FLINDERS LAW STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION
2019 Issue
Editorial Team The 2019 Guide is produced by the Flinders Law Students’ Association (FLSA), specifically the Careers, Education and Wellbeing Portfolio. FLSA is a volunteer, notfor-profit student organisation and the representative body for law students at Flinders University. FLSA acknowledges the valuable input made by the Flinders College of Business, Government and Law, the Flinders University Careers and Employment Liaison Centre, and the many student authors who have contributed to this publication. Editor in Chief Angelica Costi Editors
William Jones Marcus Walker Lauren Whelan Jodie Adams Tash Behrendorff
Content Sponsorship Production Printing
Angelica Costi Sara Shahin Angelica Costi Reflex Printing
Acknowledgements FLSA thanks the following internal and external contributors, all of whom are Flinders Law Alumni. Without dedicating their time and effort, this publication would not have been possible. Adam Hamilton Alexandra Douvartzidis Barbara Vrettos Bimaya De Silva David Kelly Heath McCallum Kerry Clark Kristy Zander Michael Swanson Nic Camac Professor Tania Leiman Rebecca Sandford Rebecca Yorston Samantha Kontra Sarah Dunn Stefania Scarcella
Sponsors FLSA thanks our sponsors for supporting our association in 2019. Platinum Sponsor: Lipman Karas Silver Sponsor: Finlaysons HWL Ebsworth MinterEllison Thomson Geer General Sponsors: Johnson Winter & Slattery
Foreword Kristy Zander Principal, Lipman Karas As a Flinders Law School graduate in the class of 2000, I am delighted to have been asked to write the foreword for this exciting new publication from the Flinders Law Students’ Association. The aim of this Guide is to provide advice to students from those that have experienced the degree before them. This type of advice is invaluable, and I urge you to consider it all carefully, and then apply the critical thinking skills you have learned at university to adapt and apply it to your own situations.
Kristy Zander has worked at Lipman Karas as a Principal since 2014 in both the firm’s Adelaide and London offices. Kristy graduated from Flinders University with a Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice (Honours) and a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) and was admitted as a practitioner in 2001. She began her career at Fisher Jeffries, before moving to Sydney for a position at Clayton Utz. In 2008, Kristy moved to London where she worked at international firm Mayer Brown and was made partner in 2011. With extensive experience in commercial disputes and insolvency litigation, Kristy is recognized as a distinguished Flinders Law School Alumna.
Ever since I can remember, I had hoped to convert my love of reading and writing into the study, and someday the practice, of law. I did not come from a family of lawyers, so most of what I thought I knew about lawyers was taken from books and television. Subsequently, I have been pleased to learn that those sources were not an accurate representation of the legal profession, but law as a career has been a very good fit for me. Having attended a local public high school, I was lucky enough to receive a scholarship to Flinders University and I have very fond memories of my time there. You are privileged to have the benefit of a world-class group of teachers, a diverse and talented cohort of students, an innovative and practical program of studies, and a beautiful campus (with the added benefit of strong calves from continually walking up and down the hill). Once I graduated, I found that my Flinders degrees have stood me in good stead and are highly regarded. I am very lucky that my career path has enabled
me to do some travelling; from working in Adelaide to Sydney to London and full circle back to Adelaide again. Some of you may choose, or fall into, a similar path. Some of you may choose to stay in Adelaide and make the most of the wonderful career and lifestyle opportunities that Adelaide has to offer. You may choose to become a lawyer, or you may choose to use your degree as a stepping stone to a career in other sectors. Ultimately, as lawyers, we want to help people right wrongs and solve problems. You don’t necessarily need to be working as a lawyer to do that. One of the most important lessons I have learnt in my career so far is the benefit of putting yourself in a position where you can be ‘lucky’. You can’t always control what is happening in the job market or indeed in the world. However, by saying ‘yes’ rather than ‘no’ you put yourself in the best possible position to be able to create and take advantage of opportunities that come your way. Some will work out, whilst others will not. But if you try to plan too much, you can close yourself off from other opportunities that may be out there. My advice is simply to do an excellent job and have an enthusiastic attitude in whatever it is that you are doing. I wish you all every success with your studies and your future careers. I commend this Guide to you.
The Dean’s Welcome Professor Tania Leiman
Congratulations to FLSA for your excellent work in putting this publication together! It’s an exciting time to be someone with legal knowledge and skills – empowered to step up as a legally literate leader in the 21st century for our community and in our world. Careers in Law are changing – lawyers and law firms are beginning to adopt new business models, and new ways of working. The face of the legal profession is changing - more diverse law graduates will broaden problem solving approaches and the possibilities available to provide effective responses to clients. Greater flexibility and mobility have potential to change the way lawyers work. The availability of legal tech tools is expanding – allowing lawyers to provide existing services in new ways, and to provide completely new services and products.
Some jobs already look and sound different:1 legal analyst,2 legal project manager,3 legal solutions architect,4 legal content manager are just some of the new role descriptions.
communication of complex issues and ideas in accessible ways are highly transferrable across many disciplines, and highly valued in the employment market.
Many graduates will have multiple different jobs and several different careers during their working life, including creating their own jobs.
Other Flinders Law graduates and students have pursued careers not only in the legal profession here in SA, other Australian and international jurisdictions, but also in roles as varied as TV personalities and reality show contestants, Oscar winning film producers, publishers, authors, risk advisory analysts, models, senior public servants, politicians and political advisors, sports and talent management, executive roles in business and national aid and development agencies. We are very proud of our Flinders Law graduates and are working hard to strengthen our ties with our alumni even further.
So think beyond the traditional path of legal practice in a law firm – your law degree will equip you for lots of opportunities in government, governance, not–for-profits, in-house roles in businesses and organisations, regulatory and compliance work, advocacy, and many more. Your legal skills and literacy, especially critical thinking, rigorous analysis, practical and pragmatic problem solving, negotiation, and highly effective
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So be prepared to think outside the square and look broadly when thinking about how and where you might use your legal skills. Your Flinders legal education has equipped you with a deep understanding of the law, and I hope also infused you with a social justice ethos. Now is your opportunity to make a difference. I wish you every success with your future careers – may you thrive and flourish.
Editorial
Angelica Costi Vice President, FLSA ‘The Road Ahead: Career Insights from Flinders Law Alumni’ has been developed with the purpose of providing law students with information detailing the numerous career pathways available upon completion of their law degree. It is filled with knowledge and advice from past Flinders students about their own experiences at university.
Whelan and Jodie Adams have all done an outstanding job in helping to produce this publication. I’d like to extend my appreciation to the FLSA Committee for their ongoing support of the CEW portfolio. In particular, I would like to thank Sara Shahin for her role in securing sponsorship for this publication and William Jones for his immeasurable support and guidance.
This Guide aims to educate students about career options across the entire legal profession and all areas of the law.
This publication relies on the incredible contributions of time and effort by our Flinders law alumni. Thank you to all those who participated in an interview or wrote an article for this publication.
All of the interviews and articles in this publication have been sourced from Flinders law school Alumni. They are excellent examples of the many career pathways that a Flinders law degree can lead to. It would not have been possible to create this publication without help from the Careers, Education, and Wellbeing (‘CEW’) portfolio of FLSA. Marcus Walker, Lauren
I am extremely grateful to these people for taking the time out of their own schedules to share their experiences with me, and I hope that you find their stories and advice both inspiring and motivating. Further, I would like to thank Kristy Zander and Tania Leiman for taking the time to contribute the Foreword and
Dean’s Welcome, respectively. On behalf of FLSA, I hope that this publication is informative, useful, and helps to maximise the career potential of Flinders law students. I wish you all the very best with your studies and in your careers on the road ahead!
Table of Contents Getting Started A Guide to the Guide
pg. 10
Post graduate studies
pg. 15
Legal Skills Competitions
pg. 20
Studies at Flinders
pg. 11
Study Abroad
pg. 16
Internships
pg. 21
Honours
pg. 12
Extra Curricular Experience
pg. 17
Practical Legal Training
pg. 13
Volunteering
pg. 18
Admission
pg. 14
Casual and Part Time Work
pg. 19
Your Future Forging Your Career Path
pg. 24
Succeeding as a junior corporate lawyer: Nic Camac
pg. 35
An interview with Bimaya De Silva, Lipman Karas
pg. 43
Becoming a Barrister
pg. 26
Getting to the Bar: Michael Swanson
pg. 26
An interview with Rebecca Yorston, Lipman Karas
pg. 36
Preparing for the Future of Law: Barbara Vrettos
pg. 46
Life at the Bar: Kerry Clark
pg. 28
International Humanitarian Law in Action: Heath McCallum
pg. 37
Alternative Dispute Resolution
pg. 48
Gaining an internship: Adam Hamilton
pg. 30
An interview with Sarah Dunn
pg. 38
Academia: Samantha Kontra
pg. 49
An interview with Stefania Scarcella, Pace Legal
pg. 31
How to survive your first year in the office: Alexandra Douvartzidis
pg. 40
pg. 32
An interview with Rebecca Sandford, HWL Ebsworth
Private non-legal
pg. 98
Public non-legal
pg. 106
An interview with David Kelly, Leventis Lawyers
pg. 42
Employer Directory Civil Legal Practice
pg. 52
Criminal Legal Practice
pg. 87
Suburban / Rural Legal Practice
pg. 91
Community Legal Practice
pg. 94
GETTING STARTED
A Guide to the Guide Getting started
The Flinders Law Students’ Association 2019 Guide aims to provide insight into the many career opportunities available, and assist you in working towards your chosen career path. With content sourced from Flinders Law Alumni, we hope the Guide will start your thinking about your career early so you can maximise your opportunities and gain an edge early on.
Using this guide
Whether you are in your first year of studies or your penultimate, the information in this guide caters to all students no matter what stage you are in your career journey.
Section 1: Getting Started
One of the most crucial elements of a successful career is a solid foundation. Section one addresses areas that students can improve upon before graduating from their LLB. These areas are: •
Extra-Curricular Experience
•
Enhancing your Skills
•
Transition Practice
Getting Started
from
Studies
to
There are many different ways you can enrich your degree, such as undertaking Honours, choosing electives suited to your desired career path, and going on overseas exchanges. There are also experiences you can fit alongside your degree, such as internships, volunteering,or part-time work, Section 1 provides information on these experiences.
Section 2: Your Future
Section 2 is divided into ‘Legal Practice’ and ‘Beyond Legal Practice’. It is useful to look at both of these sections regardless of your career aspirations. Section Two of the guide is filled with interviews, articles and guidance from Flinders Law Alumni, who are now successful professionals across a variety of practice areas. Whilst it is common for law graduates to enter legal practice, this is definitely not the only option. Careers in government, politics, academia, and business are among the many options for students to consider. With technological disruption playing a big part in the legal profession now, it is important to consider all options when shaping your career path.
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Section 3: Employer Directory
Given the diversity of employment options available to law graduates, it can be difficult to know where to start looking. The Employer Directory is a great place to get an overview of your potential employers in Adelaide, interstate, and overseas. Section 3 details a broad range of employers, from private law firms, public legal offices, and community legal centres, to government departments and private businesses. The Employer Directory is split into four categories: • Civil Legal Practice • Criminal Legal Practice • Private Non-Legal • Public Non-Legal
Studies at Flinders Your degree
The LLB/LP
To successfully graduate from the Flinders Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice, students must complete 144 units of studies. This is broken down as follows: • • •
90 units of core topic 22.5 units of Legal Practice core topics 31.5 units of option topics (Electives)
Students that fulfil the above requirements will be elligible to apply for admission to the Supreme Court of South Australia. Students that wish to exit early from their degree with just a Bachelor of Laws may do so by request to the Law School. In this case, students must complete an extra elective topic.Students who wish to undertake their PLT via an external provider may do so if they exit early. A smaller number of students undertake the Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice (Honours), which will extend the duration of your studies.
Full-time or Part-time
To be classified as a full time student, you must be enrolled in at least 13.5 units (3 topics) of study within a semester. To be classified as a part time student, you must be enrolled in 9 units (2 topics) or less. You must seek special approval if you wish to overload topics, that is, study more than 22.5 units per semester. The degree is very flexible in allowing for part time study loads. It is very common for students to drop to a part time study load during certain semesters. While this will extend the length of your degree overall, it can be advantageous for your academic results and wellbeing.
Course Rule
The best way to build a study plan is to follow the Course Rule for your degree. The Course Rule sets out the core topics and elective options for each semester, and can be found on the Flinders University website. It explains exactly which topics you must complete in which semesters, and when you have openings for electives (generally from third year onwards). If you are studying a straight law degree, planning your study plan is a simple matter of following the Course Rule.
Combined degrees
Undertaking a second degree can broaden your career options and employability, and increase the diversity of your university experience. At Flinders, you can combine your law degree with any of the following: • Bachelor of Arts • Bachelor of Behavioural Science Bachelor of Business • Bachelor of Commerce • Bachelor of Criminology • Bachelor of International Relations • Bachelor of Languages • Bachelor of Law and Society • Bachelor of Science You can apply to add a second degree onto your law degree after you have begun studying.
Bachelor of Letters
If you are interested in studying Creative Writing, English, Innovation/Enterprise, French Indonesian, Italian, Modern Greek, Spanish or Sports Performance Coaching, then consider adding a Bachelor of Letters to your degree. The Bachelor of Letters must be studied part time and will add an extra year to your studies at Flinders University.
Please note that if you are receiving Commonwealth Assistance such as Youth Allowance, you may be required to be enrolled in a specific amount of units within a semester.
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Juris Doctor (JD)
If you have completed an undergraduate degree in a different discipline, but wish to complete postgraduate law then consider the Flinders Juris Doctor. Delivered primarily online with some on-campus workshops, this course enables you to gain industry experience and solve real word problems, along with the opportunity to network with other professionals.
Electives
Electives offered by the Flinders Law School differ each year, and usually run on a two-year cycle. If you have an idea of the career path you want to take, you can tailor your electives to your chosen field. Electives run in Semester 1 and 2, and during the mid-year and summer breaks in the form of intensives. All students must complete at least one option topic that has been designated by the Faculty Board as an international/ comparative option; and at least one option topic that has been designated by the Faculty Board as an Indigenous/ Social Justice option.
Study Exchanges
Flinders offers a number of exchange programs giving students the opportunity to study abroad for varying lengths of time.
Flinders Connect
If at any point during your studies you run into a problem, you can contact Flinders Connect. Flinders Connect provides support in the areas of enrolment, finance, examinations and graduation. You can visit them on level 0 of the Central Library Building on the Bedford Park Campus. Alternatively, you can call them on 1300 354 633, click on the “Ask Flinders” icon on your student dashboard, or email them at askflinders@flinders.edu.au
Getting Started
Honours
Enhance your academia LLB (Honours)
The Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice (Honours) is designed to provide an enhanced program of studies for students of exceptional academic ability.
the results obtained in your final 6 graded topics plus a further 8 non-first level graded topics in which you obtained your highest grades. The Dissertation is worth 9 units; one elective topic must be undertaken in either Semester.
An Honours degree will refine and increase your skills in research, academic writing and critical thinking. It can be a valuable addition to your CV and may help to set you apart from other graduates. If you plan to pursue a career in academia or complete a Masters or Doctorate in the future, completing honours is an essential step.
Enrolled in honours from 2015
Transferring into Honours
The change in Honours policies from 2015 onward bring the Flinders Law Honours degree in line with national standards for honours degrees.
If you are not already enrolled in honours, you can transfer into the degree via application if you satisfy the following requirements: • GPA for all law topics over 5.5; • completed 72-108 units in the LLB/LP; • GPA of 5.7 for the most recent 36 graded units in the LLB/LP; • capacity to undertake the Dissertation elective topics in their study plan; and; • In the opinion of the Honours Committee could fulfill the requirements to be awarded honours.
Enrolled in Honours before 2015
For students who enrolled in the LLB/ LP (Hons) before 2015, honours result is based 25% on the result obtained in a 10,000 word Dissertation, and 75% on
Getting Started
For students enrolling in the LLB/LP (Hons) in 2015 onwards, honours will be based solely on the result obtained in a 13,000 word Dissertation, with the Dissertation being worth 13.5 units. Three elective topics must be undertaken, designed to be taken across two semesters.
Dissertation Supervisor
Proposal
and
Students should start to think seriously about a topic at least a semester before formally enrolling. Since the Dissertation is undertaken towards the end of the course, there will have been opportunities to consider a range of topics from which a dissertation might be developed. It is a student’s responsibility to arrange supervision with a member of the Law School staff. The Honours Coordinator will be available to advise students about the suitability of a potential supervisor to supervise in particular areas of interest.
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The deadline for submission of your proposal is 14 days before the beginning of the semester in which you commence your dissertation.
Honours Result
Honours Dissertations (in both streams) are due at the end of week 14 in the students final honours elective semester. The three categories of honours for students enrolled before 2015 are: • Honours 1 – GPA of 6.4 -7.00 • Honours 2A – GPA of 6.1 -6.39 • Honours 2B – GPA of 5.7 – 6.09 The four categories of honours for students enrolled from 2015 are: • Honours 1 – 85-100% grade • Honours 2A – 75-84% grade • Honours 2B – 65-74% grade • Honours 3 – 50-64% grade These calculations will be made automatically and after results have been finalised, students who have been awarded honours will be notified.
Publication
Students who receive high marks for their Dissertation are encouraged to consider submitting them for publication in the Flinders Law Journal. If you would like any further information regarding honours please visit the Flinders Law School website or contact Professor Brendan Grigg, Honours Coordinator.
Practical Legal Training (PLT) Transition to Practice
The Flinders LLB/LP is unique in that it is the only undergraduate degree that leads directly to admission as a legal practitioner in Australia without further study. Practical Legal Training combines the legal theories learned during law school with practical skills necessary and invaluable to a career in legal practice. To be eligible to practice as a barrister and solicitor in South Australia, all law students must complete Practical Legal Training as part of their academic and practical requirements.
PLT at Flinders
Here at Flinders Law School, students who have successfully completed their studies of the Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice will be eligible to apply for admission to the Supreme Court of South Australia. Flinders University is the only South Australian university to have integrated the core principles of PLT into its topics of substantive law and the compulsory practice topics relating to specific areas of legal practice.
PLT Core Topics
There are four core Practical Legal Training topics in the Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice at Flinders. The four topics are as follows: • Practical Legal Training: Civil Litigation Practice (LLAW7000 • Practical Legal Training: Legal Practice Management (LLAW7001) • Practical Legal Training: Transactional Legal Practice (LLAW7002) • Practical Legal Training: Criminal Practice and Advocacy (LLAW7003)
In LLAW 7000 Practical Legal Training: Civil Litigation Practice, students are given an introductory understanding of what an entry-level lawyer will undertake in civil practice. Similarly, LLAW 7003 Practical Legal Training: Criminal Litigation Practice will give students a taste and understanding of what an entry-level lawyer will undertake in criminal practice. As PLT topics are a strict requirement for admission to practice, they are often marked by participation and attendance. LLAW 7002 Practical Legal Training: Transactional Legal Practice incorporates both learning the legislative and common law requirements and practical process in commercial and corporate law, property, and estates.
Placement
LLAW 7001 Practical Legal Training: Legal Practice Management involves a 225hour placement at an approved ‘legal office’, which students can complete. This is a 6 week full-time placement or as a part-time equivalent. A legal office can include a private practice, community legal service, government or semi-government department, or a corporate legal office. The placement is a great opportunity to apply skills and knowledge learnt as the placement requires students to complete certain tasks such as interviewing, advising, undertaking legal research, drafting legal letters, filing documents at court, and engaging in advocacy. Placement can be organised either of two ways. Firstly, students can organise their own placements, which are to be approved.
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This is ideal for students who are completing clerkships. Secondly, the Law Society of South Australia can organise placements for students wishing to complete their placement full-time. However, there are a limited number of placements that can be organised this way.
PLT throughout the Degree
The topics of substantive law take place throughout the LLB degree and are specifically designed to continue building on what students have done, and allow students to gain a greater understating of legal issues from a real-life perspective. Skills that are explored in substantive law topics include: Legal Research • LLAW1211 – Legal Research and Writing (Research I, Writing I) • LLAW2222 – History of Legal Ideas (Research II) Drafting • LLAW1224 – Advanced Contract (Writing II) • LLAW2224 – Corporate Law (Drafting) Interviewing • LLAW2211 – Torts 2 (Interviewing) Team work • LLAW1213 – Introduction to Public Law (Group Work) Ethics • LLAW1211 – Professional Skills and Ethics (Ethics I) • LLAW3211–CorporateLaw2(EthicsII)
Undertaking PLT Externally
In some situations, students may prefer to graduate with a Bachelor of Laws and complete the Practical Legal Training at a later date. Students who choose this option will be required to complete a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice (GLDP). If studied full time a GDLP will take 6 months to complete.
Getting Started
Graduating & Getting Admitted Transition to Practice Graduating
Flinders hold three rounds of graduations ceremonies during the year. If you are a domestic student, you will only be eligible to graduate in a ceremony in April or September. The December round is reserved for Doctor of Medicine and international students.
Application Process
There are a number of steps in applying for admission: 1.
Graduating in absentia
If you are unable to attend a graduation ceremony you may apply to graduate in absentia. Absentia conferral dates occur more frequently than ceremonies however you will not be able to attend a ceremony at a later date. If you apply to graduate in absentia, your parchment will be available for collection from Flinders Connect or you can elect to have it mailed.
Getting Admitted
After graduating, in order to legally practice law in South Australia you must apply for admission to the Supreme Court of South Australia. Once you have been admitted, signed the Roll of Practitioners, and received your restricted practicing certificate, you are able to commence practice. For information and assistance in completing the admission process contact the Ethics and Practice unit of the Law Society of South Australia on (08) 8229 0200 or visit their website. To be eligible for admission you must satisfy the Board of Examiners that you are of good character and that you have met the admission requirements set in the Supreme Court Rules and LPEAC Rules. Once admitted, you will be a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of South Australia and a Commissioner for taking affidavits in the Supreme Court of South Australia.
Admission Requirements
To apply to be admitted as a legal practitioner, you must satisfy both the academic and practical requirements in the Supreme Court and LPEAC Rules. Successfully completing a Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice at Flinders University satisfies both of these requirements without any further study. If you choose not to undertake the legal practice component of the Flinders law degree, but still wish to practice, you will have to complete your Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice with an alternative provider. To prove your character you must disclose to the Board any criminal charges you have faced, if you have been bankrupt, or if you have found to be engaged in academic dishonesty. Getting Started
2. 3.
4.
5.
6.
Prepare and lodge an originating application for admission at the Law Society of South Australia. The application includes: • an affidavit in support of the application; • a copy of a document certifying completion of your academic and practical requirements; • a copy of your drivers license/ passport/birth certificate; and • notice of your application for admission to be placed on the Law Society website Your application goes before the Board of Examiners at their once monthly meeting for consideration. After each Board of Examiners meeting, a list of successful applicants is displayed on the Law Society website. Approach a legal practitioner with a current practicing certificate to move your application for admission in the admissions ceremony. Generally, students approach a practitioner who is a friend or colleague. A rehearsal ceremony is held before the formal ceremony where you will sign your name to the Roll of Practitioners. Your family and friends are invited to watch the formal ceremony that takes place in the Sir Samuel Way building. Once admitted, you are eligible to apply for a restricted practising certificate from the Law Society of South Australia.
Restricted Practising Certificate
It is illegal to practice without a practicing certificate. When issued with your first practising certificate it will be subject to a two-year restriction period of supervised practice. This is, practice that is controlled or managed by an approved legal practitioner, usually the principal of the firm you are employed at. The fee for a practising certificate is currently $585. You apply for your practicing certificate through the Law Society of South Australia.
Practising Interstate
Once admitted to practice in your home jurisdiction, it is relatively simple to practice as a lawyer interstate under the Mutual Recognition Act 1992 (Cth). You can apply for mutual recognition through the Law Society of South Australia.
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Practising Overseas
New Zealand The Mutual Recognition Act means that there are very few barriers for Australian lawyers to practice in New Zealand. Australians, once admitted in their original jurisdiction, can apply for automatic admission in New Zealand. Hong Kong Australian lawyers with between two to five years experience practising in Australia will need to take qualification exams. Australians will need to apply for a work visa in Hong Kong that will often be sponsored by the employer. Singapore Most Australian lawyers will find work in Singapore at ‘offshore’ firms. In Singapore, these ‘offshore’ firms are not allowed to advise clients on Singapore law but rather work on deals involving UK or US law. Australians require an Employment Pass to work in Singapore as a lawyer. England To practice in England, Australian lawyers must register as a Registered Foreign Lawyer with the Law Society of England and Wales. They can also be admitted as a solicitor or barrister by passing the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Test. Australian lawyers will have to apply for a work visa, which is often taken care of by the employer and applied for on your behalf. Canada Each province regulates admission to legal practice, thus requirements differ between provinces, however the nine common law provinces simply require Australian lawyers to apply for a permit to be a practising foreign lawyer. Australian lawyers must apply to the National Committee on Accreditation for an evaluation of their legal qualifications. Lawyers may also be required to pass examinations in specified areas of Canadian Law. Some provinces require that the lawyer must be a permanent resident of the province to which they want to apply. United States Admission to practice is regulated on a state level and requirements often vary between states, and only certain states accept foreign lawyers. Typically, an Australian lawyer will need to pass the Bar Examination in the state they wish to practice.
Postgraduate Study It’s not over yet
Further Study
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Fulbright Scholarship
Whilst the majority of Australian universities offer postgraduate studies, international institutions such as Oxford, Cambridge, Yale, Harvard and countless others, all offer a Master of Laws. Other degrees ranging from Masters in International Human Rights Law to Doctor of Science of Law are also available internationally.
A PhD is the highest award you can obtain for legal study, and will put you in good stead if you are working towards a career in academia.
John Monash Scholarship
If you are nearing the end of your law degree, the idea of beginning further study might be the last thing on your mind. However, not only does postgraduate study enrich your knowledge of an area of law that interests you, it also boosts your employment prospects, creates the opportunities for a career in academia, and allows you to study overseas.
What are your options?
Broadly, undergraduate law students have four options for higher study. These are Masters of Law (LLM) by Coursework, LLM by Research, the Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Masters of Law (LLM) by Coursework
LLM Coursework commonly requires students to complete eight topics. These topics focus on specialised areas of law, and require a greater depth of study than the areas you studied in your undergraduate degree. The LLM by Coursework generally follows a structured lecture and seminar/tutorial program. Assessment differs across universities; some assess students based solely on their coursework, and others require an 8,000-15,000 word dissertation.
The highly acclaimed PhD also requires candidates to develop a unique research topic and write a thesis under the supervision of an appropriate university academic. The research topic must be highly specific and unexplored. The final thesis can be anywhere from 70,000 to 100,000 words. It can be completed in 2-4 years full-time, or 3-8 years part-time. Universities require at least Upper Second Class Honours in your undergraduate law degree before you can undertake a PhD.
Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) The SJD consists of a coursework component and a research thesis, and is roughly equivalent to a PhD. The candidate must develop their own research topic, and the thesis can be between 50,000 to 75,000 words.
If studying full-time, this course generally consists of one year of coursework, followed by two or three years of developing and writing the thesis. Depending on the university, you may have to complete an LLM by Coursework before undertaking this Doctorate. You must also have at least Upper Second Class Honours in your undergraduate law degree.
Prestigious Scholarships
There are a number of prestigious scholarships that students may apply for to undertake post-graduate study.
Masters of Law (LLM) by Research
Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships
Students may need evidence of a research background before they are allowed to undertake this degree. This means that students who have already completed a research thesis, or who have had pieces of academic work published, have a greater chance of being approved to undertake this degree. Generally you must also have achieved an undergraduate law degree with Upper Second Class Honours as a minimum. Depending on your performance, your LLM by Research can be a ‘stepping stone’ to PhD candidature.
A scholarship or fellowship recipient will receive: tuition fees; travel allowance (up to $3000); establishment allowance (up to $2000 for fellowships, $4000 for scholarships); Monthly stipend ($3000); health insurance; and travel insurance. Selection criteria includes: record of high academic achievement and/or relevant work experience; statement on how the program would further the applicant’s academic and/or professional career; statement on how the program will benefit Australia.
LLM by Research is purely researchbased. Students must develop a research topic and write a supervised thesis, generally of 35,000 to 50,000 words. They are expected to find their own supervisor, such as a university academic with relevant experience.
The Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships are internationally competitive, merit-based scholarships funded by the Australian Government that support Australians to undertake study, research and professional development in 125 countries worldwide.
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The Fulbright Postgraduate Scholarships support Australian students to enrol in a U.S. postgraduate program (such as a Masters) and supports Australian PhD students to undertake research and/or study in the U.S. A scholarship is valued up to AUD$40,000, a recipient will receive: living, travel and establishment allowance for a program of 8-10 months duration; funding for program events; and health insurance. Selection criteria includes: record of high academic and professional merit; feasible and relevant program proposal that has definable outcomes; and ambassadorial skills.
The John Monash Scholarship is awarded to 10-15 outstanding Australian graduates annually, to enable them to study abroad at the world’s best universities. A scholarship is valued up to AUD$60,000 per year (for up to three years). Selection criteria include: outstanding intellect demonstrated by academic excellence, also language and music skills, or publications; leadership; a defined research or study program; and benefit to Australia.
Rhodes Scholarships
Nine scholarships are available to Australians annually to study at the University of Oxford. Each state offers one scholarship; in addition there are three Australia-at-large scholarships. Scholars must not be older than 25 on 1 October of their year of commencement at Oxford. A scholarship recipient will receive: all tuition fees; application fees; personal stipend; and return airfare. Selection criteria include: literary and scholastic attainments; character and service; and leadership.
Robert Menzies Scholarships
The Sir Robert Menzies Memorial Foundation offers two post-graduate scholarships in law: the Sir Robert Menzies Memorial Scholarship in Law for study at U.K. universities, and the Sir Ninian Stephen Menzies Scholarship in International Law for study at various overseas universities. A scholarship recipient will receive AUD$75,000 per year to meet tuition fees and contribute to travel and living expenses; a personal living allowance; and return airfare. Selection criteria include: academic excellence; leadership; service of others; extra-curricular activities; and ability to contribute to life of the university. SA Law Foundation Fellowship The SA Law Foundation Fellowship offer scholarships and grants for legal research, public education on legal matters and/or training. Fellowships, internships and grant applications can be found on their website. Getting Started
Study Abroad The Sky’s the Limit
The experience of immersing yourself in a culture completely unlike your own is like no other. There are a vast variety of experiences available at universities in countries all throughout the world, which offer students the opportunity to gain a new perspective, learn the intricacies of a different jurisdiction, meet new people, and develop their adaptability. With globalisation on the increase, so too is the need for lawyers with international experience. If you have studied overseas, this suggests an ability to adapt to new situations and an enthusiasm to take on new challenges, and perhaps a familiarity with the local law or the local language. When applying for clerkship and graduate positions, there is an increasing requirement that you stand out from the crowd. Fortunately no two international experiences are the same, especially with the incredible range on offer. From short study tours and intensives to semester long exchanges there are opportunities to suit all time constraints in every stage of study.
