Clerkship Guide 2026

CLERKSHIP GUIDE

Macquarie University Law Society

SPECIAL THANKS TO DIAMOND

PLATINUM

WELCOME TO THE MULS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

Welcome to the MULS Clerkship Guide!

The journey from law student to legal practitioner is an experience shaped by the communities that support you along the way. Clerkships form a vital part of that development, both personally and professionally, providing a practical opportunity to engage with firms or areas of law that interest you.

This guide offers a valuable insight into the clerkship process, by introducing the firms that have

generously supported this publication, and sharing the collective wisdom of students and professionals who have been through the journey that you are on.

The clerkship season brings with it a mix of ambition, uncertainty, and determination. At Macquarie University, we are fortunate to be part of a law school that esteems the intellectual rigour, belonging, and above all, sense of community among students. We hope this guide will support you during the application process.

We extend our sincere thanks to our supporting firms for their continued investment in the next generation of legal professionals. Your partnership makes this resource possible and creates meaningful opportunities for our students.

To our students, the process may feel daunting, but you are each well supported with the resources available at our Macquarie Law School, and MULS community. Trust your ability, approach the process with care, and remember that a clerkship is as much about finding the right fit for you, as it is about being selected.

We wish you every success.

Kaylen La Brooy Vice-President (Publications)

WELCOME TO THE MULS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

My name is Aditi Pal, and it is my privilege to serve as the President of the Macquarie University Law Society for 2026. It is my pleasure to present this year‘s Clerkship Guide, your trusted companion through clerkship season, designed to equip you with the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate the process.

The clerkship process can feel competitive and complex, but it is also an opportunity to explore commercial practice, discover the environments in

which you thrive and reflect on your career goals. Within these pages, you will find practical guidance for every stage of the process, from preparing your applications to approaching interviews, alongside insights from leading commercial firms to help you be informed, supported, and well-prepared.

A sincere thanks to our Publications team for their diligence in producing this resource and to our Career Engagement team for their ongoing commitment to advancing the professional development of MULS students within the commercial legal sphere.

On behalf of the Macquarie University Law Society, I also extend our sincere gratitude to our sponsors for their continued support of our students as they embark on their professional journeys.

I wish you all the very best with this year’s clerkship season.

Aditi Pal

President

WELCOME TO THE MULS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

Applying for clerkships can feel like one of the most significant and, at times, overwhelming milestones in your law degree. Whether you are approaching the process with confidence or uncertainty, I want to reassure you that you are not alone in navigating it.

As Vice President (Career Engagement), my goal is to ensure that every student feels informed, supported, and empowered throughout the clerkship journey. This guide has been designed not only to demystify the application process, but also to give

you a clear understanding of what opportunities are available and how to approach them strategically.

Clerkships are about much more than securing a position; they are an opportunity to explore different practice areas, experience firm culture firsthand, and reflect on what you value in your future career. Through initiatives such as firm-specific clerkship presentations and the MULS Clerkship Fair, we aim to provide you with meaningful opportunities to engage directly with firms, ask questions, and make informed decisions.

I encourage you to approach this process with curiosity and an open mind. There is no single “right” pathway into the profession, and your journey will be uniquely your own. Use this guide as a starting point, refer back to it often, take advantage of the events offered, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance along the way.

On behalf of the MULS Careers team, I wish you the very best in your clerkship applications. We are here to support you every step of the way.

Zoe Byrne Vice-President (Career Engagement)

WELCOME TO THE MULS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

Welcome to the MULS Clerkship Guide! As you embark on the clerkship journey, it is natural to feel a combination of excitement, uncertainty, and ambition. This guide has been carefully designed to support you through each stage of the process, offering practical resources, firm insights, and advice from those who have navigated this path before you.

Clerkships are more than a step toward graduate employment; they are an opportunity to explore different practice areas, develop professional skills,

and better understand what you value in your future career. Securing a clerkship is an excellent door into the commercial law world and will equip you with incredibly useful skills. I encourage you to approach the application process with positivity, curiosity, confidence, and an open mind.

At Macquarie, you are part of a supportive and driven community. Make the most of the resources available to you, lean on your peers, and trust in your abilities. On behalf of the MULS team, I hope this guide equips you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the clerkship season successfully.

Oliver Bunting Executive Officer (Editor)

Clerkship 101

Clerkship Timelines

Example Practice Areas

Finding the Right Firm/Well-Being

CLERKSHIP FUNDAMENTALS

CLERKSHIP 101

01 WHAT IS A CLERKSHIP?

A clerkship is a paid employment program offered by most top- and mid-tier commercial law firms for penultimate and final-year students, typically running for 8–12 weeks over the summer, with some firms also offering shorter winter programs. It provides valuable practical experience within a firm and, while not the only way into a graduate role, it is a reliable pathway to such positions and future career opportunities. Clerkships usually involve 2–3 rotations across different practice areas, giving students broad exposure to the firm’s work and helping them make more informed decisions about their future area of practice.

02 WHERE CAN I DO A CLERKSHIP?

Most firms offer seasonal (winter and summer) clerkship programs.

These firms include, but are not limited to:

• The ‘Big 6’ firms in Australia: Allens, Mallesons, Herbert Smith Freehils Kramer, Clayton Utz, Ashurst, and Minter Ellison.

• Other national firms like HWL Ebsworth, Johnson Winter & Slattery, and Maddocks. International firms like Allen & Overy, Baker McKenzie, Clyde & Co, Clifford Chance, and Norton Rose Fulbright.

03 WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?

Generally, students in their penultimate year are eligible to apply for clerkships. However, some firms may allow students in their final year to apply, so it is important to thoroughly read each individual firm’s selection criteria.

KEY DATES

10 9:00 AM AEST WEDNESDAY, 10 JUNE JUN Applications for summer clerkships open

05 11:59 PM AEST SUNDAY, 05 JULY AND 11:59 PM AEST SUNDAY, 12 JULY

JUL Applications for summer clerkships close* 12 JUL +

09 9:00 AM AEST WEDNESDAY, 09 SEPTEMBER

Offers for summer clerkships may release

SEP

10 1:00 PM AEST THURSDAY, 10 SEPTEMBER

SEP

Offers for summer clerkships must be accepted or declined

*See each firm to confirm specific application closing dates

TIMELINE

THE APPLICATION

Your application will generally consist of a cover letter, CV, official academic transcript and potentially a psychometric test. Although completing a psychometric test is not mandatory, its use has grown throughout the recruitment process as a tool to distinguish between applicants.

Submissions can be made via post, an online portal, the firm’s own website, or through a “Student Application Form” available for download on the NSW Law Society website.

FIRST-ROUND INTERVIEWS

Should your application make a strong impression, you will be contacted by a firm to come in for a first interview.

SECOND-ROUND INTERVIEWS AND COCKTAIL EVENINGS

A successful first interview may lead to an invitation for a follow-up interview. Firms will also commonly ask you to attend a networking event during this stage, giving them an opportunity to evaluate how you engage with others.

OFFERS

Depending on your performance throughout the preceding stages, you may receive an offer to secure a clerkship position.

ACCEPTING OFFERS

Upon receiving one or more offers, you are free to accept or decline as you see fit. Should you choose to turn down an offer, it is good practice to send a thank-you email to your interviewer and follow up with a phone call to the firm’s HR representative.

EXAMPLE PRACTICE AREAS

CORPORATE LAW

This practice area deals with commercial transactions. In this area, you will likely be working on complex transactions with large companies. This may include Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A), Private Equity, Governance, and Superannuation & Funds.

Clerking may entail:

• Assisting in preparing contractual arrangements between corporate entities

• Assisting with preparing regulatory and legal updates that may affect transactions

• Assisting with due diligence

PROPERTY LAW

This practice area governs the framework of legal and regulatory matters relating to landownership, use and development. It covers a broad spectrum of matters, ranging from individual transactions to large-scale commercial infrastructure projects. But fundamentally, its purpose is to ensure compliance, manage risks and facilitate smooth and efficient transactions in relation to property dealings.

Clerking may entail:

• Assisting with preparing on commercial, industrial, and retail transactions

• Assisting with contract review and related documentation

• Assisting with due diligence for real estate and business acquisitions or disposals

• Assisting with complex arrangements relating toland tenure, title, registration

• Assisting with negotiations/preparation and formalising variations to existing lease agreements

TAXATION

This practice area involves legal analysis of taxation issues and the practical application of relevant laws and regulations. In Australia, this encompasses a wide range of areas such as income tax, goods and services tax (GST) and corporate tax. This practice area often involves and intersects with related practice areas like property, contract, and business law.

Clerking may entail:

• Providing administrative and clerical support to the team

• Organising and maintaining accurate tax files, financial records, and client statements

• Compiling necessary tax documentation and data required for federal and state income reporting

• Reviewing and analysing financial information in preparation for the completion of tax returns

MEDIA AND TECHNOLOGY

This practice area involves legal and regulatory frameworks governing technology, digital media and communications. This practice area consists of different sub-areas consisting of, but not limited to: Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Broadcasting and streaming licenses, Defamation and Copyright.

Clerking may entail:

• Assisting with advice on the use of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence and blockchain within the context of an evolving legal framework

• Assisting with advice for clients in relation to IP disputes, contractual rights and royalties

• Assisting with advice in relation to defamation proceedings

PUBLIC LAW

This practice area is a broad area that deals with any type of law that is based upon a relationship between individuals, corporations and the government. While this area usually involves administrative or constitutional law, public law can extend beyond these two areas. Its purpose is to maintain the balance of powers and to ensure that the government remains lawful and accountable. It is distinct from private law, which governs the relationship between two private parties in a matter.

Clerking may entail:

• Preparing draft responses to submissions based on constitutional arguments for judicial review proceedings

• Researching whether actions are reviewable decisions under Acts

• Attending judicial review proceedings with solicitors and counsel

INTELECTUAL PROPERTY

This practice area deals with legal frameworks that protect “creations of the mind.” It governs the mechanisms that help grantand protect the exclusive rightsfor creators over their creations. IP law will also deal with resolving breaches of these exclusive rights.

Clerking may entail:

• Assisting with preparing advice for clients on the management of intellectual property (IP) rights, including patents, trade-marks, and designs

• Assisting with preparing agreements for licensing and transferring of IP rights

• Preparing documents required in litigation to enforce IP rights

PRO BONO

The term “pro bono” is a shortened Latin phrase that means for the public good. This practice area provides free or reduced-rate legal services to disadvantaged individuals and organisations that may not be able to afford them otherwise. Pro bono can occur in most areas of law practice, including Immigration law, Family law, and Environmental law.

Clerking may entail:

• Preparing documents required to give legal advice, Undertaking legal research for matters

• Assisting with drafting court documents, gathering evidence and preparing for court proceedings

• Researching policy and law reform, assisting with document review, attending client interviews and meetings with solicitors

ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES LAW

This practice area deals with the legal frameworks and regulations that govern the exploration, extraction, use and conservation of energy and natural resources. In Australia, this encompasses a wide range of different areas, like Environmental obligations, Mining rights, indigenous land rights, or renewable energy projects.

Clerking may entail:

• Assisting with preparing clients’ obligations under relevant environmental legislation or regulation,

• Assisting with assessments of energy companies, including evaluating financial health, environmental compliance, and potential liabilities

• Researching obligations under the Native Title Act

CONSTRUCTION

This is a practice area governing the advisory, transactional and litigious matters relating to construction projects. It governs the relationship between stakeholders within a construction project and enforces the legal obligations and rights of these parties. This practice area deals with different issues within the construction process, including procurement, contract negotiation, insurance, and dispute resolution.

Clerking may entail:

• Assisting with drafting construction contracts, gaining exposure to a diverse range of stakeholders, including private investors, property developers, construction firms

• Assisting with documents for project structuring and procurement, contract negotiation, and insurance requirements

• Assisting with preparation for litigation and dispute resolution

EMPLOYMENT AND INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS

This practice area governs the relationship between employers, employees, unions, and the government. Sub-areas include: Unfair dismissal Discrimination law and equal opportunity law, Occupational health and safety, Trade Practices, and Contracts.

Clerking may entail:

• Engaging in correspondence with the Industrial Relations Commission and other relevant courts and tribunals

• Attending consultations with clients and preparing filenotes

• Undertaking legal research in relation to clientspecific matters and assisting with preparing letters of advice

INSOLVENCY LAW

This practice area governs the legal framework for the dissolution of companies and the management of stakeholder interests when a corporation is unable to satisfy its financial obligations. It is primarily regulated by the Corporations Act.

This discipline encompasses both contentious and non-contentious matters and ranges from largescale corporate restructurings to more modest debt recovery.

Clerking may entail:

• Assisting with preparing court filings and various transactional documents, conducting company asset searches

• Assisting with drafting legal advice for clients facing imminent insolvency or those already declared insolvent

• Assisting with negotiation preparation with creditors to facilitate the resolution of outstanding corporate debts.

Each firm will offer different opportunities for Summer Clerks. It is highly recommended that you research each firm’s program to best understand what interests you.

FINDING THE RIGHT FIRM

While clerkships provide invaluable experience and exposure to different practice groups, the firm you choose will significantly shape your professional growth and opportunities. While clerkships offer valuable exposure, finding a firm that aligns with your interests, strengths, and career goals, through its areas of practice, culture, and work, will allow you to build meaningful skills and connections.

PRACTICE AREAS

Consider firms that offer practice areas aligned with your interests and strengths, as this will better suit your long-term career development.

WORK CULTURE CAREER GROWTH

Consider the firm’s values, environment, and approach to wellbeing, collaboration, and inclusion by researching and speaking with current or former employees.

