. I found that my general legal skills were enhanced by my experience working as an associate, as well as my organisational skills, attention to detail and communication skills. My general understanding of criminal and civil procedure has also greatly assisted me in my current role at CU. What has also been invaluable to me are the connections I have built with the judicial officers I worked with, the amazing court staff and my fellow associates, all of whom I am still friendly with and who I will no doubt continue to encounter throughout the course of my career. There is no doubt that my experience as a graduate has been enhanced by time as an associate. Clayton Utz was supportive of my Associateship and offered me a deferred graduate position at the firm. Any great workplace should treat you similarly! I encourage anyone interested (whether or not doubtful) to apply for an associateship. Do not limit yourself to Supreme Court associateships either; consider similar positions in the Supreme Court Registry and District Court, which will equally provide invaluable experience and insight.

“An associateship is a great

springboard into a variety of areas of the profession,� An associateship is a great springboard into a variety of areas of the profession, and can help you decide your career direction. I could not recommend the experience more highly.

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Q&A: LIFE OF A GRADUATE ISABELLE CAMERON Associate at Clifford Chance.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION What did you study? When did you graduate? I studied a Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Arts in Communications (Social Inquiry) at the University of Technology Sydney and graduated in March 2017. Where did you grow up? I grew up on the North Shore in Sydney and went to school at Loreto Kirribilli. From an early age, my parents instilled in me a love of travelling and a desire to learn from different cultures. Whilst at university, I volunteered abroad including developing a social business initiative in southern India and working for a public interest law firm in China. How did you get to your current job position? For how long have you been there? I first joined Clifford Chance through the 2016/2017 clerkship program. Following my clerkship, I was a paralegal in both the Corporate and Litigation and Disputes Resolution teams. In March 2018 I commenced the two-year graduate program and am about to settle as an associate in the Corporate team.

APPLYING FOR YOUR JOB How did you choose your specialisation? Were you weighing up any other alternatives before choosing this practice group? Upon finishing university, I was choosing between specialising in human rights law and corporate law. Whilst these may seem very different, both intrinsically involve working closely with people and understanding how the law plays a role in structuring society. Clifford Chance was an obvious choice for me, it is one of the few truly international firms in the Australian market. Clifford Chance embraces innovation and collaboration in working with clients across our global network, whilst also recognising the importance of responsible business, community and pro bono initiatives.

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What was your interview process like? What kind of questions were you asked? The interview process was thorough, but incredibly rewarding. I was asked varied questions regarding my work experience and studies, ethical scenarios, topical news items and commercial legal problems. In order to best perform in any interview, a candidate should be able to confidently answer why they want the job, an interviewer will quickly realise if you aren’t passionate about or engaged with the work that the business does.

YOUR WORK What does your employer do? Clifford Chance is one of the world’s pre-eminent law firms with significant depth and range of resources across five continents. In Australia, the firm has offices in Sydney and Perth, with core practice areas in Corporate, Banking & Finance, Litigation & Dispute Resolution and Antitrust & Competition. One of the things that attracted me about the firm is that you get to work at the cutting edge of commercial law, on some of the most significant and complex deals and issues. You can see immediately also that the firm prides itself on its approachable, collegiate and team based way if working. The firm’s clients include many leading businesses from all the commercial and industrial sectors, governments, regulators, trade bodies and not for profit organisations, operating across a wide variety of markets, cultures and languages. Often, the work is cross-border, which means it combines local knowledge with the breadth and depth of the firm’s global network. As a lawyer, this is incredible for your professional development as you get to work with colleagues from all across the world. What are your areas of responsibility? As a graduate you are expected to support your team, which can involve case or matter management, legal drafting and research tasks. A great team will encourage you to be invested in your work, develop personal relationships with colleagues and take advantage of career opportunities, such as running a particular workstream.


Can you describe a typical work day? What was the last thing you worked on? Currently, I am working on a professional negligence case regarding a publicly listed ASX200 company in the Supreme Court of New South Wales. It is multifaceted and explores aspects of legal professional privilege, insolvency, director’s duties and financing. My “typical day” could involve anything from assisting in witness interviews to drafting a court document to participating in team strategy meetings. What are the career prospects with your job? Where could you or others in your position go from here? Due to the diversity of work that lawyers undertakes, your career prospects are endless. In the legal field, you may progress through a law firm to become a partner, become in-house legal counsel for a financial institution or business, be a barrister or even a magistrate or judge. The skills that you develop as a lawyer are also applicable to any number of other non-legal careers, such as working in commercial and industry-focused businesses, governments, regulators, trade bodies and not-forprofit organisations.

What’s the biggest limitation of your job? Are the stress levels high? Any job has its demanding and stressful days, what is important is that you love what you do so that it outweighs those moments. Late night and weekend work can sometimes be a feature of my job, but with the rise of flexi-working arrangements there is a marked improvement with work-life balance.

A WORD TO THE WISE... Which three pieces of advice would you give to a law student? 1. Be organised. Do the assignment before it is due, read the materials prior to the tutorial. These things may seem small but are great habits to develop early. 2. Broaden your perspective. Engage with global news and foster interests outside of studying or work. 3. Be yourself. Never underestimate the power of authenticity, have conviction and confidence in who you are.

Could someone with a different background do your job? Definitely – you just need to be keenly inquisitive, analytical, organised and proactive. Anyone who has an appetite for problem-solving, understanding the intricacies of businesses and teamwork can be a corporate lawyer. What would your career be if you weren’t doing what you’re doing now? I would probably be working for a large multinational corporate, most likely in the tech space.