Semester Exchanges
Flinders University offers outbound international exchange programs of 1 or 2 semesters duration during undergraduate degrees. This allows students to study interesting electives in a foreign country, which will ultimately increase employability. There are many locations available through Flinders Exchange Partner Universities; to study a law specialty, this includes the following institutions: • AIC Internship • Chuo University, Japan • East China University of Political Science and Law, China • European University, Viadrina • Johannes Kepler University, Austria • Keele University, UK
Getting Started
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Kyung Hee University, Korea Manchester Metropolitan University, UK Peking University, China Roma Tre University, Italy Stockholms Universitet, Sweden The National University of Malaysia, Malaysia The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong University of Calgary, Canada University of Copenhagen, Denmark University of East Anglia, UK University of Leicester, UK University of Manitoba, Canada University of Surabaya, Indonesia Uppsala Universitet, Sweden York University, Canada
For more information, visit the Flinders University Study Abroad website.
Study Tours
Flinders law offers various rotating elective topics that allow students to study abroad to learn about foreign laws and legal systems. These topics are structured as intensives generally of around 4 weeks. Locations include : • Indonesia (LLAW3274); • China (LLAW3270); • India (LEGL3114). These study tours provide an excellent opportunity to get a snapshot of life in a different country, as well as gaining credit for your degree and increasing your prospects.
External Providers
External organisation AIM Overseas offers intensive academic courses taught at international universities. AIM assist and facilitate all Australia applications to the following programs, however the
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programs themselves are structured and managed by the separate universities. The law related programs available are: • Comparative Contract Law, at Michigan State University, USA • Oxford History, Politics and Society Summer School, at Oxford University, UK • International Litigation and Arbitration, at Michigan State University, USA • International Human Rights Law, at Universidad Nacional de Lanus, Argentina • Oxford International Human Rights Summer School, at Oxford University, UK • International Environmental Law, at Maastricht University, The Netherlands • International Law and Human Rights, at Masarky University, Czech Republic • International Relations and Politics in the EU, at Maastricht University, The Netherlands Please note that programs may not always be available within a given year. For more information, please visit the Flinders University website.
Extra Curricular Experience Spice up your CV
Beyond good grades, the most common piece of advice for those looking to set themselves apart from other graduates is get involved in extra-curricular activities
Section One of the Careers Guide provides a snapshot of the following categories of extra curricular experiences:
Get Involved
Internships are paid or unpaid practical work experience. Internships are available both during your degree and after graduation.
Employers are on the lookout for well-rounded candidates. By joining student societies, community groups, sporting clubs, or cultural associations, you will expand your experience and develop a variety of skills. Balancing extra-curriculars with study demonstrates effective time management and organisational skills.
Internships
Volunteering
There are a number of organisations across Adelaide who are always looking for law students to contribute to community legal services and not for profit organisations.
Casual and Part Time Work
Casual and part time work within and outside of the legal field is a valuable undertaking for all students, allowing you to develop skills and providing content for your resume.
Legal Skills Competitions
Competitions are a fun way to practice your legal skills, challenge yourself to work to a deadline, perform under pressure, and make friends.
Furthermore, these experiences allow you to meet new people, make new friends, and ultimately get more out of your time at university.
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Getting Started
Volunteering
Extra Curricular Experience Volunteering is one of the most beneficial activities you can undertake while at university. Volunteering allows you to assist the community, meet new people who bring with them different life experiences, and strengthen your ability to interact socially. Volunteering is also great way to expand your CV and enhance your career prospects. There are a variety of volunteering avenues open to students including peer mentoring, community legal centre, oncampus student clubs and associations and off-campus organisations.
Peer Mentoring
The Peer mentoring program sees existing law students act a mentor to an assigned group of first year law students.
Community Legal Centre (CLC)
CLC volunteering provides a unique opportunity to apply your legal knowledge practically, which will not only assist your studies, but is an excellent way to identify which areas of law you may be interested in pursuing professionally. Non-for-profit CLCs often rely on the input of volunteers to conduct their services.
• Southern Community Centre; • WestSide Laywers; • Welfare Rights Centre; • Womens Legal Services.
You can find volunteering opportunities around Australia on the CLC Volunteers website.
On Campus Student Clubs and Associations Joining clubs and societies on campus is a great way to make friends, develop professional skills, impact student life, and explore your areas of interest. Clubs and Associations at Flinders University include: • Criminal Justice Student Association; • Flinders Law Student’s Association; • Flinders University Student Association; • Greens; • Labor Club; • Liberal Club; • Red Cross Club.
The following CLCs in South Australia are currently accepting volunteer applications: • Environmental Defenders Office; • Flinders Legal Clinic;. • JusticeNet SA; • Roma Mitchell CLC;
Getting Started
Justice
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A full list of on-campus clubs and associations can be found on the Flinders University Student Association website.
Off Campus Organisations
There are a large number of volunteering positions available in various community and charity organisations. While these have less of a legal focus, they can allow you to make a genuine difference in the lives of the community. Such organisations include: • Amnesty International; • Australian Red Cross; • Australian Refugee Association; • World Vision; • St Vincent de Paul Society SA; You can find volunteering opportunities around South Australia on the VolunteeringSA website.
Casual and Part Time Work Extra Curricular Experience
Depending on your type of work, having a casual or part time job can also demonstrate an ability to work within a professional team, provide customer service, and manage your time. There are a number of jobs in the legal profession that are available for students during their studies. Some of these include:
Administrative
Firms and some courts hire students in administrative roles. Keep an eye on the Career and Employer Liaison Centre mailing list.
Rounds clerk
Chambers research assistant: A number of barristers employ students to help with research. Some chambers advertise these positions but most do not. If you are interested in finding a barrister to work for, write them a letter expressing your interest.
Clerkship
Clerkships provide a useful means of gaining experience in the legal profession, which may lead to further employment after graduation. A clerkship is a shortterm position at a law firm that typically runs from 3 to 12 weeks over the summer or winter break. Most clerkships run on a full-time basis, however, some firms prefer to run clerkships on a part-time basis (2-3 days per week) over a longer period of time. Why should I apply? Most law firms recruit their graduate solicitors from their pool of clerks, so if you are interested in entering private legal practice, completing a clerkship is almost crucial. When and How to apply As a general rule, firms will offer clerkships to penultimate and final year students. However, it is a good idea to apply for clerkships sooner rather than later, even if you are not yet in your penultimate year. If you are interested in particular law firms, visit their websites or check the Employer Directory in this Guide for information
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about their programs, practice areas, and application dates. There are also a number of jobs available at Flinders University.
Research Assistants
A number of academics in the Law School and other schools in the university hire students as research assistants. These sort of jobs are not usually advertised widely, so it is important to check your emails closely to find out about these sorts of opportunities.
Campus Jobs
Casual and part time employment is often available with Flinders University.
Tutoring
The University offers personal tutoring services to Indigenous students through the Indigenous Tutoring Assistance Scheme (ITAS), and at various times need new student tutors. There are also opportunities to tutor around the University, such as within the School of Nursing and Midwifery and the School of Health Sciences.
Getting Started
Legal Skills Competitions Extra Curricular Experience
Competitions are a fun way to practice your legal skills, challenge yourself to work to a deadline and perform under pressure, and make friends. While competitions can be a bit nerve-wracking, the benefits gained are invaluable. As well as increased confidence and technical skills, students receive personalised feedback on their abilities from judging panels, which can include law school staff and members of the profession.
FLSA Competitions
FLSA runs a number of legal skills competitions every semester. These include client interviewing, witness examination, negotiation, mediation and mooting. There is also a first year moot, exclusively for first year students (though first years are encouraged to enter any competition that interests them).
Getting Started
ALSA Competitions
FLSA competition grand finalists may be asked to represent Flinders University at the national Australian Law Students’ Association Conference, held annually in July. This seven-day conference gives students the ability to compete against other universities from across Australia and New Zealand.
International Competitions
Further, you may be able to gain international experience through legal skills topics at the Flinders Law School. Mooting is one example, as Flinders offers the topic LLAW3273 Mooting and International Appellate Advocacy. This prepares students specifically for the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot, or the International Humanitarian Law Moot.
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The Jessup Moot finals are held at Australian National University at the beginning of the year. The top two Australian teams from this final go on to compete in Washington, DC.
Competition Volunteers
Competing is not the only way to be involved - students can volunteer as ‘clients’ in client interview or mediation competitions, or ‘witnesses’ in witness examination, also students with recognised academic aptitude may contribute a problem question as the hypothetical set of facts for a particular competition round.
International Internships with Projects Abroad Commercial Law Internships in China
Projects Abroad offer internships with prestigious and well established Chinese law firms in Shanghai and Chengdu. These firms largely work with western clients in areas such as taxation, mergers & acquisitions, contract law, and intellectual property law, among others.
matter would be settled in a German court. The solicitor pointed at this clause and cried, “No, no, no. In China, we arbitrate!” This means that rather than waste time and money in court, the Chinese prefer to find a resolution to a dispute by ‘coming to the table’’.
With an international outlook, the firms value the input and perspective of overseas students who often find responsible and productive roles during their stay; it is a busy and professional placement while enjoying international travel.
About the internships Interns have many roles; they are useful to the firm through their knowledge of western legal systems and culture, this means the interns will be given responsibility and asked for advice. The firms are keen to have western interns and for those willing to create good relationships, numerous valuable experiences will follow. Students will prove they are adaptable, resourceful and can operate in a cross-cultural context; a reference from a partner of an international firm is a fantastic recommendation.
International experience is increasingly an asset for students and an internship in China offers an opportunity to work within a different legal system and to learn through firsthand experience the culture of business relationships and legal practice in a country which will be a significant partner in Australia’s future. As Lily, a student at the University of Adelaide found, insight and responsibility can start early in an internship; ‘During my first week as an intern at Jade Fountain PRC Lawyers, a solicitor asked me to amend a distribution agreement between a German firm and a Chinese company. One clause stated that if a dispute arose between the parties, then the
The internships last for a minimum of one month and can be taken at any time throughout the year and there are no closing dates for applications. Projects Abroad work with around 30 firms in Shanghai and Chengdu, giving a broad spread of opportunity for interns. There are always other students on placements, from across Europe and North America meaning that Australian students not only gain an insight into
Chinese practice but do it alongside peers from around the world with whom they live and explore the city and further afield. These internships have a minimum duration of four weeks and a maximum of 12 weeks. The start dates are very flexible and whenever students participate there will be other students on nearby placements. The cost for placements starts at $4605. Accommodation is in apartments shared with other students and full time Projects Abroad staff are always on hand to ensure the placements are working well and that students are comfortable. Projects Abroad, founded in 1992, organises internships and volunteer opportunities in 30 emerging countries, with commercial law internships in China and Mongolia; and human rights internships in Argentina, South Africa, Ghana, Togo, Tanzania, Cambodia, and Morocco. For more information contact Projects Abroad: 1300 132 831 info@projects-abroad.com.au www.projects-abroad.com.au
Overseas Law & Human Rights Internships For law students and graduates alike, an overseas internship can be not only a substantial point of difference but an opportunity to practice their skills in a human rights setting to the benefit of communities with no access to advice or representation. Projects Abroad arranges a number of overseas legal internship opportunities, from human rights based work to more commercial placements across the emerging and developing world. The human rights work runs in countries including Ghana, Argentina, Cambodia, Mongolia and Tanzania. In the longest established programme, based in Cape Town, South Africa, they run a dedicated Projects Abroad Human Rights Office (PAHRO) that works with vulnerable individuals and groups in the Cape Town area, through community initiatives and partnerships with local NGOs and grassroots organisations. With the guidance and supervision of practicing attorneys, interning in South Africa offers a practical and constructive way to support positive action amongst disadvantaged communities. The role of PAHRO interns is diverse - working on anything from research and education, to awareness raising and case work.
The legal cases that are encountered at PAHRO are wide-ranging. From refugee status determinations to criminal matters and even family law, interns have the opportunity to gain valuable practical legal experience. University of Western Australia intern, Alyssa Buttrum-Virco reflects on her time spent directly on cases; “overall, the level of autonomy when working on legal cases was seriously unexpected for me, as well as the calibre of task you are entrusted with. I was required to draft outlines of submissions and heads of arguments for refugee appeals cases, and unfair dismissal hearings. The opportunities you get at PAHRO to develop legal skills and gain exposure to practical client interactions was incredible.” PAHRO also run outreach and social justice initiatives, which aim to provide education to individuals in the community on human rights and access to justice. These initiatives allow interns to work with the male and female juvenile detention centres, as well as shelters for abused women and other community centres to run educational workshops. Adelaide Law student Dorcas Wong remarks, “
These workshops were great as not only did it offer a break from the office, but it also provided an invaluable opportunity to experience ‘the real South Africa’ and to hear the voices of the South African people themselves. Towards the end of my stay, I found that we were not merely empowering them, but were also being empowered through their responses and the stories they shared with us. It became clear that there was a sense of mutual learning and respect that flowed from each other.” Undertaking internships in South Africa, Ghana and Argentina gives students a varied workload of casework and participation in social justice and research initiatives. Students with specific interests in areas such as housing or women’s rights might choose to work on placements with a more singular focus such as in Tanzania or Cambodia.
Getting Started
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YOUR FUTURE
Forging your Career Path Exploring your Options
Graduating with an LLB enables to you work in a wide range of areas, in both the legal and non-legal sector. The legal sector includes positions such as solicitor, barrister, in-house counsel and judicial officer. The non-legal sector includes employment in government, academia, politics, and private business.
Legal Practice Civil and Criminal
The first major distinction in practice is between civil and criminal practice. Civil practice is focused on actions between private individuals, such as contract disputes. Criminal law, conversely, is focused on criminal actions between the State and an individual.
Transactional and Litigation
The distinction is simple. Transactional practice is focused on conducting legal transactions, such as drafting and executing contracts. Litigation practice is concerned with disputes that have arisen between parties, focusing primarily on matters going to trial for determination by the court.
Firm Size
Working in the legal sector is not confined to large-scale corporate firms. You may be interested in working in family law at a rural firm or sampling multiple practice areas while working at a community legal centre. Firms range in size from boutique to large, with the working environment differing between all of them.
Your Future
Practice Areas
Students are not required to choose an area of specialisation during their studies beyond selecting elective topics; however, upon entering the profession young practitioners are faced with the question of what area of law they wish to practice in. Law firms generally specialise in particular areas of law, even a multiservice firm will have a greater reputation in some practice areas over others, therefore graduates should consider what areas appeal to them when they decide where to apply for work. It is important to note that in some firms (particularly larger sized firms) practitioners will be assigned by the firm to particular area of practice where they have demand for staff. It is also important to note that the categorisation of practice areas will differ depending on the individual firm. Some firms will group practice areas together where other firms may separate them. The following is a brief list of some common areas of practice: Banking and Finance The area of banking and finance typically focuses on transactional work required to secure finance for clients involved in major projects, such as businesses requiring funding, as well as regulatory issues. Construction Law Practice in construction law typically involves the negotiation management of major construction contracts and dispute resolution arising out of major construction projects.
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Corporate Law Corporate practice is a very wide area that can range from corporate governance, such as preparing for shareholders meetings, to major corporate transactions like mergers & acquisitions Family Law Family law focuses on legal issues relating to families, such as marriage, divorce, and child and property disputes. Insolvency Law Insolvency relates to legal matters arising out of insolvent companies. This can include advising liquidators, conducting litigation arising out of liquidation or working to restructure failed companies. Media and Intellectual Property Media and IP law focuses on the legal rights attached to intellectual property and the publication of media content, and can include areas such as defamation. Property Law Property law encompasses the negotiation and execution of property transactions, including leases and sales of property. Environmental Law Environmental law focuses on the regulation of natural resources, such as minerals and gas, and can include litigious and transactional practices. Taxation Law Practice in tax law will typically involve interpreting how constantly evolving tax legislation applies to particular business transactions, or involvement in tax related actions with the ATO.
Making a decision
Beyond Legal Practice
Government (Non Legal)
Government (Legal practice)
Throughout your degree you will have been trained to read and process large amounts of material in short periods of time, understand complex information, and construct persuasive arguments. These analytical skills are highly valued in the workplace.
Examples of government agencies where graduates can seek non legal employment include Ausaid, the Australian Consumer and Competition Commission, the Australian Defence Force, the Australian Federal Police, the Australian Taxation Office, and the Human Rights and Equal Opportunities Commission.
Eventually most practitioners will need to choose an area of specialisation for their practice. However, it is recommended not to choose upon graduation but to ‘try before you buy’ by seeking out work in multiple areas before deciding where to settle. Exactly when a practitioner will choose a practice for specialisation will be a personal decision, however, there is always room to move between practice areas throughout a legal career.
There is a multitude of career opportunities open to law graduates within the government sector, at both a State and Federal level. Working in legal practice within public sector affords immense fulfillment as you can play an integral part in influencing society, and, depending on the role, can have access to a better work/life balance than in private practice.
Australian Government Solicitor
The Australian Government Solicitor (AGS) is a large agency that provides legal services to the Commonwealth Government and its agencies. The AGS has offices in all Australian capital cities and provides services across approximately forty practice areas. Examples of other Federal Government agencies that lawyers can seek employment include the Attorney-General’s Department and the Crown Solicitor’s Office.
A law qualification equips graduates with a variety of employment options, which are not limited to the legal practice, it can also pave a way to careers in private business, government, academia, politics, ADR, not for profit organisations and professional support.
You will have also developed transferrable skills in research, writing, and problem solving, which are equally valuable. It is important to highlight the skills and abilities you have developed through your studies because although future employers may not be looking for lawyers, they will be looking for the skills you have acquired through your law degree.
Government jobs in Australia go well beyond legal practice. Many individuals with legal qualifications work in various Government roles that do not involve practicing the law, yet rely on legal knowledge and understanding.
Many departments and agencies offer placement and graduate programs. See the Public Non-Legal section of the Employer Directory for more information.
Companies in the private non-legal sector also target law graduates, particularly those with a relevant combined degree. Roles are available in banking, insurance, audit, finance, tax advisory, and executives such as company secretaries. Political careers are highly suitable to law graduates. Drafting legislation at the Office of Parliamentary Counsel and advising Ministers on the legal aspects of policy are two examples of pathways outside of traditional legal practice that are directly relevant to what you have studied throughout your degree.
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Your Future
Becoming a Barrister Pathway to Advocacy
What is a Barrister?
All South Australian lawyers are eligible to practise as both Solicitors and Barristers. Solicitors engage the services of Barristers to act on behalf of the Solicitors’ clients in court. Barristers are specialist advocates with an advanced understanding of the law and court procedure. Additionally Barristers provide advice on legally difficult or complex matters and develop sophisticated legal strategies. In court a Barrister will present the client’s case and examine and cross-examine witnesses. Barristers generally practise as independent lawyers in Chambers instead of law firms.
Bar Reader’s Course
To become a barrister, practitioners must undertake the Bar Readers Course, operated by the SA Bar Association. The Course consists of two components: seminar series and reading period. The seminar series curriculum is divided into six units which cover topics such as: role and responsibility; preparation for court; advocacy; chamber work, pleadings and other court documents; alternative dispute resolution; and courts and tribunals in South Australia. The Course involves reading, for a period of three months, under the supervision of a mentor who has been a practicing Barrister for at least five years.
Upon successful completion of both components of the course the applicant will be enrolled as a member of the Bar Association . A certificate of satisfactory completion will be obtained after a further period of review by the mentor of the applicant’s legal work. The applicant will then be a fully qualified member of the Independent Bar.
Finding Chambers
After completing the Bar Readers Course, the next step is finding somewhere to practice. Finding Chambers in South Australia is a relatively informal process. In limited instances a Chambers with vacancies will advertise via the SA Bar Association website.
Getting to the Bar
An Interview with Michael Swanson, Greenway Chambers Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice (Hons), Bachelor of Science (Physics)
Tell us about your career journey so far On graduating I was the Associate to Chief Justice Kourakis in the SASC. During my year with the Judge I put in a big effort to build contacts in Sydney and Melbourne so I could move east after I finished. Eventually I was offered a job with a mid-tier commercial litigation law firm in Sydney. I worked there for 20 months. In 2018 I was called to the bar and now practice mainly in commercial litigation, class actions, sports law and constitutional law. What was the most challenging part of entering the workforce? Staying awake in court, it is hard when you don’t have something to do. Finding my first job was the hardest. After my year as an associate I struggled to find my first job in the profession. I would have sent out at least 200 job applications to law firms in Adelaide, Sydney and Melbourne and I received a couple of interviews but no offers of a job. It was slog. I can’t tell you why few law firms were interested in me, each would have had their own reason. Each law firm is looking for something very particular and you as an applicant don’t know what that is.
Your Future
The key to realise is that you only need one firm to offer you a job, so in the end it doesn’t matter whether you send out 1, 2 or 200 applications - only the one ‘yes’ matters. In the end, I was introduced to my eventual employer through a network that I had spent time building. A friend knew I was looking for work and struggling so introduced me to a friend who thought I would make a good lawyer. You should never be ashamed of using any connections that you have, and you should use them. At the end of the day they are just going provide you with the opportunity, you yourself will determine whether you are successful or not.
to enter the legal profession, or who are currently applying for clerkships and graduate positions? Ability to learn new skills is crucial, practicing law is not like studying law. Especially as a junior lawyer you will have two jobs: write letters/affidavits and research obscure points of law. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. When I worked with clerks or juniors the best ones came to ask me for help and talked to me. Better to spend 20 minutes helping you get to the right answer than me spending a few hours doing it myself or fixing a mistake.
How much importance should be placed on extra-curricular activities, volunteering, and legal work experience?
How would you rate the importance of professional mentoring both at university and in the workplace?
Do what you enjoy because it is what will make you a better lawyer and a happier person. There is no prescribed set of things you must do to be hired.
I have had a great deal of through university and profession. Find as many of you can and learn from each
When I was looking for people to recommend to hire for legal jobs I looked for interesting CVs that made the person stand out. Whether that was extra-curriculars, studying somewhere interesting or writing a great paper that I could read. You do you.
They gave me guidance when I needed it regarding my career, they provide a network and know the profession much better than you do and helped me get a job and they provided a safety net that I could turn to if I needed it.
What skills do you think are essential for law students who are about
Most importantly, they bought me many coffees and the occasional beer.
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mentors in the them as of them.
Do you believe that structured mentoring and professional development programs at the graduate level in the legal profession are beneficial to young lawyers? How can graduates make the most of these opportunities early on?
If you find it is taking too much of a toll on you, take yourself off of it. Tell your boss that it is affecting you, if they are a good boss they will support you either in working on it in a healthy way, or they will take you off of it. If they are a bad boss, find a new boss.
I don’t feel disadvantaged in the profession not having structured mentoring in the way that large law firms give to graduates.
Confronting cases are rarely the cause of mental health issues for lawyers, in my experience. It mainly comes from the way other lawyers and clients treat you.
Do you have any advice for students who are keen to increase their network of professional connections in the legal profession?
Has your current workplace implemented strategies to foster mental and physical wellbeing in its employees?
Email people, email me, and ask for a coffee. Lawyers are very generous with their time and often happy to talk to law students or junior lawyers. Be polite and work to their timetable.
My previous workplaces had some, but at some places they were implemented in a way that meant it was impossible to take advantage of them. Often the cause of the issues were the people you worked for.
No one minds, and is often flattered by, the odd email asking for coffee. Worst that can happen is that they say no or are too busy. In which case I promise they will not remember your email and will not hold a grudge against you.
As a barrister I have my own strategies for mental and physical well-being. It includes going to the gym some mornings, even if I don’t get into chambers until later. Setting up my workspace and work time table to suit me as much as I can. Leaning on others when I need help and supporting them when they do.
If you are moving to or looking to move to Sydney please feel free to email me for a coffee or advice. Do you believe that the legal industry appropriately responds to mental health issues that its members may experience? As an industry wide profession no. The solicitor model is based off time billing set by a more senior lawyers so if you are not busy you are under pressure. As a model it is difficult for young practitioners who often have no control over their work load or billing. As individuals lawyers are both good and bad at it. One of my bosses when I approached them with a problem responded with “It is good that you came to me. What has happened? We will fix it.” another would routinely yell at me for 30 minutes if anything happened. Find yourself a boss like the first one and don’t settle for someone who treats you like the second. Especially in the 2-5 PQE mark move on to another work place. How do you care for your mental health during some of the more confronting cases you may be involved with? Approach it with professional detachment in the first place. You have a job to do and a role to play and that is what you must do.
Most importantly always have a drink or dinner with your friends and unload about all the bad things with them. What strategies do you have for managing your time, workload and possible stress levels when your work becomes hectic? Take regular breaks, whether it be a walk at lunch or slipping in a quick trip to the cinema. No matter how hectic the workload is you are entitled to your own life, being a lawyer is part of it but not all of it. What healthy habits should students begin to develop that would assist them in a stressful work environment? Find friends that you trust and can talk to. Talk about all the issues that are happening, all the bad things that are happening and everything that is causing stress. Share the good and funny stories too. Make sure everyone knows that everyone is going through similar experiences and that no one is alone. Play a sport or go to the gym, make time for it and work around it if you are under the pump at work.
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It is fairly clear that the numbers of men and women are roughly equal at the graduate entry level in the legal profession. The numbers of female law graduates are also equal (if not more) than male graduates. However, it is clear that men still hold most senior positions in the profession. Studies have also shown that men are often promoted based on their potential, while women are often promoted based on their past success. In your opinion, why is this, and what can young lawyers do to work towards solving the ‘leadership gap’ in the workplace? What can we do to increase the numbers of women at the top? Sexism mainly. You still come across practitioners, mainly older, who talk about women and act towards them in abhorrent ways. Hopefully they are a reducing cohort but they are present and they are senior in the profession. If you are a male in the workplace make sure that you use your privilege to ensure that your female colleagues are not getting side lined or ignored. Make sure that your female colleagues receive credit for the work that they do. If someone isn’t listening to what a female colleague is saying respond with something like “X was just suggesting that, she was giving a great explanation of it.” and then let X talk. Do you think that gender is ever a factor when considering a job applicant? Yes it is. I interviewed for a job with a partner who spoke horrendously about the women he employed. For him it was an issue, suffice to say I did not want a job with him and turned down the offer. No one, female, male or otherwise should work for people like that. What is the best piece of advice that you could give to students studying law right now? Find things at Law School that you enjoy doing. I found it important to focus on aspects of the law and legal practice that I enjoyed as a way to cope with the pressures, and some times boredom of law. For me it was mooting and through that going to interstate competitions and meeting other law students from around the country. Meet your lecturers and talk to them as if they were your equal. I have some good relationships with former lecturers I met at Flinders, they are now mentors and friends in my professional career.
Your Future
Life at the Bar
An Interview with Kerry Clark, Murray Chambers Tell us about your career path since graduating from Flinders Law School My first taste of legal practice was as a law clerk at Cowell Clarke during a winter university break (third year, fourth? Can’t remember!). It was then, and still is, an excellent firm. I will be forever grateful to Natalie Abela (then an Associate, now a Partner) for hiring me. We have remained friends and she briefs me now that I am at the Bar. I think there might be a lesson there… Next step was a summer clerkship at JWS (at that stage an Adelaide only, medium firm made up of young-gun partners who had left an establishment firm). I managed not to disgrace myself at the Christmas party and was ultimately offered parttime work as a clerk through to the end of my PLT. I then became a full-time junior solicitor with all the benefits JWS offered to newly admitted practitioners – working across all areas of practice in the firm to help you find your niche, no billable unit targets, great training, friendly partners at the top of their game, high profile clients and a generous salary. I probably didn’t realise at the time just how good it was. After about a year at JWS, judges started inviting me to interviews for Associateship positions. I had almost forgotten the applications sent before I became permanent at JWS. What to do? I had a great job, it would be crazy to quit (and take a huge pay cut), right? Well yes, but I didn’t quit. I requested a year’s unpaid leave of absence and the partners at JWS agreed. I spent a fantastic year working with Justice David Bleby in the Supreme Court safe in the knowledge I had a job to go back to. I understand you were once an associate at Johnson Winter & Slattery. Can you tell us what attracted you to the bar after working at a well established Australian firm?
Your Future
It was the year as an Associate in the Supreme Court that first piqued serious interest in going to the Bar. I was able to watch some very talented advocates and thought “wow, I wish I could do that.” I also saw some pretty average performances which made me think, “I could have done better, how does this guy get briefed?” Working in the courts demystifies the whole process. It is invaluable to know what goes on after submissions are done and the court is adjourned. I was also inspired to go barristers I worked with on pro bono refugee seeker cases in the
to the Bar by as a student and asylum early 2000s.
Still, I was not ready for the Bar two years out of law school. I returned to JWS and spent another couple of years there, this time focussed mostly on litigation rather than the mixture of transactional and litigious work I had done previously. I was seconded to a client, Santos, to work on a largescale arbitration for a period. JWS was also rapidly expanding interstate and I spent considerable time in the Sydney office working in media law. When I was about 4 years PQE and 27 years old, a room became available at Murray Chambers. Head of chambers, Brian Hayes QC took me out for coffee and said it was mine if I wanted it. To this day, I am not entirely sure how this came about. The rest is history, as they say. I have been here 11 years. Conventional wisdom at the time was that I was too young and most people waited to become a partner in a firm before making the transition to the Bar. I have seen this change over the last 5- 6 years and now it is not so unusual to start out with less experience.
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Nonetheless going to the Bar is always a gamble, and a scary financial proposition when compared to a comfortable law firm salary. You’ve been involved in several not for profit associations such as Justice Net SA and Women’s Lawyers SA. What is it like balancing life at the bar with volunteering? It is easier to do these things when you are at the Bar because you are in charge of your time and how you spend it. The immediacy of client demands is one step removed. Having said that, I was still at JWS when I became President of Women Lawyers SA and the firm was supportive. I am a firm believer in participating in the profession beyond paid work. If you don’t, you can’t really say that you are a professional, you’re just a business person. What do you enjoy the most about oral advocacy? The intellectual challenge of the exchange with an intelligent, engaged Bench. I recently appeared for the first time on an appeal before the Full Bench of the High Court - that was cool. What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects about working at the Bar? Challenging - keeping on top of different areas of law and constant changes to the court rules; long hours. Learning to say ‘no’ when you have too much work. Also, money. Rewarding - variety of work, professional freedom, colleagues. Also, money!