WELL-BEING

Look for firms that invest in development through training, mentorship, and opportunities for progression.

Managing clerkship applications alongside academics and other commitments can be demanding, so it is important to prioritise your mental and physical wellbeing during the process.

RESEARCH EARLY

Begin researching firms as soon as possible, speak with past clerks, and keep track of application requirements and key dates to keep organised and minimise stress.

DRAW ON YOUR SUPPORT NETWORK

Let your friends and family know that you are going through a busy period. Sharing what you are going through can often make the process seem less isolating,and can allow your network to understand that you may not be as available and involved as you usually are in the other facets of your life. In this spirit, don’t hesitate to lean on them for support to make the process feel less isolating, through any successes or potential disappointment, where they may be a reassuring perspective that this is not the end of the world for you (even if it may feel like it).

HEALTHY HABITS

Plan your time effectively and prioritise your sleep. Rather than staying up late making lastminute tweaks to your applications, aim for 7–9 hours of sleep each night to stay rested throughout the process. Equally important is making time for activities outside of clerkship applications and university, whether that be exercise, seeing friends, or hobbies that help you decompress and maintain balance. Setting realistic expectations for yourself and taking breaks where needed can also help make the process feel more manageable.

Written Applications

Online Applications/Psychometric Testing

CLERKSHIP APPLICATIONS

WRITTEN APPLICATIONS

WHAT ARE FIRMS LOOKING FOR?

Firms are looking for authentic, well-rounded candidates rather than a “perfect” applicant, so it is important to be yourself, highlighting your individual strengths throughout the application process. While requirements may vary between firms, strong academic performance, relevant experience, and personal qualities all contribute to a competitive application.

ACADEMIC RESULTS

Academic results are often an important consideration in the clerkship process, with many firms looking for students who can demonstrate strong academic ability. While strong marks can strengthen your application, they will not guarantee a clerkship position, and firms vary in the weight they place on academic performance. Some firms may set WAM thresholds, while others take a more holistic approach to assessing candidates. In either case, academic results form only one part of your overall application. An updated academic transcript is usually required and should be prepared as soon as results are released.

WORK EXPERIENCE

Work experience demonstrates your ability to operate in a professional environment and apply transferable skills in practice, whether gained through legal roles or other employment. Even non-legal experience can be valuable in showcasing client communication, teamwork, leadership, and responsibility.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Extracurricular activities can help firms get a fuller picture of you beyond your academic results and work experience, by showing your broader interests and how you contribute in different environments and take the initiative outside your studies. This might include involvement in the law society, volunteering, sport or other interests. These experiences can demonstrate qualities valuable to firms and highlight your ability to commit to and balance competing responsibilities. They can also strengthen your application by adding depth to your experiences and helping address weak areas in your application like work experience or academic results.

HOW DO I RESEARCH FIRMS?

01

Make a list of the firms you are interested in and note your reasons for selecting these firms. Questions to consider include “What culture am I best suited for?” and “What are my long-term goals in the legal industry?”

02

Research the firms that align with your interests and goals. Information to research may include:

• Practice areas and firm culture and values

• Organisational structure and partners

• Recent transactions, cases, and clients

This information can be found by:

• Researching firm material like websites or podcasts.

• Having a chat with representatives, graduates, clerks, and more who have been through the process.

• Attending events such as firm presentations and other networking opportunities.

• Reading online posts from former clerks, graduates and HR representatives.

• Reading news sources like the Australian Financial Review and Lawyers Weekly. You may also like to research the broader industry and investigate trends in the legal market.

03

Research the application process of these firms, including the HR representative and the person you will address your cover letters to.

04

Analyse any selection criteria available and consider whether you would be competitive or compatible for the role.

05

Create a short list of skills and experiences, articulating why you believe you fit the criteria and culture of the firm.

TIPS FOR THE ONLINE APPLICATION

01 FORMAT YOUR RESPONSES

To ensure your online application does not have any spelling and grammar mistakes, write out answers to the questions in a document. You could even consider running the document through a spellchecker or asking a peer to proofread it.

02 ADHERE TO ANY WORD LIMITS AND APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Follow all instructions provided in the application carefully. For example, if the firm has asked for a specific file format, submit your response in that format. Ensure that all required documents (resume, cover letter, academic transcript and other requested documents) are included and uploaded correctly.

03 PERSONALISE YOUR RESPONSES

Firms can quickly tell when applications are generic, so it is important to tailor your responses to each firm rather than using a one-size-fits-all cover letter. This means being clear about why you are interested in that particular firm and how your interests, experiences, and skills align with what the firm does and values.

04 SAVE A COPY OF YOUR RESPONSES

Save your document with a clear, professional name in order to make it easier for employers to identify your application. Also, saving a copy for yourself allows you to reflect on your answers in the case that you wish to improve upon them for future applications.

PSYCHOMETRIC TESTING

Psychometric tests are used by law firms to measure the capability of a candidate. They typically comprise aptitude tests and/or personality assessments. These tools play a significant role in setting apart candidates who otherwise share comparable academic and professional backgrounds.

APTITUDE TESTS

These assessments generally take the form of multiple-choice questions that require both speed and accuracy. They can be further categorised into numerical, verbal/comprehension, and logical/spatial reasoning components.

PERSONALITY TESTS

The purpose of these questions is to gain insight into your character and motivations, and to determine whether you would be a good fit for the firm and its culture. You will be presented with hypothetical scenarios and asked to indicate your response along a scale from strongly disagree to strongly agree. Rather than trying to give answers you think the firm wants to see, it is far better to respond in a way that genuinely reflects your own values.

Tips for Psychometric Testing:

PRACTICE

Seek out online practice tests to get comfortable with the structure and format beforehand. Replicating real test conditions as closely as possible will help minimise any unexpected challenges on the day.

TAKE IT SERIOUSLY

Keep a pen and paper within reach, position yourself in a quiet environment, and confirm you have a stable internet connection. Treat this stage with the same level of dedication and focus you would bring to any other component of the application.

STRATEGISE

When time is limited, prioritise working through as many questions as you can rather than dwelling too long on any single question that has you stuck.

In-Person Interviews

Video Interviews

CLERKSHIP INTERVIEWS

IN-PERSON INTERVIEWS

PRE-INTERVIEW

Before attending your interview, set aside time to prepare yourself and genuinely reflect on your personal experiences. Familiarise yourself with your resume so you can speak with confidence about everything listed on it. Cast your mind broadly across your background, including your work history, academic experience, extracurriculars, and internships, and consider what type of skills each of these has helped you develop. Be clear in your own mind about what you want from a role and the type of working environment where you would perform at your best, including where you see yourself both in the near future and further down the track.

DURING THE INTERVIEW

First impressions carry weight, so make an effort to establish rapport early with a warm and confident introduction. Throughout the interview, maintain a professional yet personable presence by using open, positive body language, holding good eye contact, and avoiding distracting habits such as fidgeting or crossing your arms. Stay composed, speak clearly and with purpose, and focus on listening attentively rather than rushing to fill silence. Pay attention to how the team communicates with one another, as this can give you a valuable read on whether the

POST-INTERVIEW

Once the interview is over, take a few minutes to jot down your thoughts while the experience is still clear in your mind, including any questions that caught you off guard and how you handled them. Doing this builds a useful personal reference you can draw on for future interviews and highlights where there is room to grow. Think about what landed well

Equally as important is preparing concrete examples that illustrate your abilities, especially for behavioural style questions. Running through these with friends, family, or in mock interview settings will help you feel more at ease when the time comes. Do your homework on the firm, understand the nature of its work, any recent news or developments, and its broader culture, and be ready to articulate clearly why it appeals to you in particular. Consider what the clerkship involves, look into your interviewer’s background where you can, and come prepared with thoughtful questions that signal genuine curiosity about the firm and the people within it.

firm’s culture aligns with what you are looking for. When responding to questions, give yourself a moment to collect your thoughts before answering to ensure you are addressing what is actually being asked. Draw on clear, relevant examples to showcase your strengths, and keep your responses genuine and rooted in real experience. Where it feels natural, show your enthusiasm for the role by asking considered, work-focused questions and speaking with confidence about your accomplishments.

and what you might do differently if given another chance. If you receive good news, remember to acknowledge and thank those who supported you along the way. If the outcome is not what you hoped for, consider politely asking for feedback and make sure to express your gratitude for the opportunity regardless.

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

INTRODUCTORY QUESTIONS

These questions help break the ice and give the interviewer insight into your background and personality.

Examples:

• Tell me about yourself.

• How would your colleagues describe you in one word?

• Why have you applied for this role?

RESUME-BASED QUESTIONS

These questions focus on your previous experiences and how they relate to the position.

Examples:

• I see you have experience in [type of work], can you tell me more?

• You were involved in [activity], how will that translate into this role?

ACADEMIC QUESTIONS

These questions assess how your education has prepared you for a legal career.

Examples:

• Which area of law have you found most engaging, and what sparked that interest?

• What motivated you to choose [elective] as part of your studies?

• How has your degree prepared you for this role?

SKILL-BASED QUESTIONS

These questions aim to explore your soft skills through practical examples.

Examples:

• Have you faced a challenge working in a team? How did you manage it?

• Can you give an example of a time you had to adapt quickly to an unexpected change?

• Describe a situation where you persuaded others to adopt your idea.

TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE

These questions test your understanding of legal or role-specific issues and terminology.

Examples:

• How do you go about staying informed on developments or changes in the legal profession?

• What technical skills from your past experience do you think are relevant to this role?

• Coming into this role, what legal issues would you need to be aware of?

MOTIVATION AND CAREER GOAL QUESTIONS

These questions assess your longer-term aspirations and how this role fits into them.

Examples:

• What does your ideal career trajectory look like?

• Where do you hope to find yourself professionally in five years’ time?

ORGANISATIONAL AWARENESS QUESTIONS

These questions evaluate how well you understand the employer and your motivation to join them.

Examples:

• What is it about this role, the industry, or our firm that excites you most?

• Have you followed any recent work or developments at our firm, and if so, what stood out to you?

• What aspect of this role, industry, or firm excites you the most?

HYPOTHETICAL SCENARIO QUESTIONS

These questions aim to test how you would respond to situations that could arise on the job.

Examples:

• What would you do if you were given a task you didn’t understand or had no experience with?

• What would you do if you realised you misunderstood a task just before the deadline?

THE STAR METHOD

The STAR method is a framework you could take when responding to behavioural interview questions, which requires you to draw on real past experiences to illustrate your capabilities and how you approach problems. These questions are commonly introduced with prompts such as “Give me an example of...” or “Tell me about a time when...”

S – SITUATION

Concisely establish the context and set the scene for your example, giving the interviewer just enough background to understand the circumstances. Example: “In my final year of university, I was part of a group project within my PACE unit that required us to deliver a legal analysis presentation to a panel of directors.”

T – TASK

Clarify your specific role in that situation and identify the particular challenge or responsibility you were required to address. Example: “My role centred on coordinating the group’s research efforts and making sure our analysis adequately captured both the legal and ethical dimensions of the issue.”

A – ACTION

Walk through the concrete steps you personally took to carry out the task. Even when working as part of a team, keep the focus firmly on your own individual contribution. Example: “I delegated research responsibilities according to each team member’s strengths, set up a shared document to keep our work aligned, and scheduled regular check-ins to maintain momentum. Toward the end, I took the lead on reviewing and polishing the final presentation to ensure it was cohesive and easy to follow.”

R – RESULT

Describe what your actions ultimately produced and, where possible, support this with measurable outcomes. Take a moment to reflect on what the experience taught you. Example: “Our group received a High Distinction for the unit, and the process deepened my confidence in leading others under pressure while further cementing my enthusiasm for a career in commercial law.”

HARDER QUESTIONS

Your interviewer(s) will often ask more difficult questions later in the interview to differentiate candidates and to dig deep into your experience. Some of these questions could include:

WHAT IS YOUR UNDERSTANDING OF A CLERKSHIP?

To prepare for this question, review the role description and speak with the contact person or HR representative during networking opportunities. You are also encouraged to ask questions during the interview.

WHAT CAN YOU CONTRIBUTE TO THIS FIRM?

When responding, be sure to provide examples of how you have developed and applied your skills in the past, and explain how they can benefit the firm moving forward.

HOW DO YOU STAY UPDATED ON DEVELOPMENTS IN THE LEGAL INDUSTRY?

It’s helpful to mention your professional memberships, the relevant publications you read and your efforts to stay informed about current trends or issues in the industry.

WHAT ARE YOUR WEAKNESSES?

When discussing weaknesses, focus on areas that are not critical to the position or mention a skill you are actively improving. It’s important to show that you have a plan to address any areas for growth and to answer with confidence.

SHOULD I ASK THE INTERVIEWER QUESTIONS?

The interviewer will also want you to make an informed decision about the firm through thoughtful questions of your own. Asking questions will not only help you learn more about the clerkship but will also demonstrate your genuine interest and show that you have seriously considered a clerkship with the firm. Be sure to ask questions that you genuinely want answers to, rather than asking just to impress the interviewer.

VIDEO INTERVIEWS

Video interviews have become an increasingly common method for firms to carry out clerkship recruitment. Here is how you can put your best foot forward at this stage of the process.

THE INTERVIEW FORMAT

The structure of a video interview will differ from firm to firm, and may take one of the following forms:

• A series of timed pre-recorded questions, with one or two chances to re-record your response.

• A series of pre-recorded questions, with no limit on the number of attempts you have to record your answers.