PROS AND CONS What do you love the most about your job? Which kind of task do you enjoy the most? Without a doubt, the people. I thoroughly enjoy speaking with and meeting clients to understand their most complex, strategic and reputation critical opportunities and challenges. I get great satisfaction helping them grow and succeed.

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DISPUTES KENNETH CHEN

Solicitor at Allen & Overy

I started my career at Allen & Overy after graduating with a Juris Doctor from the University of Western Australia in June 2018. Having spent the remainder of that year, and the early parts of 2019 travelling, I wasn’t sure how I would adjust to life as a law graduate. Luckily, our year began with a week of graduate training in Sydney. This was a great opportunity to meet other colleagues from across the network and receive valuable training (including a much-needed refresher on Microsoft Word!) My first rotation was in our Banking & Finance team. Having had almost zero exposure to this area of law during my studies, I quickly realised that binge-watching Suits and Law & Order was not going to prove adequate preparation. Thankfully, my new team was very welcoming and provided me with many opportunities to learn and develop my technical and soft skills. During my rotation, I worked on a variety of domestic and international financing transactions and worked with colleagues from across our global network. I have always been drawn to Allen & Overy for its 'small office, big firm' culture. There are more than 2800 Allen & Overy lawyers across the network, and around 40 based in our Perth office. This means that it is easy to get to know everyone in the office (no more smiling politely at the lifts), whilst having the opportunities and calibre of work associated with working in a large international firm.

“The collegiate culture allows junior lawyers and graduates to quickly become key members of the team and gain great hands-on exposure to some amazing work.” I felt this after my first rotation but this was certainly affirmed during my second rotation in our Litigation & Arbitration team. In my second rotation, even as a junior lawyer, I have worked directly with clients and witnesses, whilst working on some of Perth's (and 216

Australia's) largest and most complex international disputes. Allen & Overy also provides wonderful opportunities to travel and work in one of our many offices. I was about to take advantage of such an opportunity on my third rotation, during which I was to move into our International Arbitration team in Hong Kong. While the COVID-19 outbreak prevented me from relocating to Hong Kong, my secondment has nonetheless continued as a "virtual secondment". Despite not being in Hong Kong, I am still working closely with the team on a number of large-scale and complex international disputes. For example, I am currently assisting on a multi-billion dollar commercial and investment treaty arbitration, as well as an M&A dispute relating to potentially fabricated contracts. I work with colleagues across our network including our London, Madrid and Singapore offices. During the first month of my secondment, I have been tasked with liaising directly with our foreign law expert, preparing submissions and participating in e-hearings. One advantage is that I can do all of this while wearing my most comfy trackpants. Apart from the work, there many avenues for the graduates to further integrate into the firm. For example, each graduate is tasked with organising one social event for the year. Mine was a night of tenpin bowling (sans bumpers and ramps – apparently adults aren't allowed to use them, I asked). The graduates also organised and ran charity events for the firm, raising money for our local and global charity partners. A highlight of my graduate year would be when my graduate group successfully persuaded the firm to acquire a table tennis table (there was a proposal and all!). This now consumes most of my lunch breaks and afternoons, which is good and bad, depending on whose shoes you're in. I am really glad I chose to start my career at Allen & Overy. The endless supply of Tim Tams and Shapes in our kitchen area has also been great – although, the extra few kilos I have gained might suggest otherwise!


INNOVATION PATRICK MACKENZIE

Solicitor at King & Wood Mallesons

At KWM, we view innovation through the lens of “change that makes a positive impact”. I often view there being two aspects to innovation – the micro and the macro. The micro changes are the little things here and there that add up to make your life easier and help you get out of the office in time to get to the beach after work. Then there are the macro changes that involve the introduction of new technology and processes which directly affect the way we do our work, and lead to improved client outcomes. Both aspects are equally important. Some recent examples of legal technologies that have brought about positive changes at KWM include: • automated processes to generate high-volume, pro-forma documents; • an online platform to allow clients and lawyers to track the progress of conditions precedent for a deal so that they do not need to continually ask for updates; • a program to coordinate verification of disclosure documents so the different parties can work across one document rather than several versions; • artificial intelligence (AI) to review a suite of contracts to identify common provisions; and • AI to assist in document review processes, reducing the number of documents reviewed in person by approximately 80%. As a result of implementing the above, I have found it is easier to maintain work/life balance and focus on more interesting work streams instead of spending time on version control and document management, and have spent less time on document reviews that used to take months (a huge result!). At KWM this ultimately means that lawyers are happier, more stimulated and engaged at work and we are also able to deliver greater value for our clients. While some law students and graduates worry about AI taking over the role of junior lawyers and that we should all fear the rise of AI, I think the opposite is true. It is something to be embraced. AI does not replace the role of junior lawyers, it assists junior lawyers and makes them more efficient, which frees them up to spend more time on more intricate legal problems. This is one reason why the upskilling of graduate and junior lawyers, particularly in relation to legal technology, is so important at KWM.

