UNSW Law Society- Public Interest Careers Guide 2021/2022

PUBLIC INTEREST CAREERS GUIDE 2021/2022

DEAN OF THE UNSW LAW FACULTY Andrew Lynch UNSW LAW CAREERS MANAGER Siobhan Ryan UNSW LAW SOCIETY PRESIDENTS Alex Zoras Sanjay Alapakkam

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

VICE PRESIDENT (PUBLIC INTEREST CAREERS) Amal Naser PUBLICATIONS DIRECTORS Ama Sam Jeremy Ma TESTIMONIALS Christopher Chiam Daniel Larratt Dylan Lloyd Lachlan Peake Lauren Stinson Selina Ta

© 2021 UNSW Law Society This publication is copyright. Except where permitted under the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth), no part of this publication may be reproduced or stored by any process, electronic or otherwise, without the specific written permission of the UNSW Law Society.

Disclaimer The articles and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the UNSW Law Society, the editors, or those of the UNSW Faculty of Law. Although the editors and the authors have taken every care in preparing and writing the guide, they expressly disclaim and accept no liability for any errors, omissions, misuse or misunderstandings on the part of any person who uses or relies upon it. The editors, authors and the UNSW Law Society accept no responsibility for any damage, injury or loss occasioned to any person or entity, whether law student or otherwise, as a result of a person relying, wholly or in part, on any material included, omitted or implied in this publication.

CONTENTS INTRODUCTION Dean’s Foreword A Message from the UNSW Law Careers Service A Message from the Presidents A Message from the Vice-President (Public Interest Careers)

CHAPTER ONE: GOVERNMENT AND THE PUBLIC SERVICE FEDERAL Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) Attorney-General’s Department Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) Australian Security Intelligence Service (ASIS) Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) Office of Australian Information Commissioner Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communities Department of Defence Department of Veterans’ Affairs Department of Education, Skills and Employment Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources Fair Work Commission Fair Work Ombudsman Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Department of Health Department of Home Affairs Commonwealth Ombudsman Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet Department of Social Services Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) Australian Taxation Office (ATO) Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) Treasury Australian Defence Force Australian Federal Police

NSW Legal Aid NSW NSW Public Service Commission NSW Crown Solicitor’s Office NSW Department of Communities and Justice NSW Law Reform Commission Council of Law Reporting for NSW NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet CRIMINAL GOVERNMENT PRACTICE Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) NSW Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) NSW Police Prosecutors NSW Public Defenders

CHAPTER TWO: COMMUNITIES AND NGOs Community Legal Centres Aboriginal Legal Service Arts Law Centre of Australia Australian Centre for Disability Law Environmental Defenders Office Elizabeth Evatt Community Legal Centre HIV/AIDS Legal Centre Immigration Advice and Rights Centre Kingsford Legal Centre (KLC) Macarthur Legal Centre Marrickville Legal Centre Redfern Legal Centre Refugee Advice & Casework Service Welfare Rights Centre Wirringa Baiya Aboriginal Women’s Legal Centre Women’s Legal Service NSW Youth Law Australia Other Social Justice Amnesty International Australian Pro Bono Centre Australian Red Cross Cancer Council Intellectual Disability Rights Service Disability Advocacy NSW Justice Action Justice Connect NSW Council for Civil Liberties NSW Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby Oxfam Australia Public Interest Advocacy Centre Salvos Legal Teach for Australia Unions NSW Voiceless Youth Action

Plaintiff/Private Public Interest Law Firms Maurice Blackburn Shine Lawyers Slater & Gordon Marsden’s Law Group

CHAPTER THREE: THE BAR AND JUDICIARY Introduction Roles Applications Students’ experiences Profiles of Judges Profiles of Barristers Profiles of Tipstave/Associates

CHAPTER FOUR: PUBLIC INTERNATIONAL LAW/INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC INTEREST Courts and Tribunals International Court of Arbitration International Court of Justice (ICJ) International Criminal Court (ICC) International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea Organisations Asian Human Rights Commission Development Banks International Bar Association International Commission of Jurists International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) International Monetary Fund (IMF) Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) UNESCO United Nations United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) United Nations Women World Food Programme (WFP) World Trade Organisation (WTO)

CHAPTER FIVE: TESTIMONIALS

CHAPTER SIX: APPLYING FOR JOBS IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR Writing a Cover Letter Writing a Curriculum Vitae (CV) Sample Cover Letter Sample CV Assessment Centres

CHAPTER SEVEN: QUALIFYING AS A LAWYER Qualifying as a Lawyer in NSW Becoming a Barrister Useful Resources

INTRODUCTION

UNSW Law has always prepared graduates for work in the public sector as part of our commitment to serving the whole of society. Sometimes, students do not fully investigate and consider the wealth of legal pathways and opportunities available in the public sector and the rewards of such a career, both professionally and personally. This public interest guide provides an excellent introduction to the many different routes available for graduates.

Over the last few years and particularly in 2021, the UNSW Law Society and the Faculty’s Career Service has focused on providing informational and panel presentations to students, resulting in an increased number of public interest engagement initiatives and opportunities.

MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN

The public legal sector is at the forefront of meeting the challenges of modern society, never more so than in the current pandemic. Different and dynamic areas of note which offer absorbing work for young and emerging lawyers include: the growth of regulation and compliance requirements; the continuing expansion of security services in their many forms; and balancing the rights of citizens in relation to data privacy and public health.

UNSW Law & Justice has a foundational, defining commitment to social justice and this guide introduces you to many opportunities in community legal centres, NGOs, and the government sector. Our alumni lead major institutions such as the Australian Council of Social Service and Redfern Legal Centre, and we are proud to have the Kingsford Legal Centre on campus. In 2021, KLC celebrates its 40th anniversary of providing legal advice to our local community and practical legal experience for students. This year, UNSW further developed the mentoring network established in 2020 to provide advice and opportunities for students keen to better understand their career options and progression pathways, including in public advocacy, both overseas and at home.

The Faculty prides itself on providing an academic environment integrating experiential learning and opportunities for professional development. Because of our commitment to clinical education and internships, our students have a strong appreciation of the social issues that necessarily shape people’s experience of the legal system and the enjoyment of their rights. Wherever they look for opportunities, UNSW graduates have a real advantage through the emphasis in our teaching on the social, political, and economic context of the law and the connection between academic work and practice.

I encourage all students to be active in searching for roles that express their talents and values. I hope you use the 2021 Public Interest Careers Guide to help guide you on the right career path for you and make the most of the wealth of opportunities available during your time at UNSW.

Professor Andrew Lynch Dean of UNSW Faculty of Law & Justice

Law is a versatile and foundational degree for many career pathways, both private and public interest careers. UNSW has a strong tradition in advocacy and social justice and the Faulty offers a high number of public interest electives under the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program which reflects our commitment to public interest career pathways.

This strong tradition has resulted in many UNSW alumni succeeding in roles across the public sector, community legal centres, and other national and international social policy driven organisations.

MESSAGE FROM THE UNSW LAW CAREERS SERVICE

Your law degree and the training you receive at UNSW are in high demand by employers. Identifying the right career pathway for you can be difficult with so many choices available, but trust your instincts and know that you will likely change your career pathway multiple times during your working life. There’s no wrong career choice. It’s all experience.

The role of the faculty career service is to help you maximise your chances of finding, and landing, your dream job at the end of your studies. This includes keeping you up to date with industry news and information on different career pathways.

The MyLaw website offers a range of resources to support you in exploring the best career fit for you, understanding the current employment market, and applying for work.

Work experience is invaluable in assisting you to discover what career fits your strengths and interests. On the UNSW Law & Justice Career website, the Jobs Board showcases a selection of roles for both students and graduates, including jobs exclusively advertised to UNSW students. Likewise, undertaking WIL electives helps to inform what aspects of career appeal to your personal interests and strengths.

The Careers Service organise a range of events for students, such as panel discussions and public agency site visits, to assist students explore employment opportunities. The Law & Justice Careers service also offers counselling appointments to discuss career options aligned to your interests and goals. As a UNSW Alumni and having worked in the community and government sectors, as a criminologist and subsequently as a lawyer, I understand the rewards of a career in public interest better than most!

I encourage you to explore the resources available on My Law Careers Resources and the Jobs Board, as well as making a careers appointment with me. I know you will find the careers service useful, and I look forward to hearing from you.

For more information : https://my.law.unsw.edu.au/ or email law.careers@unsw.edu.au

Siobhan Ryan Law Careers Manager

Throughout 2021, despite the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic, the UNSW Law Society has been thrilled to have expanded its initiatives to students in respect of Public Interest Careers. Our Society prides itself on equipping our student body with the knowledge and opportunities to pursue a variety of careers, and to achieve their career and personal goals. To this end, we are incredibly excited to bring to you the 2021 Public Interest Careers Guide, and encourage you to not only read this Guide, but to use it as a helpful tool to learn more about the career options available to you as a prospective law graduate.