BEFORE THE INTERVIEW

• Approach your preparation the same way you would for a face-to-face interview.

• Look into the firm thoroughly, rehearse responses to a range of question types, and put together a list of considered questions you could raise.

• A self-introduction format, where applicants record a two- to four-minute video presenting themselves to the firm.

• Since video interviews remove the natural feedback loop of in-person conversation, practice answering questions with someone you trust and ask them to comment on your tone, body language, and how clearly you are coming across.

• Record yourself speaking for two to four minutes and work on presenting your skills and experiences in a fluid and engaging way.

• Revisit your resume so its contents are at the front of your mind.

• Read through all of the provided instructions carefully ahead of time and make sure you have a clear grasp of what is required.

• Select attire that is both professional and suited to the firm’s culture.

FOR THE INTERVIEW

• Find a quiet, comfortable space and sit at a desk or table with your chair at a suitable height.

• Confirm your internet connection is stable and test your microphone and webcam beforehand.

• Charge your device the evening before so there are no last-minute issues.

• Switch off notifications on both your phone and computer to keep distractions at bay.

• Check that your background is tidy, neutral, and free of anything that could draw attention away from you.

• Let anyone nearby know you can’t be interrupted.

• Make sure your face is evenly lit and avoid sitting in front of a bright light source.

• Use the bathroom before you begin.

• Keep water, tissues, and throat lozenges within arm’s reach, and have a printed copy of your resume nearby for easy reference.

DURING THE INTERVIEW

• Picture the interviewer seated opposite you as though it were a conventional face-to-face meeting and respond accordingly.

• Go over the instructions one more time before you begin.

• You will have a limited window to gather your thoughts and deliver each response, so be mindful of time.

• Speak naturally and confidently, keeping your answers focused and to the point.

AFTER THE INTERVIEW

• Taking the time to note down the questions you were asked and how you responded is a valuable habit that allows you to assess your performance and pinpoint where you could improve.

• Project good body language by directing your gaze toward the webcam, using relaxed open gestures, and keeping a composed expression.

• Try to stay still and avoid restless movements.

• Notes are permitted, whether written or digital, but make sure it is not obvious you are reading directly from them.

• Return to these notes as you prepare for upcoming interviews and use them to sharpen your responses over time.

Cocktail Evenings Networking

CLERKSHIP EVENTS

COCKTAIL EVENINGS

While traditional interviews focus on skills and qualifications, networking evenings are often included in the process to assess a candidate’s interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence in a more informal setting. In commercial law, especially, these events also give you the chance to understand firm culture, observe team dynamics, and build connections with potential future colleagues, while gaining insight and advice from current employees.

01 RSVP ETIQUETTE

If you have two events scheduled on the same night, it is important to communicate respectfully with HR by emailing the second firm to advise you may be late or unable to attend, while prioritising the firm that is your first choice. If events overlap, always notify the other firm politely in advance, thanking them for the invitation and explaining your situation.

02 ENTERING AND EXITING CONVERSATIONS

When joining a conversation, approach confidently, make eye contact, and wait for a natural pause before introducing yourself, ideally with a simple conversation starter such as asking about someone’s role or practice area. When leaving, wait for a break in the discussion and exit politely with a brief thank you, such as noting you are getting a drink, and, where possible, help include others in the conversation if it is one-on-one.

03 ALCOHOL ETIQUETTE

Alcohol is typically available at these events, but drinking is entirely optional, and it is perfectly acceptable not to drink. If you do choose to drink, do so in moderation and ensure you remain composed, including pacing yourself and eating beforehand or alongside canapés, while also being mindful of simple etiquette such as holding your drink in your left hand for handshakes.

04 PREPARE SOME CONVERSATION TOPICS

Having a few topics prepared can help keep conversations natural and engaging, such as current legal developments, politics, the economy, sport, or pop culture. Staying informed helps avoid awkward pauses and makes it easier to contribute meaningfully to discussions.

05 FOLLOWING UP AFTER THE EVENT

If you make a genuine connection, it is appropriate to follow up with a brief LinkedIn message or email thanking the person for their time and expressing interest in staying in touch. This helps reinforce the relationship and maintain professional connections beyond the event.

NETWORKING

Networking is the process of building and maintaining professional relationships that can support your career through advice, mentorship, insights, and future opportunities. It can take place at events, panels, or even informal settings like coffee meetings, and while it may feel intimidating at first, it becomes more natural when you approach it with curiosity rather than a transactional mindset, focusing on genuine connection rather than immediate gain.

ONLINE NETWORKING

Online networking, particularly through LinkedIn, is an excellent way to connect with legal professionals, learn from their career journeys, and increase your visibility to potential employers. Engaging with firm updates, sharing relevant content, and interacting thoughtfully with posts demonstrates initiative and genuine interest in the industry.

CREATING A PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

A strong LinkedIn profile should reflect your current experience and present you professionally, starting with a clear, high-quality profile photo and a clean, appropriate background. Your profile should be kept up to date with accurate roles, responsibilities, and achievements, while your “About” section should clearly summarise your skills, experiences, and career goals concisely.

SENDING OUT AN INVITATION

When sending a LinkedIn connection request, consider including a short, personalised message rather than a generic invite. A brief introduction stating who you are and why you are connecting helps establish rapport and ensures your request is professional, polite, and memorable.

Accepting Offers Managing Rejection

CLERKSHIP OFFERS

ACCEPTING OFFERS

Most firms will make their offers on the same day to give all applicants an equal opportunity to decide which firm they want to work for. This means that while it’s an amazing feat to be offered multiple offers, you have to navigate deciding and declining offers with professionalism.

In terms of deciding which offer to take, there are several ways that you can compare offers. You can do this by:

• Considering the different firms’ strengths, practice areas, values and culture and whether they align with your own.

• Compare the additional benefits of the role, such as professional development opportunities and job security.

• Seek advice from trusted mentors, HR representatives and partners at the firm.

In declining a particular offer, make sure to be prompt and polite. It is good practice to reach out to the HR representative, thanking them for the opportunity. You could say something along the lines of: “Thank you so much for the offer to join your seasonal clerkship program. I truly appreciate the opportunity and enjoyed learning more about your firm. After careful consideration, I’ve decided to accept another offer, but I’m very grateful for the chance to engage with your team.”

MANAGING REJECTION

If you are unsuccessful in securing a clerkship role, it is important to treat the experience as an opportunity for growth. While it is natural to feel disappointed after the effort you have invested, reframing rejection can help you recognise the skills you have developed along the way. Through the process, you will undoubtedly have strengthened your interview and networking abilities, built your professional presence, and gained valuable insight into different firms and their cultures.

Clerkships, while great for gaining practical experience with work that interests you, are by no means the deciding factor of whether you secure a graduate role or not. It is equally important to be open to alternative pathways. Consider pursuing roles like paralegal or legal secretary positions, exploring different practice areas, or applying for graduate roles in the future, even at firms where you were previously unsuccessful. Being proactive in seeking feedback from interviewers and maintaining a professional demeanour to rejected applications will greatly support your development and positive relationship with firms. Above all, remember that career progression is rarely linear, and that consistency and resilience will guide you toward the opportunity fit for you.

MEET THE CLERKSHIP FIRMS

LIST OF FIRMS

Mallesons

Ashurst

Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer

Clayton Utz

Baker McKenzie

Gilbert + Tobin

HWLE

HFW

Gadens

Allens

Hall & Wilcox

DLA Piper

McCullough Robertson

Maddocks

Norton Rose Fulbright

MinterEllison

ACAP

Thomson Geer

Barry Nilsson

Corrs Chambers Westgarth

K&L Gates

MALLESONS

A r e a s o f r o t a t i o n :

U n i v e r s i t y :

D e g r e e : Rachel Duong

R o t a t i o n 1 - M e r g e r s a n d A c q u i s i t i o n s

R o t a t i o n 2 - B a n k i n g a n d F i n a n c e

M a c q u a r i e U n i v e r s i t y

B a c h e l o r o f L a w s ( H o n o u r s )

B a c h e l o r o f C o m m e r c e ( F i n a n c e )

W h a t i s y o u r t o p t i p f o r n a v i g a t i n g

t h e c l e r k s h i p a p p l i c a t i o n p r o c e s s ?

M y t o p t i p i s t o s t a y o r g a n i s e d d u r i n g

t h e c l e r k s h i p a p p l i c a t i o n p r o c e s s

C l e r k s h i p a p p l i c a t i o n s o p e n e d d u r i n g

m y f i n a l e x a m s , s o I p l a n n e d a h e a d a n d

f o c u s e d o n m y p r i o r i t i e s e a c h d a y T h i s

a l l o w e d m e t o s u b m i t s t r o n g a p p l i c a t i o n s w h i l e e x c e l l i n g i n m y

s t u d i e s W i t h e f f e c t i v e t i m e

m a n a g e m e n t , b a l a n c i n g b o t h w a s

a c h i e v a b l e

W h a t m a d e y o u d e c i d e t o c l e r k w i t h

M a l l e s o n s ?

I d e c i d e d t o c l e r k a t M a l l e s o n s b e c a u s e

o f i t s p e o p l e a n d c u l t u r e E v e r y o n e I

s p o k e t o f r o m j u n i o r s t o p a r t n e r s ,

s h a r e d a c o m m i t m e n t t o e x c e l l e n c e

a n d m a s t e r y o f t h e i r c r a f t M a l l e s o n s ’

c o l l a b o r a t i v e a n d h i g h - p e r f o r m i n g

c u l t u r e a l i g n e d w i t h m y v a l u e s , o f f e r i n g h i g h - q u a l i t y o p p o r t u n i t i e s t o l e a r n a n d

b u i l d a s t r o n g l e g a l f o u n d a t i o n

W h a t w a s t h e a p p l i c a t i o n a n d i n t e r v i e w p r o c e s s l i k e ?

T h e a p p l i c a t i o n a n d i n t e r v i e w p r o c e s s

f e l t l i k e t h e y w e r e d e s i g n e d t o g e t t o

k n o w y o u T h e a p p l i c a t i o n q u e s t i o n s l e t

m e h i g h l i g h t s t r e n g t h s , i n t e r e s t s a n d

a c h i e v e m e n t s , l e a d i n g t o n a t u r a l

c o n v e r s a t i o n s d u r i n g i n t e r v i e w s T h e

p r o c e s s f e l t s u p p o r t i v e a s I w a s

p r o v i d e d w i t h h e l p f u l m a t e r i a l b e f o r e

e a c h r o u n d , s o I c o u l d u n d e r s t a n d w h a t

t o e x p e c t a n d l e a r n m o r e a b o u t t h e

f i r m

W h a t k i n d o f s u p p o r t d i d y o u

r e c e i v e a s a c l e r k ?

I w a s a s s i g n e d a b u d d y , a d e v e l o p m e n t

c o a c h , a n d a p a r t n e r i n e a c h r o t a t i o n M y M & A p a r t n e r a n d I h a d r e g u l a r

c o f f e e c a t c h - u p s w h e r e h e e x p l a i n e d

t h e f u n d a m e n t a l s , a n s w e r e d m y

q u e s t i o n s , a n d a d d r e s s e d a n y

q u e s t i o n s I h a d I n T a x , I w a s r e g u l a r l y

a s k e d w h a t t y p e o f w o r k I w a n t e d t o t r y , e n s u r i n g I g a i n e d e x p o s u r e t o a r e a s

t h a t i n t e r e s t e d m e w h i l e f e e l i n g

s u p p o r t e d i n m y l e a r n i n g a n d

d e v e l o p m e n t

W h a t k i n d o f w o r k d i d y o u c o m p l e t e

d u r i n g y o u r c l e r k s h i p ?

I w o r k e d o n a d v i s o r y a n d t r a n s a c t i o n a l

m a t t e r s d u r i n g m y c l e r k s h i p D u r i n g m y

B a n k i n g & F i n a n c e r o t a t i o n , I a s s i s t e d

w i t h p r o o f - r e a d i n g d o c u m e n t s p r e p a r e d b y m y t e a m a n d e n s u r e d t h a t

c r o s s - r e f e r e n c e s w e r e a c c u r a t e I n m y

M & A r o t a t i o n , I a s s i s t e d w i t h c o r p o r a t e g o v e r n a n c e w o r k , p r e p a r i n g d o c u m e n t s f o r d e a l s a n d p o s t -

c o m p l e t i o n w o r k

H o w w o u l d y o u d e s c r i b e t h e

M a l l e s o n s c u l t u r e b a s e d o n y o u r

c l e r k s h i p e x p e r i e n c e ?

T h e M a l l e s o n s c u l t u r e i s c o l l a b o r a t i v e

a n d h i g h p e r f o r m i n g P a r t n e r s f r o m

d i f f e r e n t p r a c t i c e a r e a s w o r k e d

t o g e t h e r o n m a t t e r s F o r e x a m p l e , d u r i n g m y B a n k i n g & F i n a n c e r o t a t i o n , I

w a s i n v i t e d t o j o i n a c a l l b e t w e e n m y

s u p e r v i s i n g p a r t n e r a n d a n M & A

p a r t n e r t o d i s c u s s a t e c h n i c a l a s p e c t o f a d o c u m e n t M a l l e s o n s ’ t r a i n i n g a n d

e v e n t s a l s o s h o w e d i t s c o m m i t m e n t t o l e g a l e x c e l l e n c e

H o w w o u l d y o u d e s c r i b e t h e s o c i a l a s p e c t o f t h e c l e r k s h i p

W h a t w a s y o u r c l e r k s h i p e x p e r i e n c e

v s y o u r i n i t i a l e x p e c t a t i o n s ?