With this in mind, KWM has comprehensively reimagined what graduate training looks like. Alongside the usual graduate induction training, there is now a focus on upskilling graduates with specific legal technology training relevant to their practice groups. This training, in the form of face-toface training and a bootcamp in the Sydney office, is designed to ensure KWM graduates develop deeper understandings of legal technology. This training is repeated in each practice group that graduates rotate through, so that by the end of the graduate program, KWM graduates have developed a broad understanding of the technologies and can think laterally about how certain legal technologies can be applied in a different way in a different practice group. The new approach to graduate training was informed by feedback from an innovation ‘sprint’ that took place late last year to tackle the design challenge of: How might we design a legal technology training experience to enable graduates to thrive in their teams and build productivity enabled practice skills. I was involved in the sprint from the dispute resolution perspective, which involved travelling to a number of KWM offices to conduct a series of interviews with colleagues across my practice group to map the key technologies applied now in each practice team and understand the motivations and blockers to adoption. The sprint culminated in a design workshop utilising a number of innovation tools and techniques to design our practice specific bootcamps. Alongside this training to develop technical ability among KWM graduates, is a cultural shift that ensures KWM graduates and junior lawyers feel comfortable to suggest new ways of utilising technology and promoting changes that make positive impacts. Coupled with the removal of billable hour targets for graduates, KWM graduates are encouraged to pursue their curiosity and develop their confidence to explore different ways of utilising technology to deliver changes that have a positive impact, for themselves, the firm and our clients.

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TIPS FOR YOUNG LAWYERS HON. ROBERT FRENCH AC

Former Chief Justice of the High Court and UWA Chancellor

It is ‘a big ask’, as they say, to seek useful advice for young or prospective lawyers from an elderly lawyer. Our worlds are very different in terms of life experience, past in my case, and prospective in the case of the new entrant. When I entered the profession in 1972, electric typewriters were an emerging technology, email did not exist, and time-costing was a horror over the horizon. When drafting a document as a young articled clerk or solicitor, the precedents were to be found in folders of carbon copies of previous efforts, more or less searchable according to the diligence of the filer. Communication was by letter and telephone, and later by fax. When, with friends, I started a firm in 1975 — Warren McDonald French & Harrison — now mutated into the Perth office of Norton Rose Fulbright — we debated the move to word processing. Our choice was between IBM and Wang. The IBM salesman encouraged us — stay close, we will grow together — he said. While the spectacle of our new firm growing with IBM was alluring it was not alluring enough and we chose Wang. Word processors then looked like the bulky cathode cube television sets of yesteryear. The practice of the law today seems to be overwhelmed by electric communication — every transaction and every piece of litigation appears to attract an avalanche of emails and emails masquerading as letters. Discovery processes today require sophisticated search engines. Contractual documents in major transaction are generally so long and complex it is a reasonable assumption that few people have actually read them — that is until a dispute arises. The common law which was the focus of a great deal of my legal education has been supplanted or modified significantly by a tsunami of statutes, which has made statutory interpretation essential to legal practice at whatever level and in whatever subject area it is conducted.

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Criminal law was once said to be just about the facts and rarely about the law. If that was ever true — and I do not think it was — it is certainly not true anymore. One has only to look at the incidence of High Court cases in recent years which involve criminal law. That reflects the complexity and expansion of criminal law statutes and their interaction with other statutes especially regulatory laws. The same can be said of virtually every area of legal practice — so my first piece of advice is — when confronted with a question, whether in a transactional or litigious setting — look at the statutory frameworks within which the case falls — there will almost certainly be more than one and they will intersect. My second piece of advice is related to the first. There is considerable pressure to specialise in legal practice today. That is understandable. Practitioners thoroughly familiar with a particular area of the law are likely to be more knowledgeable and efficient in providing advice, drawing or reviewing transactional documents, or conducting litigation in that area than practitioners who come to it at the lower end of a learning curve. As an articled clerk, I worked for a practitioner, the late Geoffrey Hammond, who could turn his hand to almost anything: the drafting of transactional documents, the provision of advice across a range of areas and the conduct of litigation, including as an advocate. As an articled clerk I learned to draft wills, leases, contracts of sale and bills of sale as well as conducting lower court litigation and briefing counsel on criminal and civil matters. One lesson I learnt was the extent of cross-fertilisation from one area of the law to another. As a young lawyer taking statutory appeals under the Justices Act from the Magistrates Court to the Supreme Court, I was applying statutory interpretation and the kind of arguments that were to become so familiar later on in public administrative law. Public administrative law is largely about the exercise of official power conferred by statutes and the scope, purposes, conditions and limitations of that power to be derived from reading the statutes.


Quite apart from the benefit of early exposure to a range of areas, the fact is that in legal practice today the effective specialist must have generalist skills. There are no areas of the law which I can think of which are so siloed that they do not intersect with others. I take one example, which sounds very specialised, namely superannuation law. That is an area which can involve trusts, taxation, contract, workplace relations, public administrative law arising out of applicable regulatory frameworks and, from time to time, constitutional law. The examples can be multiplied across every area of the law. My third piece of advice is that young lawyers should frequently lift their head above the parapets of legal practice to remind themselves of the landscape in which they do what they do — the societal purposes they serve and the importance of the ideal of justice according to larger concepts than the law alone can embrace.

“For if we neglect justice in its larger sense, society will rightly say — what is the point of you?” That requires continuing attention to issues such as social and economic inequality and the silent suffering of those who are chronically denied access to justice. It also requires attention across the board to the issues of cost and delay which have bedevilled the law for centuries.

The purpose of legal practice is a public purpose — whether rendered to those in desperate circumstances or who are disadvantaged or to those in glassy towers in the CBD’s of the world. It maintains the rule of law which is part of the infrastructure of our society. That purpose requires practitioners, young and old, to maintain a large vision, a vision which looks beyond the desk and the computer screen to the people behind transactions and disputes and the society of which they are part.