By reading this Guide, students will be able to learn more about career paths in government, not-for-profit organisations, and a multitude of other agencies which UNSW Law Society are proud to support. We sincerely hope our students can find out more about what it is like to work in each respective area, the benefits of doing so and relevant application dates. A career in the public interest space is highly rewarding – our own interactions with the sector and people employed therein have instilled in us, a deep appreciation of the hallmarks of public interest careers: a passion to make a difference, tenacity and supportive working environments.

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENTS

Major events over the past two years have made the diversity and essentiality of public interest work more pronounced as seen through the centrality of public health policy in our lives, refugee lawyers responding at a moment’s notice to the unfolding crisis in Afghanistan and the rise of climate change litigation as a force for change. We also hope this Guide sparks further curiosity in areas of interest for you. Whatever your passion, you have the full support of the UNSW Law Society!

As a final note, we would like to thank the Public Interest Careers team for creating this guide, with special mention to our Vice-President (Public Interest Careers), Amal Naser, and Public Interest Careers Publications Directors, Ama Sam and Jeremy Ma. We hope you find this guide useful and wish you all the best in your careers!

Alex Zoras & Sanjay Alapakkam Co-Presidents, UNSW Law Society

The Public Interest Careers portfolio is proud to present the 2021 edition of the Public Interest Careers Guide! This guide was produced on the unceded territory of the Bedegal people, who are the traditional owners of the lands where UNSW Law Society is situated.

As students at UNSW Law, we have the privilege of obtaining higher education in one of top education institutions around the globe. We have duty to use our knowledge to serve the wider community and advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. We do not just have a duty to apply the law but also to challenge and criticise it, especially, where it is being weaponised to harm members of society.

MESSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT

Additionally, and most importantly, for students with us who are settlers on Stolen Land, we have a duty to use our privilege to advocate for First Nations peoples. We must challenge the colonial structures of Australian law and support First Nations movements seeking to end the systematic injustice that has been perpetuated against them since colonisation. We reap benefits off of these structures, and we must use our role as lawyers to challenge them. We extend our solidarity to First Nations students reading this guide.

As such, the Guide hopes to shed some light on how students can be involved in the public interest sector outside of university. This Guide provides valuable information about roles in Government, advocacy, volunteering, International law and other areas in the Public Interest Careers sphere.

This year, we are very excited to have collaborated with various UNSW Law students and alumni to provide testimonials and advice in the Guide. We have built on previous sections developed with the UNSW Law Careers service to provide further guidance on the job application process. We hope that these resources can help students find updated opportunities to engage in while in University.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about many challenges and I am very proud of the way the PIC portfolio has navigated these changes this year. From bringing new initiatives such as the Government Graduate Program Skills workshop, Careers in International Relations and Foreign Policy, Careers in Administrative Law and Careers in Public Policy and Law Reform to developing this wonderful guide, that we are so excited to launch. I would like to extend a thank you to everyone who has contributed to this Guide- current students, alumni and members of the UNSW Law Faculty. This Guide would not have been made possible without your time and effort. I am most especially grateful for the 2021 PIC Publications Directors, Jeremy Ma and Ama Sam, who have worked tirelessly in developing and enhancing this guide.

Overall, we hope that this Guide will encourage all UNSW Law Students to actively become involved in the public interest sector!

I wish you all the very best with your future careers.

Amal Naser Vice-President (Public Interest Careers), UNSW Law Society

CHAPTER I:

Government and Public Service

CAREERS IN GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC SERVICE Working in the Australian Public Service (APS) or NSW Public Service can be diverse and rewarding.

Most government agencies contain a legal department or otherwise offer some form of legal work.

Applying for a job or internship in the public service is ideal if you are interested in policy writing, long-term strategic planning, research, litigation or working in-house.

Opportunities for students and graduates Nearly all government agencies offer a paid graduate program for students who have completed their law degree. Depending on the agency, the program may or may not count towards the requirements of PLT. You should check this before applying.

Graduate programs are typically 12 months in duration, but can range from 10 months to two years. Applications usually open at the beginning of the year, around February or March, for commencement at the start of the following year. Graduate programs are very competitive and agencies receive a large number of applications, so you should expect a multi-stage application process. This may include: - Submitting a cover letter and CV - Brief phone interview - Assessment centre - Psychometric assessment - Referee checks - Panel or one-on-one interview You can find more information about how to prepare for the application process at the end of this Guide.

Graduate programs often lead to permanent employment in the public service.

Some agencies also offer internship opportunities for students. These may be paid or unpaid, and may be offered over the Summer/Winter or during the term for course credit. If you are interested in completing an internship in the APS or NSW Public Service, you should look at the myLaw website in addition to agency websites for a list of UNSW-approved internships: https://my.law.unsw.edu.au/current-students/law-action/internships Temporary Employment Registers Temporary Employment Registers are a common feature in the public service. Signing up for an employment register is like filling out an Expression of Interest form. You fill out a form outlining which areas of work you are interested in and in which cities, and you will be contacted if any job opportunities arise. Typically, the work is short-term or temporary, and can be full-time, part-time or casual. Each agency maintains their own employment register which you can generally find on the Careers section of their website.

Government & Public Service

FEDERAL

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Administrative Appeals Tribunal

All Capital Cities except Darwin

Patrick vs Secretary, Department of Prime Minster and Cabinet In this recent case, the AAT had to review a Freedom of Information decision by the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet to refuse to grant Senator Rex Patrick, and the public, access to information about the national cabinet enacted to handle the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The AAT considered the notions of responsible goverment and the impact such a decision would have on the cabinet-in-confidence rules cited by the department. Ultimately, the AAT found in favour of Senator Patrick and ordered public access be given to meeting minutes and other documents in a scathing decision on the government.

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ABOUT

The Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) conducts independent merits review of administrative decisions made under Commonwealth laws.

The AAT reviews decisions made

by Federal Government ministers, departments and agencies and, in limited circumstances, decisions made by state government and nongovernment bodies. They also review decisions made under Norfolk Island laws. The AAT reviews decisions “on the merits”. This means they take a fresh look at the relevant facts, law and policy and arrive at our own decision.

In this regard, the AAT operates differently to courts conducting judicial review. They must make the legally correct decision or, where there can be more than one correct decision, the preferable decision.

Members don’t necessarily have a legal background, and can come from accountancy, disability, mediicine, migraiton, public administration, science and social welfare.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The AAT consists of the President and members who may be appointed as Deputy Presidents, senior members or members. All members of the AAT are statutory office holder appointed by the Governor-General.

Tribunal members conduct merits review in the following areas: - Freedom of information - Migration and refugees - National Disability Insurance Scheme - Security - Small business taxation - Social services and child support - Taxation and commercial - Veteran’s appeals

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The AAT offers Associate positions for graduates. The role of an Associate is the undertake legal research, assist with the preparation of hearings and publications of orders, decisions and reasons for decisions, prehearing liason with parties and their representatives, drafting simple directions and interlocutory orders.

Associate positions are non-ongoing and can have a duration of between 12 months and three years The AAT also has an employment register to source employees for temporary work in areas including legal and policy/research. Work is short-term or project-based and may be part-time or full-time.

To see when these positions are available, check here: https://aat.bigredsky.com/page. php?pageID=106

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)

ABOUT

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) is Australia’s national public broadcaster. The ABC provides entertainment, news, current affairs and sports programming across television, radio, mobile and online services to metropolitan, regional and remote Australia. The ABC is primarily funded by the federal government, but is independent and non-partisan.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

All states and territories

Diversity The ABC has a number of diversity and inclusion iniatives, including ABC Pride, ABC Disability Employee Network Group, and programs to support women working in technology. Further, the ABC offers a number of jobs and training programs for indigenous people.

Indigenous Cultural Awareness Training is compulsory for all new staff as part of induction.

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The ABC’s Legal Services provide pre- and post-publication advice for journalists, television shows, radio programs and online content. ABC Legal Services has a number of teams, including: - Dispute Resolution, that deals with program complaints, litigation and related disputes; - Commercial, whose key function is to provide advice and draft agreements across divisions such as Music, Books, Audio, Magazines, Digital Business, Program Sales and Production; and - Acquisitions, who deal with a range of issues relating to the production, acquisition and commissioning of content by the ABC across all content platforms.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The ABC offers unpaid internships to tertiary students who are studying media as part of their degree. This includes students who are undertaking a law degree but have completed media units. Internships are primarily focused on journalism, but the ABC does offer legal internships with their in-house legal team.