M y c l e r k s h i p e x p e r i e n c e w a s o n e o f t h e

m o s t v a l u a b l e o p p o r t u n i t i e s I h a v e h a d i n m y c a r e e r s o f a r M y c l e r k s h i p h a s

h e l p e d m e g a i n c l a r i t y o n w h a t I w a n t t o

p u r s u e a n d t h e a r e a s o f c o m m e r c i a l l a w

t h a t I a m i n t e r e s t e d i n T h e s u p p o r t I

r e c e i v e d f r o m e v e r y o n e a t t h e f i r m

e x c e e d e d m y e x p e c t a t i o n s a n d m a d e

m y c l e r k s h i p e x p e r i e n c e

W h a t w a s t h e h i g h l i g h t o f y o u r

c l e r k s h i p ?

T h e h i g h l i g h t o f m y c l e r k s h i p w a s g a i n i n g e x p o s u r e t o s u c h h i g h c a l i b r e

l e g a l w o r k K W M w o r k s o n m a r k e t -

l e a d i n g d e a l s a n d w i t h i n d u s t r y - s h a p i n g

c l i e n t s H a v i n g t h e o p p o r t u n i t y t o

u n d e r s t a n d w h a t c l i e n t s a t t h a t l e v e l

s e e k a n d h o w t o d e l i v e r v a l u e a s a

m a r k e t l e a d e r w a s s o v a l u a b l e

D o y o u h a v e a n y a d v i c e t o g i v e

p r o s p e c t i v e c l e r k s ?

M y a d v i c e i s t o b e c o m m i t t e d t o t h e

c l e r k s h i p p r o c e s s a n d e n j o y t h e g r o w t h

t h a t c o m e s w i t h i t R e f l e c t i n g o n y o u r

s k i l l s , s t r e n g t h s a n d i n t e r e s t s d u r i n g t h e

a p p l i c a t i o n p r o c e s s i s i n c r e d i b l y

v a l u a b l e I n t e r v i e w s a r e o n e o f t h e m o s t

e x c i t i n g p a r t s , o f f e r i n g a n o p p o r t u n i t y t o

s h o w c a s e y o u r s e l f a n d l e a r n a b o u t t h e i n d u s t r y ’ s m a r k e t l e a d e r s

g r e a t t o c a t c h u p i n t h e m o r n i n g s , d u r i n g l u n c h a n d a f t e r w o r k W e t r u l y

s h a r e d t h e c l e r k s h i p e x p e r i e n c e t o g e t h e r

W h a t k i n d o f t r a i n i n g d i d y o u

r e c e i v e ? W h a t o p p o r t u n i t i e s f o r

l e a r n i n g a n d g r o w t h w e r e o f f e r e d a t

M a l l e s o n s ?

T h e i n d u c t i o n a t t h e s t a r t o f t h e c l e r k s h i p

p r o v i d e d t r a i n i n g o n k e y s k i l l s f o r t h e r o l e

i n c l u d i n g w r i t i n g a m e m o , r e s e a r c h , a n d

h o w t o u s e d o c u m e n t m a n a g e m e n t

s o f t w a r e T h e o p p o r t u n i t i e s f o r l e a r n i n g a n d g r o w t h w e r e e n d l e s s a t M a l l e s o n s

W e h a d a c c e s s t o C L E s a n d s e l f -

l e a r n i n g t r a i n i n g s , w h i c h f o c u s e d o n

d i f f e r e n t a r e a s f o r p r o f e s s i o n a l

d e v e l o p m e n t

Inside the Mallesons RECE Practice

Learn. Master. Lead.

e t h i n g s ’ – t h e s a l e o r a c q u i s i t i o n o f a b u i l d i n g i n t h e

, t h e c o n s t r u c t i o n o f p u b l i c t r a n s p o r t

i n f r a s t r u c t u r e , t h e d e v e l o p m e n t , f i n a n c i n g a n d t r a d i n g o f e n e r g y a s s e t s , a n d t h e e s t ab l i s h m e n t o f a n e w w i n d o r s o l a r f a r m i n o n e o f t h e n e w R e n e w a b l e E n e r g y Z o n e s

O u r p r a c t i c e g r o u p p r o v i d e s e n d t o e n d s u p p o r t a c r o s s t h e e n t i r e t r a n s a c t i o n a n d d e v e l o p m e n t l i f e c y c l e T h i s i n c l u d e s p r o j e c t s t r u c t u r i n g , a p p r o v a l s , p l a n n i n g a n d e n v i r o n m e n t , d e v e l o p m e n t a r r a n g e m e n t s , c o n s t r u c t i o n , p r o c u r e m e n t a n d o p e r a t i o n a l a r r a n g e m e n t s , f i n a n c i n g , r i s k m a n a g e m e n t a n d p r o j e c t i m p l e m e n t a t i o n , t o g e t h e r w it h a c q u i s i t i o n s , d i v e s t m e n t s a n d i n v e s t m e n t s

T h e E n v i r o n m e n t a n d P l a n n i n g ( E & P ) t e a m h a s a v e r y d i v e r s e w o r k l o a d , r a n g i n g f r o m a d v i s o r y , t r a n s a c t i o n a l a n d l i t i g i o u s T h i s m a k e s e v e r y d a y d i f f e r e n t , k e e p s y o u o n y o u r t o e s a n d k e e p s t h i n g s i n t e r e s t i n g ! W h y ?

T h e e n v i r o n m e n t a n d p l a n n i n g l e g a l f r a m e w o r k i s a l w a y s c h a n g i n g a n d e v o l v i n g . T h e r e i s c o n s t a n t l y n e w

l e g i s l a t i o n , r e g u l a t i o n s , g u i d e l i n e s a n d c a s e l a w b e i n g p u b l i s h e d t h a t w e m u s t b e a c r o s s t o a d v i s e o u r c l i e n t s

a n d i n t e r n a l M a l l e s o n s t e a m s

E n v i r o n m e n t a n d p l a n n i n g i s s u e s c o v e r a l l s e c t o r s , s o w e g e t t o w o r k w i t h a l o t o f d i f f e r e n t t e a m s i n t h e

R E C E P r a c t i c e G r o u p s u c h a s t h e E n e r g y a n d R e a l E s t a t e t e a m s , o t h e r M a l l e s o n s t e a m s s u c h a s M e r g e r s &

A c q u i s i t i o n s ( M & A ) , B a n k i n g & F i n a n c e ( B & F ) a n d D i s p u t e R e s o l u t i o n ( D R ) , a s w e l l a s o u r o w n c l i e n t s ( e g p r o p e r t y d e v e l o p e r s a n d m a n a g e r s )

T h e w o r k o f t h e R e a l E s t a t e ( R E ) t e a m i s s i m i l a r l y b r oa d W h e n y o u t h i n k o f r e a l e s t a t e , y o u m i g h t t h i n k o f t h e

c o n v e y a n c i n g a n d l e a s i n g y o u c o m e a c r o s s i n y o u r p e r s o n a l l i f e , b u t t h e w o r k w e d o i n t h e R E p r a c t i c e a t

M a l l e s o n s e n c o m p a s s e s s o m u c h m o r e t h a n t h a t !

N o t o n l y d o e s o u r t e a m a d v i s e o n ‘ t r a d i t i o n a l ’ r e a l e s t a t e w o r k s t r e a m s s u c h a s a c q u i s i t i o n s a n d d i v e s t m e n t s o f e s t a b l i s h e d a s s e t s a n d d u e d i l i g e n c e , w e a l s o t a k e t h e l e a d o n l a r g e - s c a l e c a p i t a l an d d e b t t r a n s a c t i o n s i n v o l v i n g r e a l p r o p e r t y T h i s r a n g e s f r o m s e t t i n g u p j o i n t v e n t u r e s b e t w e e n i n v e s t o r s , h e l p i n g d e v e l o p e r s a c q u i r e a n d b u i l d a s i t e t h r o u g h p r o p e r t y f i n a n c i n g , a n d p r o v i d i n g c o m p l e x t i t l i n g a n d c o r p o r a t e / t r u s t s t r u c t u r i n g a d v i c e

T h e R E t e a m a l s o d e a l s w i t h a w i d e r a n g e o f p r o p e r t y t y p e s . T h i n k r e s i d e n t i a l a p a r t m e n t s , c o m m e r c i a l o f f i c e t o w e r s , i n d u s t r i a l w a r e h o u s e s , m e t r o s t a t i o n s , u n i v e r s i t y c a m p u s e s , s o l a r f a r m s – a n d m o r e !

I n t h e R E t e a m , l a w y e r s c a n b u i l d c o m p e t e n c y i n m a n y a r e a s o f l a w i n a d d i t i o n t o p r o p e r t y l a w a n d o f t e n w o r k o n m u l t i - m i l l i o n d o l l a r p r o j e c t s i n v o l v i n g a s s e t s a c r o s s t h e c o u n t r y t h a t y o u c a n s e e , t o u c h a n d s o m e t i m e s e v e n u s e y o u r s e l f

A r o t a t i o n i n t h e E n e r g y , R e s o u r c e s , I n f r a s t r u c t u r e a n d C o n s t r u c t i o n ( E R I ) t e a m s o f f e r s u n p a r a l l e l e d e x p o s u r e t o a s e c t o r t ha t i s u n d e r g o i n g r a p i d t r a n s f o r m a t i o n , m a r k e d b y s i g n i f i c a n t g r o w t h i n r e n e w a b l e e n e r g y , t e c h n o l o g i c a l i n n o v a t i o n s , a n d e v o l v i n g r e g u l a t o r y l a n d s c a p e s E n e r g y a n d C o n s t r u c t i o n P r o j e c t s a r e a v i t a l p i l l a r o f t h e g l o b a l e c o n o m y a n d p l a y a p i v o t a l r o l e i n a d d r e s s i n g c l i m a t e c h a n g e a n d a d v a n c i n g s u s t a i n a b i l i t y T h e w o r k w e u n d e r t a k e i n t h e E R I t e a m i s p r o f o u n d l y i m p a c t f u l , d i r e c t l y i n f l u e n c i n g b o t h s o c i et y a n d t h e e n v i r o n m e n t

T h e E R I t e a m i s i n v o l v e d i n a s o l i d m i x o f t r a n s a c t i o n a l a n d r e g u l a t o r y w o r k , p r o v i d i n g a c o m p r e h e n s i v e v i e w o f t h i s d y n a m i c i n d u s t r y A s a j u n i o r , y o u w i l l h a v e t h e o p p o r t u n i t y t o e n g a g e i n t h e f u l l l i f e c y c l e o f M & A d e a l s a n d p r o j e c t f i n a n c i n g t r a n s a c t i o n s w i t h i n t h e e n e r g y s e c t o r O n t h e r e g u l a t o r y f r o n t , j u n i o r s w i l l h a v e t h e c h a n c e t o d r a f t c o m p l e x l e g a l a d v i c e o n e n e r g y r e gu l a t i o n , o f t e n i n v o l v i n g i s s u e s o f c o m p e t i t i o n l a w ! W o r k i n g i n t h e E R I t e a m w i l l o f f e r c o u n t l e s s o p p o r t u n i t i e s t o d e v e l o p t r a n s a c t i o n a l a n d r e g u l a t o r y e x p e r t i s e w i t h i n a f i e l d t h a t i s c o n s t a n t l y e v o l v i n g .

W h a t J u n i o r s g e t i n v o l v e d i n d a y t o d a y

T h e r e i s a l w a y s h a n d s - o n w o r k t h a t o u r S e a s o n a l C l e r k s a n d G r a d u a t e s c a n g e t i n v o l v e d w i t h

T h e j u n i o r s i n t h e E & P , R E a n d E R I t e a m s o f t e n a s s i s t w i t h :

P r e p a r i n g f i r s t d r a f t s o f c o r r e s p o n d e n c e , t r a n s a c t i o n d o c u m e n t s , l a n d d e a l i n g s , C o u r t d o c u m e n t s a n d b r i e f s

t o b a r r i s t e r s

P r e p a r i n g d r a f t a d v i c e o n c o m p l e x e n e r g y r e g u l a t o r y i s s u e s

C o n d u c t i n g a n d c o o r d i n a t i n g d u e d i l i g e n c e o n v a r i o u s e n e r g y p r o j e c t s

A t t e n d i n g d e a l s t r a t e g y m e e t i n g s w i t h c l i e n t s t o d i s c u s s a p p r o a c h o n a p a r t i c u l a r t r a n s a c t i o n

A t t e n d i n g m e e t i n g s w i t h c l i e n t s , e x p e r t s / t e c h n i c a l a d v i s o r s a n d b a r r i s t e r s ( a s a p p l i c a b l e ) t o d i s c u s s s t r a t e g y

L e g a l r e s e a r c h t h a t f e e d s i n t o c o m p l e x a d v i c e s , f o r a c l i e n t a l e r t o n a r e c e n t l e g i s l a t i v e c h a n g e o r f o r a n

i n t e r n a l t e a m p r e s e n t a t i o n t o l i f t o u r c o l l e c t i v e k n o w l e d g e b a s e !