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COMMERCIAL BARRISTER PATRICIA CAHILL SC

Senior Counsel at Francis Burt Chambers

I commenced practice in 1987 as an articled clerk at Robinson Cox, which is now Clayton Utz. Those were the dying days of excess in the 1980s, although that did not translate to the wages of the newly graduated. The standard pay in your first year was half the annual wage of your secretary. Despite that, articled clerks were often invited along for the hedonistic client entertainment in all its forms. We managed to work quite hard in between times on lots of interesting matters. I felt lucky at the time that I had a clear idea that I wanted to pursue a career in litigation and my employers kindly encouraged that. I then was Associate to Lee J of the Federal Court for about a year. I found it really useful to be immersed in a court setting, to see all types of advocacy and, over time, to be able to tell the difference between an effective advocate and one that was less so. The overindulgence of the 80s was short-lived, for me anyway. The last recession before the current COVID-caused one hit in the late 80s and this sent me to Adelaide where my (now) husband had to move for work. I spent several years there working in litigation roles in the private and public sectors before returning to Perth in 1997. Adelaide was not a glamour work move like Melbourne, Sydney or London. Nevertheless, I feel that the opportunity to live and work away from my hometown for a number of years really shaped my adult outlook in a positive way. I would recommend it to anyone. I had some lean years on my return to Perth with a series of jobs as an employed solicitor that were all unsatisfactory for different reasons: quality of work, lack of opportunity for advancement, difficult bosses and so forth. My primary interest was in developing as a litigator and as an advocate and it seemed there was little capacity or willingness amongst my then employers to support that. I found the situation all rather bleak, to the extent that I genuinely considered whether I should quit the law and pursue some other career.

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All of that transformed when I was approached by a firm to gauge my interest in taking on the role of in-house counsel for them. I took the job, viewing it at the time as pretty much the last roll of the dice for me. Fortunately and to my surprise, it turned out really well. The firm was extremely supportive, it was a thoroughly enjoyable work environment where I made many lifelong friends and I got lots of advocacy work, which ultimately led to me joining the Bar in 2004. Those experiences taught me that resilience and luck play a big part in a legal career. Everyone can expect to have ups and downs along the way. Sometimes it’s the ability to just put one foot in front of the other and keep going that is the best thing you can do in that moment to succeed. But nothing is for certain, which is where the luck comes in. So, while I have appreciated career success when it has come along, I respect the fact that it will have always involved an element of luck. And I also bring that perspective to assessing my colleagues. Where someone sits in the pecking order is not necessarily a reflection of their aptitude or diligence. I have now spent the majority of my career at the Bar. In some ways it can be a difficult and high-pressured environment. On the other hand, I have had the good fortune to make some really wonderful and lasting professional and personal relationships. The best thing about the Bar for me is the independence that you have and the ability to control what work you do, how you do it and what (and if) you charge for it. I think professional autonomy, whether it be selfemployment or flexible employment arrangements, is a really important goal for a long-term rewarding career in the law. Obviously, that’s not something that can be achieved the minute you leave Law School but it is definitely something worth working towards.


CRIMINAL BARRISTER EDWARD GREAVES

Barrister at Francis Burt Chambers

Early on at law school I thought I wanted to practice criminal law. By the halfway mark I wasn’t keen on the idea of vicarious exposure to blood and gore. I graduated in the class of 2000. I did articles at a suburban law firm (Frichot & Frichot); working predominantly on civil litigation matters for ‘mums and dads’ and local businesses. I also did some commercial drafting work, family law and crime. I am very grateful to the principals of the firm for the time they gave up to teach me the practice of law. I was rarely left alone for more than 2 hours a day. I was involved in client meetings, client phone calls, conferences with counsel and court appearances. On occasion I was tasked to do first drafts of documents. Rather than get them back with red ink (track changes wasn’t widely used then) typically a senior associate or partner would talk the draft over with me and give me another go at drafting. I came to learn my experiences were not the norm. Very little of my time was billed. I am sure the value of the partners’ and senior associates’ time spent coaching me was worth more than the revenue I brought in. My colleagues in larger firms might have been better paid, but their firms required them to make money for the firm from day one. After completing articles I went to another small firm, Mossensons. I had the carriage of many Magistrates court civil matters, several of which I took to hearing as counsel. My first contested hearing was on behalf of a small business defendant that had contracted the claimant to make a TV advertisement. The ad didn’t comply with several of the written instructions my client had provided and was not broadcast quality. We were successful in defending the claim on the unpaid invoice. I had a taste for advocacy and wanted more. I had my first opportunity to appear as counsel in the Supreme Court: My client (a local council ranger) had discovered a brown-coloured dog named Fletcher roaming the neighbourhood. The council prosecuted the owner of the dog (Ms Hughes) under the Dog Act 1976 for failing to control Fletcher. The Magistrate acquitted Ms Hughes finding it wasn’t her fault that Fletcher got out. At the hearing of the single judge appeal, Miller J politely suggested that I might want to add a further ground of appeal that properly reflected my central argument (which was that certain defences in the Criminal Code had