With the oversupply of graduates and technological advances disrupting the future of the legal profession, do you have any advice to students on how to best prepare for their career path?
still hold most senior positions in the profession. Studies have also shown that men are often promoted based on their potential, while women are often promoted based on their past success.
In-person interaction and contacts are so important, and they always will be despite technology. You won’t get a job by simply connecting with me on LinkedIn and sending out bulk, non-tailored email requests for work experience. Try to remember that most of the people in hiring roles are not of the “messaging” generation. They like voice calls, pale ale and cappuccinos. Not Snapchat, craft beer and single origin cold drip.
In your opinion, why is this, and what can young lawyers do to work towards solving the ‘leadership gap’ in the workplace? What can we do to increase the numbers of women at the top?
Be humble. In your first couple of years you are basically an untrained liability so don’t mistake yourself for Michael Ross in Suits. It doesn’t work that way in real life. Be open to career paths you might not have considered, or which aren’t your first choice. You will likely make several moves over the course of your career, so don’t be concerned if your first job is not your “dream” position. If you are able to move, consider taking a position in a regional town as there is far less competition for these positions and you’ll get more responsibility, client contact and court experience early on. Make sure you highlight non-legal work experience, especially customerfacing roles such as those in retail and hospitality. These show that you can handle stress and soothe difficult clients! You might be surprised to learn that the current President of the Law Society and I first met whilst working together at McDonald’s on Hindley Street. If you could have your time back at University, would you do anything differently? I wish I had done one of the international exchanges on offer. It is much more difficult to pursue study overseas once you have a family, mortgage and a practice to run. It is still on my bucket list though. It is fairly clear that the numbers of men and women are roughly equal at the graduate entry level in the legal profession. The numbers of female law graduates are also equal (if not more) than male graduates. However, men
This certainly is a problem faced by the Bar where the number of women is hovering around 20% and is even lower amongst the silks. The reasons are varied and complex – deliberate and unconscious bias amongst instructing solicitors, misconceptions about what being a barrister is like, court demands and schedules, the type of work women barristers are engaged in - not enough complex appellate and trial work which is what puts you in the running for silk. Women not wanting to apply for silk because they are worried they won’t get enough work if they are in fact appointed. I do believe that changing this requires effort on the part of the whole profession, including young lawyers. If things were going to change simply as a result of the “trickle up” of women graduates over time, it should have happened by now. So what can you do as a young lawyer? Well, in terms of supporting women at the Bar, you can brief them! Or at least encourage the partners and senior associates with whom you work to look beyond the same few barristers they usually brief. For young women lawyers aspiring to go to the Bar, I would say you need some experience as a solicitor (see next question) but perhaps not as much as you think – if it is what you want, go for it. It is common both in and outside of the legal profession for women to wait until they are over-qualified for a position before applying, whereas many men will apply even if they only meet some of the criteria. Also, I think many women underestimate the flexibility the Bar offers and (wrongly in my view) see it as incompatible with having small children.
continue to do less of the domestic chores. This is not just an issue for those with children. It is as much about the “mental load” and “life admin” as the physical tasks. Who plans and books the holidays? Who remembers family birthdays, thinks of the right gift, buys it, wraps it, writes on the card? Who is the one who arranges social events, books the restaurants? Plans meals, writes the shopping list? The never-ending to do list needs to be shared more equally than it currently is in many relationships. What strategies do you have for managing your time, workload and possible stress levels when your work becomes hectic? If you are fortunate to land a job with a high enough salary, then I strongly recommend outsourcing your domestic duties, or at least some of them, starting with the one you hate the most. Time is precious. Don’t waste it cleaning your bathroom! Try not to take your stress out on your loved ones. Have a group of lawyer mates and whinge to them instead. Learn to say “no”. I am still working on this, but you need to have down time and sometimes that means not attending every social event or being on multiple committees at once. Book in your holidays well in advance and take them. Do you have any final advice for law students interested in pursuing a career at the bar? Be a judge’s associate if possible. Work as a solicitor for at least 3 -5 years in the area you want to be briefed in. Start planning (and saving) several years before you make the move. Make contacts at the Bar, and it there is a particular chambers you wish to join, talk to the head of chambers. Many have a list – get your name on it. Finally, keep in touch with all your uni friends – they might brief you one day!
For the men who are committed to improving gender equality, those of you with a female partner (lawyer or not), it starts at home. Women will always face an uphill struggle at work whilst men
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Your Future
Gaining an Internship: Finlaysons An Interview with Adam Hamilton
Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice (Hons), Bachelor of Business (Entrepreneurship), Bachelor of Letters (Chinese) How did you find out about the internship at Finlaysons and what was the application process like?
How do you feel the internship benefitted you, your studies and your career path?
Each year there is, or at least what I refer to it as, a ‘the clerkship season’, where law firms in Adelaide open up applications, have interviews and send out offers within the same period. In 2018, I applied to a number of different firms during this period and was fortunate enough to be offered an interview at Finlaysons and subsequently a position in the firm’s civil litigation team. Overall, the application process was relatively straight forward, unlike that of many other firms where you might be asked to create a video or even take a psychological test.
Before commencing my clerkship I had always been very driven to work in the high pressure and demanding environment of civil litigation. Since commencing my clerkship, I have such a stronger understanding of what this role truly entails and it has re-enforced that I definitely want to continue working in this area. In respect of my studies, I have been forced to become more organised in my day to day planning, as well as developing better research practices. Additionally, I have become more confident in knowing that I have made the right choice in terms of career path and that has indirectly assisted with being more motivated to complete university assignments.
What tasks did you undertake at Finlaysons? As a clerk I have been extremely fortunate in the amount of exposure that I have had at Finlaysons. I have appeared in Court, I have participated in settlement conferences, negotiations and worked on 3 trial matters so far. Further, as with the nature of law, I have also performed a number of research tasks, spent a lot of time reading and analysing documents and drafting letters.
Your Future: Legal Practice
Do you have any tips for students looking for an internship? Everyone is different and each firm is looking for something different. Therefore, I’ll list a few things that I did to get my clerkship, although I think it’s important to find what works for you and really develop your own ‘image or
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brand’. Generally through law school: I said yes to almost every extra-curricular activity that I could feasibly do, i.e. law school competitions (mooting, negotiation, client interview), mentoring, volunteering for places like Justice Net, committee member of FLSA, president of a student club etc. Secondly, I found a hobby – I have been asked what my hobby is or what I do for fun in every interview I have ever had. Thirdly, when applying to firms I showed a genuine interest in why I wanted to work there, i.e. what departments and then showing specific skills that I have that make me suitable for that position. Finally, I networked – this is where I found that a lot of my opportunities came from.
An Interview with Stefania Scarcella Lawyer, Pace Legal
Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice, Bachelor of International Studies (Italian Major) What inspired you to study law at Flinders? I visited both Adelaide University and Flinders University open days and recall feeling most motivated by Flinders for the campus facilities, quality of the speakers and the fact that the practical component of legal practice was incorporated in the degree. What was your favourite and least favourite aspect of the degree? My favourite aspect was the many opportunities available to me during my five or so years at Flinders. I was lucky enough to travel as part of my degree twice, once for Shanghai Summer School (learning the Chinese Legal System) and the second for a 6 month exchange (then called the EU/AU Joint Mobility Scholarship) where I studied in Rome and undertook various Law and International Studies elective subjects. I also found that having many practical tasks intertwined throughout various subjects was beneficial as it helped develop our skills slowly and not all at the end in an intense, 6 month period. My least favourite aspect would have to have been parking in Siberia and that long, steep hill! Also, I hear the coffee has become a lot better since I graduated… What is the best piece of advice that you could give to students studying law right now? Make the most of all the opportunities the university has to offer, whether it be joining an organization like FLSA, going on exchange or taking up a summer program, or becoming a mentor or mentee. Don’t be afraid to make contacts with people you know in the legal industry to seek work experience/part-time positions. It’s handy to get a foot in the door but it’s up to you to work hard to either work your way up in the firm and/ or obtain paid employment. In any case, it’s all experience-building and very handy to have up your sleeve.
Tell us about your career so far, i.e. roles you have worked in and your current position. Following graduation, I volunteered and later obtained a part-time paid position at the Red Cross working in establishing national Privacy Collection Notices, amongst other things. While working at the Red Cross, I visited Pace Lawyers/Adelaide Legal for some work experience and was subsequently employed as a law clerk on a part-time basis in mid-2015. Since this time I have moved to a paralegal position and then to my current position as a lawyer since January 2017. I am very lucky in that I get to practice in my preferred areas of law including family law, personal injury and wills and estates and have excellent mentors. What skills do you think are essential for law students who are about to enter the legal profession, or who are currently applying for clerkships and graduate positions? Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Apply for and accept any roles you can get, any experience is good and helps set you apart from the other graduates when you’re applying for a future role. Also, hard work pays off so make sure you’re not afraid to get in there and not leave until the job is done. Do you believe that the legal industry appropriately responds to mental health issues that its members may experience? The Law Society organizes many events and seminars on wellbeing and is very open about the pressures and stresses that lawyers face on a daily basis. That said, I think it’s up to us as individuals to monitor our own wellbeing and do things outside of work that foster feelings of calmness and happiness, so that when we return to work we are ‘recharged.’
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Has your current workplace implemented strategies to foster mental and physical wellbeing in its employees? We are lucky enough to have our own OH&S mascot in the form of a gorgeous toy poodle, Hugo. He’s in most days and often up for a cuddle and pat if we’re feeling a bit overwhelmed. It is fairly clear that the numbers of men and women are roughly equal at the graduate entry level in the legal profession. The numbers of female law graduates are also equal (if not more) than male graduates. However, it is clear that men still hold most senior positions in the profession. Studies have also shown that men are often promoted based on their potential, while women are often promoted based on their past success. In your opinion, why is this, and what can young lawyers do to work towards solving the ‘leadership gap’ in the workplace? What can we do to increase the numbers of women at the top? I’m one of the rare lawyers in Adelaide to work in a predominantly female environment, with just one male in the office. Our principal is a female who spent many years developing and growing the firm, we celebrated our 20th year just last year. My observations in working with our principal lead me to believe that if you have the dedication, ability to avoid negativity (in the media or locally), know your worth and intelligence, then there’s no reason why you can’t go ahead and reach for your goals!
Your Future: Legal Practice
An Interview with David Kelly Associate, Leventis Lawyers
Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice (First Class Honours) (University Medal), Bachelor of Psychology (First Class Honours) What inspired you to study law at Flinders? I was always interested in law but initially undertook tertiary studies in psychology because I earned stronger grades in the latter, and thought that doing so would assist my then aspiration to join the police force. Perchance, I was selected for jury duty during same, and served as a juror in two cases. From my observations of legal practice based on that experience, I decided to undertake a law degree rather than join the police force, or (at that time) pursue psychology. I enjoyed my time at Flinders University to that point and decided to remain there. What was your favourite and least favourite aspect of the degree? My favourite aspect of studying the law was that it demystified the formal processes by which society is governed (both publicly and privately) – looking “behind the curtain” and better understanding that which is there. I also enjoyed the institution of the law in that, at least theoretically, it was where the allegations stopped, and disputes were decided independently, based on evidence. Tell us about your career so far, i.e. roles you have worked in and your current position. I am currently an Associate at Leventis Lawyers. My primary focus is commercial litigation, which the firm conducts for a broad range of private clients. This involves working closely with the firm principal, silks and junior counsel, and experts (such as engineers and forensic computer technicians). Last year the firm represented the defendants and counterclaimants in a case the trial of which ran for more than 30 sitting days. The firm has also obtained urgent Anton Pillar orders and Mareva injunctions and undertakes work for liquidators and other business clients. I previously undertook work of a similar nature at Camatta Lempens Lawyers. Since entering private practice I have also been appointed a member of the Civil Litigation Committee of the Law Society, and as a law reporter for cases of precedential value selected for publication in the Federal Court Reports (FCR), Federal Law Reports (FLR), South Australian State Reports (SASR), and the Industrial Reports (IR). Additionally, for a brief time, I also tutored law at Flinders University. Before entering private practice, I served as Associate to the Honourable Justice Peek in the Supreme Court of South Australia. That involved assisting the judge undertake trials and appeals, primarily in high profile criminal
Your Future: Legal Practice
cases. Whilst studying, I clerked at Piper Alderman, Minter Ellison, Wallmans, Lipman Karas, and the Crown Solicitor’s Office. It is a very busy and very fulfilling life. What advice do you have for students who would like to enter the legal profession, particularly regarding the oversupply of graduates and the reduced graduate intake in firms that run clerkships and graduate programs? No
profession
is
for
everyone.
As a preliminary step, I suggest being honest with yourself about why you would wish to be a lawyer. This involves identifying and weighing up the potential benefits and drawbacks. This is largely subjective and will vary between people according to their preferences. It is sensible to consider whether the academic challenge and continuous learning process in the context of assisting clients solve difficult and generally unwelcome problems outweighs the issues that are regularly identified as blights on the profession (e.g. unrealistic expectations, excessive workloads, poor “work-life balance”, negative mental health outcomes, and gender inequality). I do so not to gloss over these matters; to the contrary, it is wise to acknowledge and take them into account. Having made the subsequent and informed decision to seek work as a lawyer, I suggest positioning yourself as somebody that another lawyer would want on their own team, and not somebody that another lawyer would want on an opposing team. How much importance should be placed on extra-curricular activities, volunteering, and legal work experience? Quantification is difficult and possibly meaningless in the abstract. The more relevant factor is the quality of such activities, and the extent to which they may further your objectives. For instance, shadowing an eminent silk in a practice area of interest is likely to be perceived more favourably than spending twice the time volunteering for its own sake in other capacities. A useful indicator may be to assess whether the activity under consideration is consistent with the reputation that is sought to be built as a consequence of engaging in it. What skills do you think are essential for law students who are about to enter the legal profession, or who are currently applying for clerkships and graduate positions?
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The essential skills are the ability to think critically and dispassionately, as well as being a self-starter. As law entails persuasion in the context of competing arguments, the major value add is respectful and timely debate on the issues. The most helpful colleagues are those with whom constructive discussion is possible; within reason, and whilst being properly respectful of others’ experience, there is really very little utility in agreeing with the approach of superiors merely to project an image that you are pleasant, a team player, and easy to work with. Nobody has a monopoly on ideas, and so, in this context for example, explaining why you agree (rather than just indicating agreement) is the primary kind of assistance that emerging lawyers can provide. As to job applications, avoid generic narratives (e.g., “motivated and hardworking”) and superlatives (e.g., “highly organised”) that really say nothing. Those attributes are a part and parcel of graduating from a law school and (ought to be able) to be taken as read. Rather, tell the potential employer about what you have done instead (and can back up with tangible evidence). In view of its purpose, the latter is both more interesting and informative than the former. How would you rate the importance of professional mentoring both at university and in the workplace? Did you have a mentor when you were entering the profession, and if you did, what was the effect on your professional development? Mentoring is critically important, whether it is expressed to be mentoring or an incident of other interactions. Hearing first hand “the real story” from people that are currently working in the field is crucial to making the best decisions. However, to be effective, mentoring requires active participation by those being mentored. That said, never take any one person’s word on anything; instead, seek a range of opinions and make your own assessment based on these. Do you have any advice for students who are keen to increase their network of professional connections in the legal profession? First, be yourself. Lawyers are exposed regularly to the “stereotypical law graduate” and routine networking style it entails. The reality is that it is far more memorable to speak with somebody who is willing – within the ambit of social norms and appropriate behaviour – to share more unique or different aspects about themselves. For instance, one of my hobbies is archery. If you are not a wine aficionado or golf expert, do not pretend to be.
Secondly, at a networking event (whether expressed to be a networking event, or it is impliedly so) everybody understands the purpose for which you (and they) are there. As far as possible, refrain from making it obvious that you are “talking the talk” simply to try to influence somebody into hiring you or providing market intelligence. Thirdly, it is better to have a quality conversation and build rapport with a few people than to manoeuvre about the room to ensure that you superficially greet and speak to every single one. It is also distasteful to sidle in on a preexisting conversation and displace others in attempting to introduce yourself to everybody. By doing so you may also inadvertently give the impression that whoever you were speaking to immediately beforehand was dull (and it may be that he or she is the ultimate decision-maker or carries the influence). Do you believe that the legal industry appropriately responds to mental health issues that its members may experience? This is a complex topic. Personally, I have always found it useful to maintain a very close group of friends that are lawyers to be able to exchange feelings in this context. It would be difficult for me to be a lawyer in the longer term without such support. I am unable to sensibly generalise beyond my own experience but consider it worthwhile to emphasise three points. First, as an industry the subject of a statutory monopoly, the legal profession necessarily involves unique pressures. They include, but are not limited to: the adversarial nature of the common law legal system itself, the subject matter of the work, and assisting clients navigate the process and deal with the outcome (especially a negative outcome at first instance which is considered to be wrong but which the client lacks the funds to appeal). It is those unique pressures that create a very difficult environment and which are said to underpin the negative mental health outcomes reported. Secondly, as a matter of practical reality, and by reason of the above, there is no escaping that the legal profession involves high stakes, high pressure, and high risk. Thirdly, it follows that that there will inevitably be a limit as to what can be achieved by the profession to ameliorate same. In other words, excluding the usual vicissitudes of work, and all other things being equal, working as a lawyer is likely to be more challenging than other vocations in and of itself. On that basis, it is my view that the profession ought not be too strongly criticised on the basis it has failed its members because of a concomitantly higher incidence of negative mental health outcomes. Accordingly, it is trite (and of limited utility) to observe that employers should not add unduly to those burdens and that adopting various
policies and practices may assist minimise the difficulties and their consequences. It is also obvious that as businesses that profit from legal practice, law firms should be supportive of staff and consonant of the subject matter in which its workforce is engaged. However, the simple fact is that some difficulties are intractable. For instance, deadlines for work to be done are unlikely to be relaxed by courts (because delay is already seen as a problem because it limits access to the legal system) or clients (for commercial imperatives). Further, spreading the same volume of work amongst the same number of lawyers to make lives easier would also result in reduced earnings for individual lawyers. Without passing the buck on behalf of law firms, these matters should be borne in mind when contemplating the sufficiency or otherwise of the response of the profession to members’ well-being.
It is fairly clear that the numbers of men and How do you care for your mental health women are roughly equal at the graduate entry during some of the more confronting level in the legal profession. The numbers of cases you may be involved with? female law graduates are also equal (if not more) than male graduates. However, it is clear that men still hold most senior positions in the profession. I attempt to focus not on myself, but rather on Studies have also shown that men are often the solemnity of the matter and the importance promoted based on their potential, while women of the process and my function within it. I strive are often promoted based on their past success. to concentrate upon, and give emphasis to, the In your opinion, why is this, and what can job at hand, and not my personal reactions to it. young lawyers do to work towards solving the ‘leadership gap’ in the workplace? What can we Has your current workplace implemented do to increase the numbers of women at the top? strategies to foster mental and physical wellbeing in its employees? Insofar as the current statistics reflect past hiring practices, the reasons are historically-rooted, All staff keep a watch on each other. We also and the statistics fall to be interpreted in that celebrate our successes as a team. Whether or context. I am unable to usefully speculate as not doing so is explicitly stated to be part of a to the cogency or otherwise of the reasons for wellness platform is not the important bit. I would past hiring practices and data based thereon. not want anybody to think that legal practice gives rise to a horrific lifestyle. Further, to the contrary, However, I can observe that it appears that more there are wonderful moments, and it is far from “all women are gaining more senior roles. For example, doom and gloom”. But, some days are stressful. even during my career to date the composition of the High Court (and local courts have changed). Do you have any tips for current students The High Court now has a female Chief Justice regarding successful study techniques? (Kiefel CJ) and two female puisne Justices (Bell and Gordon JJ). In the Supreme Court of If at any particular point in time you are not in the South Australia, five of the 14 officers are female mood, take a break. If you find yourself never in (Vanstone, Kelly, Bampton, and Hughes JJ, and the mood, it is probably time to review whether Judge Bochner). The Chief Magistrate is female you have sufficient interest in the subject matter. as is the Attorney-General. Further, the Deans of Law at Flinders University, Adelaide University, and Donotcolourinthereadingmaterialswithhighlighter the University of South Australia, are also female. and circle every word. It achieves nothing. Skim read once, and go back again, attuned to the key Do you think that gender is ever a factor parts (having already taken in the broader ideas). when considering a job applicant? When drafting, know the concepts you The only rational approach is to hire the best wish to address before starting to type, or candidate. I think most people tend to attempt to spending time refining any particular passages. do this, even if on the basis of self-interest – nobody wants to allow an opponent to hire a better team Start assignments well before submission time by overlooking quality staff. There is no commercial to give yourself the chance to put the draft away imperative in seeing talent that you could have had for a while and come back with fresh perspective for yourself end up “across the road”. Further, in my after your mind is “out of the document”. experience, two people never present exactly equally Editing when you know exactly how in terms of the contribution they can make to the role the wording is supposed to read (and such that it is gender that tips the scales. Perhaps expect that it will, since you were the very the most that can sensibly be observed anecdotally clever person that wrote it) is ineffective. is that hiring practices are becoming more rational.
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Your Future: Legal Practice
I chose MinterEllison because of its emphasis on learning. There is a strong culture of knowledge-sharing and mentorship, which is particularly important for young lawyers. I find the people here are warm, knowledgeable and eager to teach.� Ann Wen Vacation Clerk
The world is full of relentless disruption. Now is the time to reimagine the future as we know it. The next generation of graduates will mark a change in closing the gap between who we are today and where we are headed to better meet market demands. More than ever, we need creative thinkers, innovators and agents of change.
The game has changed. Be part of it.
graduates.minterellison.com Your Future: Legal Practice
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Succeeding as a junior corporate lawyer: Avoiding traps for young players Authored by Nic Camac, MinterEllison
Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice (First Class Honours) (University Medal), Bachelor of International Studies (International Relations; Asian Studies)
As law students, we are taught that our interpretation and analysis of the law is paramount. It is. This is the ‘bread and butter’ of a good lawyer. However, the practice of corporate law demands so many other skills, many of which are not always honed at law school. I thought I would take the opportunity here to provide some brief tips on how to succeed as a new corporate lawyer. Develop your business acumen now
Treat your supervisor as your client
Always try to ‘read the play’
One skill that will make you stand out early is your business acumen. If you have a particular interest in an area of law, do some research now to learn about the major companies that operate in that space. Learn about the people behind those companies, and what the commercial drivers of these companies are. This is because the role of a corporate lawyer in 2019 is far more than just the provision of high-level legal advice. You need to be able to present legal and commercial solutions to problems.
I once completed a summer clerkship at a mid-tier corporate firm where I met a tremendous junior lawyer. He gave me the following advice, ‘treat your supervisor as your client’. As a junior lawyer, you may not always have a great deal of contact with clients. However, you will always have supervisors that assign tasks to you. You should treat this person as your client.
When I was younger, my dad would tell me to ‘read the play’. What he meant was that it is important to interpret what the person asking something of you is really asking for.
There are a number of ways that you can develop your business acumen while at law school. Read industry and current affairs publications. The Australian Financial Review is a good source of information about current affairs in the corporate world. You can also sign up to receive industry alerts on many industry association websites. Go to industry events (many associations offered heavily discounted membership rates for students) where you can hear from industry players and start to building your professional network. As the practice of law becomes more and more about servicing your client’s need in a commercial context as well as a legal context, getting started on your business acumen early will place you in a great position to succeed after graduation.
This is where all of your ‘soft skills’ come into play. You should establish effective communication pathways. Always keep them informed if your task is taking longer than expected. Ask as many questions as appropriate at the time you are given instructions (it is always better to ask questions up front than to go back several times with more questions). Offer to assist in other areas wherever you can (you should aim to be a resource for your supervisor and to help make their life easier). If you get into the habit of treating your supervisor as your client, you will be well prepared for establishing and maintaining client relationships in the future.
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In law, this skill is critical when dealing with clients and your supervisor. Your instructions may not always be clear. While you should certainly ask any questions you may have, what you should also aim to do is to be proactive. You should present solutions to your client or supervisor, not additional problems. This can mean taking the initiative to ask others within the firm who may have expertise in a different area for help. It can also mean doing some extra research to discover if the identified problem can be resolved under an existing statutory mechanism. Ultimately, as a junior corporate lawyer, the more initiative and interest you show in solving problems, the better. On a final note, the practice of law is very different to law school. Those who take the time to work on their business acumen, to establish strong professional working relationships with their colleagues and supervisors, and who demonstrate initiative in solving problems (both legal and commercial) will set a positive early impression.
Your Future: Legal Practice
An Interview with Rebecca Yorston Special Counsel, Lipman Karas
Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice, Bachelor of Arts (History & Politics)
I did not have a professional mentor when I entered the profession, but upon commencing as a graduate I was informally mentored by the great team I worked within. Whilst I was not allocated a formal mentor (nor did I seek to find one), the relationships and guidance I received during the early years of my career have proven invaluable.
health throughout their careers, not just during difficult or very busy times. Day to day habits will ensure you can cope with the more challenging moments. There will be times where you may feel you have a poor work life balance, and take care to ensure that lack of balance is not a permanent feature of your everyday working life.
The importance of forming strong relationships with your peers is also incredibly important, and those relationships can be the difference between feeling part of a team and supported, or feeling isolated and that you may be floundering.
That being said, being a lawyer is a demanding role and new lawyers should be prepared for periods of long hours. Ensure that during the quieter times you take time out for yourself to recharge your batteries.
Do you have any advice for students who are keen to increase their network of professional connections in the legal profession? Tell us about your career journey so far Upon admittance in 2006 I commenced as a solicitor at DMAW Lawyers, in the insolvency & commercial disputes team. In 2011, I moved to Melbourne and commenced as a Senior Associate at Mills Oakley Lawyers, also in the insolvency & commercial disputes team. In 2013, I moved to Hong Kong and commenced as a Senior Associate in the Hong Kong office of Lipman Karas. In 2017, I was promoted to Special Counsel at Lipman Karas. I currently work from the Adelaide office of Lipman Karas. What work have you been doing at Lipman Karas? I’ve worked on a variety of complex disputes in Asia and Australia, including both commercial litigation and arbitration. The disputes have involved issues of company law, audit and professional negligence and director liability, as well as contract and construction disputes. How would you rate the importance of professional mentoring both at university and in the workplace? Did you have a mentor when you were entering the profession, and if you did, what was the effect on your professional development?
Your Future: Legal Practice
If you’re looking to further your connections, or looking for a career mentor while you are still at university, I would look for opportunities to build relationships with new/young lawyers (1–3 PQE for example) you may have met while on clerkships or through law school presentations etc. Your efforts are more likely to bear fruit through naturally engaging with people you’ve met rather than seeking to force a relationship. Like life generally, find people you genuinely get along with and focus on those relationships. What skills do you think are essential for law students who are about to enter the legal profession, or who are currently applying for clerkships and graduate positions? Resilience & persistence – It is difficult to obtain clerkships and graduate positions, but keep at it. Further, your resilience and persistence will serve you well once you obtain a graduate position. Life as a lawyer is challenging and rewarding, but it is very different to studying law. How do you care for your mental health during some of the more confronting cases you may be involved with? Lawyers need to care for their mental
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Has your current workplace implemented strategies to foster mental and physical wellbeing in its employees? Yes – we participate in a large range of wellbeing exercises ranging from structured seminars on mental wellbeing to physical activities such as fun runs, lawn bowls and corporate triathlons. We also are lucky enough to have an abundance of fruit and other healthy snacks! In addition, we have regular social events that are not focused on ‘wellbeing’ but promote building strong relationships within the firm such as Friday night drinks, Fringe or Art Gallery events or involvement with broader community events. We also have formal mentors and peer buddies allocated to ensure everyone has someone to turn to. What healthy habits should students begin to develop that would assist them in a stressful work environment? Learn to recognise the difference between good stress (i.e. something that is challenging you due to it being a new or difficult task), or bad stress (i.e you continually having too much work to do over a long period of time and it impacting your mental health). Sometimes you can produce amazing work under “good stress”. Also learn when you need to stop and take a deep breathe or simply get up from your desk and get a cup of tea!
International Humanitarian Law in Action Authored by Heath McCallum, Legal Action Worldwide Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice (Honours), Bachelor of International Studies (International Relations)
I’m currently the Legal Advisor (Africa) for Legal Action Worldwide – a small, global NGO which specialises in legal responses to sexual and genderbased violence, access to justice, and accountability. I’m based in Nairobi, Kenya, but mostly work on Somalia and South Sudan, focusing on human rights and international humanitarian law. I’ve been in this role for almost a year and really enjoy the work. Somalia is a fascinating and complex country with many challenges, mostly stemming from the fact it has been a failed or very weak state for most of the past twenty years. The laws are a mix of colonial era Italian legislation and Sharia or customary Islamic law which is used to resolve most disputes in the community (particularly criminal or land issues). Security is a major challenge in Somalia. Al-Shabaab still controls vast swathes of rural Somalia, and regularly carries out attacks in Mogadishu and, less frequently, other East African countries. When I visit Mogadishu, I’m confined to the African Union peacekeepercontrolled airport compound in which most major NGOs, the UN, and embassies are based. In order to leave this area, we need an armed and armoured escort as the risk of kidnapping is high for foreigners. This obviously limits the work I can do in Somalia, and a lot of the actual implementation needs to be done by Somali partners – I go there to meet with our implementing partner, train our paralegals or other staff, or meet with government officials and donors. Before Kenya, I was based in Malawi as a Program Lawyer for Irish Rule of Law International. I was seconded to the Malawi Police Service and based at a police station in Lilongwe, the capital. I advised on prosecutions, monitored due process rights for detainees, and particularly worked with police officers to ensure children who were arrested were treated according to the (excellent)
child protection legislation. This involved daily monitoring of the police holding cells, mentoring the police officers, and running training programs on child protection. As my first overseas development role, it was a wonderful learning experience. Malawi has different challenges to my current role – it is one of the poorest countries in the world and has very limited resources. I could get a street kid who had been arrested released, but if they were simply to return to the streets, that wasn’t really acceptable, and the police often didn’t have enough vehicles (or petrol in the vehicles) to transport the kid to one of the few temporary safe homes. Before Malawi, I was worked in international humanitarian law at Australian Red Cross in Canberra. I focused on government advocacy and training on IHL issues, such as nuclear weapons and the protection of civilians. If you’re interested in human rights, international criminal, or international humanitarian law, there are plenty of great jobs out there and my best advice for anyone wanting to pursue an international career is to start thinking about it early. It’s not easy to break into the field but is very rewarding once you do. Start LinkedIn stalking people and check job websites for cool jobs (start with Devex, Devnet, and Impact Pool). Look at the requirements and start building your experiences to meet them. Better yet, find someone who can act as a career mentor for you – an academic, someone through the careers centre, a family friend, or even just email someone out of the blue. Most people will be more than happy to help. I got my first post-university job at Australian Red Cross because I’d been volunteering extensively with the organisation for years beforehand in emergency response, monitoring
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immigration detention centres, and in governance roles. I’d also done plenty of volunteering with FLSA, ALSA, and other organisations. It’s not just about CV-filling though – it’s about showing you are job-ready and have already developed career interests. Specifically for international roles, it’s vital to be able to show that you can ‘hack it’ in a developing country. I’m asked in every interview to give examples to prove I’m not just going to arrive, whinge about the power cuts, bad roads, and lack of nice wine and leave in a couple of months. It’s the same with other skills on job ads - you can’t just say you possess them, you need to have experiences that prove that you do. There’s no well-trodden path to an international career but there are a few general rules. 1. You’ll need to have a Masters in your early/mid-career so think about it now. 2. Languages are always useful but it depends on where you want to work – I’ve managed so far without a second fluent language but am planning six months off to get my French up to par soon. 3. Finally, you need to be fascinated with the way the world works to excel in international aid and development. I’ve started every day with an hour reading the international news for years. International law isn’t black and white reading of cases and legislation – it’s a living beast that reflects the world we live in. If you’re not all over Brexit, the Rohingya crisis, and the geopolitics of the Syrian war, you need to be. There are tons of great apps, podcasts, and news services – start off reading Al Jazeera, listening to the BBC world service, and setting up some Google alerts in a few things that interest you. Also, do the Jessup moot!