C o n d u c t i n g d u e d i l i g e n c e o n p r o p e r t y a n d e n v i r o n m e n t a n d p l a n n i n g i s s u e s a s p a r t o f a b r o a d e r t r a n s a c t i o n

a n d a s s i s t i n g i n m a n a g i n g c l i e n t d o c u m e n t s a n d d a t a r o o m s

A s s i s t i n g s e n i o r l a w y e r s w i t h t h e s i g n i n g a n d c o m p l e t i o n o f a l i v e t r a n s a c t i o n f o r v a r i o u s e n e r g y a n d

i n f r a s t r u c t u r e a s s e t s

W h y y o u s h o u l d c o n s i d e r a R E C E r o t a t i o n

Y o u s h o u l d c h o o s e a n E & P r o t a t i o n i f y o u w a n t t o g e t e x p o s u r e t o l o t s o f d i f f e r e n t d e a l s , c l i e n t s a n d l e g a l i s s u e s

T h e r e a r e v e r y f e w t e a m s a c r o s s t h e f i r m t h a t d o a c o m b i n a t i o n o f a d v i s o r y , t r a n s a c t i o n a l a n d l i t i g i o u s w o r k , s o i t i s

a n a m a z i n g o p p o r t u n i t y t h a t w o u l d b e h a r d t o p a s s u p ! A s a j u n i o r , i t i s r e a l l y v a l u a b l e g a i n i n g s k i l l s a n d t r a i n i n g

f r o m a l l t h r e e a r e a s

A R E r o t a t i o n o f f e r s a r a r e o p p o r t u n i t y t o b e c o m e e x p o s e d t o m u l t i p l e a r e a s o f l a w , i n c l u d i n g p r o p e r t y , c o n s t r u c t i o n , p l a n n i n g , e q u i t y a n d t r u s t s , t a x , c o r p o r a t i o n s , a n d f o r e i g n a c q u i s i t i o n s a n d t a k e o v e r s l a w , a s w e l l a s

d e v e l o p y o u r s k i l l s i n l e g a l d r a f t i n g , t r a n s a c t i o n m a n a g e m e n t a n d p r o b l e m s o l v i n g T h e r e w i l l b e m a n y

o p p o r t u n i t i e s t o w o r k o n l i v e d e a l s a n d c o n t r i b u t e t o t h e d e v e l o p m e n t o f p r o j e c t s t h a t s h a p e t h e A u s t r a l i a n s k y l i n e

E m b a r k i n g o n a r o t a t i o n w i t h i n t h e R E C E p r a c t i c e g r o u p o f f e r s a n e x c e p t i o n a l o p p o r t u n i t y t o i m m e r s e y o u r s e l f i n b o t h t r a n s a c t i o n a l a n d r e g u l a t o r y w o r k a c r o s s a d i v e r s e a r r a y o f c o m p l e x a n d t e c h n i c a l s e c t o r s T h i s r o t a t i o n

p r o m i s e s c o u n t l e s s o p p o r t u n i t i e s t o t a c k l e i n t r i c a t e l e g a l q u e s t i o n s a n d n a v i g a t e c h a l l e n g i n g c o n t r a c t u a l i s s u e s i n

s p e c i a l i s e d a r e a s , e n h a n c i n g y o u r p r o f e s s io n a l g r o w t h a n d b r o a d e n i n g y o u r s k i l l s e t

M e e t t h e a u t h o r s

Kyra Lee

Solicitor, Sydney

Naren Iyer

Solicitor, Sydney

Annie Zou

Solicitor, Sydney

J o i n t h e c o n v e r s a t i o n

Disclaimer

T h i s p u b l i c a t i o n i s p r e p a r e d b y M a l l e s o n s f o r g e n e r a l i n f o r m a t i o n

o n l y I t d o e s n o t c o n s t i t u t e l e g a l o r o t h e r p r o f e s s i o n a l a d v i c e Y o u

s h o u l d s e e k s p e c i f i c l e g a l a d v i c e f r o m a M a l l e s o n s l e g a l p r o f e s s i o n a l

b e f o r e a c t i n g o n a n y i n f o r m a t i o n c o n t a i n e d i n t h i s p u b l i c a t i o n

ASHURST

Uniquely at Ashurst you

Ashurst is a leading global law firm with a history spanning 200 years and a vision to be the most progressive global law firm.

Our Purpose

To utilise our deep understanding of our clients to provide exceptional standards of service and to become trusted advisers to local and global corporates, financial institutions and governments in all areas of commercial law.

We are also committed to creating a world leading pro bono practice on a global scale and to being a sustainable law firm which delivers positive impacts for its employees, clients, the legal profession, the environment and the communities in which it is based.

Our Values

We’re passionate about quality

We deliver through collaboration

We think differently

Our values are critical to the culture of our firm and sum up what we stand for, what makes Ashurst an exceptional place to work and what we aspire to be. For us, “progressive” is a mind-set, an approach to how we do things. We instinctively take a fresh perspective on situations, exploring whether there are better ways of achieving our clients’ goals as well as our own.

Our Strategy

Our strategy is based on being relentlessly client focused and enabling the ambition and potential of our people. Through operating as “one firm” and delivering differentiated client solutions which integrate our Legal, Risk Consulting and NewLaw capabilities.

We also put diversity at the heart of everything we do. Fostering a diverse and inclusive culture where everyone feels a sense of belonging is key to our vision of being the most progressive global law firm. It allows us to offer exceptional service to our clients and create a great place for our people to work. Our culture is built around embracing and celebrating the rich dimensions of our diversity. We take diversity seriously, with an established IDB Action Plan, representation targets, and six diversity areas with dedicated networks that are focused on actively taking steps to ensure all our people, across all spectrums of diversity, are supported and empowered.

We are also committed to delivering positive impacts to our communities through our Social Impact programme, with a strong emphasis on working with First Nations people through our pro bono practice.

Your Opportunity

About You

We run clerkships in each of our offices to give you an intensive experience of our culture and the kind of work we do. The role will give you great exposure to high quality commercial legal work and provide you the opportunity to apply and develop your skills across a broad range of practice areas, clients and industries. Our clerkship programmes includes a range of activities and events designed for you to get to know us as a firm and find out if a career at Ashurst is what you are looking for. They include a comprehensive induction programme, events to understand each practice area and activities to ensure you build connections and relationships within the clerkship cohort and across the firm.

Your Impact & Contribution

You will rotate through one (Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth offices) or two (Sydney office) teams during your clerkship at Ashurst. Depending on the team you are rotating in, you can expect to be involved in a wide variety of work and activities:

• Drafting documents, court documents and advices

• Research for client advice and contracts

• Preparing briefs to counsel

• Attending and taking notes at client meetings and meetings with counsel

• Preparing file notes and case summaries

• Reviewing contracts

• Assisting with pro-bono matters and research projects

Your Support

At Ashurst we ensure you are adequately supported throughout the programme with an allocated buddy, supervising partner and lawyer who will guide your experience, provide you with on-the-job training and support.

There’s absolutely no Ashurst “type”. We want to actively involve and include a broad range of minds with a diverse range of backgrounds, all united by a common set of strengths or competencies.

All successful clerks will demonstrate characteristics of analytical ability, adaptability, motivation and learning agility. They will have outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, curiosity, attention to detail and work well in a team.

Applicants for our clerkship programmes must be in their penultimate or final year of study

For Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, applicants will need Australian or New Zealand citizenship or be a permanent resident at the time of application.

Your Development

Apart from the legal and commercial skills you will develop in your day to day work with our practice groups and clients, you will also be provided with ongoing support, training and mentorship from our senior legal practitioners and access to the firm’s award winning Learning & Development programmes.

Our clerks and graduates take part in a combination of legal expertise, industry and business skills sessions which lay the foundations for continuous learning at Ashurst. In addition, our graduates complete our in-house fully funded PLT course delivered by the University of New South Wales

HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS KRAMER

BUILDING A STANDOUT CV

VIVIAN

NGUYEN | GRADUATE

A CV is your case on paper. It sets out your education, experience, and strengths, and demonstrates how you can contribute meaningfully to the team at HSF Kramer.

Structure

Presentation is often treated as secondary to substance, but the two are closely linked. A CV is reviewed quickly and under time pressure, so structure directly affects how content is received. Clear separation of education, experience, and activities allows key information to be located without effort. Formatting serves the same purpose: consistent headings, spacing, and parallel bullet points signal attention to detail, while dense text, shifting styles, or excessive formatting create friction that is often decisive across large volumes of applications.

Language

Earlier versions of my CV relied heavily on language that sounded professional but conveyed little information of substance. Phrases such as “assisted with matters” or “supported senior lawyers” felt safe, but they were ultimately uninformative.

The most significant improvement came from learning to be specific without becoming verbose. A strong CV does not merely state what you did; it explains how, in what context, and with what level of responsibility.

For example:

- Less effective: “Assisted senior lawyers on various M&A transactions.”

- More effective: “Prepared the first draft of an asset sale agreement and completion checklist for a mid-market M&A transaction under compressed deadlines.”

Both statements are concise, but only the latter is specific enough to give the reader a clear sense of the work undertaken and provides a meaningful basis for further discussion.

Non-legal experience

I once assumed experience outside legal practice was a waste of space. In reality, HSF Kramer sits at the intersection of law, business, and regulation, where legal issues rarely stand alone. Non-legal roles often provide early exposure to this broader context through commercial judgment, operational responsibility, and working with diverse stakeholders. Experience in areas like hospitality, retail, student leadership, or tutoring can be particularly valuable.

For example:

- Less effective: “Managed front-of-house operations during busy periods.”

- More effective: “Managed front-of-house operations during weekend peak periods, coordinating a team of six to maintain service standards.”

This approach allows the reader to quickly understand both the scope of your responsibility and the transferable skills you bring to the role.

Interests

A brief interests section is often undervalued. I once thought my long-term involvement in athletics and martial arts was irrelevant, but it frequently sparked genuine engagement in interviews. Not because of the activities themselves, but because they signalled discipline, resilience, and long-term commitment.

Many candidates have strong academics; interests are often what make someone memorable. If you’ve sustained meaningful commitments outside law - whether in sport, music, or creative work - include them with confidence. They reflect balance, self-awareness, and depth.

CLAYTON UTZ

LAUNCH YOUR CAREER WITH IMPACT

At Clayton Utz, you’ll be part of a team that thrives on tackling complex and highprofile matters that make a real impact.

From day one, you’ll be immersed in challenging work, supported by some of the sharpest legal minds in the country, and encouraged to bring your unique perspective to the table.

We set high standards because we know you’re capable of achieving them. The hard work you put in will be rewarded with exceptional learning opportunities, exposure to cutting-edge legal technology, and the chance to build the skills and relationships that will set you up for a successful career.

Are you ready?

When was the moment you felt like you really belonged in the legal profession?

“In my first rotation, one of the partners asked for my opinion on a client matter. The fact that I had been asked meant that my opinion counted, I could give legal advice, and I could be trusted with that level of responsibility.”

Jessica Harris 2024 Summer Clerk & 2025 Graduate University of Sydney, JD BMedSc

What did you enjoy most about the clerkship?

“I liked that we were well supported, and we weren't expected to know everything. I just felt so valued and that was really important to me.”

Antonia Odegbaro

2025 Summer Clerk & 2026 Graduate University of Sydney, JD BCom

Why did you choose Clayton Utz?

“Despite everybody taking their work seriously, nobody takes themselves too seriously, so I feel comfortable bringing my whole self to work every day.”

Musa Musa

2025 Summer Clerk & 2026 Graduate UNSW, LLB BActSt

What areas of practice would you like to work in?

“As a top-tier independent law firm, there are a huge range of practice areas I'm excited to try, including projects, disputes, and government.”

Maiysha Moin

2025 Winter Clerk & 2026 Graduate Monash University, LLB(Hons) BPPE

BAKER McKENZIE

Since 1964, long before other global or international law firms entered Australia, Baker McKenzie has been the local law firm of choice. Our unique culture, developed over 77 years, enables our 13,000+ people to understand local markets and navigate multiple jurisdictions, working together as trusted colleagues and friends to instil confidence in our clients. We also understand the challenges of the global economy because we have been a global law firm from the start.

Baker McKenzie has been thinking globally in Australia for more than 60 years. In 2014, we opened our Brisbane office, making our Australian practice the fourth largest in our network of 72 offices in 45 countries. In Australia, we act for leading multinational and domestic companies on market-leading local and global transactions.

At Baker McKenzie, we want our clerks to experience life as a graduate at our Firm. So, right from the start, our clerks are given the opportunity to get involved in real work and have real responsibility. From tasks like drafting court or transaction documents to conducting legal research for letter of advice – you will have the opportunity to take on a broad range of client work in your team. You will also be exposed to our Australian and international clients through client meetings, calls and events.

Working with lawyers of all levels, you will be guided by a supervising partner and associate “buddy”. You will also be supported, at every stage of the clerkship, by our Early Careers team – who facilitates a comprehensive program starting with induction and skills development including practical sessions on technology training, legal research, drafting, commerciality, business communication, client-service and other skills crucial to ensuring you impress and succeed during your clerkship.

You will also have opportunities to build genuine connections across the Firm through various social events and networking opportunities.

In Sydney, we offer one clerkship intake, from late November to early February.

Opportunities are plentiful as you commence your graduate program with Baker McKenzie –starting with a comprehensive induction program that builds upon your clerkship induction, and supports your transition from university to work. This includes practical sessions, like commercial drafting and legal research, as well as sessions to set you up for broader career success – like business development, personal brand, communicating with impact, and wellbeing and resilience.

Our graduates undertake three rotations, to gain experience in different areas of law, before they join a particular practice group as an associate. In each rotation, graduates have a supervising partner, senior lawyer coach and associate “buddy” – to maximise on-the-job and formal learning and provide support at all levels.

We know our graduates want to work with clients on meaningful work from the start, so we support you to hone your skills and develop your experience as quickly as possible by getting you involved in everyday client work in your team. With our culture of opportunity, you can expect to be dealing with local and global clients, experts and barristers and making valuable contributions to your team’s matters. Our graduates also have the opportunity to manage their own files as part of our pro bono program.