no application to the relevant offence under the Dog Act). His Honour went on to uphold that new ground of appeal, again ever so politely noting that it was ‘unnecessary’ to consider the other grounds: Lappan v Hughes [2003] WASCA 173. I had some exposure to insolvency. That led me to the boutique firm Christensen Vaughan where I worked on such matters under the supervision of Lee Christensen, (the Hon Justice) John Vaughan (now of the WA Court of Appeal) and Gary Cobby (now SC). Ultimately, insolvency was not for me. I wanted to use my newly acquired knowledge of the Corporations Act. A bit of research led me to the Commonwealth DPP and within a few months I was working in their Commercial Prosecutions Branch. At the CDPP I worked with some of the best, including 3 who went on to become Supreme (Stephen Hall and Tony Derrick) or Federal (Wendy Abraham) Court judges. The work was fascinating, we were well resourced, and it was a collegiate environment. The CDPP is also where I fell into my real niche: proceeds of crime. In about 2008 I was asked to backfill a position in that area for 6 months. 6 months became 6 years, the final 2 working at the AFP. In 2014 I took the leap of faith to launch my career at the bar. The bulk of my work is proceeds of crime (federal) and criminal property confiscation (state) matters. I act for suspects, innocent spouses, banks and occasionally the government. I write for LexisNexis on Confiscations and in 2019 had my first outing before the Full Court of the High Court. I’ve written more about that on my blog (egreaves. com.au)

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LIFE AS A CRIMINAL LAWYER SIOBHAN NIMS

Senior Associate, Criminal & Traffic Law at HHG Legal Group

Since graduating from UWA Law School in 2007, I have worked in criminal law in one capacity or another; an Associate in the Court of Appeal; as a practitioner in private practice, Legal Aid and for the Aboriginal Legal Service. Over the last 13 years, I have found that common sense and relatively clean fingernails certainly helps, but not as essential as a generous helping of compassion, a very driven work ethic and a healthy sense of humour. If you cultivate those qualities into your practice, criminal law can be a very rewarding career. They say criminal defence work involves dealing with the ‘mad, the bad, and the sad’. Early on in my career I realised that most people are driven to offend by their circumstances – whether that be disadvantage, significant and traumatic events in their life, poverty, neglect, abuse, grief or the impact of mental health issues. Very few (if any) clients are intrinsically ‘bad’. Most have been profoundly impacted by their circumstances and factors outside of their control. The Role My job as a criminal lawyer is to ensure that no matter what a client’s circumstances or the disadvantage they have faced in life, they have equal access to justice and to the protections and safeguards offered under the law. It is not to get to the ‘truth’ or to secure an acquittal at all costs. Those motivations have no place in the appropriate, ethical conduct of a criminal practice. With this being my primary objective, I have no difficulty acting for clients who have committed offences, even very serious or heinous ones. At the end of the day, access to basic rights and protections, no matter what we are alleged to have done, is a fundamental human right and defining characteristic of a civilised and evolved society. Addressing the court at sentencing, about why a guilty client should receive a reduced penalty because of their personal circumstances or specific features of the offending (which while illegal, may be less serious than other examples of the same offence), is a fairly noncontroversial example of this. At other times though, you may be asked by clients who have committed offences to assist with entering a plea of not guilty, and to test the evidence at trial. There is no ethical issue with properly and 222

thoroughly testing the evidence even where an offence has been committed, because the Court is only entitled to convict where it is satisfied, beyond a reasonable doubt, that an accused has committed all the elements of an offence – whether that is on the basis that a client has pleaded guilty or otherwise, where there is evidence which satisfies that burden. Your Obligations You do have an obligation not to mislead the court, so you couldn’t, for example, crossexamine a witness by positively suggesting something to them that you know didn’t happen. You could, however, question a witness about other matters though, for example, the quality of their memory and recollection about the events of the day in question. Doing this can be quite challenging, because you have to ask questions very carefully. Bearing in mind the detail of your client’s instructions, while listening to a witness’s answers and formulating an appropriate question that doesn’t cross an ethical boundary can sometimes be a delicate exercise. The challenge though is an exciting and intellectually stimulating one. Sometimes, clients may also tell you that they have committed offences (such as serious assaults) but wish to run defences (such as defence of property) and it is your job to raise that defence and potentially assist them to escape conviction even though an undoubtedly serious assault has occurred. Safeguard of Justice I view my role to be one where I act as a safeguard to ensure that any conviction that is secured, is a conviction according to law. It is my job to ensure that no matter the outcome (which I don’t have control over) I have done my best to ensure that my client has had access to every protection and strategic consideration I can ethically provide access to. When you view your job from that perspective, you can finish work each day feeling satisfied and motivated about your work, no matter whether you win, draw or lose on a matter. Criminal law provides you with the opportunity to work with clients from all walks of life, and the privilege of hearing their story. It can be both a privilege and an onerous burden to ensure you have left no stone unturned in ensuring your client is a given a fair and proper hearing, but it is ultimately always a very rewarding way to spend a career.