Your Future: Legal Practice
An Interview with Sarah Dunn Lawyer, DMAW Lawyers
Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice (with Distinction), Bachelor of International Studies
Tell us about your career journey so far I am a lawyer at DMAW Lawyers in the Dispute Resolution and Risk Management team. I commenced at DMAW Lawyers in 2016 and worked part-time while I completed my GDLP. I commenced full-time employment at DMAW Lawyers when I was admitted as a solicitor to the Supreme Court of South Australia in February 2017. I assist on a variety of contractual and corporate disputes. I also advise on matters relating to competition and consumer law, corporate insolvency, debt recovery and financial services and superannuation. What advice do you have for students who would like to enter the legal profession, particularly regarding the oversupply of graduates and the reduced graduate intake in firms that run clerkships and graduate programs? A law degree doesn’t guarantee that you’ll have a career in law, but it does provide you with a range of practical and academic skills that can be used across a range of disciplines and careers. Consider other career opportunities including: • Boutique, suburban or rural law firms • Graduate programs or internships • Judge’s Associate • Government roles (e.g. AttorneyGeneral’s Department, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission) • Not-for-profit / charities sector • Banking / finance sector • Volunteer or pro bono work (e.g. Legal Services Commission, JusticeNet or a community legal centre) • Academia / post-graduate study
Your Future: Legal Practice
How much importance should be placed on extra-curricular activities, volunteering, and legal work experience?
of the knowledge and skills junior
Employers are looking at more than just your law degree nowadays. Extracurricular activities, volunteering and (paid and unpaid) legal work experience are important for your job application, as they demonstrate important transferable skills (such as time management or leadership). These are the skills that employers are looking for you to bring into the workplace. Extra-curricular activities should be relevant to the legal profession or something which you are passionate about. When completing your resume and cover letter, it is advisable to include information about the skills and knowledge which you’ve gained as a result of your extracurricular activities. What skills do you think are essential for law students who are about to enter the legal profession, or who are currently applying for clerkships and graduate positions? • • • •
Strong work ethic. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Commercial awareness. Ability to understand what the client wants.
lawyers can learn from mentors, but also because mentoring provides professional networking opportunities and personal support. Mentoring doesn’t have to be facilitated through a long-term or formal mentoring program. Mentoring can be a casual catch-up over coffee once a year to discuss the progression of your respective careers. Do you have any advice for students who are keen to increase their network of professional connections in the legal profession?
How would you rate the importance of professional mentoring both at university and in the workplace?
Be visible in person - attend events, such as those hosted by the Law Society of South Australia and JusticeNet.
Mentoring is extremely important, both during university and in the legal profession. I have been fortunate to have had several mentors since joining the profession and they have had a significant impact on my professional development. Mentoring is important, not only because
Be visible online - create and maintain a LinkedIn profile. Follow up with the people you connect with online. If you come home with a few business cards, make sure to connect with them on LinkedIn and send them a message letting the person know that it was good to meet them.
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Do you believe that the legal industry appropriately responds to mental health issues that its members may experience?
What strategies do you have for managing your time, workload and possible stress levels when your work becomes hectic?
Ask for help – get together with your fellow students and form a study group. Chances are, if you’re finding something difficult, they are too!
Lawyers consistently rate in the top occupations with the highest prevalence of mental health problems. The way that the legal industry responds to mental health issues varies greatly and is (in my view) a highly prevalent issue.
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I believe that the more lawyers can be encouraged to talk openly about mental health, the quicker and more effectively the stigma will be reduced. Lawyers should feel comfortable seeking professional help for any mental health issues, including alcohol and substance abuse.
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It is fairly clear that the numbers of men and women are roughly equal at the graduate entry level in the legal profession. The numbers of female law graduates are also equal (if not more) than male graduates. However, it is clear that men still hold most senior positions in the profession. Studies have also shown that men are often promoted based on their potential, while women are often promoted based on their past success. In your opinion, why is this, and what can young lawyers do to work towards solving the ‘leadership gap’ in the workplace? What can we do to increase the numbers of women at the top?
A large number of law firms have signed up to the best practice guidelines introduced by the Tristan Jepson Memorial Foundation (now Minds Count). The charity was established in 2004 after the suicide of a young lawyer. The charity’s objective is to decrease work related mental health issues in the legal community and to promote workplace psychological health and safety. For further information about the guidelines, please visit https:// mindscount.org/ Has your current workplace implemented strategies to foster mental and physical wellbeing in its employees? DMAW Lawyers has engaged an Employee Assistance Provider (EAP) to provide counselling services to staff members. The aim is to provide preventative and proactive interventions for the early detection, identification and resolution of both work and personal problems which may adversely affect performance and wellbeing. In my view, this is an excellent and proactive way to maintain good mental health and wellbeing.
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Determine priorities – Make a list of the work which needs to be completed urgently, complete that work, and then move onto the less urgent tasks. Avoid scheduling after-hour meetings. Disconnect from technology – Set aside a time at home during which you will not check or respond to workrelated emails or voice messages. Take care of your emotional and physical health – eat healthy, exercise and sleep at least 7 hours per night. Know when to ask for help – if you are feeling overwhelmed at work, speak to someone, whether that be your supervisor, human resources manager or a friend.
What healthy habits should students begin to develop that would assist them in a stressful work environment? • • • • • •
Bring your own (healthy) lunch to work. Keep a healthy snack at your desk. Take regular short breaks. Stand up at your desk and stretch. Drink lots of water. Get some fresh air during your lunch break / go for a short walk.
Do you have any tips for current students regarding successful study techniques? Find your best time to study – some people study better in the morning, whilst other people study better at night. Study at a time which suits you. Take regular breaks whilst studying and do something active during those breaks.
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Law firms and law societies need to increase their efforts to boost the number of women in leadership positions. This can be achieved by: • Being committed to achieving gender diversity at the top of the firm (e.g. by introducing key performance indicators (KPIs) centred on promoting women). • Increasing mentoring opportunities for women lawyers. • Introducing and encouraging flexible, part-time and job sharing work arrangements. Importantly, law firms should not only promote flexible and remote work practices across all levels of seniority, but should also ensure that lawyers working flexibly continue to receive interesting, challenging and high quality legal work. • Making the criteria and process for partnership clear and transparent and communicate it to lawyers.
Your Future: Legal Practice
How to survive your first year in the office Authored by Alexandra Douvartzidis, HWL Ebsworth Lawyers Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice, Bachelor of Behavioural Sciences (Psychology)
Adjusting to a new office environment can be a challenging experience. Whilst everyone’s office environment is unique, that’s not to say there aren’t similarities either. I’ve put together some basic tips for surviving your first year in the office, based on my experiences. Tip # 1 – Be Prepared
Tip #3 – Feedback and Seeking Help
Tip # 5 –Self-Care
As an example, whenever you visit someone’s office, always bring a notebook. You never know if a two-minute conversation is going to turn into a new task. Being prepared is important, and you don’t want to miss out on key points. This also goes for attending meetings or Court – always take notes.
Don’t be scared to ask for feedback. This is about your development. Your superiors know that you are still learning (and will be for quite some time), and they are there to help you. It’s okay to make mistakes, and don’t be frightened by a bit of constructive criticism. Remember: they were once where you are now, and they want you to succeed (or they wouldn’t have hired you).
Working overtime happens, but don’t force yourself to work until 2am every day to ‘prove’ you’re committed. You’re not a robot and you need to look after yourself. If you’re not at your best, your work won’t be either. Be realistic about what you can achieve, and what the firm expects of you. A good workplace won’t want you to give up your entire life.
Sometimes you might find yourself in a position where you’re not entirely sure how to complete a task, or maybe you’ve hit a mental roadblock – and that’s okay! It’s completely normal to seek help or clarification on a task. Trust me, they’ll be thankful you didn’t waste hours trying to guess your way through instead.
Tip #6 – Keeping Track
Tip #2 – Use Initiative Don’t wait for the work to come to you. Try to gauge at the start of each week (or daily) what your capacity is, and reach out to your superiors. Similarly, if you find yourself working on a discrete task for a matter, don’t be scared to follow up on your work, or to offer to complete more tasks that you know need completing. For example, if you are copied into emails where tasks are being discussed, put your hand up to help. Take the time to talk to your superiors about undertaking challenging tasks. They understand that your work won’t be perfect, but what will make you stand out is demonstrating some initiative and a desire to be challenged.
Your Future: Legal Practice
Tip #4 – Socialise It’s important to get to know your team and build positive working relationships. For example, if your work has a social sports team or runs social events, participate or attend them. If social sports and events aren’t your thing, think of other ways to get to know the people you’ll be spending Monday to Friday with; such as regular catch-up coffees, or lunches.
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If you get good feedback, note it down or print it off, and keep it in a folder. Creating a folder of your achievements is a helpful way of tracking your development, and will assist in preparation of work reviews. Not to mention, it also serves as a good way to reflect on how far you’ve come throughout your early stages of your career.
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Your Future: Legal Practice
An Interview with Rebecca Sandford Special Counsel, HWL Ebsworth Lawyers
Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice (Honours), Bachelor of Commerce (Finance), Master of Laws (Applied Law) (Commercial Litigation) Firstly, don’t be disheartened if it doesn’t happen straight away - the reasons why you may or may not get a role can be varied and sometimes it just comes down to how you ‘fit’ with the existing firm culture, and is therefore not necessarily a reflection on you or your ability.
Flinders was close to home and also had, in my view, the best academic program. I was particularly drawn to the PLT program being included in the degree so I didn’t need to separately undertake my GDLP - that was a big drawcard. I also really liked that the degree incorporated practical skills throughout as I believed that approach would be more beneficial to me as a student and also be of greater interest to potential employers. What is the best piece of advice that you could give to students studying law right now? That it’s a marathon, not a sprint, and taking a bit of time along the way to explore and also just to rest can be really beneficial. I took a semester off about 2/3rds of the way through my degree and lived overseas for a while - when I came back I was refreshed and inspired to finish strong with my degree. I would also suggest practicing expressing difficult and complex concepts in concise and easy to understand ways, as that is an extremely useful skill that is unfortunately rarer than it should be! Tell us about your career journey so far I am currently a Special Counsel in the litigation team at HWL Ebsworth Lawyers in Adelaide, with a practice focusing on intellectual property law, media law (including defamation), and competition/consumer law, as well as general commercial litigation. I have a very diverse practice which I really enjoy. Prior to my current role I worked in the litigation team at DMAW Lawyers, where my practice was also in general commercial litigation but with more of a focus on energy and resources law, and building and construction disputes. What was the most challenging part of entering the workforce? Getting used to the hours and the mental load of doing something new every day - I think it took me at least 6 months before I could do anything much more than work, eat and sleep. You do acclimate though, so my advice is just to be kind to yourself and let your body take rest where it needs to in the first year or so in particular! What advice do you have for students who would like to enter the legal profession, particularly regarding the oversupply of graduates?
Do you believe that the legal industry appropriately responds to mental health issues that its members may experience?
Thirdly, getting the basic stuff right is really important, and this starts from the application process - it should go without saying but you’d be surprised how many applications are still riddled with spelling errors and other basic mistakes! Demonstrating that attention to detail for the things we expect you to know and get right is a great first step.
I think it’s getting better, although there is still a long way to go, especially given the disproportionate rates at which lawyers are affected by mental health issues when compared with other population groups. Recent steps taken to de-stigmatise mental health issues in the profession locally have really assisted with this - there are some great resources that have been developed by the Law Society’s Wellbeing and Resilience Committee over the last year or two, which I strongly recommend.It will be really important for future generations of lawyers and legal leaders to continue these conversations though.
How much importance should be placed on extra-curricular activities, volunteering, and legal work experience?
How do you care for your mental health during some of the more confronting cases you may be involved with?
All of those things are important, as firms always want to see that the person they are bringing in to join the team is a well-rounded individual who is capable of balancing competing priorities. However I would also say that grades do remain important so there does need to be balance extra-curricular activities should not be at the expense of developing good academic work practices. Also, whilst legal work experience is good, it isn’t always critical - any work experience or volunteer experience in any field can be beneficial. I was a swimming instructor for 8 years before I came to the law and that taught me a lot of useful (and surprisingly transferrable!) skills - anything where you’re working with people is great, as law is and always has been a service industry first and foremost and demonstrating you can work well with others (colleagues and clients both) is key.
I have a strong support network both within and outside of the law, and I rely on them to keep me grounded and remind me that there is more to life than work and the challenges I may be facing there. I exercise and mediate often (I’d like to say daily but that’s a work in progress!) and I also seek professional assistance from a great therapist on a regular basis, which is something I think is really important to do. I consider it this way - we work out to build our physical strength and capacity, and therapy is a bit like going to the gym for your mind. It allows you to build skills and strategies to deal with stressful times, and no matter what area of the law you work in, the environment can be quite stressful in a number of very unique ways - having a healthy outlet for those emotions can help prevent larger problems developing down the track, and hopefully ensure longevity and ongoing enjoyment in what can be a really rewarding career.
How would you rate the importance of professional mentoring both at university and in the workplace?
Has your current workplace implemented strategies to foster mental and physical wellbeing in its employees?
I have had a number of mentors throughout my career so far and have also acted as a mentor to others. I have found my mentors to be extremely helpful, especially when it comes to working out where I am getting stuck and what I can do to change that. The one thing I will say about mentoring though is that as the mentee, you get out what you put in, and you have to do the work - mentoring won’t work if you just expect your mentor to ‘fix’ your problem, but if you put in the work to identify what you need the mentor to help you with, and actually do the things they recommend you try, you will get a lot further and the experience will be much more beneficial.
Yes, HWL Ebsworth has an Employee Assistance Program and also promotes “effectiveness in life” which includes having a good work-life balance. We have social sports teams, and staff are supported in their extra-curricular pursuits. We have a culture which encourages honesty and courage, and fosters self-examination and accountability - this can lead to some tough conversations at times, but in my experience this is done in a respectful way, and makes it easier to understand where you stand and what is required of you (all of which promotes better mental wellbeing in the work environment).
Secondly, be open to alternative experiences often, getting your foot in the door and getting some experience is the hardest step, and it can be easier to move sideways once you’re in.
What inspired you to study law at Flinders?
can also be really helpful.
Do you have any advice for students who are keen to increase their network of professional connections in the legal profession? Come to events and get to know people! Get comfortable with talking to people and do so with no expectations other than building your own skills in dealing with people. Most lawyers - myself included - are happy to do what they can (within reason) to help people who are enthusiastic about managing their own careers, and getting out there and making an effort demonstrates that enthusiasm. Joining professional groups such as the Law Society and in particular, taking advantage of the young lawyer event to connect with peers in the industry
What healthy habits should students begin to develop that would assist them in a stressful work environment? It’s an old cliché but it exists for a reason - eat well, rest often, exercise regularly, make the effort to maintain social connections. Build those habits and maintain them - of course that doesn’t mean going to the pub when there is a deadline looming, but work will always be there, so you really need to prioritise looking after yourself by making time to exercise, rest and socialise. It can feel counterintuitive to take that time to do so when things are busy, but I consistently find I am much more effective as a lawyer (and just as a human being!) when I am well rested, eating healthy food and exercising regularly.
An Interview with Bimaya De Silva Associate, Lipman Karas
Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice (Honours), Bachelor of Arts What inspired you to study law at Flinders? My decision to study law at Flinders was based upon its practical approach to legal education. I was drawn towards the unique opportunities available, such as the incorporation of legal practice into the curriculum, and the separate stream for Honours students. What is the best piece of advice that you could give to students studying law right now? Be aware of all the opportunities available to you while at university and make the most of these. By embracing life at Flinders, you will make many amazing memories, that will also expand your skill set. These skills are what will eventually set you apart when it comes to applying for clerkships and graduate positions. For example, when I chose to study International Litigation and Arbitration abroad at Michigan State University College of Law, I had no idea that my exchange elective would ultimately lead me to the area of law I now practice in today. Exchange now is not only one of my most treasured memories, it is also one of the reasons why I got to land my dream job. This could be you too. Tell us about your career journey so far Currently, I am an Associate at Lipman Karas. I work on a number of large-scale international, interstate and local insolvency matters, arising from acts of corporate fraud and / or professional negligence. I also assist in advising applicants involved in the JusticeNet Refugee and Asylum Seeker Project through our Community Portfolio. In addition, I am an active member of the Women Lawyers’ Association of South Australia and the SA Law Society’s Young Lawyers’ Committee, where I largely help to organise legal networking events. Prior to completing my studies, I was very fortunate to gain experience both in civil and public law. In my third year at Flinders, I had the opportunity to carry out work experience at Cowell Clarke in litigation and ADR. Later that year, I completed a clerkship at Fisher Jeffries, where I worked in commercial litigation (mainly employment law). I continued to work in the commercial litigation team (in real property and corporate insolvency) during my fourth year of study. I then completed a summer clerkship and my practical legal training in the Crown Counsel Section at the Crown Solicitor’s Office, where
I was open to a number of public and civil law disputes. Later that year, I continued to work as a research assistant to Mr Chad Jacobi at Edmund Barton Chambers and Thomson Reuters until I commenced my clerkship at Lipman Karas, where I worked in the area of law I now practice in today. How much importance should be placed on extra-curricular activities, volunteering, and legal work experience? I found volunteering and community involvement also played a major part in my pathway to graduate employment. Throughout my time at Flinders, I was actively involved in the Flinders Law Students Association, the Flinders First Year Law Mentoring Program, and the Flinders Legal Advice Clinic. The latter, in particular, provided me with great insight into legal practice. Students need the exposure to the outside world as it is the practical experience that you gain, as a young professional, which will define your future. In addition to clerkships and volunteering, I found competitions such as mooting, client interview, negotiation and witness examination highly valuable practical experience. Do you have any advice for students who are keen to increase their network of professional connections in the legal profession? First, get LinkedIn. This is the platform you should be using to maintain your professional networks (not Facebook!). Once you’re on LinkedIn, make sure to follow all the major law firms in Adelaide, as well as the Law Society and the Women Lawyer’s Association of South Australia. These associations organise regular networking events for those in the legal profession to attend, which are generally open to students too. Ensure that when you do attend such events, that you introduce yourself and try to make at least 3 new contacts. This can also be done when attending the Careers Fair. Once you have made these new connections, ensure that you add them on LinkedIn to maintain these connections. Second, don’t forget about the friends you make at Flinders, because at the end of the day when you all graduate you will all be each other’s network of professional connections.
Has your current workplace implemented strategies to foster mental and physical wellbeing in its employees? Yes. I am very fortunate to belong to a firm that prides itself on the welfare of its employees. We hold regular wellbeing workshops that focus on how to manage stress and improve our overall health through the practice of mindfulness. We host morning teas, weekly Friday night drinks and other social events that bring us together and take us out of the work mindset. We also participate in events such as JusticeNet’s Walk for Justice, Corporate Cup and City to Bay as a means to have fun while maintaining our physical wellbeing. What strategies do you have for managing your time, workload and possible stress levels when your work becomes hectic? I find some sort of fitness necessary to relieve my stress levels and clear my head. Yoga or cardio work best for me! What healthy habits should students begin to develop that would assist them in a stressful work environment? Organisation is key to a sane life. I suggest setting out your workload for the week, in addition to your extracurricular activities, as a means to break down your day and allocate time for yourself, your family, your friends and your studies. This way you can’t feel too guilty about taking an hour out of your day to do something you love because you know you will be dedicating the next few hours to prepare for your next tutorial or group assignment. I also encourage you to set out a monthly planner, particularly so you are aware of large deadlines well in advance. It doesn’t have to be all about study, you can include events such as the law ball to look forward to too!
YOUR FUTURE:
Beyond Legal Practice
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Your Future: Beyond Legal Practice
Preparing for the Future of Law Authored by Barbara Vrettos, The Legal Forecast Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice (Honours), Bachelor of Justice and Society (Criminology)
My perception of the legal profession from starting my degree until now – six years down the track – has drastically changed. Flinders University is so unique in its capacity not to just teach a series of topics in a vacuum but to give students a wholistic understanding of what profession they are stepping into. The pressures of innovation, technology and disruption are causing a wave of change over the legal profession. This is certainly not what I anticipated to learn after enrolling in my degree, but it has shown me what a crucial time it is to be learning the practice of law and becoming a legally literate leader. Perhaps one of the most crucial catalysts for the change in the legal profession is the competition arising to provide legal services. No longer is information about the law the exclusive domain of lawyers; increasingly technology is making access to information – and access to justice – more accessible. There is also a distribution of who is providing legal services with a new class of legal service providers such as the Big
Your Future: Beyond Legal Practice
4 professional services firms. This creates a whole host of new demands on lawyers to learn to leverage technology to provide more cost effective services. These demands are driving; how clients are expecting services, how technology is allowing lawyers to deliver services, and how traditional services are challenged. This creates new expectations of lawyers to no longer just know the law but become a legally literate leader – understanding competition and project management to meet consumer needs. Flinders Law has opened my eyes to these changes and sparked my curiosity of what the future looks like as a law graduate. This curiosity also led me to the national association, The Legal Forecast, which creates a space for students across Australia to discuss the changes that innovation and disruption can have. In particular, discussion surrounds how professionals can use technology as a tool to enhance the delivery of legal services. From our launch in Adelaide in October 2018, I have been amazed by the demand
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from both students and legal professionals to discuss change. All the change in the profession is often cast as daunting. However, as technology automates routine tasks and allows us to leverage relevant information – faster – I think it is truly an exciting time for legal graduates. Law graduates will likely be exposed to more value – add tasks, relationship building, empathy, creativity, critical reasoning, and collaborative multidisciplinary working far earlier in their careers. Young professionals may focus beyond researching and towards learning to ask better questions which can then be analysed by the many aiding technologies. I am so grateful to Flinders for opening my eyes to the new career opportunities for lawyers in an increasingly agile workforce and while no one can predict exactly what the future will look like I look forward to what’s to come.
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Your Future: Beyond Legal Practice
Alternative Dispute Resolution Getting out of the Courtroom
It is no secret that litigation can be lengthy, costly and risky. Fortunately there are many options outside of the adversarial courts system that people can use as avenues to resolve disputes.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is an umbrella term, given to the process by which an independent qualified person assists disputing parties to reach a resolution or settlement. There are three primary categories of ADR; facilitative, advisory, and determinative. Facilitative ADR requires the assistance of an ADR practitioner to identify the contested issues and provide options and alternatives to encourage an agreement. Mediation, conciliation, facilitation and facilitated negotiation are all facilitative processes of ADR. Advisory ADR is where a dispute resolution practitioner advises the parties on the law and factual matters, again, with the aim to achieve a resolution. Conciliation is an example of an advisory process. Determinative ADR might involve a formal evidence hearing with the objective of making a determination. An example of this determinative process is arbitration.
Benefits
lawyers encourage participation in ADR to reduce the costs to clients. Additionally the flexibility of ADR can be found in the fact that parties can elect the process they deem appropriate and also elect to choose the ADR practitioner. Unlike court hearings and court decisions which are published and available to the public, ADR is usually private and confidential. This confidentiality and not being obliged to seek the assistance of a legal practitioner (thus lowering litigation costs) are both incentives for disputing parties to use ADR. ADR is often considered less threatening to participants. Legal rights are given prime attention in courts and tribunals, but in ADR parties can raise their own interests and concerns. The process of ADR is less formal than in courts and tribunals and chances of success are higher than in said traditional processes.
Mediation
Mediation is renowned for its informal nature in helping and encouraging parties to solve their issues without the interference of the courts. Mediation aims not to deliver judgements but rather to assist the parties to reach a settlement. As a mediator you will cater for both parties by being a neutral third person.
Arbitration
Arbitration is the process where two or more parties refer their dispute to an independent third party who then makes a binding decision. IAMA again offers a Professional Certificate in Arbitration. See their website for details.
Experience
For experience whilst at law school, students should consider an internship or relevant volunteer work. The Southern Community Justice Centre, the South Australian Mediation Services, and the Mediation Office all offer volunteering positions. Students are also encouraged to undertake topic LLAW3241 Dispute Management, taught by Dr Rhain Buth, and participate in the two ADR based competitions offered by the Flinders Law Students’ Association: Negotiation and Meditation. The legal practitioner who practices ADR can expect to find the activity fulfilling and satisfying as ADR is a highly successful alternative to traditional processes. The ADR practitioner can be assured that the client has been spared the often stressful court procedure and had also saved time and money on lengthy legal processes.
Within courts and tribunals the disputing parties are precluded from controlling the process whereas the ADR process gives the parties more control over the outcome of the process. ADR is a flexible and practical tool and it aims to resolve parties’ disputes in a cost effective way. Many
Your Future: Beyond Legal Practice
To become a mediator you need to complete an accredited Certificate in Mediation. LEADR & IAMA, recognised under the National Mediator Accreditation System (NMAS), are one institution that offers this services. For information on LEADR & IAMA’s certificate see their website: http://www.leadriama.org/ training/mediation-training
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Academia An interview with Scholarly Fellow and Lecturer, Samantha Kontra Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice (Honours), Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)
What inspired you to study law at Flinders?
What was the most challenging part of entering the workforce?
Flinders was the only university to integrate PLT into the degree, and the only uni to offer me the change to study psych and law simultaneously (I was fairly convinced that I wanted to be a forensic psychologist…at the time!)
Adjusting to full time hours that had to be worked between set times. While studying I worked several jobs, but was able to adjust my work and study schedule into times that suited me. Starting full-time legal employment as part of placement meant working 9am-6pm every day and adapting to this was difficult!
What was your favourite and least favourite aspect of the degree? My favourite part of the degree was the integration of practical skills into the curriculum – it made the degree more realistic and pushed us to start developing our skillset much earlier than other law degrees. I didn’t like that lectures weren’t recorded, particularly since there was a habit of scheduling law lectures from 3pm5pm. What is the best piece of advice that you could give to students studying law right now? Enjoy your time at uni. It is a fantastic opportunity – embrace it and don’t rush your studies. Engage in co-curricular activities (e.g. FLSA skills development exercises), join clubs, play sport – get involved and really take the time to learn! If you could have your time back at University, would you do anything differently? Get more involved, and ask more questions. It took me a long time to realise that lecturers were approachable, friendly and happy to answer my questions. It also took me a while to find my feet – though I found that joining FLSA at the end of my second year helped me feel more established. Tell us about your career journey so far After finishing my law and behavioural science degrees I decided to take on further study (a PhD, at Flinders Law). I have been studying part time, while working full time teaching. I have taught privately, with primary, secondary and tertiary students. I have also taught in other programs as well, including French (to primary school children) and Law and Ethics to nursing/midwifery/paramedic students. I am currently the Director of First Year Studies at Flinders Law.
How much importance should be placed on extra-curricular activities, volunteering, and legal work experience? In my view, this enriches the law degree ten-fold, allowing students greater insight into themselves as a person, and potential career avenues. What skills do you think are essential for law students who are currently applying for clerkships or graduate positions? Law students should showcase their experiences, and their written and oral communication skills (when addressing selection criteria, think ‘IRAC’ and emphasise that application!) Market yourself strongly, and make sure that you are applying for clerkships and graduate positions that are the right fit for you. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions about the firm during your interview (but make sure you do your research beforehand – don’t just ask something that is answered on their website). Do you have any advice for students who are keen to increase their network of professional connections in the legal profession? Attend all the networking events that you can, while still a student and beyond. Join the Law Society, go to events, and most importantly, go to all the CPD events that you can – as a student and once you enter practice. While studying, enter competitions – this is also a great way to meet legal practitioners. You can also potentially obtain Horizon points for all of these things, and these points are recorded on your transcript and valued by potential employers!
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Do you believe that structured mentoring and professional development programs at the graduate level in the legal profession are beneficial to young lawyers? How can graduates make the most of these opportunities early on? Yes. Many members of the legal profession are willing to mentor junior lawyers, all you have to do is ask. They have made all of the mistakes that you might make, and can give you invaluable tips. How do you care for your mental health during some of the more confronting cases you may be involved with? Some of the best advice I was given was during placement, when I was dealing with confronting family law cases. One of my supervisors said that she pictures the events of the case as a movie – this meant that she could think about finding gaps or holes in the storyline and that helped her to protect her mental health while still fighting for her clients. What strategies do you have for managing your time, workload and possible stress levels when your work becomes hectic? I find that having responsibilities at home, like a pet, are really important. Having someone waiting for you who depends on you for food/exercise is very important, and can help keep you sane. What healthy habits should students begin to develop that would assist them in a stressful work environment? Time management, and the ability to prioritise and limit procrastination. Mindfulness is also an extremely useful strategy to help with focus. Do you have any tips for current students regarding successful study techniques? Don’t underestimate how long something will take. Readings take time, and you need to put ample time aside for these, especially early on in your studies. Writing assignments also take time (and referencing takes longer than you expect, every time). Also, just start. Don’t build it up, thinking that it is too hard and you can’t do it, instead just get started and see how you go. If it is hard, write down questions and go see your Topic Coordinator.