Our ethos of excellence feeds into outstanding learning opportunities throughout your graduate program. Our Leadership & Learning team facilitates sessions in five key areas for our graduates – legal learning, managing your career, the business of law, business development/client service, and people and self-leadership. Our Cornerstone legal learning program will build your legal and technical excellence – starting with our two-day legal accelerator program which brings graduates across our Australian offices together to learn and foster networks. We also cover the costs of your Practical Legal Training and admission. Additionally, we conduct regular roundtables and feedback meetings to ensure you receive coaching and develop as a lawyer. Collectively, these ensure you receive the best foundation for your career

▪ Banking & Finance

▪ Financial Services

▪ Corporate Markets (including Mergers & Acquisitions, Private Equity and Capital Markets)

▪ Funds

▪ Energy & Infrastructure

▪ Commercial Real Estate

▪ Construction

▪ Dispute Resolution

▪ Employment & Compensation

▪ Commercial (Intellectual Property, Technology, Data & Trade)

▪ Tax.

Applications for clerkships can be submitted via au.prosple.com/graduateemployers/baker-mckenzie

Applications should include a cover letter, as well as details of your work experience, your extracurricular activities and interests, and your academic results.

Applications for clerkships open at 9.00am on 10 June 2026 and close at 11.59pm on 5 July 2026.

GILBERT + TOBIN

Opportunity starts here

Work at the forefront of significant change in our society and economy, and open the door to experiences that will shape your career –wherever you want it to take you.

Join us and help us build Australia’s most advanced law firm.

Opportunity starts here

There’s never been a better time to be part of G+T. Work at the forefront of profound changes in our society and economy with smart people who value your ideas and perspective, and be part of a network that’s building Australia’s best corporate firm.

Our clerkships in Melbourne, Perth and Sydney offer a unique chance to experience one or two practice areas in corporate law and learn from some of Australia’s most talented lawyers.

In Sydney, we offer a summer clerkship with two 4-week rotations across two practice areas and the option to apply for the Aurora Internship, a fully funded 5- to 6-week winter internship.

Is a G+T clerkship right for me?

The G+T clerkship experience is open to law students in their penultimate and final year of study. Our culture is driven by respect and inclusion, entrepreneurism, integrity and active citizenship. We share common values and celebrate the talents and goodwill of our people,

If you have the restless ambition to work at the heart of change, and if you are prepared to take the initiative, you’ll feel like you belong here.

What will I experience?

During your clerkship (depending on location), you’ll be provided with a supervising partner, a mentor and a buddy who will help you develop your day to day legal and personal skills. You’ll also grow with the help of structured training, covering drafting and technical skills through to how to create your personal brand.

You’ll also have the chance to work on innovation and pro bono matters. This is your opportunity to explore areas you’re interested in, push out of your comfort zone and bring your own ideas and perspective to the team. Plus, you’ll build a valuable network that will support you throughout your career – wherever it takes you next.

“I was pleasantly surprised by the level of trust placed in me to run tasks independently, manage deadlines and take ownership of my approach. That responsibility made the work more meaningful and pushed me to develop practical skills that university simply cannot teach.”

Can I apply for a graduate role?

G+T clerks typically receive priority offers for graduate roles, and we have a high conversion rate. However, graduating students are always welcome to apply to our 18-month graduate program. Look for graduate vacancies on our website.

Clerkship application dates Applications

Melbourne 6 July 2026 9 August 2026

Perth 22 June 2026 26 July 2026

Sydney 10 June 2026 12 July 2026

Learn more about our clerkship programs at https://www.gtlaw.com.au/careers/early-careers

Get in touch

We’d love to hear from you.

William Choi, 2025 Summer Clerk Kristie Barton Talent Attraction + Brand Manager +61 2 9263 4575 KBarton@gtlaw.com.au

HWLE

A Culture Grounded in Collaboration, Excellence, and Genuine Support.

ABOUT US

We invest in our people from the very beginning of their careers.

As a dynamic and forward-thinking firm, we are committed to creating an environment where our people can thrive professionally and personally. Our merit-based structure provides clear pathways for growth, enabling talented individuals to progress from graduate level through to partnership.

With more than 1,700 people, including over 280 partners, across offices in every Australian state and territory, we offer a truly national platform. Our diverse client base - from small businesses to ASX-listed companies - ensures that junior lawyers gain unparalleled exposure to complex and varied matters, building confidence and capability early in their careers.

We foster a culture that values excellence, collaboration and balance, ensuring our people are supported to succeed, connected across teams and inspired to achieve their full potential.

CLERKSHIP PROGRAM

HWLE’s Clerkship Program is designed to give you hands-on experience and practical training to build your legal skills and knowledge, while also providing opportunities to network with practitioners across the firm. You’ll gain exposure to a diverse range of work within your allocated Practice Group(s), and we’ll take the time to get to know you - both professionally and personally.

At the start of your Clerkship, you’ll be paired with a Supervising Partner and a mentor who will guide and support you throughout your placement. They’ll help you develop your skills and provide detailed feedback at the end of your time with us. You’ll also take part in a tailored induction program designed to familiarise you with our systems, people, and values, ensuring you feel welcomed as a valued member of our national team.

At HWLE, we encourage a way of working that helps our people deliver great outcomes, grow their careers, and enjoy life beyond the office. During your Clerkship, you will experience what it is like to be an employee of HWLE, and you will have the opportunity to attend a variety of social and networking events hosted by the firm.

BENEFITS

⎖ Clear career progression pathways, supported by the lowest solicitor-to-partner ratio in Australia.

“ The culture [at HWLE] was downto-earth, and the people were approachable and supportive. I liked that clerks and grads were given real work from the start, with direct access to senior lawyers, rather than just observing from the sidelines. ”

- Gabriella Katz, 2025 Graduate “ The culture [at HWLE] was downto-earth, and the people were approachable and supportive. I liked that clerks and grads were given real work from the start, with direct access to senior lawyers, rather than just observing from the sidelines. ”

- Gabriella Katz, 2025 Graduate APPLY NOW

⎖ Early responsibility through exposure to diverse clients, from small businesses to ASX-listed companies.

⎖ Culture of collaboration through networking opportunities, social events and firm-wide celebrations.

⎖ Merit-based structure that rewards performance and ensures you are inspired to shine.

⎖ Comprehensive induction and ongoing mentorship to build confidence and capability.

⎖ Pathway to Graduate Program: almost all of our graduate roles for 2028 are filled with those who clerk with us. This is your opportunity to see what life is like at HWLE.

DAY IN THE LIFE OF A HWLE LAW GRADUATE

7:30 AM

The commute to work begins! Whilst on the bus I love to listen to music and scroll through LinkedIn for any news updates or articles my colleagues have shared. 137 lawyers from our firm have been recognised as ‘Best Lawyers’ in Australia, and my practice group head was named one of the Lawyers of the Year!

8:00 AM

I like to arrive in the city early so I can get a coffee. I sometimes meet people from other firms as it is a great way to network and stay connected with my friends from uni. Today I met some of the other grads from HWLE.

8:30 AM

I arrive at the office and begin my day by checking my emails. I like to set an agenda to make sure I’m dealing with urgent matters first. Today that includes reviewing some client documents and arranging a time to meet with the partner to discuss next steps. Our firm is also participating in the Law Access Walk for Justice next month, so I make sure to sign up for that too!

10:00 AM

I sit in on a client meeting with an associate in my team regarding a deed of works and lease for our client who acts for the landlord. The associate goes through the comments and variations with the client, and I take down any notes and changes the client wants to make. Meeting clients face to face is always such a rewarding experience. After the meeting we have a coffee with the client. It is a great way to get to know everyone better as we will all be working closely together over the next few months.

11:30 AM

One of the partners brings donuts for the whole team to share for morning tea!

12:15 PM

I have a meeting with a partner in my team to discuss a pro bono matter. It concerns an elderly client, a question about the existence of a trust and a dispute over family property. I enjoy working on pro bono matters as it is very rewarding to help these types of clients whilst getting my head around interesting property law concepts at the same time.

12:30 PM

Lunchtime in the sun with my fellow grads!

1:30 PM

I get back to my desk and draft an initial email to our pro bono client for partner review after reading the residential tenancy agreement, referral summary and statement of agreed facts to see if we need to query anything with the client.

2:15 PM

NAME: Jasmyn Joseph

TITLE: Law Graduate

PRACTICE GROUP: Property

UNIVERSITY: UWA

DEGREE: Juris Doctor

YEAR OF GRADUATION: 2024

Part of being a grad means we participate in outside run! This involves delivering court documents to chambers, going to Landgate and making other deliveries to client offices around the CBD. It’s a great way to keep moving throughout the day and stretch our legs.

3:00 PM

I start reviewing client materials for another property partner in my team regarding an extension of lease for our client. Since I will be drafting this document, I have a look at some past examples my colleagues have done to get an idea of what is expected. I love at HWLE that juniors can work directly with partners on matters. It is so rewarding working on a wide variety of deals from start to finish and learning the lifecycle of transactions. I also enjoy how tangible working in the property team is - a lot of our clients have major properties all over Perth that I walk or drive past most days. It’s nice to see your hard work pay off.

3:50 PM

Since I am new to the property team, some of my colleagues run training sessions on ‘property basics’ that we will be dealing with throughout our rotation. I take the time to review the material from last week as I missed the in-person training session due to a College of Law exam. It is great to know as a junior at the firm that everyone in the team is invested in our learning. The training and mentorship are extremely valuable.

4:45 PM

Before I leave work, I always check that my time sheets are submitted for the day. I also send out emails to the colleagues I’ve done work for that day to give them a progress status report on where I am up to on their tasks. Communication is key.

5:00 PM

Time to pack up and leave for the day. I catch one last glimpse of the Swan River from reception before making my way to the bus to head home and get ready for HWLE Indoor Beach Volleyball.

7:30 PM

The firm’s social club has a volleyball team, and it is a great way to meet other people in the firm and stay active. I go along with another grad in my team and have so much fun! It is nice to see my colleagues outside a work context, and the energy from the team is great. It’s a lovely way to finish off the day.

YOUR GLOBAL SUCCESS

Entrepreneurial | Creative | Collaborative

Who are we?

HFW is an international law firm with a strong global presence and a reputation for providing an excellent service to an impressive list of domestic and international clients. With over 700 lawyers working across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Australia, we take a progressive approach to our role in commercial business – thinking creatively and pragmatically to support our clients. With our head office in London, HFW provides a global and seamless service 24 hours a day.

We leaders in our specialist sectors, being Shipping, Construction, Commodities, Corporate & Commercial, Insurance & Reinsurance and Aerospace.

Our clerkship program

Our clerkship program will introduce students to all of our sector groups, providing an opportunity to understand what different areas do, and meet our professionals across all areas. During the clerkship, you will be assigned a mentor and buddy in one of our major sector teams, predominantly Construction and Corporate & Commercial, where you will experience working on real matters, both domestic and international. You will also have a key contact in other groups to facilitate exposure to the work of that group.

Our graduate program

Graduates will participate in a 12-month rotational program. This will include three placements, two of which will be in your local office, with the option of a third in either another Australian office dependent on availability.

What does HFW look for?

HFW looks for people who have a global mindset and an interest in international matters, with a particular affinity for our specific sectors and focus, and interested in disputes matters. We look for people who are afraid of a challenge, and are eager to learn the skills that will be required to shine in their careers. Our ideal applicant is down-to-earth, well rounded, with good attention to detail and a team-oriented mindset. We also look for people who are open to and will chase opportunities, and have the intellectual rigour to work on complex matters.

Our culture

HFW is a collaborative, team oriented environment. We are inclusive and have a diverse variety of team members enabling different ideas and approaches to thrive. Our entrepreneurial culture means that you can see ideas implemented quickly and we are nimble in response to client and market requirements. This is a workplace where we expect respect and open communication and get it every day.

How to apply

Applications for clerkships can be submitted via www.hfw.com/careers/early-careers/ earlycareers-australia/

Applications should include a current CV, a copy of your academic transcript, and a cover letter addressing why you would like to work with HFW, what you can bring to the team, and something that will help us get to know you, such as your extracurricular activities and interests.

GADENS

About Gadens

Gadens is a leading Australian law firm with over 110 partners and 600 staff across Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.

We are an independent firm with a clear purpose: to help people succeed in a complex world. That purpose shapes how we think, how we work and how we partner with our clients.

We are focused on being widely regarded as a leading, independent Australian law firm that champions Australian business, policy and community. With a truly national footprint, we partner with clients across the country and across all major industries and sectors, helping them to navigate change.

What differentiates us is our focus on impact. We take the time to understand our clients’ objectives, risks

Clerkships at Gadens

and operating environments, so we can deliver advice that is practical, forward-looking and enables confident decision-making. We value long term relationships built on trust, insight and consistently strong outcomes.

Our firm values shape how we show up every day. We work collaboratively, we share knowledge and draw on diverse perspectives to deliver better outcomes for our clients and our firm. We value authenticity, fostering a culture where people can speak openly and bring their true selves to their work. We act with responsibility, doing what is right, owning our decisions and maintaining integrity in all interactions. And we pursue excellence—not as a slogan, but through the consistent, thoughtful and disciplined way we approach our work.

Our Clerks@Gadens program introduces you to life as a commercial lawyer at a leading independent Australian firm. With a dedicated mentor and buddy supporting you throughout the program, you’ll work alongside partners and experienced lawyers on real client work, contribute to research and drafting, and take part in learning sessions designed to build foundational skills with confidence.