For details please, check here: www.abc.net.au/careers/workexperience/12007628

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Each year, the ABC offers up to eight journalism cadetships to graduates, with opportunities available in every State and Territory. Over the course of 12 months, the ABC offers comprehensive training in multiplatform reporting; the chance to learn from some of Australia’s most outstanding journalists, a mentoring program and the potential for a rewarding and varied career with the ABC. Cadetships often lead to offers of permanent work in regional newsrooms.

You can find more information here: https://www.abc.net.au/careers/workexperience/12007628

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

ABOUT

Attorney-General’s Department

The Attorney-General’s Department deliver programs and policies to maintain and improve Australia’s law and justice framework, and to facilitate jobs growth through policies that promote fair, productive, flexible and safe workplaces. Through the Australian Government Solicitor, they also provide legal services to the Commonwealth, including legal advice and representation.

All capital cities

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Nicholas Watson - AGS Grad Program I joined the 2019 Graduate Program with a BSc (Psych) / LLB (Hons) and eventually settled in the Commercial Practice Group in 2020.

My day-to-day work involves drafting, researching, advising and delivering training to a diverse set of Commonwealth clients. The subject matter is highly varied, covering property, contracting & procurement, probity, IP, governance and technology.

I’ve especially enjoyed probity – thinking about ensuring government purchases are fair, equitable and defensible. I’ve found the unique nature of AGS particularly rewarding: working in the national interest as the Australian Government’s central legal service, while also having the client-focused characteristics of a more traditional law firm given that we compete with other legal providers for much of our work.

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The Attorney-General’s Department is structured into five groups: 1. The Australian Government Solicitor - provide legal advice and representation to government clients 2. Legal Services and Families draft legal policy and guide royal commissions 3. Integrity and International - work on security and criminal justice matters, and internaitonal law and cooperation 4. Industrial Relations - litigation and policy writing 5. Enabling Services - operational and human resources

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The Attorney-General’s Department offers a 12-month Graudate Program across six different streams: 1. Policy and program - you will participate in rotations across civil justice, family law, law enforcement, crime prevention and more 2. Legal practice - you will work acorss corporate and commerical law, dispute resolution and litigation, and government and administrative law 3. Economics - you will examine economic issues and develop industrial relations policy 4. Industrial relations - you will work across government and administrative law, workplace relations law, workers’ compensation law and legislation development 5. Indigenous policy and program affirmative measures - available for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people 6. Disability policy and program affirmative measures - available for people with a disability Applications for the 2023 Graduate Program open in March 2022: https://www.ag.gov.au/about-us/ careers/our-graduate-program

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC)

Sydney

Independent Review of Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces In response to allegations of sexual misconduct in parliamentary workplaces, the AHRC has been tasked with conducting a review into all Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces. The review will seek to ensure that national Parliament reflects best practice in the prevention and response to buylling, sexual harassment and sexual assault. As of July 2021, the Commission has spoken to 220 people and received 120 written submissions in the course of the review

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ABOUT

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Interns will work on a single piece of policy work, submission or project and undertake supporting research, draft writing and/or project/administrative support

The Australian Human Rights Commission is an independent statutory organisation, established by the Australian Human Rights Commission Act 1986. The AHRC protects and promote human rights in Australia and internationally.

Daily work includes - conciliating discrimination complaints - holding public inquiries - developing education resources for schools and workplaces - providing legal advice to courts - making submissions to parliaments and governments - initiating research into human rights and discrimination issues

The AHRC offers unpaid interships for students in their final or penultimate year of an undergraduate or graduate degree. Internships can be completed part-time across 12 weeks or full-time across six weeks.

The internship program is advertised annually in September/October.

You can apply here: https://humanrights.gov.au/about/ jobs

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The AHRC is currently developing a formal Graduate Program. In the meantime, graduates are encouraged to apply for vacant positions as they arise. These include roles as administrative assistants, and policy and project officers.

You can find available positions here: https://humanrights.gov.au/about/ jobs

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC)

Sydney, Canberra and Brisbane Review of Judicial Impartiality The ALRC has recently been asked to undertake a review of the laws relating to impartiality and bias as they apply to the federal judiciary.

In particular, the ALRC has been asked to consider: - whether the law about actual or apprehended bias relating to judicial decision-making is appropriate and sufficient to maintain public confidence in the administration of justice; - whether the law provides enough clarity to decision-makers, the legal profession and the community about how to manage potential conflicts and perceptions of partiality; and - whether current mechanisms for raising allegations of actual or apprehended bias, and deciding those allegations, are sufficient and appropriate (including in relation to review and appeal mechanisms).

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ABOUT

The Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) is an independent statutory authority, which functions to conduct inquiries on behalf of the federal Attorney-General. The ALRC undertakes research and provides recommendations for law reform. As an independent body, the ALRC is within the AttorneyGeneral’s portfolio, however, it is simultaneously independent of executive government and thus able to undertake research, consultations, legal policy development and make recommendations utilising its own authority. ALRC recommendations do not automatically become law, however over 85 per cent of ALRC reports have been either substantially or partially implemented—making the ALRC one of the most effective and influential agents for legal reform in Australia.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Employees work as policy advisors, undertaking multiple research inquiries as per the needs of the ALRC. This involves: - Bringing the law into line with current conditions and needs - Removing defects in the law - Simplifying the law - Adopting new or effective methods for administering the law and dispensing justice - Providing access to justice

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The ALRC provides opportunities for penultimate and final-year law students to work with Commission members and legal staff as a voluntary legal intern. Based in Sydney, internships with the ALRC can be structured as either: - One day per week for a semester, or - Three weeks during January/ February of the university summer break Interns will assist with current inquiries through research and policy drafting

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The ALRC does not have a formal graduate program. However, they do maintain a register of potential employees for short-term employment of up to 12 months. To be considered for a vacancy, you must hold a law degree and have experience in policy develpment and/or law reform.

All positions are based in Brisbane.

You can find more information here: https://www.alrc.gov.au/about/ careers/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS)

ABOUT

ASIS’s primary goal is to obtain and distribute secret intelligence about the capabilities, intentions and activities of individuals or organisations outside Australia, which may impact on Australia’s interests and the wellbeing of its citizens.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Canberra A Secret Agency For over twenty years, the existence of ASIS remained a secret, even from members of the Australian Government. The Service was first referred to in Parliament in 1975 and was not publicly acknowledged until 1977.

The then Prime Minister, Malcolm Fraser, informed Parliament that “ASIS’s capacity to serve Australia’s national interest will continue to depend on its activities being fully protected by secrecy”. This statement has been reaffirmed by successive Governments. Today, ASIS is a part of the Foreign Affairs portfolio and is responsible to the Minister for Foreign Affairs.

Based on a recommendation by a Commission of Inquiry in 1995, the Intelligence Services Act 2001 came into being in 2001. It provides a legislative framework for ASIS and made public for the first time, ASIS’s functions and limits.relation to review and appeal mechanisms).

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ASIS’s functions are to: - Collect foreign intelligence, not available by other means, which may impact on Australia’s interests; - Distribute that intelligence to the Government, including key policy departments and agencies; - Undertake counter-intelligence activities which protect Australia’s interests and initiatives; and, - Engage other intelligence and security services overseas in Australia’s national interests.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

ASIS offers a 12 month graduate program called ACTIVATE. Successful applicants will gain experience through corporate and operational work placements and will be given the opportunity to travel and undertake specialist training. The program provides graduates with a broad overview of ASIS. Graduates who successfully complete ACTIVATE will be offered a permanent job in a corporate, technical or intelligence support role.

You can find more information here: https://www.asis.gov.au/Careers/ Current-Vacancies/GraduateProgram/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Australian Secret Intelligence Organisation (ASIO)

ABOUT

The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) is an Australian intelligence agency and the nation’s security service. ASIO’s purpose is to protect Australia and Australians from threats to their security. Areas of priority include counter-terrorism, counter-espionage and foreign interference, border security, reform and governance and accountability

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

ASIO offer two 12-month graduate programs in Canberra.

The Corporate Graduate Program is targeted towards graduates who have studied disciplines such as law, economics and accounting. Graduates complete structured rotations to gain first-hand experience across a range of corporate priorities.

The Technologist Graduate Program

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO is targtered towards graduates with skills in data analytics, science, cyber EMPLOYEES DO?