Applications
EMPLOYER DIRECTORY This section provides a catalogue of various employers that law students and graduates may consider applying to. The section is comprised of six different sub sections to give you the most comprehensive overview of career options. These are Civil Legal Practice; Criminal Legal Practice; Suburban & Rural Practice; Community Legal Practice; Private Non-Legal; and Public Non-Legal.
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Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Allens www.allens.com.au Offices Brisbane Hanoi Ho Chi Mihn City Jakarta Melbourne Perth Port Moresby Singapore Sydney Ulaanbaatar
Major Practice Areas Arbitration Banking & Finance Capital Markets Client Products Climate Change Company Secretariat Competition Law Construction & Major Projects Energy Environment & Planning Financial Services Regulation Funds Management Insurance Intellectual Property Litigation & Dispute Resolution Mergers & Acquisitions Patents & Trade Marks Personal Property Securities Privacy & Data Protection Private Equity Real Estate Regulatory Investigations Resources Restructuring & Insolvency Superannuation Tax Technology & Outsourcing Water Workplace Relations
Allens is an international law firm with offices throughout Australia and Asia. On 1 May 2012, we formed an integrated alliance with Linklaters. This has resulted in the two firms working together closely for the benefit of clients around the world. The Allens and Linklaters integrated alliance provides our clients with access to market leading lawyers through a global network of 40 offices across 29 countries, including to emerging markets in Africa, Asia and South America. The alignment of our complementary practices enables us to offer an integrated service to clients, with one point of contact, a unified team drawn from the best resources of each firm, and consistent quality advice and support.
Our clients
Allens has some of the world’s longest ongoing client relationships, stretching back more than 150 years. It’s a fact of which we are immensely proud and one we never take for granted.We work with many of the world’s leading organisations - including 55 of the world’s top 100 companies and more than 75 of Australia’s top 100 companies. Whether you’re a global multinational or a suburbanbased company with a bright idea, our commitment to providing excellent service remains the same: combining technical excellence with commercial insight to provide the clearest of answers.
Our services
Allens provides access to leading lawyers and resources throughout Australia and Asia, covering all commercial issues, from acquisition finance to workplace relations. We are praised for our innovative approach to complex work and delivering marketleading solutions to clients.
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Clerkship at Allens
Gain first-hand exposure to life as a lawyer at Allens. Get involved in work as soon as you set foot in the firm. Work alongside lawyers and partners; learn from their feedback and enjoy their support. And get a feel for who we are and why we’re different. You’ll come away with all the insights you need to make an informed decision about your future.We offer a range of experiences across a number of different practice groups and sectors. Here’s a quick rundown of what you can look forward to. • An induction program that introduces you to our people and the work we do. • On-the-job training with support from a partner and junior lawyer who’ll act as your supervisor and buddy. • The opportunity to work with many of Australia’s and the world’s top 100 companies. • Tasks similar to those of a junior lawyer. • An opportunity to hear first-hand from our Partners and Corporate Service teams on topics ranging from Allens as a business to Allens in the community. • Sports and social events where you will really get to know us. • The chance to get involved in our community work. • An opportunity to build a network of peers. We accept applications from students who are in their penultimate or final year at the time of application.
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Arnold Bloch Leibler www.abl.com.au
Offices Melbourne Sydney
Major Practice Areas Banking & finance Commercial & Corporate Competition Litigation & dispute resolution Native title & public interest law Property & development Public companies Reconstruction & insolvency Taxation Technology & intellectual property Workplace advisory
Arnold Bloch Leibler is a premier Australian commercial law firm that has earned a reputation for its passion, results and its innovative and commercially focused advice. The firm is regularly involved in some of the most important landmark transactions in the country and assists its clients with their most important or difficult legal matters - when their reputation is at risk, in crisis situations or when embarking on key initiatives. The firm provides strategic legal and commercial advice nationally to a diverse range of leading Australian corporations, high-net-worth individuals and large family businesses as well as international corporations. As a specialist commercial law firm, we have earned a reputation for achieving exceptional results. This is the product of our approach. Our attitude to finding solutions to clients’ problems is commercial and goal-driven. We take time to learn our clients’ businesses and each problem is tackled with commitment and creativity. Arnold Bloch Leibler is regularly involved in some of the most important transactions in Australia. It consistently ranks among the handful of firms with the level of expertise and breadth of practice to meet the varied and complex needs of this country’s leading commercial enterprises.
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Clerkships After years of lectures, assignments and exams, you are probably planning to sleep in late and relax during the holidays. Tempting as that may be, if you want to get ahead, consider doing a seasonal clerkship at Arnold Bloch Leibler. A seasonal clerkship at Arnold Bloch Leibler offers you the opportunity to experience firsthand life as a lawyer and our stimulating and unique culture. We do not hide behind smoke and mirrors. Instead, we offer a programme where you have the opportunity to be an integral part of our firm. Generally, we only take students in their second-last year of study. Our experience has shown that, by this stage, students have reached a level of their education that can be developed further with us. You can apply for a seasonal clerkship opportunity with Arnold Bloch Leibler at www.abl.grad.careers
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Australian Government Solicitor www.ags.gov.au
The Attorney Government Solicitor became part of the Attorney-General’s Department (AGD) on 1 July 2015 and is now one of 4 groups within AGD. It has an independent functional identity within AGD and is unique among legal service providers because we are a government agency set up to provide legal services to the Australian Government and its various departments, entities and agencies. AGS is one of Australia’s largest national law practices, with more than 300 lawyers and an office in every capital city. We successfully contest for work against Australia’s top-tier law firms. We also undertake tied work (non-contestable) in the areas of constitutional, national security and public international law, as well as Cabinet matters. We are dedicated to government and assist the AttorneyGeneral as First Law Officer to ensure that the Australian Government has access to high-quality legal and related services to advance the national interest. We work in government and public law, and specialise in constitutional and legislative interpretation across all the portfolios. AGS
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
has an unmatched High Court practice and also provides extensive commercial law services to government. AGS conducts the Australian Government’s constitutional litigation, which involves essential and core aspects of our system of government that can have enduring and whole-of-government implications beyond the interests of any particular portfolio. Such considerations require a specialised level of legal expertise and central coordination. Information about the 2019 Graduate Program will be available later in the year.
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Offices Adelaide Brisbane Canberra Darwin Hobart Melbourne Perth Sydney
Major Practice Areas Government and administrative law Corporate and commercial law Dispute resolution and litigation
Ashurst
www.ashurst.com Offices Adelaide Brisbane Canberra Melbourne Perth Sydney For international see website
Major Practice Areas Capital Markets Commercial Contracts Commodities Construction Corporate Data Protection and Privacy Dispute Resolution Employment Environment Finance Intellectual Property Investment Funds Native Title Outsourcing PFI/PPP Planning Private Equity Project Finance Public Sector & Government Real Estate Insolvency & Reconstruction Tax
Ashurst is a leading international law firm advising corporates, financial institutions and governments. Our core businesses are in corporate, finance, dispute resolution, and the development and financing of assets in the energy, resources and infrastructure sectors. In November 2013, Ashurst LLP and Ashurst Australia (formerly Blake Dawson) merged to form one global team. We have 28 offices in 16 countries. With over 400 partners and 1,700 lawyers in total, we offer the international insight of a global network combined with local market knowledge. We provide consistently high quality, commercially relevant legal advice worldwide, and build teams that are specific to our clients’ needs, combining specialist legal skills, industry experience and regional know-how. We have a track record of successfully managing large and complex multi-jurisdictional transactions, disputes and projects. Our focus is on getting to the heart of your legal needs and delivering practical, commercial solutions. In Australia, we work with leading global companies and government clients. Our clients include 73% of the top 100 ASX companies. We are proud to have advised on many of Australia’s and the world’s largest and most complex deals. We bring together lawyers with the required technical knowledge, direct industry experience and regional capability to support your legal needs and projects in Australia, Asia and across the globe.
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Clerkships at Ashurst
Wondering what life as a lawyer might be like? Ashurst’s clerkship program will help you make the transition from academic life to professional practice. A seasonal clerkship is a snapshot experience of the commercial legal profession and will influence your future career decisions. A clerkship is typically undertaken in the penultimate year of your Law degree.
Who are we looking for?
We appreciate the diversity of skills, experiences and perspective brought to Ashurst by all of our people. We also recognise that attracting the best talent with complementary strengths is critical to achieving the best team-based outcomes for our clients and our people. We look for the character and strengths we know are key to success from graduate through to partnership. You will excel at Ashurst if you demonstrate academic capability and commercial awareness, show an ability to build rapport with a range of people, and work well in a team-based environment. We also expect that you will have resilience, motivation and a willingness to learn. Our clients expect the highest quality legal skills, commercial advice and first class service – but they also want lawyers who enjoy working with them, and each other. From experience, graduates who have balanced their studies with other activities like part-time work, university competitions, law society positions, exchange programs, sports and hobbies tend to have a range of other skills they can offer the firm like teamwork, leadership, time management and commercial awareness.
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Baker & McKenzie www.bakermckenzie.com
At Baker & McKenzie we are different in the way we think, work and behave. Like no other law firm we were born global. Baker & McKenzie was conceived and built as a global law firm, so thinking and working globally is embedded in our culture and we understand the challenges of the global economy. We were formed in 1949 when an entrepreneurial Chicago attorney, Russell Baker, met the litigator, John McKenzie. McKenzie shared Baker’s vision of creating the world’s first multicultural, global law firm and our first office outside the USA was opened in Caracas in 1955. We are now the world’s largest law firm by markets, revenue and headcount and have a network of 77 offices in 47 countries around the world. Our most recent offices to be opened were Johannesburg, Casablanca and Lima in 2012, Seoul and Dubai in 2013 and Brisbane and Yangon in 2014. We opened our first office in Asia Pacific in Manila in 1963, and have grown to 17 fullservice offices across 13 jurisdictions. With more than 1,000 locally qualified lawyers across the region, and 77 offices globally, Baker & McKenzie is the firm with the greatest depth and breadth of coverage across the dynamic Asia Pacific markets. We have been a global law firm in Australia since 1964 and our Australian practice is now the fourth largest in our network with more than 85 Partners and over 180 lawyers across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Baker & McKenzie Australia offers our people access to complex, market-leading matters for leading multinational and domestic companies and the ability to work with some of the world’s best legal minds – people who know the law and who understand business. We have an unrivalled ability to provide training and secondment opportunities across our global network. Locally, we have an inclusive culture of learning, coaching and opportunity where you will work in small teams on matters that often cross borders. We value people who think ahead and get noticed.
Clerkships
We consult with our summer clerks before they commence to understand whether there are any areas of law in which they are particularly interested or practice groups which they would like to experience. We structure their placements according to these preferences where possible.
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Summer clerks will complete a placement in one of our specialist areas but are encouraged to seek out work from other practice groups. Right from the start, our summer clerks get involved in real work. You will be exposed to our Australian and international clients through client meetings, shadowing, research and other everyday activities within your assigned practice group. Our summer clerks work closely with other lawyers and are guided by a supervising partner/senior associate and associate ‘buddy’. You will develop practical and legal skills through our national learning program for junior lawyers and by attending workshops specifically designed for summer clerks, as well as firm-wide sessions on a range of legal and non-legal topics. You will also be supported at every stage by our graduate team in Talent Management who will facilitate a comprehensive development program for you - including induction and skills development (such as business communication, networking skills and other skills crucial to ensuring you have a successful clerkship). We will also provide you with opportunities to enable you to network with colleagues around the firm - through our ‘speed networking’ program, social events with your buddy, our partners and lawyers, and our end of year party. You can also gain more practical experience on completion of your clerkship through casual research clerk work with the Melbourne office during your final year of university and before you commence with us as a graduate. In addition, summer clerks who accept a graduate role with the firm can also apply for an ‘international clerkship’, with the opportunity to work for up to 4 weeks in one of our overseas offices in the year following their clerkship. We look for people who enjoy a challenge and seek new opportunities; who share our global perspective; who have sound academics and are practical in their approach; who like taking responsibility and getting things done; who express themselves confidently while staying open to new ideas; and who seek a friendly and inclusive culture that encourages making a difference to our local and global communities. The majority of our graduate roles tend to be filled by former summer clerks. However, the firm will also consider students who, within the two years preceding the date of offer, have completed a minimum of 30 days paralegal work with the firm in accordance with the LIV Traineeship Guidelines 2015. This allows us to recognise people who have invested in us through a previous clerkship/paralegal work and with whom we have established a positive working relationship.
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Offices Melbourne Sydney Brisbane For international offices see website
Major Practice Areas Banking & Finance Mergers and Acquisitions Private Equity Capital Markets Commercial Real Estate Construction Dispute Resolution & Litigation Employment & Industrial Relations Energy, Resources, Infrastructure & Corporate Technology, Communications & Commercial Intellectual Property Media Tax Environmental Markets
Camatta Lempens www.camattalempens.com.au
Offices Adelaide
Major Practice Areas Practice Areas Bankruptcy Civil Dispute Resolution Commercial Litigation Corporate and Commercial Criminal Law and Traffic Law Domestic Partnership and Same Sex Relationship Issues Estate Planning Estates and Probate Family Law Franchising Insolvency Liquor Licensing Mergers and Acquisitions Personal Injuries Property, Conveyancing and Commercial Leasing Wills
Camatta Lempens Pty Ltd Lawyers long established Adelaide law firm. We practice in commercial and litigation, corporate and commercial personal injury, native title, criminal family law, and estates.
is a civil law, law,
Our client base is incredibly diverse. We act for local, national and international businesses across a range of industries, as well as individuals. We are particularly active in the not-for-profit sector.
Camatta Lempens is committed to offering a safe, flexible and pleasant workplace. At the same time, we ensure that our people are rewarded for hard work with highly competitive remuneration and benefits, as well as rich opportunities for professional development and advancement. As a midsize Adelaide firm we are large and reputable enough to attract quality clients and work, but small enough that our senior lawyers are accessible and that all staff make real contributions to our matters.
CCK Lawyers www.ccklawyers.com
Offices Adelaide
Major Practice Areas Commercial Disputes Commercial Transactions Construction & Engineering Mergers & Acquisitions Private Client Services Taxation & Tax Disputes Technology & IP
CCK Lawyers is a commercial law firm with a strong reputation for resolving complex commercial matters quickly and cost-effectively. We take on the largest law firms in Australia, with an outstanding success rate. We offer clerkships throughout the year for law students in their final or penultimate years of study. Applications are generally accepted in the middle of each year for places in the following calendar year. Clerkships typically run for four to eight weeks, and can be part time (at least two days per week) or full time as studies allow. Students who are undertaking preadmission practical legal training courses may count their clerkship towards any practical experience requirement.
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We seek motivated, hard-working people who are interested in working with experienced lawyers on complex legal matters, and who want to be part of the ongoing growth of the firm. Clerkships at CCK Lawyers include the opportunity to be involved in first class commercial legal work, personal mentoring by one of our lawyers, a comprehensive induction process, regular and constructive assessment of your work, and priority consideration for graduate positions. E: cc@ccklawyers.com T: 8211 7955
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Corrs Chambers Westgarth www.corrs.com.au
Corrs Chambers Westgarth is a premium independent law firm. We work with our clients as true partners in their business. We bring insight, innovation and agility to create success for them on a global stage. Corrs has a strong history spanning more than 170 years but we are firmly focussed on creating opportunities for our clients in the rapidly changing business landscape of today and tomorrow. Our vision as a world class law firm is to drive Australia’s competitiveness and its economic engagement with Asia. We have offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth as well as a strong partnering relationships throughout the Asia Pacific region and worldwide. Our independence and our network of the world’s best independent firms provide a competitive advantage for our clients. That gives us the flexibility to deliver the most effective and expert solution for their international needs. Corrs is led by our Chief Executive Officer, John W.H. Denton AO and Chairman, Stephen Price. Our clients want a different type of law firm that is strategic, creative, flexible and able to work in their worlds. These are the qualities that characterise and differentiate our people - world class lawyers who are prepared to think big and do things differently. With more than 600 lawyers, including 120 partners, our people are consistently recognised for world class services and results. This year, 57 of our partners and special counsel were named leading lawyers in Chambers Asia Pacific and Global Guides and 129 were listed as Best Lawyers in the annual Best Lawyers peer review. We have built a culture of collaboration and excellence in which each person is encouraged, supported and trained to be world class. This is the key to excellent results for our people and our clients.
Clerkships Your first step towards a career at Corrs is a Seasonal Clerkship. In fact, the majority of our graduates are recruited through our Seasonal Clerkship Program. Our program will give you an insight into what working at Corrs is like and how we differ from many other law firms. It will also give us an opportunity to learn about you and discover the qualities that make you different. Each of our offices has a Seasonal Clerkship Program. The dates, durations and formats vary slightly. As a clerk, you will be closely supervised by partners and senior lawyers. Junior lawyers will also be on hand to answer any questions you have about the firm, and who can settle you in and provide you with an informal level of support and guidance during your time at Corrs. The Program is a great opportunity for you to experience the people, clients, work and culture that differentiates Corrs from other firms. You will have the opportunity to work with some of Australia’s leading lawyers on high profile work for major Australian and international clients across all industries. You will be exposed to a broad range of interesting matters, plus perform tasks such as conducting research, reviewing and presenting documents, attending client meetings, court hearings, mediations and settlements, as well as shadow partners and lawyers in client meetings and business development activities. It’s the perfect way to discover the area of law that excites you the most. LIV Priority In accordance with LIV (Law Institute of Victoria) guidelines, students who have completed a clerkship with this firm are eligible for priority graduate offers.
Our commitment to our people has made us a much sought-after employer. We are consistently recognised as an Employer of Choice, and are the only large national law firm to be awarded ALB Gold Employer of Choice two years in a row – as voted by our staff in an independent national survey. Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
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Offices Brisbane Melbourne Perth Sydney
Major Practice Areas Capital Markets China Climate Change Communications and Technology Competition and Regulatory Construction, Major Projects & Infrastructure Corporate Cyber Security Employment, Workplace Relations & Safety Energy & Resources Environment & Planning Financial Services Foreign Investment into Australia Global Regulatory Government Health India Intellectual Property Litigation & Dispute Resolution Mergers & Acquisitions Property & Real Estate Restructuring & Insolvency Royal Commissions & Inquiries Tax
Cowell Clarke www.cowellclarke.com.au
Offices Adelaide Sydney
Major Practice Areas Agribusiness Banking and Finance Building, Construction & Infrastructure Commercial Transactions Competition & Consumer Law Corporate Debt Recovery Defence Dispute Resolution Employment & Industrial Relations Energy & Resources Environment, Planning & Sustainability Equity Capital Markets Financial Services Franchising Health Insolvency & Turnaround Insurance Intellectual Property & Information Technology International Trade Personal Property Securities Act Pharmacy
Cowell Clarke is a specialist commercial law firm based in Adelaide. We act for clients in all sectors of business and industry in Australia and internationally. Through our exclusive membership of ALFA International ® the Global Legal Network, we give our clients access to specialist legal resources virtually anywhere they have business worldwide. Clerkships Cowell Clarke has an outstanding Career Development Program which includes Summer Clerkships & PLT Placements. From time to time, we also have ongoing part time clerk positions available. We offer several Summer Clerkships, between November and February each year. As we participate in the South Australian Law Students’ Council Uniform Clerkship Scheme, the application dates are as prescribed by the Scheme. We accept applications for PLT Placements on an ongoing basis. Clerkships and placements are an integral part of the commencement of a career in law. They can also lead to a full time position as a graduate solicitor.
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You will have access to and work with senior lawyers who are recognised as being the best in their fields. You will have direct client contact. In addition, every clerk is given an opportunity to work in our corporate & commercial, dispute resolution and property practices. While the focus is on variety, we are also happy to accommodate particular areas of interest. You will also have the opportunity to participate in our Professional Development Program, including sessions tailored especially for you. An element we believe sets us apart from other law firms is the focus that our partners have on creating a supportive and enjoyable work environment. You won’t be expected to work 16 hours per day. We recognise that it is not the time you spend at work, but rather what you do when you are there. We work with you to ensure you make the most of your experience at Cowell Clarke. Our clerkship program enables our clerks to experience the broadest range of practice areas, with rotations through property, corporate & commercial, and our various dispute resolution teams.
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Clayton Utz www.claytonutz.com.au
Clayton Utz is one of Australia’s leading law firms, with a reputation for standing out – and for being outstanding. With 187 partners and over 1,300 employees across six offices, we continue to build on our reputation for confident, innovative and incisive legal advice. With a genuine commitment to client service, we are trusted advisers to a diverse base of private and public sector organisations. Our clients include many of Australia’s top financial institutions, multinational corporations operating in a range of sectors, and state and Australian government departments and agencies. We are also a global leader in pro bono, with one of the largest pro bono practices of any law firm outside of the US. As an independent firm, we have relationships with leading firms around the world. That means our clients can be confident they have access to the best possible advice, wherever and whenever they need it.
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
We offer the sharpest legal minds. The clearest advice. And an unshakeable sense of what’s possible.
Clerkships
Our Clerkship Program will expose you to the fast pace of a full-service commercial law firm and show you the law in action. You’ll be working under the guidance of some of the sharpest legal minds in Australia, on challenging, complex and high-profile transactions and matters. You’ll be mentored by partners and lawyers who are leaders in their fields, in a firm where individuality is embraced and innovation actively encouraged.
LIV Priority
In accordance with LIV (Law Institute of Victoria) guidelines, students who have completed a clerkship with this firm are eligible for priority graduate offers.
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Offices Brisbane Canberra Darwin Hong Kong Melbourne Perth Sydney
Major Practice Areas Banking & Finance Capital Markets & Securities Competition Construction & Major Projects Corporate/M&A Energy & Resources Environment & Planning Governance & Compliance Insurance & Risk Intellectual Property International Arbitration International Trade Legal Technology Services Litigation & Dispute Resolution Native Title Private Equity Product Liability Real Estate Restructuring & Insolvency Taxation Telecommunications, Media & Technology Workplace Relations, Employment & Safety
Crown Solicitor’s Office www.cso.sa.gov.au
Offices Adelaide
Major Practice Areas Civil Litigation Commercial, Environment and Native Title Public Law Outposted Crown Counsel
The summer clerkship offers selected students the opportunity to take part in a structured program, including training and development sessions covering a range of legal and non-legal topics: • • • •
The Crown Solicitor is responsible for the provision of high quality legal services to the Government of South Australia. The Crown Solicitor’s Office (CSO) provides legal advice to Cabinet, Ministers and government agencies, represents the Government of South Australia before courts and tribunals, drafts legal documents for the government, provides conveyancing and other property related services, investigates on behalf of government, and resolves native title claim issues through negotiated agreements. CLERKSHIPS The CSO Summer Clerkship program offers law students an opportunity to gain practical legal experience within a government environment and undertake work within a legal practice. Each year 5-9 placements are offered to students. Placements are highly sought after and extremely competitive. Students completing their final years of study are invited to apply for a summer clerkship. CSO is interested in students who are high achievers in both their academic and personal lives, with good interpersonal skills, relevant legal work experience and relevant references.
• •
introduction to CSO tour of the Attorney General’s Department library, and training in the use of online facilities training in drafting and legal research information session on the practice management system file and matter management assisting in client matters, under supervision.
Potential applicants are advised that the dates available for 2019 are as follows: 25 February 2019 to 5 April 2019 13 May 2019 to 21 June 2019 19 August 2019 to 27 September 2019 Applications will be considered as they are received and will be filled on a rolling basis. Once the PLT allocation has been met we will no longer be able to accept any more applications, therefore we encourage students to apply as soon as possible. For more information about the program and how to apply, please visit the CSO website.
Students offered clerkships will be paid for the full 8 weeks. Each summer clerk is allocated to a section within CSO, or outposted to various government agencies.
PARALEGAL AND GRADUATE SOLICITOR POOLS The CSO has established both Paralegal and Graduate Solicitor Pools. Successful applicants in each category are placed in a pool and notified, if and when, suitable vacancies arise. Successful applications for each pool are valid for a period of twelve months for appointment to temporary positions ranging from 3-12 months. These roles may lead to longer term or ongoing appointments as vacancies arise.
For more information about the program and how to apply, please visit the CSO website.
For more information about the pools and how to apply, please visit the CSO website.
PRACTICAL LEGAL TRAINING The CSO offers placements to students wishing to complete the practical legal training (PLT) component of their professional qualifications. Placements are offered to approximately six students three times per year, for a period of six weeks (225 hours) in accordance with the guidelines set by the Law Society.
CLERKSHIP APPLICATION DATES
Summer clerkships are offered for a period of 8 weeks each year, typically commencing in late November to early/ mid-December. Summer clerkships conclude in time for students to attend the first practical legal training program offered by the Law Society.
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Applications Open - March/April (aprox.) Applications Close - 30 April 2019 Interviews - June 2019 Offers - July 2019 (approx.)
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
DLA Piper
www.dlapipergraduates.com.au DLA Piper is a global law firm 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. We strive to be the leading global business law firm by delivering quality and value to our clients. We achieve this through practical and innovative legal solutions that help our clients succeed. We deliver consistent services across our platform of practices and sectors in all matters we undertake. Our clients range from multinational, Global 1000, and Fortune 500 enterprises to emerging companies developing industryleading technologies. They include more than half of the Fortune 250 and nearly half of the FTSE 350 or their subsidiaries. We also advise governments and public sector bodies. In Australia we are trusted legal advisors to approximately a third of the ASX 100 companies or their subsidiaries and all
levels of government. We spend time getting to know our clients, so that we can understand their businesses and provide strategic legal solutions that are practical and commercially focused. Clerkships A clerkship is a great way to gain insight into our firm. It is also an important step if you are interested in a graduate position with us, as our clerkship pool forms the basis of our graduate recruitment. During your clerkship you can expect to do a variety of things both in and outside the office. The tasks you are involved in will depend on the team you are assigned to and the work they have on at the time. Some common examples include accompanying lawyers to court, attending client meetings and mediations, and assisting on large corporate transactions.
Offices Brisbane Canberra Melbourne Perth Sydney
Major Practice Areas Corporate Employment Finance and Projects Intellectual Property and Technology Litigation and Regulatory Real Estate Restructuring Tax
All clerks are assigned a buddy (usually a current graduate) and a supervisor (senior associate or senior lawyer) who will support and guide you through the clerkship.
DMAW Lawyers www.dmawlawyers.com.au
DMAW Lawyers is a leading South Australian based commercial law firm providing services throughout Australia. Our approach is to develop focused team environments that offer true expertise in practice areas important to our clients. Experience suggests that this is the best structure to provide our clients with the specialist skills, flexibility and the responsiveness necessary to achieve the results that they seek and expect. We are committed to the delivery of prompt precise results of real value to clients. Our lawyers bring genuine expertise and experience in the areas of legal practice that are important to business.
Clerkships at DMAW Lawyers
Offices
We offer summer clerkships. Applications are invited from penultimate and final year law students for clerkship intakes over November/December and January/ February each year. Clerkships are for a duration of 4 weeks and involve a range of genuine work and activity on client instructions, closely supervised by our Senior Lawyers.
Adelaide
E: hr@dmalawyers.com.au
We also pride ourselves on understanding our clients’ businesses, and we bring to the table a commercial approach and the experience of having been involved in a variety of industry and business sectors.
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
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Major Practice Areas Acquisitions and Sales Administrative Law Banking and Finance Building and Construction Business Law Business Structures/Reorganisations Capital Raisings Compliance and Corporate Governance Corporate Advice Defamation Dispute Resolution Employment and Industrial Relations Financial Services & Superannuation Franchising Immigration Information Technology Intellectual Property Liquor Licensing Major Projects Media Law Native Title & Aboriginal Heritage Professional and Directors Liability Property Tax and Revenue Takeovers and Schemes Trade Practices
DW Fox Tucker www.dwfoxtucker.com.au
Offices Adelaide
Major Practice Areas Corporate & Commercial Dispute Resolution & Insolvency Employment Law Energy & Resources Risk Management & Insurance Family Law Hospitality & Licensing Intellectual Property Property Tax Wills & Estates Workers Compensation & Self Insurance Wine law
DW Fox Tucker is a leading independent South Australian commercial law firm. We were established on 1 October 2014 when the former partners of Donaldson Walsh joined with those of Fox Tucker to create an entirely new firm offering a broad, comprehensive range of general commercial services complemented by a suite of expert specialist services for clients in specific key industries and niche market sectors. With a team numbering in the mid’ 80s, many of whom are nationally recognised standouts in their field, we are able to offer
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an outstanding breadth of experience and the capability to handle commercial matters of any size or complexity. Importantly, however, we are still ideally sized to do so with a down-to-earth, relationship-based culture and responsive, personal service ethic. We pride ourselves on delivering everything our clients demand, and a little more besides – for every client, on every matter. So whatever your commercial needs or objectives, don’t hesitate to contact us. At DW Fox Tucker, every client matters.
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Fisher Jeffries www.fisherjeffries.com.au
Since its foundation in Adelaide in 1885, Fisher Jeffries has become known as one of Australia’s leading and respected commercial law firms. With a long history and reputation built on results and a service focussed commitment to clients, Fisher Jeffries is described by clients as being very effective and pragmatic. Based in the centre of the Adelaide CBD adjacent to the Courts precinct, Fisher Jeffries practice in all Australian jurisdictions and have long established working relationships with interstate firms and members of the interstate bars. Our clients include Federal and State Government agencies, major Australian corporations and financial institutions and a number of prominent South Australian organisations.
Fisher Jeffries has been a member of the Gadens Lawyers National Practice since 2004, offering clients a national solution to the provision of commercial legal services in Australia, primarily acting for Australian financial institutions and landowners. In December 2016, Fisher Jeffries was appointed an associate of Dentons Australia providing our clients with access to leading commercial lawyers in all areas all over the world. Contact Details 61 8 8233 0600 Fax: + 61 8 8233 0699 fj@fisherjeffries.com.au
Our services are sought for high profile and difficult matters as well as operational matters. We have the depth and breadth expertise to handle all manner of instructions in commercial law.