LIFE AS A FAMILY LAWYER SUE HOLGATE

Family & De Facto Law at HHG Legal Group

What is your purpose as a family lawyer? During my studies, I volunteered at a community legal centre assisting clients by negotiating on their behalf or preparing court documents so they could represent themselves in Court. After I became a lawyer, I continued working for the community legal centre for 4 years, then spent the last 16 years in a National law firm and later smaller firms in family law. My passion for family law has continued to grow over the years. I enjoy family law because it draws upon many areas of law. It is also very rewarding as you not only help clients with legal issues but help clients who are often at the worst stage of their lives. They may have just broken up with their partner and feel their lives are falling apart and then must also deal with making decisions about their finances or what is going to happen to their children. Some clients are able to laugh about their relationship coming to a very abrupt end or others, who are victims of ongoing domestic violence, finally develop the courage to leave their partner. They are often upset, crying, or screaming and need a lot of support and understanding. It’s feels good to be able to provide legal support to people at their most vulnerable. I assist before, during and/or after a de facto relationship or marriage (a relationship). For example: • Before a relationship, I advise on protecting assets and draft agreements to protect financial interests known as binding financial agreements. • On the breakdown of a relationship I advise on various issues including parenting arrangements, property settlement rights and obligations, and whether child support or spousal maintenance is payable. • I file divorce applications or assist people with filing their own divorce. Family lawyers need good negotiation skills in assisting parties to come to an agreement in relation to property and/or children. It is only a last resort to recommend clients court.

routine as much as possible. Couples need to agree on how to do this. Working in family law gives me the opportunity to give advice around the best interests of children – not what is necessarily best for the parents. I feel quite passionate about getting parents to put their needs and/or emotions aside to consider what it best for their children. There are never 2 days alike in family law. My day is driven by client needs and can change in an instant, for example, someone calling to say their child has been taken. On any day I might: • Advise or draft binding financial agreements. • Give advice on any variety of issues. • Attempt to negotiate agreements by attending mediations, conferences, or correspondence. • Research different areas of law; family law often involves companies, trusts, selfmanaged superannuation funds, taxation issues, adoption and surrogacy and restraining orders. • Draft legal documents, like initial applications, trial documents including affidavits, both simple and complex. • Brief and/or meet with barristers. • Attend Court for hearings or to instruct a barrister, which can go for 1 day or several months. How to prepare for a career in family law Family lawyers must be able to separate their own feelings from their clients so they can remain objective in times of emotional turmoil. If you are thinking about practicing family law it is important to try to do a family law placement; go to the Family Court and watch what happens to get an idea of the realities of family law. Being a family lawyer requires a high level of emotional intelligence; in many ways, you almost step into the role of a counsellor. However, you must always keep in mind that family law clients place a high level of reliance on their lawyer. The best way to assist clients is to remain objective, even when it’s difficult. You must do your best to ensure you are only assisting in the capacity of a lawyer not as a social worker or counsellor.

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ON BEING A MAGISTRATE ELIZABETH WOODS Deputy Chief Magistrate

On 5 July 2019 I completed my 20th year as a Magistrate in Western Australia, a milestone that was marked at the Women Lawyers’ dinner in March 2020. I commenced Articles at the Crown Solicitors Office in 1983, amazing to think 37 years have passed, and exciting that I am still enjoying every day that I come to work. I attribute my longevity and enjoyment to the people I work with, the variety of work I do and the fact that there is at least one challenge every day. The Magistrates’ Court is like no other. There is volume, complexity, variety, self-represented accused and the need to constantly make decisions. You should never lose sight of the fact that we all have a responsibility to treat people with respect, their matter with objectivity and apply the law to reach a just outcome. The Magistrates Court is not a battleground. It is a place that most of the population will never visit. It should be solemn but show empathy, there must be a decision and sometimes the consequences on lives are significant. Most of all people should leave believing they were heard and had an opportunity to put their case. The Magistrates Court is the shop face of Justice and Magistrates state-wide are very conscious of this position. The Magistrates Court has locations across the State from Kununurra in the north, Kalgoorlie to the east, Albany and Esperance to the south. These are the locations where Magistrates learn their craft. Appointments are for 2-5 years in these locations and then there is the prospect of a metropolitan court or Perth. Apart from knowledge of the law, survival in these country locations is dependent on building strong relationships with your court staff and support at home. Of course the assistance provided by Aboriginal Legal Service and the Legal Aid Commission in these locations should never be underestimated.

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To survive and thrive as a Magistrate requires a sound knowledge of the law, an ability to get comfortable with new areas of law quickly, robustness, pragmatism and life experience. The major change in my time as a Magistrate is that when I commenced people would come to the Court with an expectation that they would leave that day with a decision and it would be over. Now as the charges in the Court become more complex and sentencing has become an art form in itself, this is becoming less and less the case and unfortunately people spend far too long in the system a delay that everyone involved contributes too. When I am asked to do a presentation to the profession my advice is always “preparation is the key when appearing in court. Know your audience, know your brief and don’t fudge because one day you will be caught out”. When I am giving advice to new Magistrates it is “be prepared to make decisions and lots of them. Whenever possible, finalise matters because none of the decisions get easier with time. If you must adjourn then do it for a short time because otherwise you will have heard so many new matters you simply won’t remember the intricacies of this one.” There is an application process to become a Magistrate. You must address selection criteria and if shortlisted there is an interview. To be successful as a candidate you need to demonstrate an understanding of the law as it applies to the jurisdiction but also life experience that will put you in a sound position when making the various decisions required that are not necessarily legal but require judgement of a different kind. Appointment as a Magistrate is not the beginning of the road to retirement. The Court is dynamic, changes are frequent in jurisdiction, legislation and process. If you are not comfortable with change and making decisions then you should consider whether this is the career path for you.