Canberra

Annual Report In the 2020-21 Annual Report, ASIO identified the following security threats to Australia: - Terrorism (Australia’s national terrorism threat level remains at probable) - Influence of offshore terrorist groups - Rise of extreme right-wing terrorist groups in Australia - Communical violence and violent protest Espionage and foreign interference (particular targets are Australia’s militar modernisation program and telecommunications sector)

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ASIO’s work includes: - collecting intelligence here and overseas - providing advice to government and industry partners to strengthen public safety - investigating threats - analysing visa applications and other movements of goods and people - reforming data analytics and technology

and information security and software development. Graduates undertake rotations across a variety of technical areas and disciplines, both at the operational and enterprise level.

Both programs lead to permanent positions.

More information about these programs can be found here: https://www.asio.gov.au/graduates. html

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) Sydney COVIDSafe App OAIC published a fact sheet relating to the CovidSafe App and privacy rights. The Privacy Act was amended on 14 May 2020 to protect data in the COVIDSafe app and the National COVIDSafe Data Store. The Privacy Act: - prohibits anyone being required to download or use the app - strictly limits the purposes for which data from the app can be collected, used or disclosed - requires data to be deleted when it is no longer needed.

Information that has been collected or generated through the COVIDSafe app can only be collected, used or disclosed by authorised officials including state or territory health officials invovled in contact tracing, the administrators of the COVIDSafe app and the National COVIDSafe Data Store, and OAIC and police enforcing these privacy protections.

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ABOUT

The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) is an independent agency within the Attorney General’s portfolio.

OAIC’s primary functions are ensuring individual privacy, freedom of information and transparent government information policies.

This is done through conducting investigations, reviewing decisions, handling complaints, and providing guidance and advice.

OAIC’s purpose is to promote and uphold privacy and information access rights. They do this by: - making sure that Australian Government agencies and organisations with an annual turnover of more than $3 million, and some other organisations, follow the Privacy Act 1988 (Privacy Act) and other laws when handling personal information - protecting the public’s right of access to documents under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (FOI Act) - carrying out strategic information management functions within the Australian Government under the Australian Information Commissioner Act 2010 (AIC Act)

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

OAIC’s work involves: - conducting investigations - handling complaints - reviewing decisions made under the FOI Act - monitoring agency administration - advising the public, organisations and agencies

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

OAIC does not offer a formal graduate program. However, they do maintain a Temporary Employment Register for when non-ongoing full-time, parttime and casual vacancies arise.

Opportunities are available for periods of up to 18 months.

Job opportunities are available in each of OAIC’s three branches: 1. Dispute Resolution 2. Regulation and Strategy 3. Corporate More information can be found here: https://www.oaic.gov.au/about-us/ join-our-team/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications (DITRDC) Canberra

ABOUT

The Department Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Cities has recently merged with the Department of Communications and the Arts to form the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications (DITRDC). DITRDC provides an environment in which all Australians can access and benefit from communications services, creative experiences and culture.

DITRDC oversees internet, television, phone, radio and post communications and connectivity across Australia, connecting people.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Road Vehicle Standards In 2021, DITRDC launched the Road Vehicle Standards (RVS); a new regulatory framework ensuring that all vehicles being provided to the market for the first time meet specific criteria set by the DITRDC. These include safety, enrvironment and anti-theft requirements that all manufacturers and importers of road vehicles and components must abide by.

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DITRDC’s work involves: - strategic advice and policy development - program and grants management - regulatory management - collaborative stakeholder engagement

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

DITRDC offers an 11-month graudate program in Canberra. Applicants with degrees in public policy, law, sciences and communications are highly valued.

Graduates complete three placements and may be given the opportunity to develop policy for broadband and mobile connectivity, regulate airports, provide advice on strengthening our national broadcasters and postal services, and implementing the Smart Cities Plan.

You can find more information here: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/ department/careers/graduate

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Department of Defence

Australia-wide

ABOUT

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is constituted under the Defence Act 1903. Its mission is to defend Australia and its national interests. In fulfilling this mission, the ADF serves the Government of the day and is accountable to the Commonwealth Parliament which represents the Australian people to efficiently and effectively carry out the Government’s defence policy.

Matters dealt with by the ADF include: - international defence relations and defence co-operation - defence scientific research and development defence procurement and purchasing - defence industry development and co-operation The ADF has a Legal Division which is responsible for the provision of legal advice and other legal services to the ADF, the Minister of Defence and the Department of Defence.

ADF and COVID In 2021, ADF personnel were deployed to NSW to assist the NSW Health in vaccinating vulnerable Indigenous communities in remote Western NSW. Vaccination teams are based in Dubbo and will assit in the vaccinating the vast Indigenous population in regional NSW.

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WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

In various roles employees: - Plan advice for the Minister for Defence - Develop strategic guidance for the ADF - Evaluate information from classified and unclassified sources - Provide strategic commercial advice to a variety of defence programs, including the joint Strike Fighter Project Work in the Legal Division involves: - providing legal advice, support and services on the management of legal affairs - operations law including humanitarian law - administrative law and discipline laws - internationals agreements and arrangements

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The ADF offers Defence Civilian Undergraduate Sponsorship to students wishing to pursue a degree through the UNSW Canberra campus at the Australian Defence Force Academy.

Sponsorship is available for the following degrees: - Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil and Aeronautical) (4 years) - Bachelor of Computing and Cyber Security (3 years) You can find more information here: https://www.defence.gov.au/ APSCareers/DCUS.asp The ADF also offer a range of work experience opportunities for tertiary students.

You can find more information here: https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/cp

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The ADF offers Defence Civilian Undergraduate Sponsorship to students wishing to pursue a degree through the UNSW Canberra campus at the Australian Defence Force Academy.

Sponsorship is available for the following degrees: - Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil and Aeronautical) (4 years) - Bachelor of Computing and Cyber Security (3 years)

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA)

Sydney

Veterans DVA’s clients are diverse, ranging from young children, through contemporary veterans of operations in places like Afghanistan, to war widows of First World War servicemen. Darryl Kelly OAM is one such client of DVA. He worked in the Australian Army for 39 years, and was eventually offered the rank of a Major. In 2016, Kelly took 76 Legacy Youth to the battfields of Belgium and France to learn about WWI battles.

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ABOUT

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Graduates will have the opportunity to work in several business areas, including: - Secretary’s office - Commemorations and War Graves Division - Rehabilitation and Support Division - Health and Community Services Division - Corporate Division - Transformation Division - Legal Services, Assurance and Deregulation Branch - Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) is a department of the Australian Government. The DVA provide support, services and information for: - veterans and their dependants - serving and former serving ADF members - war widow/ers - Australian British Nuclear Tests participants - members of the Australian Federal Police and - students, teachers and historians

The DVA provide the following support, services and information: - financial support - health care - rehabilitation - mental health care - help returning to civilian life - commemoration and recognition - home care assistance - help with housing - historical information

The DVA offer an 11-month Graduate Development Program comprised of three work placements. Students with degrees in accountancy, commerce, business, finance, law and policy are particularly sought after.

The Graduate Development Program leads to an offer of permanent work with DVA. More information can be found here: https://www.dva.gov.au/about-us/ careers/graduates

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE)

Canberra

ABOUT

The Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business (Employment) was consolidated with the Department of Education, to form the new Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE).

DESE is responsible for national policies and programs that help Australians find and keep employment and work in safe, fair and productive workplaces. They are responsible for developing the policies and programs run under the Australian Government employment services systems, overseeing training programs for employees and providing financial incentives to employers.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

JobTrainer DESE is responsible for overseeing the new JobTrainer program, which was introduced in response to the COVID-19 crisis. JobTrainer will provide Australians with free, or low cost, training in areas of identified skills need. There will be around 340,700 additional training places available for school leavers and job seekers.

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The work of DESE involves: - Ensuring quality, affordable and accessible early education and care for families - Improving schooling outcomes for children - Preparing our future workforce through globally competitive tertiary education, training and research sectors - Helping people find and keep a job, create their own job, change jobs, reskill and enjoy fulfilling careers - Developing a strong evidence base for effective policy that reflects and understands varied needs of the Australian population, business and industry.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

DESE runs a 10-month graduate program in Canberra. There are four main career pathways that you can apply for: - Generalist Career Pathway graduates are involved in polocy development and advice, project and contract management, program implementation, governance and communications - Legal Career Pathway - graduates work with in-house legal counsel to provide advice across government and administrarive law, corporate and commercial law, litigation, social security and more - Economic Career Pathway graduates conduct economic and labour market research and analysis, provide briefing to Ministers and write reports - Finance Career Pathway - graduates prepare budgets, provide financial analysis and reporting, and write briefs including senate estimates You can find more information here: https://www.dese.gov.au/graduateprogram

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources

All Major Cities

ABOUT

The Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business (Employment) was consolidated with the Department of Education, to form the new Department of Education, Skills and Employment.