Offices Adelaide
Major Practice Areas Aged Care & Retirement Villages Agribusiness Arts & Entertainment Banking & Financial Services Construction & Engineering Corporate Advisory Corporate Risk & Insurance Energy & Resources Environment & Planning Franchising Gaming & Licensing Government Business Health Infrastructure & Projects Insolvency & Corporate Reconstruction Intellectual Property & Technology Litigation & Dispute Resolution Media & Defamation Property & Development Trade Practices Wine Workplace Relations
Finlaysons
http://www.finlaysons.com.au/careers/clerkships/ Offices Adelaide Darwin
Major Practice Areas Agribusiness Banking & Finance China Commercial Disputes Corporate Defence Energy Environment, Climate Change & Planning Family Business Health Insurance IP, Technology & Media Property & Development Resources Tax & Revenue Wills, Estates & Succession Planning Wine Workplace Relations, Management & Safety
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
PRACTICE AREAS Finlaysons is a leading Adelaide law firm with a blue chip client base and commercial focus. We maintain our standing by evolving with the market and the changing needs of our clients. Our goal is to work in partnership with our clients, providing the best advice for the best outcome. To deliver this, we have specialist teams with intimate knowledge of diverse business sectors.
In-House Continuing Legal Education Program - Seminars are presented on relevant topics on a monthly basis. The presentations are delivered by a mix of our own practitioners, internal practice management and external specialists.
LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT Professional excellence is expected as standard at Finlaysons. We are fully committed to the continuing professional development of all of our people. We know that lawyers develop much of their expertise by working alongside more experienced practitioners. All employees are encouraged to use every day work situations to assist in developing the skills and knowledge of less experienced colleagues. Many learning opportunities both within and external to the firm are available to employees.
Specialised Programs - Programs such as our graduate lawyer development program and other specialised programs are facilitated for both professional and support staff.
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External Training – Attendance at seminars and courses that are relevant to your area of practice and personal development is encouraged.
Technology Training - All new employees undergo a comprehensive on-boarding program to become familiar with software packages, firm procedures and general operations at Finlaysons. Direct any enquiries you may have to People & Development on 8235 7400.
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Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Gilbert + Tobin www.gtlaw.com.au If you share our ambition to be the best, Gilbert + Tobin will place you on that trajectory. We employ a diverse mix of talented and ambitious people who are attracted to the firm because of its entrepreneurial spirit, creative approach and capacity for change. These are the reasons we enjoy a reputation as the most successful corporate law firm to emerge in Australia in many years. We advise many of Australia’s and the world’s leading organisations and focus on the most dynamic sectors. Our clients and projects span Australia, Asia and emerging African markets. As a young and independent firm we’re not constrained by tradition, so we are always open to change, new ideas and different perspectives on how to deliver the best outcomes to our clients. We work within a flat structure, which means our clerks and graduates have direct access to lawyers and partners who are experts in their fields, as well as matters that will improve their skill sets and career prospects. We offer an informal and relaxed environment, approachable partners and lawyers, diverse teams, friendly people who care about the firm and the high performance contribution they make irrespective of their role. G+T presents a unique opportunity for you to make a name for yourself through the matters and transactions you work on, with personal accountability yet supported by those around you. “Our culture is quite unique, with its focus on innovation and change. It challenges you to do better, and to be bold and stand by the advice we give. But one thing that surprised me when I joined is how caring it also is. It’s not just about getting the work done – there’s genuine empathy, and a lack of formality or bureaucracy.” Anna Sparkes, Chief People Officer.
Clerkship Application Dates
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
What we look for We’re not a prescriptive firm when it comes to our people; we invite individuality and diversity. We also hold ambition, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit in high regard. Our people are collaborative, passionate and dedicated — but most of all they enjoy what they do and never forget to have fun. We seek clerks and graduates who will complement our practice groups and don’t feel the need to take themselves too seriously. Seasonal Clerkship Program A G+T clerkship is both positive and challenging. 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 firmwide activities. As you progress through your rotations you will develop invaluable skills and knowledge and gain first-hand experience of our various practice groups. During the clerkship you’ll take part in our customised in-house training, including topics such as research, analysis, drafting, developing technical skills, interpersonal effectiveness, teamwork, business development and client orientation. And of course, you’ll gain invaluable learning on the job, on every matter you work on and from the talented people around you. “The clerkship was a valuable learning experience for me, where I was given the opportunity to demonstrate my technical skill and gain more faith and confidence in my own abilities. I enjoyed an experience where I was constantly encouraged to improve by applying myself and trying something new and challenging. I’m grateful for the mentorship I received in my rotations – having the support structure and somebody to ask any questions laid a great ‘safety net’ that allowed me to feel more comfortable.” – Michelle Xu, 2018 Sydney Summer Clerk.
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Offices Melbourne Perth Sydney
Major Practice Areas Banking + Infrastructure Competition + Regulation Corporate Advisory Employment Energy + Resources Intellectual Property Litigation Real Estate + Projects Technology, Media + Telecommunications Pro Bono
Griffins Lawyers www.griffins.com.au
Griffins Lawyers is a dynamic, rapidly growing law firm with offices in Adelaide, Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast and Perth. We specialise in commercial, insurance and planning, environmental and local government law. We have over twenty years experience in providing technically proficient and astute legal advice to both national and international clients in all jurisdictions of Australia. We recognise the importance of providing customer service and consistently deliver service of a high standard, ensuring
our clients receive the best possible representation. Ultimately we provide business solutions for our clients through the provision of practical and strategic legal services. Our vision is to be recognised as an inspiring company leading the way in the legal profession.
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Offices Adelaide Gold Coast Melbourne Perth Sydney
Major Practice Areas Arts & Entertainment Civil Litigation Commercial Litigation Commercial Tenancies Construction Corporate Advice & Insolvency Criminal (Workplace Crime) Defamation Advice & Litigation Dispute Resolution Employment & Industrial Insurance Advice & Litigation Liquor Licensing & Gaming Issues Planning, Environment & Local Government Sports & Representation
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Herbert Smith Freehills www.herbertsmithfreehills.com
Offices Brisbane Melbourne Perth Sydney
Major Practice Areas Asset management and investment funds Capital markets Competition, regulation and trade Compliance and regulatory Corporate Corporate crime and investigations Corporate governance and head office advisory Crisis management Dispute resolution Employment, pensions and incentives Environment, planning and communities Finance Intellectual property Mergers and acquisitions Projects and infrastructure Real estate Restructuring, turnaround and insolvency Tax
Takeovers and mergers. Arbitration and litigation. We’ve got it all. And because we’re one of the world’s leading law firms, we also work with some of the biggest international organisations on some of their most ambitious projects.
Clerkships
Thanks to the quality of our international network, we’re able to offer our clients both domestic and cross-border services, which means you get the chance to work in a truly global way.
Finding the right fit for you is key to deciding where to start your legal career. Since working together is a good way to get to know each other, we offer a range of summer and winter clerkships in each of our Australian offices. We encourage students to participate in our vacation clerkship program and we fill the majority of our graduate positions through this program.
Our work is incredibly varied. We provide top quality tailored legal advice to major corporations, governments and financial institutions as well as different types of commercial organisations. We’re proud to be a full-service firm and we’re proud to be able to do more for our clients.
Spend part of your vacation with us and you’ll get a great understanding of how we go about meeting the needs of our clients. The program includes a detailed introduction to the firm and to each practice group, as well as the opportunity to work with our legal teams on real matters.
Herbert Smith Freehills is a place where you won’t just experience everything, you’ll be a part of it. So if you’ve got the drive and ambition to become an exceptional lawyer, we’d like to hear from you.
For more information, visit: careers. herbertsmithfreehills.com/au/grads/ vacation-clerkships
Hunt & Hunt Offices Adelaide Brisbane Darwin Hobart Melbourne North Ryde Perth Sydney Shanghai
Major Practice Areas Asset Protection and Succession Planning China Advisory Corporate and Commercial Competition and Consumer Law Employment and Workplace Relations Environment and Planning Family Law Intellectual Property Insolvency and Restructuring Litigation and Dispute Resolution Mergers and Acquisitions Property Wills and Estates Planning
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
www.hunthunt.com.au
Established in 1929, Hunt & Hunt is a vibrant, mid-sized law firm that provides tailored legal advice to clients across Australia and internationally. Our broad client base includes large and small businesses, government departments, major insurance firms, not-for-profit organisations and private clients. Our professionalism, combined with our friendly and energetic approach, has made Hunt & Hunt a trusted advisor to some of Australia’s largest and most diverse organisations.
Why Chose Hunt & Hunt? A clerkship at Hunt & Hunt gives you a head start in your legal career. Over four weeks, you’ll work with senior lawyers on relevant, diverse matters across a range of industry sectors, in a supportive and close-knit environment. Most importantly, you’ll get direct access to partners who are leaders in their field.
Clerkship Program
Our review process for clerks ensures you have a relevant and varied experience, receive regular feedback, support and training to help you develop your skills and career.
A seasonal clerkship at Hunt & Hunt lets you explore a broad spectrum of legal work before you decide on your area of specialisation.
We believe that getting you involved in real work helps us get to know each other better and allows you to decide if Hunt & Hunt is the right firm for you.
Hunt & Hunt offers clerkship positions in its Melbourne office.
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HWL Ebsworth www.hwlebsworth.com.au
As Australia’s largest and fastest growing legal partnership, we are proud to offer our staff unrivalled career development opportunities and provide them with a chance to work with Australia’s most highly regarded commercial organisations, as well as Commonwealth Government and State Government Departments and Agencies. Our differentiators include the following factors: •
•
•
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A lower ratio of solicitors to partners than any other major Australian law firm ensures that our team members interact with clients much earlier in their legal careers. Our solicitors also benefit from having greater access to partners, which accelerates their professional development. Our transparent career development framework ensures that all team members are aware of the firm’s expectations at each level, and what is required to advance to the next career stage. We pride ourselves on promoting and rewarding talent based solely on merit, which allows all team members to reach their potential. We are committed to providing an environment that supports and encourages all team members to progress. Our focus is on removing any barriers that may restrict any of our team members from developing their careers with us. Our clients are as diverse as we are, and our lawyers’ varied backgrounds and skill sets support us in providing our clients with innovative and tailored legal solutions.
At HWL Ebsworth, our edge is not only our expertise, experience and ability to assist our clients in meeting their commercial objectives, but also our ability to offer a better value proposition. HWL Ebsworth recognises the importance of an organisation’s culture and its powerful influence on performance and service delivery. Our culture is one that places a strong emphasis on open and honest communication at all levels, continuous improvement in our practices and
encouragement of innovation and forward thinking. We benchmark our practices against the best advisory firms internationally to achieve our vision. The values of our firm characterise our approach to practising law and partnering with clients. These values ensure that honesty, trust and respect drive our working relationships with clients and with each other. We also encourage our staff to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life. Law Graduate Program Our 12 month Law Graduate Program is designed to give you a genuine insight into the firm, hands-on and practical experiences as well as training and mentoring by senior practitioners. We offer a welcoming and inclusive culture, direct access to Partners as well as interesting and high quality work. Our Law Graduate program will also allow you to have exposure to different areas of practice through our rotation structure. Law Graduates are assigned to a Partner in each practice area and have the benefit of constant feedback in relation to their development. Clerkship Program HWL Ebsworth’s Clerkship Program is structured to present you with hands-on experiences and training to develop your legal skills and knowledge whilst offering the chance to network with a range of practitioners throughout the firm. You will be exposed to a broad range of work within your designated Practice Groups and we will have the opportunity to get to know you on both a personal and professional level.
Offices Adelaide Brisbane Canberra Darwin Hobart Melbourne Sydney Perth
Major Practice Areas Aged Care and Retirement Living Banking and Finance Building and Construction Commercial Contracting Competition and Consumer Corporate Governance Energy and Resources Environment and Planning Equity Capital Markets Financial Services Regulatory Foreign Investment Government Information Technology Infrastructure Insolvency and Security Enforcement Insurance Intellectual Property Intellectual Property Litigation and Dispute Resolution Media and Telecommunications Mergers and Acquisitions Property Retail and Franchising Taxation Transport Workplace Relations and Occupational Health & Safety
At HWL Ebsworth we believe that a healthy balance between work and personal life is crucial. During your Clerkship, you will experience what it is like to be an employee of HWL Ebsworth and you will have the opportunity to attend a variety of social and networking events hosted by the firm. We are excited to run our Summer Clerkship Program again in 2019. Our recruitment dates are aligned to the Uniform Clerkship Scheme and further details of how to apply can be found via the Graduate Centre on our website.
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Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Johnson Winter & Slattery www.jws.com.au
Offices Adelaide Sydney Melbourne Perth Brisbane
Major Practice Areas Transactional & Advisory Dispute Resolution
Specialist Areas Competition Corporate Corporate Governance Debt Finance Dispute Resolution Employment Energy & Resources Funds Management Intellectual Property & IT Regulatory Restructuring & Insolvency Tax
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Johnson Winter & Slattery is engaged by major Australian and international corporations as legal counsel on their business activities, disputes and most challenging transactions throughout Australia and surrounding regions. Our role Our representation of major corporations in many landmark and transformational deals and complex disputes positions us as a leading independent Australian firm. Our approach With an appreciation of our client’s commercial needs, we blend legal expertise with commercial and market awareness to deliver high quality legal services. This means working closely with clients and their in-house counsel to understand their commercial objectives, and ensuring our approach is tailored to deliver timely commercial outcomes.
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Our difference Our higher ratio of senior lawyers means clients engage directly with the tactical minds and industry expertise required to succeed in complex and high stakes deals and disputes. A partnership ethos of service, technical excellence and collaboration ensures the most relevant specialist expertise and experience is brought to bear on every assignment.
Kain Lawyers www.kaincc.com
Attracting and retaining quality young lawyers is a key driver of the success of our business. For this reason, we invest significant time upfront, identifying, employing and nurturing candidates who have the skills and the cultural alignment to become long-term members of our team and help us achieve our strategic objectives.
Offices
If you’re in your penultimate year of study, then you should apply for a place in our summer clerkship program. The five-week program will provide you, as a law student, with a taste of what it’s like to work in an exciting and progressive legal business.
Adelaide
Major Practice Areas Business Structuring Business Succession Commercial Advice Corporate Finance Corporate Governance Dispute Solutions Equity Capital Markets Financial Services Funds Management
Our clerks undertake training in our systems and in practical applications of legal theory as well as obtaining real-world experience with clients. Those who excel in the clerkship program will generally be offered further positions in our business.
King & Wood Mallesons www.kwm.com/en/au
King & Wood Mallesons is a new breed of law firm combining local depth with a global platform. Offering a different perspective to commercial thinking and the client experience, 2,700 lawyers across more than 30 international offices are working with clients every day to understand local challenges and navigate through regional complexity. With access to a global platform, we are providing commercial solutions and transforming the way legal services are delivered. How do we do this? By focusing not just on what you want, but how you want it. Working in close partnership with clients, our relationships are built on delivering a market leading experience and providing access to deep legal insights and local connections, with the benefit of a global platform. As the only firm in the world able to practise PRC, Hong Kong, Australian, English, US and a significant range of European and Middle Eastern laws, we open doors and unlock opportunities for clients as they look to unleash the fullest potential of the Asian Century. Our ability to connect emerging opportunities, with market leading capability, is pushing the frontiers of what can be achieved - connecting Asia to the world, and the world to Asia.
Clerkships We offer clerkships for students who are in their penultimate year of university. Working under the supervision of a partner, development coach and buddy, the program will enable you to get the most out of your placement and to become familiar with the firm and how it operates.
Our Clerks participate in a comprehensive clerkship program. The program is designed to: • •
Help clerks to understand our firm, its practices and procedures Equip clerks with the information and skills needed to get the most out of their placements at King & Wood Mallesons.
Induction for King & Wood Mallesons’ Clerks incorporate practical, lively and relevant sessions that are conducted by Partners, Senior Associates, Solicitors and our in-house experts. Sessions cover material on King & Wood Mallesons’ structure, strategy and culture, our systems and processes and some key skills to assist in managing legal work whilst you are here. Our clerks also get the opportunity to network with their peers as well as with King & Wood Mallesons Graduates/Trainees and lawyers in their own and other practices. For most, the Clerkship Program is the first stage of continuous professional development at King & Wood Mallesons. Clerks have described King & Wood Mallesons lawyers as “approachable, having a sense of humour, good work ethic, a pleasure to work with, both clients and work colleagues”. Others have emphasised the “ability to build strong and enduring relationships, based on trust, getting things right, focused and technically excellent”.
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Offices Brisbane Canberra Melbourne Perth Sydney See website for international offices
Major Practice Areas Practice areas Acquisitions and Sales Administrative Law Banking and Finance Building and Construction Business Law Business Structures/Reorganisations Capital Raisings Compliance and Corporate Governance Corporate Advice Defamation Dispute Resolution Employment and Industrial Relations Financial Services & Superannuation Franchising Immigration Information Technology Intellectual Property Liquor Licensing Major Projects Media Law Native Title & Aboriginal Heritage Professional and Directors Liability Property Tax and Revenue Takeovers and Schemes Trade Practices
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Lander & Rogers www.landers.com.au
Lander & Rogers is a leading independent Australian law firm operating nationally from Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. We have seven main areas of practice and are a principal advisor to many publicly listed and private Australian companies, Australian subsidiaries of global companies, as well as all levels of government. We provide practical legal advice, along with exceptional client service, and we are renowned in Australia for our down-toearth and friendly culture. Clerkships Our seasonal/summer clerkship program is a law student’s key opportunity to gain first-hand experience of the law in practice, and our working environment. The clerkships are the time to test run what you’ve learned at University (with the reassurance of a safety net), and a perfect chance to gauge whether or not Lander & Rogers offers the type of working environment that’s the right fit for you. You’ll be well looked after... our seasonal/ summer clerkship program is built on learning and fun. We know you’ve joined us because you’re curious about what it’s like to be a lawyer, so we’ll do everything we can to show you the way by giving you a chance to have a go for yourself. The work you’ll find yourself doing... on joining us you’ll be teamed with two lawyers (one experienced, and another a little closer in level to you) who immerse you in the day to day running of their practices. What that means on a practical level will vary depending on the practice group you join (we’ll ask you to indicate your preferences), and could involve: • • • • • •
researching points of law and summarising your findings drafting correspondence court documents and sections of commercial agreements reviewing and analysing legislation and case law observing our lawyers in action at meetings, conferences, mediations and court attending practice group discussions.
It’s not all work though... you’ll also have plenty of time to get away from your office to join the other seasonal/summer clerks in your group. This can include: • participating in practice group case study sessions to build on your understanding of our areas of expertise • careers sessions to map out your career possibilities • skills-based workshops to build practical skills like letter writing and taking instructions • time out to discover the best coffee shops, or do a yoga class, just for fun. We know most of these experiences will be brand new for you, so before you’re faced with learning new things, we’ve built in time for the basics, like time to get to know our people and the other seasonal/summer clerks you’re working with, and time to learn how to navigate your way around the office. These experiences will provide you with a much clearer idea of what it means to be a lawyer. You’ll also develop a better feel for the human side of Lander & Rogers, such as why our people work here, where they’ve come from, and what they do when they’re not being lawyers. We aim to recruit and retain law students who have a friendly and down to earth style of engaging with others. We see this as important to your success in working with your clients and colleagues, and critical to the preservation of our happy workplace. You’ll also need intelligence to tackle the most interesting of legal scenarios, energy to absorb new concepts and changing laws, and a willingness to work productively with lots of different people. We don’t expect that you’ll be a gun at all of these things straight away, but when we meet you at interview we’ll be curious to learn more about your potential to handle these things in the future, based on the skills and experience you’ve already built through studying law (combined with other disciplines like arts, commerce and science) and any legal and non-legal parttime work, volunteer work and university activities you’ve tackled. Please see the website information on how to apply.
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
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for
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Offices Brisbane Melbourne Sydney
Major Practice Areas Anti-discrimination and equal opportunity Building, construction and engineering Capital raising and financing Company and securities law (including ASX) Compensation Law Competition and consumer law Dispute resolution Employment Energy and resources Environmental compliance Family and relationship law Financial services & Superannuation Government Industrial relations Infrastructure and PPPs Insolvency, restructuring and mortgage recoveries Insurance Intellectual property and technology International trade and investment Investigations Mergers, acquisitions & joint ventures Occupational health and safety Privacy Law Project development Property Regulated industries Risk management Sport and events Training
Lipman Karas www.lipmankaras.com
Lipman Karas has a consistent track record of delivering outstanding results for our clients, in some of the most significant disputes and inquiries. The overwhelming majority of our projects involve actions in multiple jurisdictions, including Asia, the UK, Continental Europe, the US, the Middle East, all the major offshore jurisdictions, and throughout Australia. Our project teams comprise of lawyers from across our offices in Australia, Hong Kong and London, and draw on our shared expertise, experience and contacts. A career at Lipman Karas provides opportunities and experiences that are unrivalled in Australia. Our Clerkship Program Lipman Karas offers clerkships to penultimate and final year law students who have demonstrated academic excellence, practical ability and commitment to the highest levels of achievement. Clerks are directly exposed to client project work, which is distinct in terms of its magnitude, complexity and international scope. They experience first-hand LK’s collaborative, ground-up approach to litigating and resolving legal claims.
In addition, clerks at LK receive training on the firm’s research methodology, approach to practice and multi-jurisdictional resources. Clerks are encouraged to participate in all aspects of firm life, including taking part in the firm’s social, sporting and community activities. The Australian Top 100 Graduate Employer 2015 Guide named Lipman Karas a Fast Mover in their list of top rated employers, the only law firm in this category. Application Process We offer up to 20 clerkship placements annually at mutually convenient times throughout the year and in particular during summer and winter university holidays.
Offices Adelaide Hong Kong London
Major Practice Areas Complex commercial litigation and arbitration Cross-border insolvency and asset recovery Independent corporate and regulatory investigations Dispute avoidance and alternative dispute resolution Risk minimisation and governance advice Litigation due diligence and project management
Please visit our website for details regarding the application process.
Clerks participate in a variety of tasks and work directly with senior lawyers and principals. They are important members of our project teams and perform real professional work for real clients. This includes drafting and presenting research, assisting in the preparation of client advice and preparing court documents.
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Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Lynch Meyer www.lynchmeyer.com.au
Offices Adelaide
Major Practice Areas Aged Care and Retirement Villages Agribusiness Banking and Finance Construction, Infrastructure and Engineering Environment, Planning and Resources Credit Management and Debt Recovery Not-for-Profit Sector Property Transport, Freight and Logistics
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Our law services provide a vast range of useful services for small-to-medium enterprises, large corporations and notfor-profit organisations. We also provide specialised wealth management services to our private clients. As a leading Adelaide law firm, we pride ourselves on offering all our clients practical, commercial legal advice and firstrate service. Most of our clients are based in the construction and engineering, property and development, finance or retirement villages and aged care industries. Many are leaders in their field.
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Our advice is strategic - everything we do is designed to strengthen our clients’ commercial position and deliver the outcomes they want. When you join us you’ll be part of a progressive, dynamic firm that offers stimulating work from a diverse group of clients, and real work life balance. Ours is a culture which encourages people to speak up and be heard. We expect our people to listen to colleagues and clients alike. When we do things really well we recognise our people for their achievements and we celebrate.
Maddocks
www.maddocks.com.au We work collaboratively with our clients to build strong, sustainable relationships – our longest is now more than 100 years old. Our lawyers aim to deliver consistently high standards of service, and we understand the importance of accessibility, responsiveness and transparency. Working with us, you’ll enjoy open communication, meaning well scoped, appropriately resourced and effectively managed matters.
Maddocks’ Seasonal Clerk program is a great opportunity to experience working in a dynamic legal office and familiarise yourself with the firm. It starts with an orientation, followed by a period in three of our seven practice groups.
Our clients tell us they come to Maddocks because we have the expertise they require, delivered with a strong emphasis on personalised service. What’s more, they explain that the difference between a Maddocks lawyer and others they deal with is that we’re welcoming, we value long-term relationships and provide clarity and commerciality in our advice.
For each rotation, you are assigned a co– coordinator who allocates work, provides support and evaluates your progress.
You will be exposed to a variety of areas within the firm and your experience may help you in determining your main areas of interest.
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Offices Canberra Melbourne Sydney
Major Practice Areas Advertising, Brands & Marketing Advocacy Asia & International Banking & Finance Commercial Contracts Competition & Regulation Compliance & Enforcement Construction & Projects Consumer Markets & Franchising Corporate & Commercial Debt Recovery (Local Government) Dispute Resolution & Litigation Emergency Services Emerging Companies Employment Energy & Resources Environment Equity Capital Markets
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Minter Ellison
graduates.minterellison.com/content/graduate-program
MinterEllison is a leading international law firm based in Australia with a local presence in Adelaide. The firm offers legal services and commercial solutions to national and multinational companies, public and private sector clients. Our people have extensive experience working with businesses across a range of sectors including: agribusiness, health and aged care, higher education, not-forprofit, SMEs and energy and resources, encapsulating mining, oil and gas, power and water. Many of our specialists have been independently recognised among Australia’s preeminent legal advisers. At MinterEllison we believe our people are our greatest asset. By joining our firm you become part of a broad team that supports one another, is dedicated to learning and development, and strives for excellence in legal services delivery and client relationship management. As a permanent employee, you gain exposure to some of the state’s biggest companies, projects and matters.
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Our aspiration is to be our clients’ best partner. In order to achieve this aim, we think beyond the law, and apply a commercial approach and creative thinking to our clients’ issues and opportunities. Join us and be a part of the future of legal services provision. Clerkships Our clerkships offer you real life work experience. A comprehensive induction program and learning on the job will help you to build your legal skills and commercial acumen. You will work closely with partners and lawyers on active matters giving you exposure to complex and challenging work.
Offices Offices Adelaide Darwin Perth Auckland Gold Coast Shanghai Beijing Hong Kong Sydney Brisbane London Ulaanbaatar Canberra Melbourne Wellington
Major Practice Areas Dispute resolution Corporate including: - Energy and Resources - Major projects construction and Infrastructure - Regulatory and government - Tax - Intellectual Property and Competition Law Financial services (including insolvency) Human resources and industrial relations Insurance and corporate risk Real estate (including environment and planning) Workers compensation
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The world is being disrupted and market demands are changing. The next generation of graduates will transform the future of legal services – we can give you the skills you need to do it well.
We are global leaders
Contact
MinterEllison is a prestigious, international law firm, headquartered in Australia. As one of Asia-Pacific’s leading firms, we’re borderless. We have the best people, working on the best matters, regardless of location. Our multidisciplinary and industry-facing lawyers collaborate closely across our offices in Australia, New Zealand, Asia and the UK. Our independence means we can adapt in parallel with our clients and market demand. In fact, we often lead the way. With MinterEllison, you can be a global leader too. You’ll have the opportunity to work with renowned lawyers and experts from around the world. And to build remarkable solutions that go beyond one region’s laws and grasp the global picture. Essentially, you can be as agile, innovative and creative as we are.
We support you to succeed Our award-winning Clerk and Graduate Programs ensure a supportive and highly engaging experience to provide you with the best career start. Be assured that you will become a well-rounded lawyer; developing excellent technical and business skills; and collaborating with a highly reputable legal network. Our graduates accelerate their legal and business acumen through exposure to our partners, lawyers and professionals in our collaborative and innovative work environment. You will have the opportunity to rotate across different practice areas, and be exposed to inspiring and challenging transactional, advisory and litigation work.
Your success is our success
Vanda Mutton Talent Business Partner vanda.mutton@minterellison.com
graduates.minterellison.com
Clerkship positions Number of positions available: 6 Opening date: Monday 11 June 2019 Closing date: Sunday 14 July, 11.59pm 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?
Which is why we celebrate and invest in our people. We consistently have a record number of promotions, and last year, won the award for ‘Best Learning & Development Program’ at the Australian HR Awards. We’re committed to helping our people achieve their best. And our development programs and initiatives are second to none. We’re always working to open more doors for you. Recently, we restructured our organisation to make it even easier to collaborate across all our offices and access an international network of brilliant legal thinkers. Our structure also offers new career paths, allowing you to seamlessly work across multiple practice areas. 79
Your Future
NDA Law
http://ndalaw.com.au/ Offices Adelaide
Major Practice Areas Business Succession and Estate Planning Commercial Competition and Consumer Law Corporate Defamation and Media Dispute Resolution Intellectual Property Privacy Social Media Tax and Superannuation
NDA Law is an award-winning and innovative firm with strong commercial acumen. The firm has significant experience in helping businesses and individuals with legal matters. The firm specialises in corporate, commercial, tax, business succession, estate planning, corporate governance, employment, intellectual property, restructuring,
contracts, dispute resolution and mediation. The firm provides services for small and medium business clients, but also does a variety of work for individual clients, not-for-profits, industry bodies and corporates.
Norman Waterhouse www.normans.com.au
Offices
Summer Clerkship Program As a Summer Clerk at Norman Waterhouse you are offered the opportunity to experience working with highly regarded and respected practitioners who are experts in their respective areas of practice.
Adelaide
Major Practice Areas
During the four-week program, you may be performing a variety of duties such as drafting letters of advice, research, and attending client interviews, firm meetings and events. Also, when the opportunity presents you may observe attendance at court and other pre-trial stages such as mediation conferences, negotiation and direction hearings.
Commercial Dispute Resolution Corporate & Commercial Employment & Industrial Relations Environment & Planning Family Law Intellectual Property Local Government Local Government Governance & Regulatory Services Migration & International Business Native Title, Resources & Associated Land Access Property, Construction, Infrastructure & Development Taxation & Wealth Management Wills & Estate Planning
A number of our practitioners began with the firm as Summer Clerks. Selection Process It is a great opportunity for you to show us your passion for the law and explore the different areas of law and career possibilities. We seek students who, not only excel academically but inspire to be the best that they can be and who have the attributes in keeping with our Core Values. We consider driven, engaged, well-rounded individuals who are committed to embracing new challenges and new experiences.
Norman Waterhouse is a proud South Australian firm with nearly 100 years of experience. We are not just a law firm, but your partners in business. Our practitioners are experienced in representing a wide range of public and private clients in both a national and international context. At Normans, we are not solely focused on meeting the immediate needs of our clients, but instead creating value add solutions that build successful long-term relationships. Our practitioners excel in an environment that encourages team work and collaboration whilst maintaining a strong focus on delivering high quality advice to clients. Our workplace culture celebrates opportunities and innovate ideas in a way that enriches diversity of thought across our firm.
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
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With the fluctuation of workloads in our practice areas, it isn’t always possible for each of our practice teams to offer a placement, therefore, we ask you to include in your application your top three preferences. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted to attend an interview. Area of Law: The firm’s seven practice teams include: • Environment and Planning Team; • Commercial & Property Team; • Property, Infrastructure & Commercial Team; • Dispute Resolution & Insolvency; • Employment & Industrial Relations Team; • Governance & Regulatory Services Team; and • Family Law Team.