LIFE IN GOVERNMENT HON. STEPHEN SMITH

Former Federal Minister and current UWA Law Professor

I am very pleased to make a contribution to the 2020 Blackstone Careers Handbook. Much has changed in academia, legal practice, business and industry since I attended Perth’s only Law School at UWA as a Law student between 1974 and 1977, subsequently to complete Articles and be admitted to practice at the end of 1978. And of course, the whole world generally has changed dramatically over the last few months of 2020, impacting on all of those areas of activity, not just in Perth but throughout Australia and the globe, adding increasing uncertainty to future career prospects. But one basic starting point remains the same having obtained an opportunity to study law, don’t easily or without very serious thought and reflection let it slip through your hands! A small number of you may well decide that the study of Law is simply not for you and decide to study in another area of human endeavour. This should not be done lightly or without taking advice from those friends, family and colleagues whose judgement you trust and whom you know will have your best interests at heart. For many, at times you will feel that studying particular legal subjects can only be done through gritted teeth. Remember that in this respect you are neither unique nor trailblazers. More than some will worry that they are studying Law but have no ambition or enthusiasm to actually practice Law.

“My starting point here is simple: if you have started a Law Degree, finish it!” My starting point here is simple: if you have started a Law Degree, finish it! A completed Law Degree will not only help better prepare you for life, it will open doors for you throughout your life. In addition to the opportunity to practice law, a Law Degree these days can very much be regarded as a general degree, opening up employment and career prospects in business, industry, Federal or State Government or the non-government sector.

If my starting point is: once having started a Law degree, finish it, my second piece of advice is: even if you think you have no interest in or aptitude for the practice of Law, try it! Pursue a graduate traineeship just to experience the practice of law. And that does not necessarily have to be with a large International, National or State based firm - small or niche or suburban firms or the State or Commonwealth also provide great pathways for graduates. Getting admitted to practice and doing it for a while will be an eye opener - some discover by surprise it is their true vocation, others kick over the rock of their life’s work or career through a meeting with a client or dealing with a particular issue or area of the law. A couple of other pointers along the way - if you ever get the chance to work or study overseas make it or take it. And do it for a year or more rather than a month or so! Once the current crisis fades, the destinations can still be as diverse as the UK, Europe, USA, India, Indonesia, China and Japan. And if you are already lucky enough to know what your passion and dream is, if that is a high risk path which may or may not work out irrespective of your own individual merit, use Law to provide both a platform and a fallback: you may or may not get elected to Parliament - if you do your legal experience will help; your band may or may not get beyond local pubs - if you do, then your legal experience will help you determine which contract to accept, if you don’t, then plenty of your local followers will need legal advice at some stage of their lives; that Man Booker prize may or may not come along for the novel that you have in you, but in the meantime doing the legal work for that publishing house isn’t so bad! Finally, in both making your way through Law School and beyond, don’t forget that generally it is 90% perspiration and 10% inspiration. There is still no substitute for dedication, professionalism and hard work in striving for success in any area. But that hard work must be balanced by other activities and interests - recreational, sporting, artistic, family - whatever works for you to keep those stress levels well and truly under control. And of course these days within the strict confines of social distancing! Good luck. 225


WORKING IN GOVERNMENT JULIA HENRY

Graduate at the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission

I joined the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) in January 2019 as a summer intern and I helped work on several high profile and interesting consumer law matters. I thoroughly enjoyed the internship and in early 2019 I applied for the ACCC Graduate Program. I was lucky enough to continue working in the Perth Enforcement team as an investigator while going through the application process. As an investigator, I performed a broad range of tasks including undertaking research, contributing to meetings, drafting papers/recommendations and I had the opportunity to present an investigation to the Enforcement Committee for direction. Graduates are strongly encouraged to present staff papers at the Enforcement Committee and other decision making meetings, which are excellent learning experiences and an opportunity to interact with Commissioners and staff at the highest levels of the ACCC. I started the ACCC Graduate Program in February this year and I am currently on my first graduate rotation in Enforcement and performing similar tasks as an investigator, which I really enjoy. My second and third rotations will likely be in the Strategic Communications Branch and Infrastructure and Regulation Division, and I look forward to gaining experience in these very different areas of the agency and learning a whole range of different skills. I developed my strong interest in the Australian Consumer Law prior to joining the ACCC, while volunteering at Consumer Credit Legal Centre WA (CCLSWA). I primarily assisted with research and drafting a law reform report commissioned by Consumer Protection WA., which focused on four areas of law and policy that affect WA consumers including, retirement villages, Australian Consumer Law, motor vehicles, and ‘debt vultures.’ I also assisted with operating the telephone advice line and drafting and delivering legal advice relating to consumer, credit and debt law over the phone. It was a great way to become more familiar with consumer law and how it operates in practice.

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I particularly enjoy being an ACCC graduate because I have the opportunity to work on high profile investigations and provide input into decisions that have far-reaching economic, legal and consumer implications. I highly recommend the ACCC graduate program to graduates who are looking for both a rewarding and challenging career and the opportunity to contribute to work that benefits the lives of everyday Australians.


ALTERNATIVE PATH: BUSINESS JOHN SCOTT

Joint General Manager at Scott Print

I currently run Scott Print, Perth’s leading offset and digital printer, with strengths in graphic design and communication. I had graduated from UWA in 1999 and at this point worked for 10 years as a lawyer. 2 years in Perth with Mony De Kerloy, 2 years in London with Mayer Brown Rowe and Mawe, then making the transition from private practice to in-house when moving to Sydney in 2002. I worked for AWAS (the airline company that kept the aircraft fleet after Ansett went bust – doing commercial aviation leasing) and then across to Hudson. I made the decision to move out of law in 2009 when I was working as Assistant General Counsel for Hudson, a large US International recruitment company. My wife and I were living in Sydney and had already had our lovely daughter, and then got the news that we were going to be having identical twin boys.