Small business functions from Employment transferred to the new Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources. The Department aims to drive growth and job creation for a more prosperous Australia, by facilitating economic transformation and boosting business competitiveness.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? STEM Equity Monitor The Department publish a national data report on girls’ and women’s participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, called the STEM Equity Monitor. It presents the current state of STEM gender equity in Australia and provides a baseline for measuring change and trends over time in key sectors and career phases of girls’ and women’s engagement with STEM. The 2021 report found that only 9% of women are studying STEM at a teritriary institution, comapred to 31% of men. Additionaly, the report found that the gender pay gap in STEM-qualified industrues was $28,994 compared to $25,534

The Department: - Boosts Australia’s competitiveness and economic transformation by backing business, science, innovation and investment - Delivers policies and programs to reduce emissions, increase renewable energy uptake and help Australia adapt to climate change - Relies on building strong relationships between businesses, entrepreneurs, employees, the science community, government, regulators and international partners The Department oversees a number of services and portfolios, including: - Australian Renewable Energy Agency - Australian Building Codes Board - business.gov.au - COAG Energy Council - Chief Scientist - Clean Energy Regulator - Energy Rating - National Science Week - Questacon

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

There are a number of paid and unpaid research-based student opportunities at the National Measurement Institute. These are mostly for science or engineering students.

Applications are currently suspended due to the COVID-19 crisis, but you can find more information here: https://www.industry.gov.au/ about-us/work-with-us/studentopportunities There are also opportunities for students, volunteers and work experience at Questacon, the National Science and Technology Centre in Canberra that aims to promote greater understanding and awareness of science and technology within the community.

You can find more information here: https://www.questacon.edu.au/ science-communication/working-at-q

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The Department offers a 12-month Graduate Development Program, with an additional optional six-month career transition support program.

The graduate program offers onthe-job learning, formal training and networking opportunities. Graduates will collaborate with other graduates on a major project tackling real-life policy issues, and will learn soft and technical skills There are three streams available: - Generalist stream - STEM stream - Professional services stream - for graduates with backgrounds in ICT, finance, law, communications or HR You can find more information here: https://www.industry.gov.au/aboutus/work-with-us/graduates-program

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Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Fair Work Commission

ABOUT

The Commission is Australia’s national workplace relations tribunal. It was established by the Fair Work Act 2009 (Fair Work Act) and is responsible for administering the provisions of the Fair Work Act.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

All Capital Cities

National Minimum Wage In June 2021, the Fair Work Commission handed down its annual minimum wage ruling and unanimously approved a 2.5% increase in all awar rates.

From 1 July 2021 onwards, the National Minimum Wage will have increased from $19.84 to $20.33 an hour. The Commission cited Australia’s strong economic rebound and growth following the initial COVID-19 wave as one of the main reasons for its decision.

Concurrently however, the Commission put wage increases on hold for specific sectors most affected by the pandemic including the retail and travel sectors. in all industries in 2020.

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The Commission’s powers and functions include: - dealing with unfair dismissal claims - dealing with anti-bullying claims - dealing with general protections and unlawful termination claims - setting the national minimum wage and minimum wages in modern awards - making, reviewing and varying modern awards - assisting the bargaining process for enterprise agreements - approving, varying and terminating enterprise agreements - making orders to stop or suspend industrial action - dealing with disputes brought to the Commission under the dispute resolution procedures of modern awards and enterprise agreements - determining applications for right of entry permits - promoting cooperative and productive workplace relations and preventing disputes.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The Commission maintains a Nonongoing Temporary Employment Register. Vacancies are available up to 18 months in every capital city.

Opportunities may be part-time, fulltime or casual. Positions include: - Client Services Representative - Case Manager - Research Officer - Conciliator You can find more information here: https://fwc.bigredsky.com/page. php?pageID=106 Associate postitions are also available on a non-ongoing basis of 12-18 months. Associates provide support to the Commission Members and their main duties include administration, case management, in-court duties and legal research. Applicants with law degrees are highly regarded.

You can find more information here: https://www.fwc.gov.au/about-us/ careers/how-apply-job-at-thecommission

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO)

All Capital Cities

ABOUT

The Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) aims to promote harmonious, productive, cooperative and compliant workplace relations in Australia. They do this by: - Providing education, assistance, advice and guidance to employers, employees, outworkers, outworker entities and organisations.

Promoting and monitoring compliance with workplace laws.

- Inquiring into and investigating breaches of the Fair Work Act. - Taking appropriate enforcement action.

- Performing statutory functions efficiently, effectively, economically and ethically.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? RSPCA In May 2021, the FWO recovered more than $220,000 in unpaid wages for 458 current and former employees across the NSW branch of the RSPCA. The FWO found that underpayments occurred from 2011 to 2020 and were the result of payroll errors and RSPCA NSW not having adequate payment systems and governance processes in place.

The FWO issued an Enforceable Undertaking which requires RSPCA NSW to display workplace notices detailing its breaches of the law, apologise to workers, commission staff training in payroll and Human Resoursces and develop systems and processes for ensuring compliance in the future

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The Ombudsman educates and enforces workplace laws through: - workplace investigations - involves collecting evidence, applying to the AAT for a FWO Notice, evaluating whether a workplace law has been broken and deciding the most appropriate outcome. If a person or company that has broken the law fails to fix the problem, the case may be referred to court for further action.

- compliance notices - the FWO has the authority to take an employer to court if they don’t comply with a compliance notice - litigation

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

FWO maintains an Employment Register for non-ongoing opportunities of up to 18 months.

Positions are available at all Australian Public Service levels, including entrylevel. Opportunities are available across a range of fields, including legal, compliance and enforcement, policy, analysis and reporting, and finance.

You can find more information here: https://www.fairwork.gov.au/careers

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment

Canberra

Threatened Species Strategy In May 2021, the Federal Government released its 10-year strategy to protect Australia’s threatened species. The strategy proposes a 10 year vision that Australia’s threatened species are valued, protected and on the path to recovery. This vision will be achieved via two high level objectives to improve the trajectory of priority threatend species and improve the condition of priority places by 2031.

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ABOUT

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The Department is responsible for the following matters: Environment protection and conservation of biodiversity - Air quality - National fuel quality standards - Land contamination - Meteorology - Administration of the Australian Antarctic Territory, and the Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Islands - Natural, built and cultural heritage - Environmental information and research - Co-ordination of sustainable communities policy - Urban environment Environmental water use and resources relating to the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder

The legal stream program is based in Canberra and lasts for 16 months.

The program develops graduates to become trusted advisors across the full range of the Department’s business responsibilities.

You can find more information here: https://www.awe.gov.au/about/jobs/ graduates

In February 2020, the Department of Agriculture and Department of the Environment and Energy (Environment Portfolio) merged to form the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The Department employs people in a wide range of roles including: - policy development - international engagement - programs management - science and research - legal - economics - finance - human resources - regulatory - communications

The Department offers a graduate program with six career streams to choose from: - Generalist - Veterinary Science - Finance and Accounting - Legal - Human Resources - Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) Entry Level Professional Program

The Department also maintains a Temporary Employment Register.

You can find more information here: https://www.environment.gov.au/ about-us/employment/temporaryemployment-register

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)

Canberra and International

ABOUT

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) works to make Australia stronger, safer and more prosperous, to provide timely and responsive consular and passport services, and to ensure a secure Australian Government presence overseas. DFAT provides foreign, trade and development policy advice to the Federal Government. They work with other government agencies to ensure that Australia’s pursuit of its global, regional and bilateral interests is coordinated effectively.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Afghanistan Crisis From 18 to 26 August 2021, DFAT, the Defence Force and Home Affairs Office co-ordinated to evacuate around 4,100 people from Kabul following the Taliban’s rise to power. Over 32 evacuation flights were conducted with involvement from government officials and Defence Force personnel working together on the ground in Afghanistan, Canberra and the UAE. DFAT is now engaged in ongoing humantarian efforts including the prioritisation of Afghans under the humanitarian visa program and humanitarina support particularly focusing on Afghani women and girls.

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DFAT officers are involved in: - developing and implementing foreign, trade and development policy - negotiating international agreements - delivering an effective aid program - providing high quality consular assistance Generalist officers with economic backgrounds are also involved in: - negotiating trade agreements - managing aid programs to help advance developing country economies - working on trade policy and investment issues - working at embassies or high commissions overseas Generalist officers with legal backgrounds are also involved in: - commercial, administrative and international law - providing advice on contracts, employment law and diplomatic privileges and immunities - managing litigation in Australia and overseas - working on bilateral and multilateral legal issues, including international trade matters, law of the sea and international human rights

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

DFAT offers a two-year graduate program based in Canberra.