Norton Rose Fulbright www.nortonrosefulbright.com
Norton Rose Fulbright is a leading global legal practice offering a full business law service to many of the world’s pre-eminent corporations and financial institutions. In Australia, we have offices in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. Knowing how our clients’ businesses work 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 clients anywhere in the world. We are strong in financial institutions; energy; infrastructure, mining and commodities; transport; technology and innovation; and life sciences and health care. We take the view that we are only as strong as our people – which is why quality training and flexible work programmes are paramount to our business. We deliver an extensive range of training programmes targeted at specific stages of our lawyers’ professional development. Our graduate lawyers have the opportunity to follow a unique Asia Rotation programme and to spend time in one of our Asia Pacific offices. Come and explore our world.
Summer Clerkship The summer clerkship programme runs for 10 weeks in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney over the summer. You will have the chance to spend five weeks in one practice group and then rotate to a different practice area, to broaden your knowledge as much as possible. Our clerkship programme is your opportunity to start building a career with a global law firm, doing meaningful work of value. You will also be able to get to know our people, working closely with – and learning from – our associates, senior associates and partners. All in all, it is an opportunity to experience what life is really like as a graduate. The summer clerkship programme is the primary source for our national graduate programme, which feeds directly into our international opportunities such as the Asia Pacific International Rotational programme. Language skills in Mandarin, Cantonese and Japanese are highly regarded.
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Offices Brisbane Melbourne Perth Sydney
Major Practice Areas Banking & Finance Competition & Consumer Construction & Engineering Corporate (equity capital markets, M & A, Private Equity) Employment & Labour Energy & Resources Environment & Planning Financial & Investment Services Health, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology Insurance Intellectual Property Litigation and Dispute Resolution Real Estate Restructuring & Insolvency Taxation Technology, media & Communication Transport and logistics
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Piper Alderman www.piperalderman.com.au
Piper Alderman is a commercial law firm with offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide. We have over 50 partners and close to 300 staff in total. Our firm is committed to continual excellence in the practice of law, having been leading advisers to commercial interests across Australia for over 160 years. We have achieved our impressive growth by listening to our clients, responding to their needs and creating practical legal solutions. Piper Alderman is a single, united partnership dedicated to performing as a team and working together with our clients to achieve their business goals. As a genuinely national firm, we work with clients across all states and territories in Australia, as well as several international organisations. Clerkships at Piper Alderman Rather than a short lived summer clerkship, we offer our clerks a two-year program that may lead to a graduate position. Clerks work two days per week commencing from their penultimate year of study through to graduation. Our clerks progress quicker because of this ongoing experience.
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
We know that flexibility is key, so you get to choose the days you work each semester depending on your university timetable. We understand that as a student, you may have other commitments that require time away from work such as exams or exchange programs. Our range of leave policies allow you to apply for time off when you need it. We pride ourselves on offering real work, real experience and real opportunity. Providing our clerks with the opportunity to participate in real legal work is important for their engagement and development. We don’t recruit law clerks to become additional administrative assistants, but rather to offer real legal support to our lawyers and partners. You will be kept busy with legal research, drafting and attending court. Graduate Positions We recruit our graduates from our existing clerks, however from time to time we need additional graduates and will recruit outside of this. Like us on Facebook, review our Current Opportunities page on our website or in CVmail for clerk and graduate opportunities.
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Offices Adelaide Brisbane Melbourne Sydney
Major Practice Areas Agribusiness Banking & Finance Competition & Consumer Construction & Infrastructure Corporate & Commercial Dispute Resolution & Litigation Employment Relations Energy & Resources Government & Administrative Law Health & Life Sciences Hospitality, Tourism & Gaming Insolvency, Turnaround and Recoveries Insurance IP, Technology & Telecommunications Planning & Environment Private Client Services Privatisation Property Taxation & Superannuation Transport & Logistics
Slater & Gordon www.slatergordon.com.au/
Offices
Adelaide Brisbane & 17 other QLD Offices Canberra Hobart Melbourne & 25 other Vic Offices Perth & 2 other WA Offices Sydney & 22 other NSW Offices
Major Practice Areas Compensation Law Family Law Wills + Will Disputes Estate Planning + Probate Emplloyment Law Dispute Resolution Class Actions
Slater and Gordon Limited (“Slater and Gordon”, ASX:SGH) is a leading international consumer law firm employing 1,400 people in 80 locations across Australia and 3,800 people across 27 locations in the United Kingdom. Slater and Gordon’s mission is to give people easier access to world class legal services. The firm provides specialist legal and complementary services in a broad range of areas. Our Clients Our clients are people throughout Australia and the United Kingdom (UK) who are in need of a broad range of personal legal services. They want lawyers who are accessible and able to provide expert advice on their legal matters at an affordable price. Our clients came to us for individual legal needs, as well as group actions. They come from all backgrounds and socio-economic circumstances. Our History Slater and Gordon was founded in Australia in 1935. The company has grown from quite humble beginnings servicing the needs of unions and working people. We have built a powerful reputation throughout our history as a law firm that fights to achieve the best
outcomes. From the many landmark legal cases we have won to the introduction of innovations such as No Win - No Fee*, we have been determined to ensure that more people are able to access affordable legal services. The origins of Slater and Gordon in the United Kingdom (formerly Russell Jones and Walker) date back more than 85 years to the 1920s. The firm had similar foundations to that of Slater and Gordon in Australia, with its commitment to justice evident in its history of landmark cases throughout the decades. Our Services Slater and Gordon provides specialist legal services to individuals in a range of practice areas including all areas of liability and compensation law, as well as other general legal services in areas such as family and relationship law, conveyancing, wills and estate planning. Our Business and Specialised Litigation Services includes commercial, estate and professional negligence litigation and class actions. Our firm is well known for its experience in running complex and large scale class actions.
Sparke Helmore www.sparke.com.au
Offices Adelaide Brisbane Canberra Melbourne Newcastle Perth Port Macquarie Sydney Upper Hunter
Major Practice Areas Commercial & Projects Corporate Government Insurance Workplace
Sparke Helmore is a truly integrated national firm that looks to the future. Established in 1882, we have more than 800 people flexibly working from nine offices across Australia, serving the needs of the insurance, government, financial services, technology, mining, construction and property sectors.
at the heart of everything we do— we’re proud to be described as being down to earth, practical and easy to deal with.
Our expertise spans corporate and commercial to construction, workplace to insurance, IP to IPOs, mining to manufacturing, and property to procurement.
Our culture provides the foundations of a welcoming and inclusive environment, and we encourage people from all backgrounds to join us—and bring their whole selves to work.
Our firm values and celebrates diversity. We aim to increase the diversity of our workforce to better represent the communities in which we live and work.
We offer the security and history of a longestablished firm with the excitement and opportunity for growth. We operate in a way that puts our clients and our people
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Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Connect with us... Thomson Geer @ThomsonGeer www.tglaw.com.au
ADVICE | TRANSACTIONS | DISPUTES Domestic & Cross Border www.tglaw.com.au Sydney | Melbourne | Brisbane | Adelaide
SURVIVING AND THRIVING THROUGH THE CLERKSHIP PROCESS Emma Avey, Law Graduate The clerkship process can be a very daunting and stressful process. So here are my top five tips for surviving (and thriving) through the process. START YOUR APPLICATIONS EARLY Trying to juggle the applications and university at the same time can be a hassle. If you break it down into little pieces, it’s far easier to manage. Plan ahead by conducting your research early. Think about what firms and areas of law you are interested in. That way you can spend time crafting your cover letters to show your knowledge for each firm and how you would be a great fit! The more time you spend polishing your cover letters, the better they will be. Firms will be able to tell if you’ve rushed to submit all of your applications the night before they’re due. So save yourself the stress and start early! KEEP TRACK OF THE DEADLINES AND KEY DATES The application deadlines, interviews and cocktail evenings all tend to pile up. With the pressures of university thrown in, stress can make it easy to forget key dates. For me, I had four assignments due on one day in the middle of interviews and cocktail nights! Make sure you are ahead of the game and have all of your key dates well documented. Your phone calendar will be getting a workout! A couple of days before an interview, set yourself a reminder to practice some mock interviews to make sure you’re as comfortable and as prepared as you can be. TRY AND MAKE THE MOST OF THE PROCESS While the process can seem like a chore, it’s an invaluable experience to go through and you can gain a lot of insight into life as a solicitor. When I went through the clerkship process, Thomson Geer held a face-to-face interview with two partners and a cocktail evening - the cocktail evening was a great way to learn about the firm. If you make the most of the cocktail evening, when you show up for your clerkship at the end of the year, you’ll be greeted by friendly faces who you have already met. The process has now changed slightly, and the interview is conducted by video, but the cocktail evening is still there, so make the most of it! Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
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SAVOUR EVERY MINUTE OF YOUR CLERKSHIP My clerkship at Thomson Geer was an amazing experience. As a clerk you learn so much about life as a solicitor and by the end of it, you’ll feel like you’re ready to take on the corporate legal world! Thomson Geer invests a lot of time into showing clerks what a range of teams do, which is invaluable if you’re anything like me and had no idea about which area of law you were interested in. Never say no to anything on a clerkship because you never know what you’ll be able to take away from it. The tasks you will perform as a clerk will vary from everything between research tasks, attending client meetings and preparing court documents. Not only will it be an invaluable learning experience, you will be adding real value to the firm and for clients. When I was a clerk, I was lucky enough to join the Employment and Safety team as they prepared for a court hearing and it was all hands on deck. I really felt like part of a team even in those very early days. Try to be as social as possible. Have lunch with your allocated buddy, ask if you can play on the social netball team, go along to Friday night drinks! In doing so, you can build your professional network, while having some fun at the same time. I kept in contact with many of the people I met through my clerkship before starting my graduate role. And with any luck, the people you meet will be your colleagues for many years to come. (MOST IMPORTANTLY) BE YOURSELF! While this is easier said than done, don’t be afraid to let the firm know who you are on your clerkship. Grab on to the things that make you unique. Whether you are a keen athlete, can tear up the dance floor, love to curl up in bed with a good book or are just a crazy cat lady (like me), let your personality shine. Be confident in your abilities and who you are as a person. Don’t be afraid to be you! I wish you all the best of luck and I hope to see you at Thomson Geer!
Thomson Geer www.tglaw.com.au
We have a total of 527 people, including 85 Partners and more than 275 other professionals operating out of our offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide. Our industry coverage and client work is diverse.
profession, however we also recognise that it can be demanding. For this reason Thomson Geer aims to create an environment that is flexible, friendly, personable, collegiate and professionally stimulating.
Why choose us? Your future and our future. We know you’re not just a student on work experience. We want to give you a realistic and stretching introduction to the legal profession. How does this happen? From day one, you’ll be an active participant in the team, involved in all aspects of legal practice, and working directly with experienced practitioners. We also want you to enjoy your time with us – there are lots of social events you can get involved in – and what better way for you to get to know your colleagues?
Our wellbeing@work program supports employees to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Our employees love to get involved in triathlons, mixed sporting teams and yoga, and they enjoy massages and healthy breakfasts.
Investing in you We will dedicate significant time to your development as an up and coming lawyer in our team: an investment in you is an investment in our future, and the future of our valued clients. You will find that all of our partners and staff are approachable and always happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. We encourage our clerks, graduates and trainees to get as much exposure to different practice areas and ways of working as they can – this is a reflection of how we work as a wider organisation; a fully integrated, cohesive, national team. Work life balance – yes, it does exist! The Law is an incredibly rewarding
Clerkship Program We are looking for law students who have excelled academically, are client focused, commercially minded, and work well in a team environment. We are especially keen to talk to students who have an additional technical degree! We offer a structured four week program where clerks learn through a combination of hands-on experience, training, coaching and observation. Students who complete a clerkship with the firm will be eligible to be considered for a position in the firm’s next graduate program in 2018 or 2019. This program runs for 12 months and includes rotation among different practice areas to help determine the area of law which best suits you.
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Offices Adelaide Brisbane Melbourne Sydney
Specialist Practice Areas Advertising & Marketing Agribusiness Banking & Finance Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Competition & Regulation Construction & Projects Corporate & Advisory Employment, Workplace Relations & Safety Energy & Resources Environment & Planning Franchising Funds Management & Financial Service Gaming & Leisure Government Health, Aged Care & Retirement Villages Insurance Intellectual Property Litigation & Dispute Resolution Media, Broadcasting & Entertainment Mergers & Acquisitions Property Restructuring & Insolvency Superannuation & Wealth Management Tax Technology Telecommunications
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
Wallmans
www.wallmans.com.au
Offices Adelaide
Major Practice Areas Business & Commercial Competition & Consumer Financial Services Hospitality & Licensing Insolvency Insurance Litigation & Dispute Resolution Mediation Medical Mercantile Planning & Environment Privacy Property, Construction & Infrastructure Retirement Villages & Aged Care Taxation & Superannuation Transport & Shipping Workplace Relations, Employment & Safety Personal Injury Taxation & Superannuation Wills & Estate Planning Commercial & Property Governance Litigation & Dispute Resolution Planning, Environment & Licensed Premises Workplace Relations, Employment and Safety
Wallmans Lawyers is an established multipractice commercial firm, providing an integrated team of nationally recognised leaders with extensive knowledge of key industry sectors. While predominately Adelaide based, the firm services a significant range of local, national and international clients across the corporate, private and government sectors as well as individuals. Comprising a full service team of 96 staff, our lawyers have a reputation for understanding our clients’ business, their objectives and goals, whilst ultimately providing solutions that are cost effective and commercial. As a multi-practice firm, we are able to offer complementary services that are essential to effective business operations including tailored taxation, superannuation, property, workplace relations, litigation and dispute resolution assistance. We act for a wide variety of clients from medium sized businesses through to publicly listed organisations across a broad range of industries, including financial services, professional services, government, health, aged care, transport and shipping, not for profit, insurance, hospitality and wine, tourism, media and property and construction. Clerkships and PLT Wallmans Lawyers offer six-week clerkships for students wanting to undertake their PLT placement and a four-week Summer Clerk Program during December and January. Many summer clerks have been invited back to do their Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (GDLP) or PLT placement with us.
Employer Directory: Civil Legal Practice
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We look for students with ability, enthusiasm and motivation who are friendly team players with strong communication skills. In other words, Wallmans people. In return, we will offer an opportunity to experience life in a successful city legal practice, and welcome you as part of the team. You will work with lawyers at all levels on a daily basis, and the program will be coordinated by our Human Resources Manager to help make your transition from student to pre-admission lawyer as smooth as possible. You will receive full training on our systems and procedures when you arrive and practical feedback when you finish the program. We will also seek your feedback to ensure continuous improvement. A typical clerkship at Wallmans Lawyers includes: • Attending client meetings and interviews with witnesses • Conducting and reporting on factual and legal research and draft opinions • Collating and indexing documents for use in trials and mediation • Preparing letters to clients, barristers and witnesses • Drafting court documents and commercial documents • Accompanying clients to a barrister’s chambers or to court • Attending court registries and public offices • Participating in practice area section meetings and our in-house training program.
Employer Directory: Criminal Legal Practice
Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions www.dpp.sa.gov.au
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is responsible for prosecuting offences in South Australia. Lawyers working at the ODPP may either serve as a prosecutor, appearing in court, or a solicitor, preparing matters for prosecution. The ODPP aims to provide the people of South Australia with an independent and effective criminal prosecution service which is timely, efficient and just.
PLT Placement
Applicants should register their interest by filling in the online application found on the ODPP website, specifying which intake they are interested in. Please ensure you attach an up to date curriculum vitae and a copy of your academic transcript.
Applicants should provide a short summary of why they are interested in completing their placement with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. Applications should be made in writing. See the website for postal address details.
Offices Adelaide
Summer Clerkships
Summer Clerkships are offered to students completing their final years of tertiary law studies. Applications for the Summer Clerk roles should reflect both academic and personal achievements as well as any relevant legal work experience. To be successful in obtaining a Clerkship within the Office, your application should showcase your interpersonal skills, ambitions and your passion for the law.
Office of the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions www.cdpp.gov.au
The Office of the Commonwealth of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) is an independent prosecution service established by Parliament to prosecute alleged offences against Commonwealth law. We aim to provide an effective, ethical, high quality and independent criminal prosecution service for Australia in accordance with the Prosecution Policy of the Commonwealth. The CDPP provides an effective and efficient independent prosecution service that contributes to a fair, safe and just Australia where Commonwealth laws are respected, offenders are brought to justice and potential offenders are deterred.
Employer Directory: Crinimal Legal Practice
As the CDPP is responsible for the conduct of prosecutions against the laws of the Commonwealth in all-Australian jurisdictions, we are in a unique position to provide feedback to policy formulators and lawmakers about the operation of Commonwealth criminal law and our experience working with these laws in the courts
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Offices Adelaide Brisbane Canberra Cairns Hobart Melbourne Perth Sydney Townsville
Andersons Solicitors
Bronwyn Zanker & Co
Andersons Solicitors Andersons Solicitors has offices in Adelaide, Port Adelaide, Morphett Vale, Murray Bridge, Mt Gambier and Port Adelaide. They specialize in personal injury law including injuries resulting from motor vehicle accidents, workplace injuries through WorkCover or ComCare, asbestos and dust diseases including chemical exposure, medical negligence and catastrophic injury and injuries resulting from an accident in a public place. They also have employment industrial, family, commercial, criminal and wills and estate planning departments.
This firm offers assistance with legal issues arising from family law, criminal law, wills and estates, motor vehicle accidents and drink driving. The firm is run by Bronwyn Zanker, who will work to assist you with all of your legal concerns.
Colthorpe Lawyers
Caldicott Lawyers
www.andersons.com.au
www.colthorpelawyers.com.au
www.caldicottlawyers.com.au
Colthorpe Lawyers specialise in criminal defence law, including defending all prosecutions for traffic related offences, licence reviews and the lifting of immediate police suspensions of licence. We frequently deal with simple traffic offences such as speeding and other minor offences but also drink driving offences, driving whilst disqualified, driving to evade police, in a manner dangerous and cause injury or death by negligent driving. Colthorpe Lawyers is located in Christies Beach.
Caldicott Lawyers is a specialised law firm that works exclusively in all areas of criminal law. The firm handles all types of criminal matters, from serious charges including murder, manslaughter, kidnapping, drug offences, sex offences, serious assaults, violent offences, theft and fraud, to traffic and driving charges, including drink driving, drug driving, causing death by dangerous driving and driving whilst disqualified. Caldicott Lawyers is a member of ADLA (Australian Defence Lawyers’ Alliance), which is a group of leading criminal law firms in Australia.
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Employer Directory: Crinimal Legal Practice
Mangan Ey & Associates www.manganey.com.au
Mangan Ey & Associates Barristers and Solicitors specialise in criminal and traffic law. They are one of Adelaide’s oldest and experienced specialist criminal law firms, established in 1982. They practice in murder and manslaughter cases, all types of drug offences, sexual offences, assault, disorderly behavior, domestic violence, theft and robbery, fraud, firearms and weapons offences, serious criminal trespass, drink driving, general traffic offences and demerit points, and driving without due care.
Woods & Co www.criminallawexperts.com.au Woods & Co is a specialist criminal and traffic Law firm located in the heart of Adelaide. The firm services all court areas in South Australia, and has developed a reputation for providing forthright and honest advice. Woods & Co believes in being experts and providing a boutique service to our clients that is second to none. The firm provide a 24hr emergency service.
Websters Lawyers
www.websterslawyers.com.au Websters Lawyers are a firm of experienced barristers and solicitors from a diverse range of areas who have the common aim of providing a more personal and efficient legal service than clients are likely to have received elsewhere. Websters Lawyers practice in a wide variety of areas, including personal injury and public liability, family law, workers compensation, motor vehicle accident claims, criminal law, traffic and police matters, estate administration, equal opportunity and discrimination claims, victims of crime claims, court litigation, wills, and commercial litigation.
Employer Directory:
Suburban & Rural Practice
AM Legal
Beger & Co Lawyers www.beger.com.au
www.boylanlawyers.com.au
AM Legal provides advice and dispute resolution, as well assisting people with planning and managing their legal affairs of both a personal and business nature. AM Legal specialises in workplace relations as well as commerce, personal relationships (marriage and de facto), personal services (wills and estate planning) and public law. It is also strongly committed to participating in the community also undertaking a significant amount of pro bono work.
Beger & Co Lawyers is an accredited Law Society of South Australia “Gold Alliance� Adelaide law firm. The firm is a general practice of experienced Adelaide lawyers and conveyancers located in St Peters, South Australia. The lawyers at Beger & Co Lawyers are all highly experienced in court disputes, employment matters, litigation, wills and estates, commercial law and property law. Beger & Co guarantees a service of the highest quality in a friendly and comfortable environment.
Boylan Lawyers are not only located in the CBD of Adelaide but they have five rural locations to extend their assistance throughout the state. Their areas of practice include; wills and estates, injury law, family law, property and commercial law, litigation, work law and notarising.
Dewar Legal
Georgiadis Lawyers
Hume Taylor & Co
Georgiadis Lawyers is a boutique firm specializing in a range of corporate and personal practice areas. The firm practices in commercial and business law, property law, family law, wills, estates and succession law, criminal law, personal injury law, WorkCover law and employment law. Georgiadis Lawyers has offices located in the Adelaide CBD, Salisbury, Christies Beach, Mount Barker and Port Adelaide.
Hume Taylor & Co Lawyers is a mediumsized, South Australian law firm with offices located in Adelaide, Millicent and Whyalla. The firm represents a diverse range of clients, maintaining a sizeable commercial, corporate and private client base. They practice in areas ranging from family law to criminal law, wills & estate planning, probate and estate administration, personal injury claims, commercial law, industrial law and conveyancing.
www.amlegal.com.au
www.dewarlegal.com Dewar Legal is a personal and business legal firm based in Adelaide. The firm practices in the fields of family law, estate law, and criminal law. The firm offers a full range of legal services with a particular focus on assisting individuals, families and small business to resolve complex legal disputes.
Employer Directory: Suburban & Rural
www.georgiadis.com.au
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Boylan & Co
www.humetaylor.com.au
Jankus Legal
Johnston Withers
Kyrmis Lawyers
www.jankuslegal.com.au
www.johnstonwithers.com.au
www.kyrimislawyers.com.au
SMEs or business owners that require practical and cost effective business law advice make up most of Jankus Legal’s clients. They want to set things up well for the long term and to carry on their business without spending too much time or money on lawyers. Jankus Legal addresses its clients’ needs by working efficiently and effectively, and where possible providing a fixed quote for legal work.
Johnston Withers is a progressive, midsized South Australian law firm with a social conscience. It has been serving Adelaide and regional SA clients for nearly 70 years. It has a head office in Adelaide; regional offices in Clare, Port Augusta and Whyalla; and regularly visits Roxby Downs. Johnston Withers’ areas of focus are injury law, employment law, commercial and property law, family law, wills and estates, criminal law and dispute resolution. They are highly regarded for particular expertise in some niche areas: defamation; native title and Aboriginal legal issues; food, wine and agri-law; environmental law; and legal assistance for not-for-profit organisations and associations. Underpinning all they do is a focus on building strong personal relationships with clients – helping them in their workplaces, in their families, in their businesses and in their lives.
Kyrmis Lawyers is a full-service regional law firm based in Mount Gambier, aiming to provide the highest quality legal services in a timely fashion. The firm practices in areas of wills and estates, commercial law, workplace law, land brokerage, criminal law, family law, civil disputes.
Jankus Legal provides legal services in business documents and advice, business structures, wills and estates plans, and notary public. Christine Jankus is a solicitor with nearly 30 years experience in commercial law and is also a member of the Law Society of South Australia and the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Johnston Withers offer PLT placements and employ law clerks and interns as needed.
Mellor Olsson
www.mellorolsson.com.au Mellor Olsson has permanent offices in Adelaide, Port Lincoln and Clare, as well as (by appointment) offices at Bordertown, Kadina, Keith, McLaren Vale and Nuriootpa. The lawyers at Mellor Olsson can assist with personal injury, wills and estates, commercial services, employment law, local government and planning and conveyancing. At Mellor Olsson, high quality legal advice goes hand in hand with high levels of personal service. The firm takes pride in providing legal solutions for all South Australians.
Scammell & Co
www.scammell.com.au
Scammell & Co cover a wide range of legal and associated matters, but the firm has extensive experience in injury claims. The firm’s services include personal injury, family law, commercial services, litigation, wills and estates and criminal law.
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Stokes Legal
www.stokeslegal.com.au Since 1988, Stokes Legal has provided effective legal solutions, advice and court representation. Being a small, client focused firm, it offers a high level of personalised service with the convenience of accessible offices with easy parking at any one of five suburban locations and Victor Harbor office. Stokes Legal practices in family law, wills and estates, business and property law, and debt collection.
Employer Directory: Suburban & Rural
Employer Directory: Community Legal Practice
Family Violence Legal Service Aboriginal
Australian Refugee Association
www.australianrefugee.org http://www.fvlsac.org.au The Family Violence Legal Service Aboriginal Corporation (FVLSAC) – is a free community legal service assisting Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander victim/ survivors of family violence and/or sexual assault in the state of South Australia. The service work with families and communities affected by violence. The service has offices in Port Augusta, Port Lincoln and Ceduna and provide services in the Spencer Gulf Region and West Coast Region and surrounding communities. FVLSAC provides face to face and/or telephone legal advice to victim/survivors of family violence and/or sexual assault. The service also provide client support services and community legal education.
JusticeNet www.justicenet.org.au JusticeNet SA is an independent, not-forprofit legal service that provides pro bono legal assistance to individuals and charitable organisations in South Australia. The organisation is run by experienced lawyers and assisted by volunteers, and aims to provide a safety net for individuals or groups who cannot afford a lawyer. JusticeNet accepts applications for volunteers year-round and opens positions on an as-needed basis. The major intake is during June and November each year. Places are competitive. To apply, please send a cover letter, CV and Academic Transcript to Louise Young at admin@justicenet.org.au.
The Australian Refugee Association (ARA) was established in 1975 by a group of concerned people who volunteered their time to help people arriving in Australia from Vietnam. Volunteers are an integral part of the work that the ARA does, and there are currently approximately 600 volunteers. The ARA’s mission is to help refugees become settled and participating citizens of Australia. Their vision is an Australia where refugees are an integral part of a thriving, prosperous community. The ARA provides advice, assistance, advocacy and practical support with settlement services, migration services, employment services, youth services, public education, policy and advocacy.
Central Community Legal Service www.yourbestlife.org.au
Central Community Legal Service is a community organisation set up to provide free legal information, advice, referral and assistance. It offers three different types of services: 1. Generalist Legal Service 2. Disability Discrimination Assistance 3. Children’s and Youth Legal Service There are outreaches available at Marion Youth Service in Oaklands Park, Medindie Gardens and Pitt Street in the city, shopfront in Salisbury, The Platform at Elizabeth and Streetlink in the city.
Legal Services Commision www.lsc.sa.gov.au
A career with the Legal Services Commission gives you an opportunity to play a role in providing the community with access to quality legal services. The Commission provides legal representation in criminal and family law matters, as well as free legal advice and minor assistance on most areas of law. The Commission offers attractive employment conditions including salary packaging, flexible working arrangements within a range of family-friendly policies, plus opportunities for professional development. Our people are valued and respected. We encourage and recognise individual and team effort, innovation and creativity in our activities. The Legal Services Commission has about 200
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staff throughout SA with offices in Adelaide, Whyalla, Port Augusta, Elizabeth, Mount Barker, Port Adelaide and Noarlunga. Most positions are for lawyers and paralegals but we also employ a full range of administrative staff. The majority of employees are located in our Adelaide office. Legal aid lawyers require a comprehensive knowledge of the law, excellent communication skills and an ability to deal with people from diverse backgrounds. We prefer applicants with relevant work experience and we recommend volunteer work (e.g. at a community legal centre or at JusticeNet SA) to gain relevant experience and increase employability.
Employer Directory: Community Legal
Northern Community Legal Service
Riverland Community Legal Service
Northern Community Legal Service offers free legal information and a referral service to people living in the northern Adelaide metropolitan area. Ongoing legal assistance is only provided to those people who are on low incomes and who are not eligible for legal aid.
The Riverland Community Legal Service is one of approximately 150 community legal centres throughout Australia.
The centre has a specialist Child Support Service, which is available to parents receiving, or those eligible to receive child support, as well as parents who are paying child support.
www.riverlandlegalservice.org.
With offices located at 8 Wilson Street Berri the Service provides free legal advice, representation and community legal education throughout the Riverland region. The Riverland Community Legal Service is funded by the Commonwealth AttorneyGeneral’s department and is accredited with the National Association of Community Legal Centres.
Roma Mitchell Community Legal Centre Roma Mitchell Community Legal Centre is a volunteer run agency offering free legal advice on Monday and Thursday evenings by pro bono solicitors. Their services include legal advice and referral, promotion of human rights, Aboriginal reconciliation and volunteer opportunities. Such volunteer activities include Centrelink Activity Agreements, legal training placements, and work experience placements by negotiation.
A free financial counselling service is also available to members of the northern community. Outreaches are conducted at Nuriootpa, Murray Bridge, Gawler and Kadina.
Southern Community Justice Centre
Welfare Rights Centre (SA) Inc
Westside Community Lawyers
The Southern Community Justice Centre provides a number of free services to the community in a professional and friendly environment. The services are operated under three main departments:
Welfare Rights (SA) is a non-governmental agency that exists to assist people in their dealings with Centrelink where the nature of a recent, or impending, decision leaves the client with cause for some concern. Welfare Rights can advise clients on their rights and legal entitlements, and can contact Centrelink of their behalf and attempt to resolve the problem. This is a free service.
Westside Community Lawyers, located in Port Pirie and Hindmarsh, acts for people who require legal assistance and representaion in court.This service also advise Not for Profit organisations and help people to understand their legal rights through education and information. Ongoing legal assistance is provided to those who are not eligible for legal aid from the Legal Services Commission of South Australia.
www.scjc.com.au
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•
Legal Services: provides assistance in various areas of law, including family, civil, and criminal law; Child Support Services: provides specialist assistance in the area of child support to people residing in most areas of South Australia; and Neighbourhood and Community Disputes Service: this Service provides Alternative dispute Resolution Services in neighbourhood and other community disputes to most residents of South Australia.
Employer Directory: Community Legal
www.wrcsa.org.au
The Welfare Rights Centre also manages the Housing Legal Clinic, which exists to provide pro bono legal advice to people who are homeless, or at risk of becoming homeless. This Clinic was established to reduce the marginalisation or people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, and over 1,500 clients use this service.