Application

● Joining client meetings, court attendances or mediations, seeing how commercial decisions play out in practice.

● Drafting correspondence and concise advice, developing a clear, confident writing style.

Clerks are part of our firm from day one. You can expect a supportive, people-first and social culture grounded in inclusion, wellbeing and community impact.

Our clerkships are designed to stretch your thinking, build your confidence and give you a true sense of life at a leading independent Australian law firm. With a dedicated mentor and buddy beside you, you’ll learn by doing: working on real matters, in real teams, with people who want to see you thrive. You’ll support client matters from start to finish, contributing to work such as:

● Helping prepare affidavits and court documents, understanding how matters are built and progressed. Every experience helps you sharpen your judgment, grow your skillset and understand the role you want to play as a future lawyer. Your ideas, curiosity and perspective matter — they help shape the work we do and the team you’ll be part of.

● Researching legal issues that shape our advice and strategy.

Suitable for students in their penultimate or final year of the LLB or JD, we invite clerkship applications from students who are passionate about a career in the legal industry and want to make an impact.

As a seasonal clerk at Gadens, you’ll experience life at a firm that combines real responsibility with a strong sense of community. You’ll work alongside lawyers who are generous with their knowledge and committed to creating an open, collegiate environment where you can contribute from day one.

To apply for our Clerks@Gadens, visit the Gadens website to upload your CV, cover letter, academic transcript and provide responses to short answer questions. You will not be required to complete any psychometric testing.

You’ll have the chance to get involved in pro bono work, supporting causes that matter; we are fortunate to partner with community legal centres, grassroots organisations, and advocacy bodies across Australia to support access to justice for all.

Clerks are also encouraged to participate in the firm’s social and networking events, which are an important part of our culture. Our national offices host regular social gatherings, wellbeing initiatives, and community engagement activities, from firm-wide events and volunteer programs to opportunities to connect with colleagues across teams.

If you’re interested in sport or extracurricular activities, you’ll find plenty of ways to get involved, including group sporting events, yoga sessions, health and wellbeing activities, and other initiatives led by our Wellbeing Committee. These activities offer relaxed ways to build relationships and be part of the broader Gadens community.

Together, these experiences give you a genuine feel for our culture: collaborative, inclusive and grounded in making a meaningful impact for our clients, our communities and each other.

ALLENS

At Allens, we shape the future together by equipping our people with the skills, experience and support they need to thrive as the lawyers of the future. We’re ready to define tomorrow. Are you?

Find

clerkship and graduate programs

Clerkship program

A clerkship at Allens is the first step in a rewarding legal career, and will give you invaluable insights into our work and culture. With support from a buddy and performance coach, you’ll work on real matters for real clients and be involved in a variety of projects. The programs:

 run from three to 10 weeks;

 are available at our Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney offices;

 feature ongoing support, including a buddy system; and

 include exposure to one or two practice groups.

Graduate program

As a graduate at Allens, you’ll gain depth of experience by seeing matters through from start to finish and contribute to complex, meaningful legal challenges. You’ll collaborate across teams and disciplines, working with a range of partners and lawyers to deliver better outcomes for clients while building future-focused skills and the agility needed to thrive in a constantly evolving legal and business environment. The program includes:

 two 12-month rotations in different practice areas;

 secondment opportunities in London or Asia, via our alliance with Linklaters, or with clients;

 ongoing supervision, coaching and mentoring;

Until now, I hadn’t really considered what my career might look like after my clerkship. Since joining Allens, I’ve found myself completely inspired— especially by the female powerhouses around me.

 completing a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (via University of New South Wales); and

 a 12-month weekly legal seminar series (Cornerstone Program).

HALL & WILCOX

Smarter starts here Comethrivewithus

Early Careers at Hall & Wilcox

At Hall & Wilcox, we put people first. We build relationships that matter, with genuine access to mentors, partners and teams who are invested in your growth, in a culture where our values are lived, not laminated. You’ll do meaningful work, smarter – gaining hands-on experience across practice areas through strong learning and our Smarter Law approach, which encourages better thinking and better solutions. As a successful independent Australian law firm with a shared culture, we thrive on connection, not competition, value diversity and inclusion, and give you the freedom to learn, grow and belong.

Our Hallmarks

•

• Funds / Financial Services

• Corporate and Commercial

• Employment

• Property, Planning and Environment

• Projects and Infrastructure

• Commercial Litigation

• Insolvency

• Private Clients

• Tax

• Statutory Lines

• General Liability

• Financial and Specialty Lines

• Front End Advisory

Early Careers at Hall & Wilcox

Do great work, smarter

Put people first

We deliver innovative, human-centred solutions in a culture where our purpose and values are lived, not laminated.

We build relationships that matter – we provide you with a strong support network including assigning you a buddy, mentor and supervising partner.

We care about the difference we can make in the community and we provide the opportunity to do something good, by participating in pro bono work and volunteering.

We’re passionate about the work we do and how it creates value for our clients.

We work with curiosity, courage and expertise and underpin this by providing you with comprehensive learning and rotations to gain experience in several practice areas.

We’re high performing, strive for excellence and give you the right mix of interesting work to challenge you and develop your skills.

We’re famous for Smarter Law: smarter thinking to create smarter solutions. Smarter Law is put into action during the Future Skills workshop where you’re empowered to think differently.

Thrive together

We’re a successful independent Australian law firm; a place to belong with the freedom to learn and grow.

We’re one firm: we thrive on connection, not competition. We’re here to build teams that expand that view. Be part of a successful firm that’s been growing steadily over the past 100+ years. One firm; one shared culture.

We are diverse and inclusive; everyone is welcomed and respected. We reward our people and celebrate success. We offer a range of benefits and initiatives that support all our people.

DLA PIPER

It’s time to build a different kind of legal career.

Clerkship programme

Our seasonal clerkship is designed to give you insight into what sets us apart. Our programme starts with an induction which provides a comprehensive introduction to the legal sector and the firms strategy, practice groups, sectors and clients. It also builds your skills and networks. Following induction, you’ll have the opportunity to experience working in a practice group and benefit from being given real responsibilities. Whether you’re attending a court hearing, contributing to a client meeting or assisting a large corporate transaction, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to reach your potential. At the completion of your clerkship you will also be eligible for consideration for a graduate role on our graduate programme.

Recruitment process

the QR code or search DLA Piper Early Careers to discover more.

Graduate programme

During your graduate programme, you’ll experience three six month rotations in our different practice groups and Pro Bono and Law& teams, giving you breadth in your knowledge of the law as well as the practical skills that will stay with you for your entire career. By the end of your graduate programme, you will emerge with a clearer understanding of where your talent and interests lie. The experience you’ll have gained – and the networks you’ll have nurtured – will provide a strong foundation for your future career at DLA Piper.

McCULLOUGH ROBERTSON

MADDOCKS

We area modernAustralian law firm with a leading reputation. At Maddocks, we focus on exceptional service, legal excellence and being at the forefront of employee experience. We work closely with Australian and international businesses, organisations and governments.

Maddocks offers a great place to Do What Matters to you. By joining our clerkship program, you will gain first hand experience working on interesting, often highprofile matters, for a range of clients

Practice Areas:

Commercial

Construction & Projects

Dispute Resolution & Litigation

Employment, Safety & People

Public Law

Real Estate

Find out more about what it’s like to work at Maddocks.

What will I experience as a clerk?

Experience & Responsibility

We give you the opportunity to excel in a supportive and collaborative team, led by accessible and friendly partners. Gain real-world experience through challenging and meaningful work on active client matters

Training & Development

From your first day you will be provided with high quality training and learning opportunities, developing key skills to succeed as a lawyer.

Rotations & Feedback

During the 11-week program, you will rotate through two practice teams based on your preferences You will be paired with a buddy and a coordinator, ensuring you receive regular feedback and support throughout both rotations.

NORTON ROSE FULBRIGHT

We work as one focused team. Our strength as a global law firm lies in a network of complementary legal and professional skills, knowledge and diverse perspectives that clients around the world rely on. The work we do is complex. Our ambitions are high. Our global reach means every role matters.

Throughout your career in legal, you’ll learn, explore opportunities, gain new experiences and support others along the way. This is how we foster individual growth – and how we achieve collective success.

MINTERELLISON

Early careers at MinterEllison

There has never been a more exciting time to begin a career in law or consulting. And there has never been a better time to do it at MinterEllison.

We’ve built something genuinely different. Legal excellence enhanced by specialist consulting. Where diversity of thought isn’t just a talking point – it’s actually how we solve complex problems for our clients. And we’re not just keeping up with disruption. We’re creating it, intentionally.

AI is at the heart of our strategy because AI is no longer hypothetical. It’s well and truly here. We made a decision to be at the leading edge. From day one, you’ll use AI tools to increase your productivity, lift the quality of your work and be creative – to actually do different things and deliver real value for our clients.

We believe the future legal and consulting workforce blends legal, digital, and commercial skills. That’s the workforce we’re building, and that’s the career we want to offer you.

An award winning start to your career

#1 Top Graduate Employer – Large Programs

Australian Association of Graduate Employers Awards 2025 and 2026

Winner, Outstanding Internship Program –Intakes over 50

AAGE Graduate Recruitment Industry Awards 2025

#1 Top Intern Employer – Large Programs

Australian Association of Graduate Employers Awards 2025

Finalist, Most Popular Clerkship Employer

2026 Seek Grad

Top100 Graduate Employer Awards

What makes MinterEllison Uniquely ME?

1. Collaborate with the best: work with the best minds in the Business

Work with the best minds in the business and experience the power of purposeful connection. Co-design solutions with high-calibre clients facing today’s most complex challenges, bringing together legal and consulting, digital, and commercial thinking to solve problems in new ways.

2. Embody excellence: great roles in great matters

Deliver excellence in everything we do – both for our clients and how we work together every day. Personify our purpose and values and deliver sustainable value to our clients, our people and communities.

3. Ignite your curiosity: dive into a culture of innovation

Dive into our culture of innovation, where new ideas are fostered and AI is fundamental to how we work. From day one, you’ll work with AI tools that amplify your productivity, elevate quality, and unlock creativity to deliver breakthrough value to clients.

4. Achieve your ambitions: develop the skills for tomorrow

Feed your passion for personal and professional achievement by working on truly significant matters with high-calibre clients. Grow your career in new and exciting directions, solving problems that haven’t been solved before by bringing together legal and consulting expertise with commercial acumen and digital capability.

5. Belong and be valued: bring your whole self to work

Bring your whole self to work and feel empowered to perform at your best. We’ve built a culture of curiosity, experimentation, and continuous learning – and that’s what attracts and retains top talent.

The future of law

is being reshaped by AI, not as a distant prediction, but as a present day reality. The question is no longer whether AI will change legal practice, it already has. The question is how well equipped you are to practice in that world.

AI is transforming the way legal and consulting services are delivered, automating research, accelerating document review, drafting faster and surfacing insights that once required hours of manual work. But the picture is more nuanced than early predictions suggested. The bold forecasts of mass automation have given way to something more measured: AI is handling specific tasks well, while complex legal reasoning, client relationships and strategic judgment remain deeply human. The opportunity isn’t to be replaced, it’s to develop faster, take on more substantive work earlier and distinguish yourself in an AI-augmented profession.

At MinterEllison we have taken a leading edge approach to AI. What does that mean? It means we have clear strategic goals when deploying AI, improving competitiveness, delivering more value to clients and empowering our people to focus on the most complex elements of their work and we have built a roadmap for AI adoption aligned to our strategy. The lawyers and business professionals who thrive will be those who understand both the capabilities and the limits of the

tools they’re working with. Human oversight isn’t optional, it’s a professional obligation. We should always have a ‘human in the loop’ when using AI, to sense-check, validate and take accountability for outputs.

Building genuine AI fluency matters as much as technical access. It’s not enough to have the tools, our people need to understand the ‘how and the why’ of what they’re using and feel confident putting it into practice. We are investing heavily in training, governance frameworks and culture change to equip our people the best we can. If we don’t do this, we risk falling behind, both in market competitiveness and in our ability to attract talent who expect modern ways of working.

Interdisciplinary capability will define the lawyers of the next decade. Technology literacy, business acumen and legal expertise are no longer separate domains, they’re table stakes. AI is already enhancing legal research, contract analysis, document review and client service delivery and legal-specific tools are outperforming generic alternatives where it counts: accuracy, confidentiality and workflow integration. As a clerk entering the profession now, your advantage is that you’ll build these skills from day one, not retrofit them later. The firms and individuals who treat AI as a thinking partner, not a shortcut, are the ones who will define what great legal practice looks like next.

We believe the future legal and consulting workforce blends legal, digital, and commercial skills. That’s the workforce we’re building, and that’s the career we want to offer you.

ACAP

STEP CONFIDENTLY INTO YOUR LEGAL CAREER WITH ACAP’S PLT

My PLT experience with ACAP was fantastic. From the real-world course content and staff support to the resources and opportunities available through the connection to the profession, it was invaluable.

Theophilos & Rukietu - ACAP GDLP Graduates

ACAP’s Practical Legal Training (PLT) course has been designed to support your transition into legal practice with hands-on, flexible training that fits around your commitments.

• Fast-tracked, flexible study: Delivered in a blended format, our course includes a 14-week coursework component and 15 days of in-person learning

• No exams: All assessments are practical and reflect real legal work

• Flexible workplace experience options: Optional Placement Support

• Advanced standing: Available if you’ve completed legal work, internships or clinics within the past 2 years.