Graduates will complete four work placements. Graduates are able to apply for positions overseas after their first year. There are two programs available: - Policy Program for graduates with an interest in Australia’s foreign, development and trade policy interests, including in the international and domestic policy contexts - Corporate Management Program for graduates with an interest in project management, business, finance, accounting and human resource management You can find more information here: https://www.dfat.gov.au/careers/ dfat-aps-careers/graduate-program/ Pages/graduate-program DFAT also offer an Indigenous Graduate Pathway, Indigenous Apprenticeship Programme and Indigenous Australia Development Program.

You can find more information here: https://www.dfat.gov.au/careers/dfataps-careers/indigenous-programs/ Pages/indigenous-programs

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Department of Health (DOH)

All Capital Cities

National Youth Policy Framework The Youth Taskforce, run under the DOH, advises the Minister for Youth on: coordinating policy and programs for young people across government agencies - finding gaps in policy and programs that need addressing - finding ways to involve more young people in developing policies that affect them The Taskforce has released an interim report and is expected to deliver the National Youth Policy Framework, which will outline how Government policies and programs help improve the lives of young Australians.

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ABOUT

The Department of Health (DOH) develop and deliver policies and programs and advise the Australian Government on health, aged care and sport. DOH work with a wide range of stakeholders to ensure better health for all Australian. DOH’s strategic priorities include: - better health and ageing outcomes for all Australians - an affordable, quality health and aged care system - better sport outcomes.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The DOH conducts the following activities: - provide information and advice to the Australian community on health, ageing and aged care topics and issues - work with stakeholders including members of the public, other government agencies, peak bodies and service providers - manage tenders and grants to deliver activities, goods and services - work on initiatives and programs to deliver services and activities in health, aged care and sport - identify and investigate issues and develop policy to provide the best possible solutions to challenges across health, ageing and aged care, and sport - regulate the health and aged care system to protect patients’ health and safety - use research to make sure ideas are sound and that patients receive the best possible treatment and care

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

DOH offers a ten-month graduate program in Canberra with three rotations. Graduates help lead and shape Australia’s health and ageing systems and sporting outcomes by developing and implementing evidence-based policies and programs across a wide range of issues.

DOH value graduates with degrees such as law, economics, communications, commerce, public policy and science.

The application process consists of an online assessment, video interview and assessment centre.

DOH contributes some financial support towards relocation and temporary accommodation expenses.

You can find more information here: https://www.health.gov.au/about-us/ work-with-us/graduate-program DOH also mantain a temporary employment register. You can find more information here: https://healthjobs.nga.net. au/cp/index.cfm?event=jobs. jati&returnToEvent=jobs. home&jobID=B2041800-F08C-47C49B45-AAB900B2B110&audienceType Code=EXT&UseAudienceTypeLangua ge=1

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Department of Home Affairs

Canberra and Limited Opportunties in Capital Cities

Global Business and Talent Attraction Task Force The Department of Home Affairs oversees the The Global Business and Talent Attraction Taskforce. The Taskforce offers a coordinated whole of nation suite of services and a streamlined pathway to permanent residency for exceptionally talented individuals and successful highyield businesses interested in growing their success in Australia.

A range of visas are availble to help individuals set up a business of invest in Australia, including - Global Talent Visa Global Talent Employer Sponsored program Business Innovation and Investment program

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ABOUT

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

It also includes national security, emergency management and criminal justice functions from the Attorney-Generals Department; the Office of Transport Security from the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development; multicultural affairs from the Department of Social Services; and the counter-terrorism coordination and cyber security policy functions from the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.

Graduates are provided with support through an orientation and induction program, a mentor, a range of Graduate events, access to health and wellbeing programs, as well as a team of supervisors, mentors and program managers to assist and guide.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

- Secretary’s Book Club - -Graduate Project - Refugee Week Grad Bake-off - APSC Graduate Events - Graduation Ceremony

On 20 December 2017 the Department of Home Affairs was established as a part of the Home Affairs Portfolio. The Department of Home Affairs continues to deliver immigration and customs border policy functions previously delivered by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.

There is a broad variety of work that can be undertaken by employees and graduates. Graduates can expect to work in: - Business analysis - Cyber security - Project management - Policy development and connection - Dealing with communications domestically and globally

The Department of Home Affairs offers a 12 month graduate program.

Graduates are given a range of interesting and challenging work, access to professional development, support through various diversity networks and rewarding professional relationships.

Graduates also have exposure to Senior Executive Service (SES) Officers and participate in internal and external activities and events such as:

You can find more information here: https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/ about-us/careers/graduate-program Applications open in March each year for the following year.

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Commonwealth Ombudsman

Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney

Reviewing the Department of Home Affairs On 22 January 2018, the Department of Home Affairs introduced a new visitor management policy which changed the conditions of entry and entry application process for personal and professional visitors to immigration detention facilities.

The Office monitored the implementation of the policy through their complaints, inspections of immigration detention facilities and engagement with stakeholders. In October 2018 the Commonwealth Ombudsman provided an issues paper to the department, outlining concerns about the policy and making 13 recommendations.

The department accepted ten of the Ombudsman’s recommendations.

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ABOUT

The Office of the Commonwealth Ombudsman safeguards the community in its dealings with the Australian Government. They have oversight of some private sector organisations. If an Australian Government agency has treated you unfairly or unreasonably, the Ombudsman can help you find a solution. Their service is free and they are independent. The Ombudsmand specialises in the following areas: Private Health Insurance Overseas Students VET Student Loans the Postal Industry the Defence Force Immigration Law Enforcement the Australian Capital Territory Ombudsman The Commonwealth Ombudsman is also responsible for: - oversight of the Commonwealth Public Interest Disclosure scheme - inspection and monitoring of certain covert and intrusive powers by police and other law enforcement agencies.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The Commonwealth Ombudsman does not make a fresh decision, rather they consider the way a decision is made and make recommendations on how the decision or process could be enhanced. The Ombudsman is the oversight body when it comes to complaints. They can assist to resolve complaints by investigating the process if the agency does not change their decision or offer a better explanation of the decision.

Ombudsman employees ensure the actions of agencies are fair and responsible by: - handling complaints - conducting investigations - performing audits and inspections - encouraging good administration

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The Commonwealth Ombudsman does not have a formal graduate program. Howevers, graduates can apply for job vacanies or resgitser an expression of interest for short-term temporary employment on the Nonongoing Employment Register.

Please send your application by email to human.resources@ombudsman. gov.au. Applications will be kept for a period of 12 months from date of receipt.

You can find more information here: https://www.ombudsman.gov.au/ what-we-do/careers

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet

Canberra Women’s Leadership and Development Program The Office for Women administers the Women’s Leadership and Development Program (WLDP).

The WLDP funds and delivers a range of projects specifically for Australian Women.

The objectives of the Program are to improve outcomes for Australian women in five key focus areas: Women’s Economic Security Women’s Workforce Participation Women’s Leadership Women’s Safety International Engagement The WLDP is split into two grant streams: Project Grants for oneoff projects and Advocacy Grants to fund the formation of six civil society networks to ensure women’s voices are heard in the policymaking process.

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ABOUT

The Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C) provides high quality advice and support to the Prime Minister, the Cabinet, Portfolio Ministers and Assistant Ministers to achieve a coordinated and innovative approach to the development and implementation of Government policies.

PM&C coordinates and develops policy across the Government in economic, domestic and international issues, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander affairs and public service stewardship.

PM&C does this by: - Providing well-founded advice to the Prime Minister, the Cabinet, Portfolio Ministers and Assistant Ministers on national and global challenges and matters at the forefront of Government.

- Coordinating policy across Government with a focus on practical changes to improve the lives of all Australians and effective implementation.

- Fostering a high performing public sector, working with the Australian Public Service Commission.