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www.westsidelawyers.net
Women’s Legal Service (SA) Inc
Young Workers’ Legal Service
The Women’s Legal Service (SA) Inc. is a community based legal centre providing legal services to women in South Australia. The Service focusses on assisting women with legal information, advice, representation, referrals and education on a wide range of issues including domestic violence, family law, criminal injuries compensation, discrimination, employment, debts, and immigration. Every year the Women’s Legal Service provides advice to over two thousand women.
The Young Workers’ Legal Service (YWLS) provides workers under the age of 30 with free, confidential advice about work-related matters. The advice that the YWLS provides is free of charge. However, young workers are responsible for legal costs incurred, including lodgment fees, obtaining evidence and attending Tribunal hearings. The Young Workers’ Legal Service is staffed by volunteer law student advisors who work under the supervision of one legally trained Industrial Officer.
The Service provides: • A free and confidential legal information telephone service; • Free and confidential legal advice, ssistance, referrals and representation; • Metropolitan Outreach services such as at the Southern Women’s Community Health Centre; • Outreach services to rural, regional and remote areas including Port Augusta, Coober Pedy and the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands; • Community legal education workshops and seminars; and • Law reform initiatives and activities that work towards positive key legislative and policy changes for women.
The service provides free information and advice about workplace problems to people under 31. The Young Workers’ Legal Service represents workers in matters including:
www.wlssa.org.au
www.ywls.org.au
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Underpayment of wages Unfair dismissal Discrimination.
Employer Directory: Private Non-Legal
Allianz
www.allianz.com.au Allianz offers a wide range of insurance and risk management products and services. These services include: personal insurance (such as home and contents, motor, boat, travel, and CTP and life insurance); industrial and commercial insurance, which includes those for such things as farms and businesses; corporate insurance, such as those for construction, liability and professional indemnity; public and products liability; worker’s compensation; and loss control and risk management strategies. Allianz is an insurance company that provides services in both Australia and New Zealand, and employs over 3,800 staff. Allianz Insurance Australia is part of the Allianz Global Group operating in every State and Territory in Australia, and is one of the leading private workers compensation cover. Allianz Australia only takes on a small number of graduates each year, which allows you to receive a highly tailored and supportive early career experience. As an Allianz Graduate, you will be placed into a defined program, but will also have the chance to work with your Graduate peers cross-functionally. You will work on enterprise related projects with your peers and substantially further your education. During your two-year program you will also gain diverse experiences through rotations across our business, as well the opportunity to participate in a number of personal development activities.
Program Benefits • • • • • •
Fully supported study program - including all fees and study leave requirements Market competitive remuneration Two year program with up to four rotations Buddy program to assist in your introduction to Allianz Networking opportunities with the Managing Director and Chairman Ability to network with other Graduates and the Allianz Graduate
Graduate Programs • • • • • •
Underwriting & Risk Management Agriculture Relationship Management and Sales General Insurance leadership IT Business Solutions Workers Compensation
ANZ Banking Group www.anz.com.au
ANZ is a publicly listed company that provides a range of banking and financial products and services to almost 8 million customers. It is one of the five largest and most successful listed companies in Australia, and operates in 32 markets globally with representation in Australia, New Zealand, Asia, the Pacific, Europe, America, and the Middle East. ANZ provides personal services, services for small businesses, as well as business for the corporate sector.
You’ll benefit from all the rewarding experiences and guidance you’ll need for a thriving career. What’s more, you’ll receive feedback, support and advice from a range of ANZ managers as well as build on your personal associations within the bank. It’s simple. We’re here to give you all the encouragement, guidance and industry nous you’ll need to make the smartest move – for you.
ANZ offers all our new graduates something no other financial institution can – unique and exclusive access to our international network of professionals from their base in Australia or New Zealand. It’s all supported by our position as one of the world’s strongest, safest and most sustainable banks.
BDO
www.bdo.com.au A unique combination of relationships, resources, responsiveness. That’s what you get with BDO. BDO is one of the world’s leading accountancy and advisory organisations. We have clients of all types and sizes, in every sector. But that’s not the only part of the story. Our business is built on relationships. We focus on what’s important to you and adopt a partnership-style approach. We’re responsive and reliable, we keep our promises, and maintain open and frank communication. That’s how we do business. Using this insight, we look for innovative ways to help you maximise growth opportunities, improve processes and avoid pitfalls. The result is that we meet – and exceed – your expectations. We provide services to a diverse range of clients, from large corporate organisations to private businesses, entrepreneurs and individuals across an array of industry sectors. Since our founding in 1963, the BDO story has been one of continuous response to our clients’ and our people’s ever-changing needs. The initial international organisation was known as the Binder
Seidman International Group, and in 1973 the network adopted the name BDO, made up from the initials of the three founding European member firms: Binder (UK), Dijker (Netherlands) and Otte (Germany). BDO was established as an association of firms in Australia in 1975. Today, we are one of Australia’s largest associations of independently owned accounting practices, with offices in New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia. BDO offers Graduate programs across Australia, so if you are a final year student or have recently completed your degree in Accounting, and/or Information Technology and you think BDO is the firm for you, visit their website to the office location which interests you to find out more about their current opportunities, the recruitment process, and what you need to do to apply.
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Employer Directory: Private Non-Legal
BHP Billiton www.bhp.com Our products are the essential building blocks of progress, fueling the change that is lifting the living standards of millions of people around the world. Our iron ore helps build communities, cities and economies. Our coal helps deliver affordable energy and our copper helps connect the world. Our oil and gas is essential for driving the global economy
Graduate Positions As a Graduate you will start in mid-February joining a global cohort of like-minded graduates who will work on real business problems. As a permanent employee you will start on our global Graduate Program where you will get unprecedented access to senior leaders to mentor and guide your course work.
BHP is a global resources company that is among the world’s largest producers of major commodities, including aluminum, copper, energy coal, iron ore, manganese, metallurgical coal, nickel, silver and uranium along with substantial interests in oil and gas.
Our fast paced 18 month program will accelerate your career giving you access to opportunities across commodities and regions. Towards the end of the program the choice is yours to stay in the same commodity or find an opportunity elsewhere in BHP to demonstrate all that you have learnt.
Deloitte www.deloitte.com.au Deloitte Australia provides a broad range of audit, tax, consulting, and financial advisory services to public and private clients. It has expertise that spans industry sectors including automotive; consumer business; energy & resources; financial services; government services; life sciences & health care; manufacturing; real estate; and technology, media & telecommunications. Deloitte Asia Pacific is committed to growth, client service and its people with more than 8000 people located in 14 offices across the country. Vacationer and Graduate Programs The Summer Vacation Program offers significant client exposure, networking opportunities, training and feedback from a strong support system. Graduates spend three to eight weeks in one of our service lines, with the prospect of securing a graduate position. If you are in your penultimate year at university you are eligible to apply.
Employer Directory: Private Non- Legal
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Our people are our most valuable assets. Each year we recruit a large number of outstanding graduates for our in-demand Graduate Program to inject new ideas and energy into Deloitte. Graduate employees start with us in early March and early July. Each new employee is paired up with a ‘Buddy’ and a counselling manager to help with a smooth transition into Deloitte life. We provide the right kinds of tools and training to ensure all our graduates can achieve career success through mentoring, peer support, e-learning events and Deloitte’s own graduate development program called D. Academy. Graduate program roles for 2020 and summer vacation roles for 2019/20 will open in February 2019.
Ernst & Young www.ey.com.au
At EY we’re committed to building a better working world. It’s not just our purpose. It defines who we are, how we do it and why we do what we do. That’s why we need people who want to work with the best and be the best by developing their skills as leaders, to create positive change. People who are curious, entrepreneurial, always wanting to reach for more. People who embrace the diversities of the world, think beyond borders. People who think and act globally. Could you be one of them?
You’ll be well paid and have the chance to enjoy some excellent benefits, including the opportunity to apply for three months leave after you’ve been with us for 18 months. You might also find yourself working interstate or overseas.
Our people are given opportunities to match their ambition, learning how to be part of a high performing team, and creating relationships that last a lifetime.
You need to be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or an Australian permanent resident to be.
You can apply to join the Graduate Program when you’re in the final year of your degree or within 18 months from your graduation date at the time of application.
Vacationer Program Our summer or winter* Vacationer Program provides client work, skills development, training and professional experiences. Not only do you learn about our organisation, you get to apply that knowledge to real client projects.
Great careers can be defined by where they started. Deciding to build a better working world with EY is an investment in your future, no matter where your career takes you. Graduate Program With early responsibility and the support and training to grow, you’ll build the confidence to pursue your goals. Exposed to a wide range of clients, you can expect to develop your networks, collaborate with specialists, learn from mentors and even study for postgraduate qualifications. You’ll begin to build your technical, leadership and communication skills, and be responsible for parts of projects right away, working in a business area of your choice. As a graduate with EY you’ll be able to add value to your clients and shape your career as a professional.
This is a popular path, with many vacationers being offered fulltime positions with us when they’ve finished their studies. You’ll be able to put into practice what you’ve been studying at university and head back to your studies confident that your career’s already begun. So, show us what you’re capable of and you could be invited to join us after graduation. Apply in the penultimate year of your degree. *Only Adelaide and Perth office run winter programs. You need to be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or an Australian permanent resident.
At our graduate induction you’ll meet other new graduates from your office. Your buddy and your counsellor will help you learn your way around the firm, set your goals and plan your development. 2019 Graduate and Vacationer Opening Dates
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Employer Directory: Private Non-Legal
Nexia Edwards Mashall www.nexiaem.com.au
Nexia Edwards Marshall is an advisory firm based in Adelaide that provides clients with a number of services, including: Audit and Assurance Services; Business Consulting Services; Corporate Recovery; Financial Planning Services; Forensic Accounting; Information Technology Services; and Mining Resources. Nexia Edwards Marshall has an Undergraduate Program in which students are able to work on a casual basis at the firm while completing their studies. While the Program begins in February every year, Nexia Edwards Marshall accepts applications from students throughout the year.
Undergraduate Program Work for a truly great firm that values and appreciates their staff! Our Undergraduate Program is a fantastic opportunity to commence your career and gain valuable experience whilst still completing your studies. If you are willing to undertake your study whilst working full time with generous study support, then submit your CV together with a copy of your academic transcript. Our Program commences in February of each year and we accept applications throughout the year.
Students are able to submit their CV via the website to be considered for the program.
Ferrier Hodgson www.ferrierhodgson.com
For more than 40 years, the Ferrier Hodgson group has been a leading independent financial advisory and restructuring provider, solving complex problems with commercial solutions. Our expertise extends from working with large banking syndicates to restructure major debt portfolios, to undertaking financial and technology investigations, to working with distressed companies to secure the best possible outcome. Ferrier Hodgson has seven offices across Australia and Asia, with 34 partners and more than 250 staff. Our values – respectful, authentic, creative and accountable – are critical to how we operate as a team, how we conduct ourselves with clients and how we act in the interests of the communities we live in. Our values form the basis of our culture of excellence and integrity in everything we do. Graduate Development Program (GDP) At Ferrier Hodgson we are committed to your career evolution and our graduate program focuses on helping you develop in the early years of your professional career.
As a graduate, you will enjoy our comprehensive orientation program which provides opportunities to develop both technical and professional skills and supports the transition from university to work. The highlight of orientation is our GDP where all graduates are brought to a central location to meet with graduates from across the country and participate in a comprehensive two-day training program. However, your learning opportunities don’t stop at the end of the GDP. You will continue to be mentored and coached by our senior accountants and partners who are keen to share their knowledge and experience to ensure you succeed. You will be surrounded by bright and experienced people, have access to excellent technical resources and be involved in interesting client work. Recruitment process and intake Our graduates usually commence in February and we commence recruitment in April of the previous year. We also recruit on an ad hoc basis. To find out what our current opportunities are, please forward your application including cover letter, CV and academic transcript to adelaide@fh.com.au.
Goldman Sachs www.gs.com.au
Goldman Sachs is a financial management firm, which operates in Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland. The firm is able to apply their global knowledge of worldwide finances to the specific Australian perspective. Goldman Sachs focuses on corporate advisory, securities and investment management, with key business areas in asset management, cash products, corporate advisory, principal investment area and securities. Goldman Sachs is primarily focused on client interests, as well as teamwork and dedication. Amongst striving to anticipate the changing and varied needs of every client, Goldman Sachs aims
Employer Directory: Private Non- Legal
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for all employees to maintain the business principle that integrity and honesty are the heart of the business. The summer analyst role is for candidates currently pursuing a college or university degree and is usually undertaken during the penultimate year of study. While your discipline or major are not important, we are looking for candidates with an outstanding record of academic achievement and an interest in the financial markets.
Korda Mentha www.kordamentha.com
KordaMentha is an advisory firm, which reaches across Australia, New Zealand and Singapore, and has a strategic affiliation with Alix Partners in the USA, UK, Europe and Asia. The firm’s Australian offices are in Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Sydney, Gold Coast, Townsville and Adelaide. KordaMentha specialises in Corporate Recovery, Turnaround and Restructuring, Real Estate Advisory and Forensic Services.
KordaMentha has been involved with many voluntary administrations, including the largest voluntary administration in Australian history, as administrators of Ansett. Other clients include Griffin Energy Group, Timbercourp Group and the Oracle Towers at Broadbeach. Applications for the Vacationer and Graduate roles can be viewed at the KordaMentha website.
KPMG
www.kpmg.com.au KPMG is a global network of professional firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. We operate in 155 countries and have more than 189,000 people working in member firms around the world. In Australia, KPMG has around 6,700 people, including over 400 partners, with offices around the country. Our position is built on the professionalism of our people, the quality of the Audit and Assurance, Tax, and Advisory services we offer and the contribution we make to the wellbeing of the communities in which we live and operate.
Graduates will receive world-class training and mentoring, and mix with some of the brightest minds around. Plus they’ll have the opportunity to work on community and environmental programs that make a genuine difference to our society.
With one of the country’s most diverse range of projects – in advisory, tax and accounting – KPMG will graduates working with the nation’s most respected companies from day one.
Applications for the 2020 Graduate Program and Summer Vacation roles will open in February 2019.
Our clients turn to us because we get the job done through our dedication to quality and our collaborative approach. Our people aim to succeed by delivering industry-focused services that create genuine, sustainable value for our clients.
Macquarie Group Australia www.macquarie.com.au
Macquarie Group Australia provides a diverse range of services, including banking, financial, advisory, investment and funds management services throughout the world. With a focus expertise and risk management, the firm instils confidence in its clients, which assists in providing strong client-focused services.
Macquarie Group Australia is driven by strong business management, careful risk management, and having a strong and committed team.
The main services provided by Macquarie Group Australia include organisational structure and business activities, corporate governance, and leadership. The firm acts for institutional, corporate, and retail clients both nationally and internationally.
Applications for the 2019 Winter Development Program will open 5th March 2019 and close 12th April 2019. Applications for the 2019 Summer Internship Program will open 21st May 2019 and close 30th July 2019.
Important dates
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Employer Directory: Private Non-Legal
National Australia Bank www.nab.com.au
National Australia Bank (the Group) is a financial services organisation with over 12,700,000 customers and 42,000 people, operating more than 1,700 stores and business banking centres globally. Our major financial services franchises in Australia are complemented by businesses in New Zealand, Asia and the United Kingdom. Each of our brands is uniquely positioned, but built on a common commitment to provide our customers with quality products and services, fair fees and charges, and relationships built on the principles of help, guidance and advice.
The National Australia Bank places a strong emphasis on corporate responsibility, and the relationship between customers, employees and communities. With the ultimate goal of providing sustainable business, the National Australia Bank strives to accelerate efficiency, quality and service, as well as investing in their own people, and always continuing to develop a strong business portfolio. Applications for the 2020 Graduate Program will open 18th February 2019 and close 17th March 2019.
P&G
www.pgcareers.com P&G provides products and services to worldwide consumers. P&G strives to improve the lives of consumers by increasing their life quality. Two of the firm’s main principles are diversity and inclusion, which assists in accumulating employees from various backgrounds, to assist the firm in connecting with the global marketplace. P&G is extremely consumer-focused and aims to keep in touch with its consumers to ensure that the firm is fulfilling its key business principles. One way of doing this is by utilising a unique organisational structure, which provides a framework for increased
efficiency. This enables the company to conduct all services and procedures at a high-quality level. This also allows P&G to have a reliable network of partners and suppliers, which assists in the strong relationship between P&G and its ultimate consumers. P&G has such a broad range of business that enables it to work on a technological level to connect categories and global regions in new and innovative ways through a collaboration process which ultimately increases the firm’s products’ demand, reach and sales.
Price Waterhouse Cooper www.pwc.com.au We’re one of Australia’s leading professional services firms. What does that mean? We tackle some of the most significant issues currently challenging our nation. Our work can be as diverse as digitising healthcare, to tackling homelessness and creating smarter cities. Together, our people, our clients and technology create meaningful impact and live our shared purpose - to build trust in society and solve important problems.
traditional law firms, you’ll gain ongoing exposure and involvement with the commercial aspects in action. Our legal practice areas include: Corporate Advisory and M&A; Technology; Projects and Infrastructure; Banking and Finance; Employment and Workplace Relations; and Corporate Regulatory.
It might surprise you to know we’re also a major global law firm, with more than 3,200 lawyers in 90+ countries. In Australia, our legal team is one of the country’s fastest growing legal businesses.
To our community, your job is not just a job. We encourage the use of a range of benefits and policies that help you embrace work as part of holistic approach to life. With no dress code, flexible work options and a number of employee-led diversity networks to join, you’ll be supported in bringing your whole self to work every day.
With PwC, you’ll gain the opportunity to work across a diverse range of matters with different legal and non-legal teams. From the start, you’ll receive individual coaching and mentorship. Unlike
So, where are you going next? For more information and to apply, visit our Student Careers website: https://www.pwc.com.au/careers.html
Employer Directory: Private Non- Legal
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Rio Tinto
www.riotinto.com.au Rio Tinto is a leading mining and metals company that produces iron ore, coal, bauxite, alumina, aluminium, uranium, copper, gold, diamonds, employing 60 thousands people world wide across more than 30 operating sites
resources, procurement, and information technology. Graduates are provided development support, professional development, as well as orientation and engagement with the company over the course of the two-year Program.
Rio Tinto has roles for students that are business related, which include: commerce/accounting, economics finance, relations/ communications, international/external relations, human
The company recruits graduates based on their varying requirements year to year. Graduate opportunities are listed on graduate recruitment site.
Suncorp Group www.suncorp.com.au
Suncorp Group includes leading general insurance, banking, life insurance and superannuation brands in Australia and New Zealand. The Group has about 14,500 employees and relationships with nine million customers Integral to meeting customer needs are three operational business units: Banking & Wealth, Insurance Australia and Insurance New Zealand.
Suncorp Graduate Program The Suncorp Group, as one of Australia’s leaders in banking, insurance, investment and superannuation can offer some amazing opportunities. With a broad range of exciting graduate opportunities with us, you will hit the ground running, and get stuck into real work.
The company looks for graduates with qualifications in accounting, agribusiness, business, commerce, economics, engineering, finance, human resources, law & marketing. Graduates will have an opportunity to apply from one of a number of Graduate Programs. These include: Agribusiness Banking, Business Banking, Corporate Banking, Accounting, Finance & Risk, Commercial Insurance, Human Resources; and Data Driven Marketing.
You’ll collaborate with experienced leaders to create innovative solutions for our business and our customers. Our “can-do” culture and high-energy environment are perfect for developing your skills and knowledge, as well as gaining top-notch training and experience. Innovation plays a big part in our business too, so we’ll continually challenge you to think outside the square.
Wesfarmers www.wesfarmers.com.au
From its origins in 1914 as a Western Australian Famer’s cooperative, Wesfarmers has now grown into one of Australia’s largest listed companies. The company has diverse business operations which include: home improvements; office supplies; department stores; and an industrial division with businesses in chemicals, energy and fertilisers; and industrial safety products. The primary objective of Wesfarmers is to provide satisfactory return to its shareholders. Business Development Graduate Programs There are opportunities available for graduates to join Wesfarmers as a Graduate Analyst in the Business Development team.
Graduates who join the Business Development team have the opportunity to apply and develop their skills on a diverse range of commercial and strategic projects, including mergers, acquisitions, divestments and major capital investments. The team places an emphasis on learning whilst working on live projects with experienced team members, as well as providing relevant training and gaining valuable professional development, which will ensure that you are challenged and supported while developing as a future leader.
Westpac
www.westpac.com.au The Westpac Banking Corporation is one of the leading banks in Australia, and was established in 1817 as the first bank in Australia. The bank has branch locations and controlled entities throughout Australia and New Zealand and has financial centres throughout the world. The Westpac Group has three main customer divisions, including the Australian Financial Services, which focuses on retail and
business operations (comprising Westpac Retail & Business Banking; St. George Banking Group and BT Financial Group Australia); Westpac Institutional Bank, which focuses on a commercial, corporate, institutional and government level. Applications for the 2020 Graduate Program open in March 2019.
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Employer Directory: Public Non-Legal
Attorney-General’s Department (SA) www.agd.sa.gov.au
The Attorney-General’s Department (AGD) drafts laws and provides regulatory framework to protect the rights and interests of businesses and consumers in South Australia. Several agencies are included within the banner of the AGD such as the Office of Crime Statistics and Research, Office of the Equal Opportunity Commissioner, Safework SA and the SA Classification Council.
Graduate Program The AGD offers a 12 month training and development Graduate Recruitment Program through various business units. The opportunity to apply for this program will be advertised at http://www.graduate.sa.gov.au/.
For more information on the AGD, as well as a list of different divisions within the AGD, visit the website above.
Australian Law Reform Commission www.alrc.gov.au
The Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) conducts inquiries into areas of law at the request of the Attorney-General of Australia. The ALRC’s objective is to make recommendations for law reform that bring the law into line with current conditions and needs. The ALRC also works to remove defects in the law, simplify the law, and to adopt new or more effective methods for administering the law and dispensing justice, and to provide improved access to justice. While the ALRC’s core function is to provide advice to government, ALRC reports also assist the legal profession – lawyers and the Courts; community legal centres and those engaging in arguments of law, and the general public, who may consult ALRC reports for answers. Law reform reports also contribute to legal history in providing a distilled snapshot of the law at a particular moment in time. The ALRC is the only federal agency dedicated to national law reform. ALRC internships provide an opportunity for students to work alongside Commission members and legal staff, learning about law reform issues and witnessing first-hand the law reform process.
ALRC Internships The ALRC offers internships to students in their penultimate or final year of an undergraduate or graduate law degree from any university. Legal interns contribute to the work of the ALRC primarily through their research and writing skills. Typical tasks include producing research briefs and memos. Interns are supervised by a Legal Officer and undertake work determined by the needs of the ALRC. Wherever possible, interns will attend team meeting, consultations, Advisory Committee meetings, and law reform proposal workshops, and work closely with the inquiry team they have been assigned to. Intern work is credited in ALRC publications. Students can apply for an internship through the ALRC website (http://www.alrc.gov.au/about/legal-internship-program). There is a formal selection process and the ALRC will only consider applications that address the selection criteria. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview.
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Australian Competition and Consumer Commission www.accc.gov.au
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is an independent statutory authority. It was formed in 1995 to administer the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 and other Acts. The ACCC is the only national agency promoting competition and fair-trading in the marketplace to benefit consumers, business and the community. The ACCC also regulates national infrastructure industries to promote effective competition. The ACCC includes the Australian Energy Regulator, which is responsible for the economic regulation of the Australian energy sector. The ACCC’s role is to protect,
strengthen and supplement the way competition works in Australian markets and industries to improve the efficiency of the economy and to increase the welfare of Australians. Graduate Program The ACCC offers a graduate program running from February to November each year.
Australian Securities and Investments Commission www.asic.gov.au
Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) is Australia’s corporate, markets and financial services regulator. ASIC contributes to Australia’s economic reputation and wellbeing by ensuring that Australia’s financial markets are fair and transparent, supported by confident and informed investors and consumers. ASIC maintains facilities and improves the performance of the financial system and entities in it.
Graduate Program The ASIC Graduate Program has continually evolved over the last 17 years and is designed to make the most of graduates’ strengths and skills. They are looking for graduates in the following disciplines: Accounting and Auditing Business and Economics Applied Finance, Maths and Statistics Law Social Sciences Information Technology
Australian Security Intelligence Organisation www.asio.gov.au / www.asis.gov.au
The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO’s) main role is to gather information and produce intelligence that will enable it to warn the government about activities or situations that might endanger Australia’s national security.
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Graduate Program There are a number of generalist roles available within ASIO that would be suitable for law graduates.
Australian Taxation Office www.ato.gov.au
The Australian Tax Office (ATO) is the principle revenue collection agency of the Australian Government. The ATO’s 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, governing a range of programs which result in transfers and benefits back to the community, administering the major aspects of Australia’s superannuation system and being a custodian of the Australian Business Register.
Graduate Program The ATO offers a graduate program to law graduates. During the 12 month program you will get to experience a range of work while also undertaking hands on training. The ATO is one of Australia’s largest public service employers.
Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade www.dfat.gov.au
The Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT), provides foreign, trade and development policy advice to the government. They work with other government agencies to ensure that Australia’s pursuit of its global, regional and bilateral interests is coordinated effectively. DFAT is the lead agency managing Australia’s international presence. They manage a network of 96 overseas posts in five continents and have over 1200 staff located in Canberra, state and territory offices and overseas posts. An additional 2400 people are employed overseas as locally engaged staff.
Graduate Program The DFAT Graduate Program is for applicants from all academic backgrounds and prepares successful candidates for a career as a generalist policy officer. Policy graduates work to advance Australia’s interests across a broad range of areas – from security to human rights, international trade to development and aid development & management, and represent Australia in a formal capacity while having the opportunity to serve overseas.
Department of Prime Minister & Cabinet www.dpmc.gov.au
The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet advises the Prime Minister on policies across the full range of government activities and the machinery of government, and ensures implementation of cabinet decisions. The Department provides high quality advice and support to the Cabinet, Portfolio Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries to achieve a coordinated and innovative approach to the development an implementation of Government policies. Graduate Program The Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet Graduate Program is a two year, structured, on-the-job development program that provides you with the support, opportunities and challenges you need to kick start your career in the Australia Public Service.
Graduates will work on matters of particular importance to the Prime Minister, current government priorities, social and economic policies, Indigenous affairs and national security. Graduates may also get the chance to work on special taskforces which could include areas of counter-terrorism, Commonwealth-State relations, deregulation, women’s policy, cyber security and international delegate events. Some of the previous graduates have even had the chance to meet members of the royal family or heads of state! As part of the program, graduates will undertake rotations across various areas of the Department. These rotations will give you the opportunity to develop a broad knowledge and understanding of the Government’s priorities, and experience the development and implementation of government policy and its effectiveness on the ground first hand.
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Department of Premier & Cabinet www.dpc.sa.gov.au
The Department of the Premier and Cabinet (DPC) occupies a key leadership role in the public service, supporting the Government’s vision for South Australia as a place where people and business thrive. This includes the provision of quality economic and policy advice supporting the Government’s priorities – including the ten Economic Priorities – and strengthening engagement between Government and the community.
The Department of Premier and Cabinet provides the opportunity to be closely involved in the future of South Australia. A position in the DPC will entail supporting the Premier of South Australia through the provision of leadership in issues affecting the future prosperity of South Australia. Graduate Program The DPC offers a 12 month graduate program that will equip you with a range of skills, knowledge and experiences.
Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (SA) www.environment.sa.gov.au
The Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) is responsible for managing and protecting South Australia’s natural resources. Positions in this department can vary from drafting policy to plying a hands on role in determining how natural resources should be divided.
Graduate Program The DEWNR offers a 2 year Graduate Ranger Program that will give you the opportunity to work across a variety of departments in an environment focused upon training, mentoring and career development.
Regardless of your duty, a position in the DEWNR will give you the opportunity to work on pivotal issues such as water security, climate change and conservation and advise the government, industries and community on how to better protect the environment and responsibly use our natural resources.
Department of Treasury and Finance (SA) www.treasury.sa.gov.au
The Department of Treasury and Finance plays a key role in the provision of South Australian economic policies. They conduct research, analyse information and advice, including policy advice, with the goal of advancing South Australia to a position of prosperity and growth. The DTF assists in the development of budgets, balancing the Treasurer’s ledger and administering public sector superannuation schemes.
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Graduate Program The Graduate Development Program is a 12 month structured training program with graduates employed in finance-related roles across a diverse range of South Australian Public Sector agencies. The program seeks graduates in accounting, commerce, economics and finance disciplines, making it ideal for students who completed a combined law and commerce qualification.
Notes
References 1. 2. 3.
4.
Artificial Lawyer, ‘Legal Tech Jobs’ <https://www.artificiallawyer.com/legal-tech-jobs/> Accessed 1 September 2018. Steve Randall, ‘Global firm to launch alternative legal services business in Australia’, (Australasian Lawyer, 16 September 2016) < https://www.australasianlawyer.com.au/news/ global-firm-to-launch-alternative-legal-services-business-in-australia-223460.aspx> Accessed 1 September 2018. Roy Strom, ‘Legal Project Managers: the New Rainmakers’, (Law.com, 22 September 2016) <https://www.law.com/sites/almstaff/2016/09/22/legal-project-managers-the-new-rainmakers/> Accessed 1 September 2018; E.g at Seyfarth & Shaw <http://www.seyfarth.com/DanielRaymer> Accessed 1 September 2018; e.g. at LegalVision see Head of Legal Transformation <https://legalvision.com.au/meet-our-team/thomas-kaldor/> and Legal transformation manager <https://legalvision.com.au/jobs/legalvision-legal-project-manager/> both accessed 1 September 2018. E.g at Seyfarth & Shaw <http://www.seyfarth.com/KaraBrooks> Accessed 1 September 2018.
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Legal While every care has been taken in compiling this publication, FLSA does not accept any responsibility for any errors, inaccuracies, omissions or changes made subsequent to print. FLSA accepts no losses, direct or indirect, howsoever caused (including negligence) by any error, omissions or inaccuracy contained in this publication. Copyright Š 2019. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form by any means without the prior written permission of FLSA. Please contact the FLSA Vice President for further enquiries at vice.president@flsa.org.au.
Local Presence. Global Opportunities. Lipman Karas is an international investigative legal practice with an outstanding track record in some of the most challenging, complex and high profile commercial litigation projects in the Asia Pacific region and internationally. Our mission is the single-minded advancement of our clients’ interests, to maximise value through the focussed application of our expertise. Lipman Karas offers lawyers commencing their careers a chance to work with recognised leaders in their field on litigation projects, investigations and inquiries that are unique in magnitude, complexity and geographic reach. A career at Lipman Karas provides opportunities and experiences that are unrivalled in South Australia.
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