• A leading provider of practical education: ACAP University College is a wellrespected Australian tertiary provider, focused on career-ready learning and personalised support for future legal practitioners.

Start Your PLT Journey Today

Enrol now to commence your studies from July 2026 acap.edu.au/gdlpnsw 1800 039 139 PLT@acap.edu.au

A NEW LEGAL PATHWAY FOR NSW LAW GRADUATES

ACAP’s PLT is now available in NSW

Designed in collaboration with industry experts, ACAP’s Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice (GDLP) delivers the Practical Legal Training (PLT) required for admission to legal practice in Australia. Combining online study with immersive, skills-focused workshops and practical workplace experience, this course ensures students graduate confident and practice ready.

Duration: 14 weeks full time*

Delivery:

Entry Requirements:

Blended: Online coursework integrated with 15 days of face-to-face applied learning workshops at ACAP Sydney

• Completed a Bachelor Degree or higher in law leading to admission to the legal profession; or

• No more than two academic subjects to complete in a Bachelor Degree or higher in Law leading to admission to the legal profession, of which neither are Priestley 11 subjects; and

• you are completing these units while undertaking the PLT course concurrently; and

• you have received the prior permission in writing from your jurisdiction accrediting authority to commence the PLT course.

Intakes: 20 July and 16 November 2026

*Does not include Workplace Experience or Professional Development

WHY CHOOSE ACAP’S PLT?

Discover the key benefits that make ACAP’s PLT a standout choice for emerging legal professionals.

Applied Learning Curriculum

Designed and delivered by experienced legal professionals, our hands-on curriculum bridges theory and practice to ensure you graduate supervision ready.

Professional Connection

Gain practical experience across diverse areas of law with work placement support that connects you directly to the profession.

Flexible Learning

With several intakes, dispersed workshops and no exams, ACAP’s PLT fits seamlessly around your personal and professional commitments.

Blended Delivery

Learn through an engaging mix of online coursework and in-person workshops that combine flexibility with essential face-to-face learning.

Start Your PLT Journey Today

Enrol now to commence your studies from July 2026 acap.edu.au/gdlpnsw

THOMSON GEER

Turn ambition into achievement

Join a major Australian law firm

Starting your legal career at Thomson Geer will offer you real, hands-on experience across a wide variety of commercial disciplines and industry sectors, in a supportive and collaborative environment.

We’re ready for you

With more than 925 people, including over 155 partners, operating out of our o! ces in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra, we are one of the 10 largest firms operating in Australia.

We offer a flexible, friendly and professionally stimulating environment that puts both our trusting client relationships and our staff ’s wellbeing and development at the forefront.

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.

Are you ready for us?

We’re looking for hard-working and motivated law students who have excelled academically, are client focused, commercially minded, work well in a team environment, and are ready to commence their career with a major law firm.

We are especially keen to talk to students who have, or are working towards, a second degree in technical fields, such as commerce, engineering and science.

Applications for our 2026/2027 Sydney summer clerkships open Wednesday 10 June 2026 via our website. Applications close Sunday 12 July 2026.

What do our clerks say?

“Everyone I dealt with at the firm was extremely friendly, professional and welcoming. I think the program is very well rounded. I appreciated the fact that it provided a realistic insight into working in the legal profession whilst still providing lots of support.”

“My supervisors / the team fostered a supportive yet constructive environment. The team’s approach allowed me to have the courage to have a go at tasks that challenged me. I am very grateful for my time and experience a TG.”

“The guidance from my supervising lawyer was to the highest quality I have received so far in my legal experience, having an approachable and patient mentor made an enormous di!erence and enhanced my learning experience.”

What’s it like to work for us?

The law is an incredibly rewarding profession, but we recognise it can be demanding. For this reason we create an environment that is flexible, friendly, personable, collegiate and professionally stimulating.

Our clients are at the centre of everything we do; so it is not only the collaborative, supportive relationships we have with each other, but also the well-established, trusting relationships we have with our clients, which make Thomson Geer a great place to work.

Our clerks participate in all our firm and office and team specific activities including Friday night socials, end of year celebrations, sporting teams, regular catch ups with mentors, comprehensive training, informative sessions about our varied practice groups and much more!

We prioritise the wellbeing of all our sta! and provide sporting opportunities and encourage personal health. Our market leading EAP provides more than just work related advice but also covers topics such as nutrition, sleep, and financial wellbeing.

Our Graduate Program

Our clerks are eligible to be o!ered graduate roles. We also welcome final year students to apply for our graduate program too.

This program runs for 12 months and includes rotation among di !erent practice areas to help determine the area of law which best suits you and your career path.

Developing you

We will dedicate time to your development as an up-and-coming lawyer in our team including numerous mentoring, learning, training and information sessions throughout your time at Thomson Geer.

You will find that our partners and sta! are approachable and happy to share their knowledge and experience with you.

We encourage our clerks, graduates and trainees to get as much exposure to di !erent practice areas and ways of working as they can – this is a reflection of how we work as a fully integrated, cohesive, national team.

Who are we looking for?

All of our clerks are viewed as potential graduates, and all of our graduates as potential leaders. We therefore look for the same qualities in our clerks and graduates that our lawyers need to possess.

Our lawyers are genuinely interested in our clients and their businesses. They need a critical and curious mind and are passionate about developing solutions in their commercial context.

If your ambition is to develop a career in commercial law and you possess the drive to make your ambitions a reality, we want to hear from you!

BARRY NILSSON

Step into a workplace where individuality is celebrated, ambitions are realised, and collaboration drives success

Welcome to Barry Nilsson. For over 60 years, we’ve been shaping a better experience for our clients and our people. What sets our firm apart is not just what we do, but who we are: a team known for its collaborative spirit and commitment to excellence, inclusion, and innovation. As an award-winning national law firm, we’ve built a culture that empowers you to not only grow your career, but be your authentic self while you do it.

From your first day, expect to be embraced for who you are - because we’re a firm defined by our people. At Barry Nilsson, it’s about being you and going further.

CLERKSHIP PROGRAM

Our Sydney vacation clerkship program, held over the university break, provides you with a unique opportunity to experience our firm, our two practice areas - Insurance & Heath and Family Law, Wills & Estates - and, most importantly, our culture. Be welcomed into an inclusive and friendly team, working with supportive colleagues who are invested in your individual growth and learning. Our clerkship program is also a great stepping stone to ongoing roles, including law clerk and graduate positions.

Applications will be open from Wednesday 10 June 2026 to Sunday 12 July 2026

“During the BN graduate program, I received incredible mentorship, guidance, and training. I had the opportunity to work alongside accomplished lawyers across a wide range of complex matters which provided a great start to my legal career. I was continually supported through the year with ongoing training and learning opportunities, alongside genuine wellbeing support. I feel lucky to have started my career in such a supportive environment.”

– Lexi Blackburn, 2025 Graduate

CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH

We bring together engaging, curious, ambitious individuals to create top performing teams.

Corrs Chambers Westgarth is Australia’s leading independent law firm. We’re known for delivering legal excellence, exceptional client service and outstanding results.

Our significant work

We let our work speak for itself. We’re proud to work with some of the biggest organisations in the world on their most important matters.

Our clients include more than half of the top 50 ASX-listed companies, some of the largest privately owned companies in Australia and a number of global Fortune 500 companies. We work with well-known organisations like Australia Post, Blackrock, BP, CIMIC, eBay, Fortescue Metals, Google, Hancock, Macquarie, Meta, Mirvac, nbn, PayPal, Stockland, TPG Telecom, Southern Cross, Wesfarmers and Woodside.

Your time as a clerk at Corrs

The majority of our graduates join us after experiencing a seasonal clerkship program.

Our clerkships give you the opportunity to connect with partners and lawyers across the firm, learn what a ‘day-in-the-life’ at Corrs is like and experience the type of work we do and the clients we partner with.

During your time as a clerk, you will be allocated a supervising partner, mentor and buddy, who will support you through your clerkship experience as you work alongside some of Australia’s leading lawyers on high-profile work for major Australian and international clients.

You’ll be exposed to a broad range of interesting matters and have the chance to complete tasks such as conducting research, reviewing and presenting documents, attending client meetings, court hearings, mediations and settlements, as well as shadowing partners and lawyers in client meetings and business development activities.

Key dates for Sydney clerkships

Wednesday 10 June 2026 – clerkship applications open

Sunday 12 July 2026 – clerkship applications close

Wednesday 9 September 2026 – offers made

Our Lawyer Development Program

The Lawyer Development Program is designed to support you in the formative stage of your career. It aims to build the capabilities and relationships that will drive career progression and underpin future successes, as rapidly as possible. Unique features of the program include:

• Mentor partner – You will be allocated a mentor partner (in most cases your supervising partner in your first rotation) who remains in this role throughout the program and potentially beyond. This will build a personal and enduring relationship that transcends everyday transactional work. You will also be supported in each rotation by a supervising partner and SA/SC who will source meaningful and challenging work.

• 12 x 6 x 6 rotation structure – The first practice group rotation is 12 months to ensure you have time to learn on the job and build strong capabilities and relationships in your first year. In the second year, when you have an increased level of experience and confidence, you will complete two six-month rotations in order to gain exposure and build relationships across different groups.

• Formal learning – The program incorporates comprehensive formal learning opportunities including our national Graduate Academy, local Graduate Orientation, practical legal training with the College of Law, practice group induction sessions and the national Legal Excellence program.

Diversity and inclusion

We strongly believe that diversity in all its forms should be embraced and celebrated. This benefits our people, our clients, our firm and the industry at large.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion includes gender equality, cultural diversity, LGBTQ inclusion, First Nations inclusion, carers support, disability inclusion and accessibility, and flexible working.

Corrs is recognised as a 2025 Gold Employer by Pride in Diversity, having achieved gold citation in the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI).

K&L GATES

DISCOVER

Looking for a law firm that really is different?

Where you can be empowered to DISCOVER quality work and clients, DEVELOP through opportunities to learn more while growing your career, and THRIVE in a vibrant and inclusive culture?

Then join our global community of talented visionaries.

To learn more about how you can discover, develop, and thrive in a dynamic global law firm, visit klgates.com/careers.

K&L Gates LLP. Global counsel. Learn more at klgates.com.

DISCOVER. DEVELOP. THRIVE.

K&L Gates is a fully integrated global law firm with lawyers and policy professionals across key capital cities and major commercial and financial centers. In Australia we have four offices in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.

FULLY INTEGRATED

We are a fully integrated network of lawyers and legal professionals who believe that clients need more than technical legal skills; they need insightful and practical advice on the diverse issues that affect their businesses, delivered with unparalleled client service. Our combination of practice strength, global platform, and unsurpassed client service is a true differentiator in the legal services marketplace.

HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE

We have nine core practice areas across Australia. As part of the Graduate Program, you will complete three practice group rotations. You will be supported and guided through each rotation to ensure you get the necessary development. You will be embedded into the practice areas and be involved in real legal work right from the start, giving you an in-depth experience and providing a real insight into life as a commercial lawyer at K&L Gates.

FORMAL TRAINING PROGRAM

In conjunction with on-the-job experience, we provide formal training. On day one, you will receive an in-depth induction to the firm as well as training on relevant IT systems, followed by sessions over the course of the clerkship and graduate programs. These sessions have been designed to develop your legal knowledge and business skills, as well as to give you a broader insight into the various areas of law in which we practise.

OUR PRESENCE

With a strong presence in key capital cities and world commercial and financial centres, we represent a broad array of ASX, Global 500, Fortune 100, and FTSE 100 corporations in nearly every major industry, including energy, financial services, healthcare, infrastructure, life sciences, manufacturing, sustainable development, technology, telecommunications and transportation amongst others.

CLIENT FOCUSED

In all we do, our objective is to provide nothing short of the utmost value to our clients by providing solutions to their legal and business needs. Our client-first approach is manifested firmwide—from matter management and pricing practices, to the technology and innovations we apply, to our deep industry and sector-specific knowledge across the key industries in which our clients operate—our clients’ best interests are at the forefront of the decisions and investments we make.

INNOVATION

We define innovation as change that adds value, making innovation everyone’s business.

No matter the innovation, a human-centred approach focuses our efforts on our clients and our people. We produce tailored solutions that consider the outcomes that meet human needs.

Our Australian Innovation Committee cultivates our innovative culture.

Learn what makes our global law firm different: Check out our Facebook page: /klgatesgraduaterecruitingau Check out our videos on YouTube: /klgateslaw

Visit our Careers page at www.klgates.com for application details.

PRO BONO AND COMMUNITY OUTREACH

We actively encourage our lawyers to provide pro bono legal representation and to participate in other charitable, community, educational and professional activities. Our annual Global Day of Service program helps to foster and strengthen connections across the firm’s global platform and promote, recognise and celebrate our commitment to community service around the world.

COLLABORATIVE CULTURE

We truly believe that working together is better. Your supervisor and buddy will help you settle into the office and you will work closely with the partners, special counsel, senior associates and lawyers in your team. You will be provided with opportunities to build strong relationships, both within your team and the wider firm network. We provide and encourage a collaborative environment in which you can grow and develop.

OPPORTUNITY AND INCLUSION

We have built a workplace whose success lies in the skills and talents of its people and their unique experiences that help to foster a robust community where everyone has the opportunity to contribute value. One of our greatest strengths is that these individuals encompass a variety of globe-spanning cultural backgrounds, as well as different lived and learned experiences that allow us to develop truly meaningful relationships with our clients and across our firm, beautifully marrying experience and the ability to provide excellent, well-rounded service.

Clerkship Guide