- Consulting across Government, the private sector, the not-for-profit sector and the community.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

PM&C operates in three main groups: - Domestic Policy Group involves advising the Prime Minister, Cabinet and Portfolio Minister on on issues such as jobs and economic growth, the budget, industry , infrstructure, agriculture, innovation, health, educaiton and the environment - National Security and International Policy Group advises the Prime Minister on how to deal with threat’s to Australia’s national security, and on AUstralia’s relaitons with other countries and role in global and regional cooperation - Governance Group works on the implementation and ongoing delivery of key government programmes, policies and initiatives and provide advice and guidance about the operations of Cabinet and the Federal Executive including the Cabinet Handbook, the Legislation Handbook, and the Federal Executive Council Handbook.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

TPM&C offers a 12-month graduate program in Canberra. As a Graduate at PM&C you will rotate through the following areas of focus: - Domestic Policy: - Government - International Policy - National Security - Office for Women - Regulation - Public Data You can find more information here: https://www.pmc.gov.au/pmc/ careers/graduate-careers

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Deparment of Social Services (DSS)

All Major Cities

Lauren Stinson - DSS Grad Program (2020-21) I’m currently a Generalist graduate at the Commonwealth Department of Social Services (DSS). The program includes Legal and Generalist streams. The Generalist stream involves 2 rotations in social policy: e.g, pensions, family safety, homelessness, and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

This year, I have worked with stakeholders to improve access to the NDIS for people with mental illness and, while seconded to Centrelink, assessed welfare claims for the many Australians without jobs. I’m currently lucky enough to work in Legal Services, where I work on legislative amendments and provide legal advice to policy areas.

I would highly recommend DSS if you are interested in law reform

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ABOUT

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Graduates receive invitations to participate in a range of learning and development activities, networking events, and short-term placements in not-for-profit organisations and Services Australia service centres.

The Department of Social Services (DSS) is responsible for improving the wellbeing of individuals and families in Australian communities. DSS is the Australian Government’s preeminent social policy agency, charged with responsibility for national policies and programs that help deliver a fair and strong policy for all Australians.

The department partners with other government and non-government organisations to work towards the effective development, management and delivery of payments, policies, programs and services. These uphold the Department’s responsibility for families, communities, housing, social security, and disability services

DSS is responsible for administering services relating to: - Families and children - Housing support - Seniors - Communities and vulnerable people - Disability and carers - Mental health DSS employees assist with the delivery of programs and services, benefits and payments, and grants for service providers

The DSS offers 70 to 80 places within their graduate program each year to students of any discipline. The program runs for ten months and offers graduates training and network opportunities through two five-month rotations.

The graduate program is structured into different Generalist, Data & Analysis, Public Affairs Specialist, Legal, and Finance streams. For the specialist streams offered, a relevant tertiary qualification is required.

Additionally, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply with applicants offered streamlined entry into the program through a culturally appreciative pathway.

You can find more information here: https://www.dss.gov.au/careers/ graduate-development-program

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) All Capital Cities and Townsville

Collective Bargaining The ACCC has the authority to authorise collective bargaining for businesses. In Sepetmber 2020 the ACCC grantied authorised to enable the National Lotteries and Newsagents Association (NLNA) to collectively bargain on behalf of its current and future members with Tabcorp Holdings Ltd (Tabcorp).

The ACCC considered that the Proposed Conduct is likely to result in public benefits by providing NLNA members with improved opportunity for input into contracts and some small transaction cost savings relative to a situation where its members negotiate individually with Tabcorp.

Authorisation provides legal protection to participate in collective bargaining that may otherwise breach competition laws because it involves joint action by competitors.

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ABOUT

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

The ACCC employs the following strategies to achieve their purpose: - maintaining and promoting competition - protecting the interests and safety of consumers, and supporting fair trading in markets affecting consumers and small business - promoting the economically efficient operation of, use of, and investment in infrastructure, and identifying market failure - undertaking market studies and inquiries to support competition, consumer and regulatory outcomes.

The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) is Australia’s national energy market regulator and has an independent board. The AER shares staff, resources and facilities with the ACCC.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The ACCC has seven sub-committees which are each chaired by one of its three Commissioners and additionally comprise of full-time members and associate members with expertise on particular matters.

The seven subcommittes are: 1. Enforcement Commitee 2. Mergers Review Committee 3. Communications Committee 4. Infrastructure Committee 5. Adjudication Committee 6. Consumer Data Right Committee 7. Compliance and Product Safety Committee

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The ACCC/AER run a graduate program. Work as a graduate includes: - analysing key market sectors assisting in assessing applications for collective bargaining, authorisations and notifications - the economic regulation of network infrastructure - investigating complaints from business or consumers about possible breaches of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010.

Graduates may be involved in: - consumer liaison activities - product safety surveys - compliance research or - a wide range of activities in our Corporate Division.

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You can find more information here: https://www.accc.gov.au/about-us/ employment-careers/graduateopportunities

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA)

All Capital Cities

MySuper Performance Test In 2021, APRA conducted the first ever MySuper Product Performance Test which assesses MySuper products from leading superannuation providers against APRA’s objective performance benchmarks. APRA found that 13 of the 80 tested products failed to meet their standards while more than 84% of assessed products passed the performance test.

ABOUT

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) is an independent statutory authority that supervises institutions across banking, insurance and superannuation, and is accountable to the Australian Parliament.

Prudential regulation is concerned with maintaining the safety and soundness of financial institutions, so that the community can have confidence that they will meet their financial commitments under all reasonable circumstances.

APRA oversees: - authorised deposit-taking institutions (such as banks, building societies and credit unions) - general insurers - life insurers - friendly societies - private health insurers - reinsurance companies, and - superannuation funds (other than self-managed funds) In the event an APRA-regulated institution were to fail, APRA has the role of administering the Financial Claims Scheme when activated by the Australian Government. This Scheme allows depositors of a failed deposittaker to access their funds (up to a limit) in a timely manner, or provides general insurance policyholders with access to funds (up to a limit) to meet an eligible claim.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

APRA is organised into the following six divisions and one independent internal team: - Banking Division - Insurance Division - Superannuation Division - Policy and Advice Division - Cross-Industry Insights and Data Division - Enterprise Services Division - Internal Audit team Legal Services fall under the the Policy and Advice Division, which ensures that APRA’s frontline supervisors have the best possible tools to support them in their risk analysis and supervisory interventions. Also in this divison is Policy Development, Advice and Approvals, Resolution and Enforcement, and Licensing

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

APRA offer two different scholarships to students studying actuarial studies, finance, economics and similiar.

You can find more information here: https://www.apra.gov.au/grants-andscholarships

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

APRA offer an 18-month graduate program in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Gradutaes complete three six-month rotations, across the frontline supervision, policy development and data analytics divisions. The graduate program is aimed at students looking to become finance professionals.

You can find more information here: https://www.apra.gov.au/apragraduate-careers

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Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Australian Securities and Invements Commission (ASIC)

All Capital Cities

Commonwealth Bank In September 2021, ASIC and the CDPP filed criminal charges against Commonwealth Bank of Australia in the Federal Court for the misselling of consumer credit insurance. 30 charges have been laid relating to the Bank’s promotion and sale of their CreditCard Plus and Loan Protection policies which are alleged to have been sold under false or misleading representations regarding their benefits to consumers. The maxmium penalty of each offence is $1,700,000.

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ABOUT

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

ASIC is an independent Australian Government body. They are set up under and administer the Australian Securities and Investments Commission Act 2001 (ASIC Act), and carry out most of their work under the Corporations Act.

Graduates in the law stream are involved in the following: - Collecting and analysing evidence, preparing court documents and liaising with counsel - Involvement in high profile and civil matters - Working to implement important law-reform initiatives - Assessing compliance and misconduct reports - Involvement in conducting compliance surveillances - Contributing to policy development and implementation - Researching, analysing and summarising complex information and data - Reviewing corporate finance transactions relating to Australia’s equity capital markets

ASIC is Australia’s integrated corporate, markets, financial services and consumer credit regulator.

ASIC’s role under the ASIC Act is to: - maintain, facilitate and improve the performance of the financial system and entities in it - promote confident and informed participation by investors and consumers in the financial system - administer the law effectively and with minimal procedural requirements - receive, process and store, efficiently and quickly, information we receive - make information about companies and other bodies available to the public as soon as practicable - take whatever action we can, and which is necessary, to enforce and give effect to the law.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The Chief Legal Office is the primary source of legal advice to the Commission and legal services across ASIC. Employees are involved in the following types of work: - providing advice and guidance on complex regulatory matters - investigating law reform and new areas of regulatory responsibility for ASIC - conducting ASIC’s litigation - advising on enforcement matters

ASIC offers an 18-month graduate program in Sydney, with rotations across four business areas.

You can find more information here: https://careers.asic.gov.au/Graduateprogram.html?in_organId=

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Australian Taxation Officer (ATO)

All Capital Cities

ABOUT

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is the principal revenue collection agency of the Australian Government.

The ATO’s role is to effectively manage and shape the tax and superannuation systems that support and fund services for Australians, including: - collecting revenue - administering the goods and services tax (GST) on behalf of the Australian states and territories - administering a range of programs that provide transfers and benefits to the community - administering the major aspects of Australia’s superannuation system - being custodian of the Australian Business Register.