The current crisis with the COVID-19 Pandemic is the biggest challenge to all of Australia now. It has three main impacts: (1) financial; (2) social and (3) health. These three are so intertwined and again we have to interpret the new government rules and regulations and do the best we can to look after our staff, family and friends in these very tough times. Perhaps my legal background will help with this also. I am also proud to be one of the few lawyers that has their forklift licence also! See you can be practical. This is a war-like situation in Australia and we need all great minds like yourselves to go into battle. Best of luck with whatever you may do with your career in and or out of law.

2009 was a significant year in the world too, not just the year of birth my beautiful twin sons, it coincidentally marked the start of the GFC, and at the same time the advent of the iPad and iPhone becoming mainstream. The world was changing at a very fast pace on both a financial and technology front. This had caused a major disruption to how people use print, talk was that print was dead and everything would go online. We have a family business that my father and uncle ran called Scott Print. My grandfather Phon was also a printer. With all these changes in family, the financial and technology world, I rang my dad and asked what he thought about our family moving back to Perth, and me going into print. He said “NO!” The next day he rang me back and said: “okay I will give you one year”. So one year has now turned into over ten. My legal background has been invaluable in running a business, the print side I have had to learn on the job. I am able to review contracts, run HR, and always think of decisions in the context of three main principles (1) people – staff come first!; (2) commercial; and (3) legal. It is good to have a framework to approach each challenge. I did have to learn to become a little less legal in my approach to staff etc. Lawyers can often come across to black and white and note empathetic enough. I enjoy each day, I love what I do, and I am proud to see my family business in 2020 in its 90th year.

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Q&A: ACADEMIA AIDAN RICCIARDO

Academic at the UWA Law School

Why did you choose to enter academia? I knew from my very first semester at university that I wanted to be a lecturer. I love learning new concepts, thinking about them, and discussing them with people who are just as interested in them as I am. I now get to do these things every day as part of my job! I’ve always felt that I’m quite good at helping people to understand difficult principles and sharing my enthusiasm for the law. I suppose I just followed a path that let me do what I enjoy and think I’m good at.

What are the highs and lows of your work? I love that much of my work is learning, thinking, and talking about things I find really interesting. I love teaching and (like most teachers) I find it incredibly rewarding when I am able to help students learn effectively.

What does your role involve? Academic roles typically have three components: teaching, research, and service. Most legal academics are actively engaged in all of these but in varying proportions (eg, some academics have teaching-intensive or research-intensive roles).

That being said, the self-directed nature of academic work can also present difficulty. It’s much like being a student! You need to motivate yourself and keep your own work structured so that you can excel. Nobody is breathing down your neck every day making sure you’re being as productive as you need to be. Nobody is telling you every day what you need to do. It’s on you to set out your own workflow and be accountable to yourself. For these reasons I often find it difficult to contain my work within a typical 9-5 schedule and inevitably I frequently end up working at nights and on weekends.

Much of my work is teaching, but the face-to-face time spent lecturing and tutoring is only a very small proportion of the time spent doing teaching-related duties – the bulk of my time is spent preparing, organising, planning, and (unfortunately) marking. For me, research involves a lot of time thinking up questions that are worth answering. Then you get to work out how you should go about answering those questions and finally what the answers should be. This requires a lot of reading, discussion, and planning. Service has two dimensions – service within the University and within the wider community. Within the University I am one of the Law School’s diversity advisors and a member of the Law School Learning and Teaching Committee. Externally I am a Legal Member on the Human Research Ethics Committee of the South Metropolitan Health Service (at Fiona Stanley Hospital). This role allows me to use my experience and expertise in health law within the community, working with other committee members from various backgrounds to determine whether applications for health and medical research involving humans should proceed.

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I also like that much of my work is self-directed. Within certain parameters I am able to do much of my work when and how I want to do it. This is typical of many academic roles.

What advice do you have for students who wish to follow a path into academia? Talk to your lecturers about it! Ask them for advice. There is no linear path into the legal academy. We have all arrived here in different ways. Some move into academia after or alongside distinguished careers in legal practice. Some complete higher degrees by research, and others get their start by tutoring a little here and there before moving into academia on a full-time basis. For many legal academics a path into academia will involve a history of legal practice, further study, and sessional tutoring. What role do universities play in the legal profession? As I’ve mentioned, part of an academic’s service role involves ‘community engagement’. This enables legal academics to use their skills in a professional capacity within community legal centres, tribunals, boards, and committees. Many legal academics continue to practice as lawyers on a part-time basis. Our research also guides the conduct of legal practice, litigation, business and government.


Law schools fuel the profession with exceptional new graduates, and I suppose that our role is to make sure that those entering the profession have the skills and attitude required to excel. As with all professions, much learning takes place ‘on the job’ (and you need to complete your practical legal training too), but law schools have a vital role in preparing you to do that later learning. Is there anything else that you think students should know as they take steps towards their future careers in law? Grades aren’t everything – you are more than just your WAM.

“Your attitude is incredibly important no matter which career path you pursue.” Your attitude is incredibly important no matter which career path you pursue. Careers are journeys. You won’t necessarily start, end up, or spend the middle doing the same thing (or what you expect). Finally, a UWA law degree really does open up so many doors. The people I graduated with are now doing so many amazing things in legal practice, government, NFPs, NGOs, academia, consulting and more. They’re working all over the world. Don’t feel like the only acceptable and rewarding path is at a large law firm in the CBD. If that’s what you want then you should definitely pursue it, but don’t feel like it’s the only option.

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