The ATO operates under the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013, within the Treasury portfolio, and are accountable under the Public Service Act 1999.

Tax Help Tax Help is a network of ATOtrained and accredited community volunteers who provide a free and confidential service to help people earning less than $60,000 per year with simple affairs to complete their tax returns online using myTax. Tax Help volunteers can help people lodge their tax return, make an amendment online or claim a refund of franking credits.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Legal staff at the ATO are involved in: - shaping tax law, policy and design - managing litigation cases and clarifying the law - managing interpretative advice and guidance - enhancing relationships with professional bodies, consultative forums and the community - working with other business areas across the ATO to provide advice and clarity on law

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The ATO run a program for university students called the University Partnership Employment Program.

Under the program, students are offered a casual contract of up to 12 months and the opportunity to do work that involves research, administration andbusiness support relevant to students studying business, commerce, law, design, economics, project management, information technology, marketing, or statistics.

Students are expected to work during normal business hours, one or two days a week, with more work offered during university break.

You can find more information here: https://www.ato.gov.au/aboutato/careers/entry-level-programs/ university-partnership-employmentprogram/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The ATO offers a 12 month graduate program. Graduates with a law degree are encouraged to apply for the taxation stream.

Taxation graduates work in a team to: - obtain information and provide advice to clients - make decisions and recommendations for mitigation strategies - research and analyse tax information and procedures - interpret taxation legislation and procedures Applications open in March each year for the following year.

You can find more information here: https://www.ato.gov.au/About-ATO/ Careers/Entry-level-programs/TheATO-Graduate-program/#Taxation

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The ATO also maintain a temporary employment register. You can find more information here: https://ato.nga.net.au/cp/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA)

Sydney

Household Debt The Reserve Bank of Australia’s Research Department undertakes longer-term research into issues relevant to monetary policy formulation and the operation of financial markets. A 2020 discussion paper into the risk factor od household debt found that that risks arising from Australian household indebtedness are more subtle than sometimes conveyed.

In particular: fundamental factors (higher real incomes, a fall in nominal interest rates, financial liberalisation and household ownership of the rental stock) mostly account for the current level of household debt; banks appear resilient to a severe downturn thanks to moderate loan-tovaluation ratios on residential mortgages; and the distribution of debt does not appear to heighten wealth effects on consumption.

ABOUT

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is Australia’s central bank and derives its functions and powers from the Reserve Bank Act 1959. Its duty is to contribute to the stability of the currency, full employment, and the economic prosperity and welfare of the Australian people. It does this by conducting monetary policy to meet an agreed medium-term inflation target, working to maintain a strong financial system and efficient payments system, and issuing the nation’s banknotes.

The RBA provides certain banking services as required to the Australian Government and its agencies, and to a number of overseas central banks and official institutions. Additionally, it manages Australia’s gold and foreign exchange reserve

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Employees work in the following areas: - analysing domestic and overseas economic and financial market trends - forecasting, modelling and research relevant to the framing of monetary policy - conducting balance sheet analysis and risk assessment - managing the implementation of monetary policy

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The RBA runs an eight week paid Summer Intern Program for university students in their final year of study.

Applications are accepted from students majoring in economics, finance, law or related areas such as mathematics and statistics who intend to complete honours or similar research based programs.

Students are supported to undertake project work that culminates in a research paper that is presented to peers and senior staff.

You can find more information here: https://www.rba.gov.au/careers/ graduate-careers/intern-program. html

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The RBA run a two-year graduate program with rotations. The Economic and Finance Program is open to students with degrees in economics, finance, data science, law or similar.

Graduates may complete rotations in the following areas: - Economic Group - Financial Markets Group - Payments Policy - Financial Stability - Risk and Compliance - Note Issue Graduates with strong microeconomics and legal backgrounds are sought after for Payments Policy, which supports the Payments System Board in its oversight of payments systems in Australia. Graduate programs are also available in accounting and audit, and payments settlements. Applications open in February each year for the next year.

You can find more information here: https://www.rba.gov.au/careers/ graduate-careers/

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Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

The Treasury

Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne and Perth

Future Directions for the Consumer Data Right In December 2020, the Treasury released the final report of the Inquiry into Future Directions for the Consumer Data Right.

The report makes 100 recommendations including expansaion of the Consumer Data Right framework to enable accredited third parties, with a consumer’s consent to apply for and manage products on the consumer’s behalf (known as action initiation). The report recommends that action initiation first apply in the banking sector and include the initiation of payments.

Other recommendations focus on consumer safeguards and opportunties for connecting the Consumer Data Right to the broader data economy both domestically and abroad.

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ABOUT

Treasury is the Government’s preeminent economic adviser.

Treasury’s purpose is to support and implement informed decisions on policies for the good of the Australian people, consistent with achieving strong, sustainable economic growth and fiscal settings.

As a central policy agency, the Treasury is expected to anticipate and analyse policy issues with a wholeof-economy perspective, understand government and stakeholder circumstances, and respond rapidly to changing events and directions.

Treasury provides sound economic analysis and authoritative policy advice on issues such as: the economy, budget, taxation, financial sector, foreign investment, structural policy, superannuation, small business, housing affordability and international economic policy.

The Treasury also works with state and territory governments on key policy areas, as well as managing federal financial relations.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The Treasury is divided into five groups: - Fiscal provides advice on budget policy issue, major expenditure programmes, taxation policy and retirement income - Macroeconomic provides advice on policy processes and reforms that promote a secure financial system and sound corporate practices - Revenue monitors and assesses economic conditions and prospects, and provides advice on the formulation and implementation of effective macroeconomic policy - Markets provides advice and and assists in the formulation and implementation of government taxation and retirement income policies and legislation - Corportate & Foreign Investment delivers strategic advice and high quality services including information technology, communications, parliamentary services, finance, people management and risk management to the department, portfolio Ministers and agencies

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The Treasury offers a two-year graduate program in Canberra. Students with degrees in economics, law, business, finance, public policy, political science and mathematics are encouraged to apply.

Graduates contribute to policy development in areas such as financial services, fiscal policy, foreign investment, tax policy and structural reform to support growth in living standards.

As well as academic qualifications, the Treasury looks for graduates with highlydeveloped written and oral communication skills, strong analytical and people skills, and individuals who demonstrate initiative, honesty, fairness and respect.

You can find more information here: https://graduates.treasury.gov.au/the-process.htm

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Australian Defence Force (ADF) Adelaide, Albury/ Wodonga, Brisbane, Canberra, Darwin, Kapooka, Melbourne, Perth, Puckapunyal, Sydney and Townsville.

Operation COVID-19 Assist The ADF have helped mitigate the current COVID crisis through Operation COVID-19 Assist.

Defence support includes: - Contact tracing and planning support teams to all state and territory governments.

- Supporting law enforcement agencies with mandatory quarantine arrangements.

- The ADF will not be authorised as law enforcement officers as this remains the responsibility of the states and territories.

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ABOUT

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is Australia’s military organisations.

They fulfil key defensive roles as well as providing a range of peacetime services.

Working in close cooperation, the Navy, Army and Air Force are tasked with the defence of: - our nation, its borders and coastline - our people and their values, and - our way of life.

In addition to defending our nation, the ADF supports a broad range of operations in Australia and overseas, including: - supporting international security and counter-terrorism initiatives - protecting our borders from illegal activity and incursions - supporting humanitarian and peacekeeping operations, and - helping communities affected by natural disasters.

- ensuring the safety of shipping, which accounts for 90% of our imports and exports

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Legal Officers in the Australian Army Legal Corps work in the broad fields of disciplinary, administrative, operations, civil and commercial law as well as dealing with legal aid requirements.

Legal Officers also have military training in leadership, command and control, unit and personnel administration, basic military skills and the ideals of officer behaviour.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The Army offers sponsorship for students studying certain degrees, including law. Students can join the ADF and have their fees paid for, earn a salary and be guaranteed a graduate job after completing their studies.

In return, students are expected to one to four weeks of training each year during univerisyt holidays, and commit to full-time service for the number of years of university sponsorship plus one year (with a minimum of three years’ service).

You can serve in the Navy, Army or Air Force.

You can find more information here: https://www.defencejobs.gov.au/ students-and-education/defenceuniversity-sponsorship

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates with degrees in areas including law can apply for an Officer role through Graduate Entry.

You will receive further training and postgraduate study opportunities in the ADF. Law graduates will study administrative law, discipline law, operations law and military practice law, and will be awarded a Graduate Certificate in Military Law and Master of Military Law. Graduates can choose whether to pursue a career in the Navy, Army or Air Force.

You can find more information here: https://www.defencejobs.gov.au/ students-and-education/graduateentry/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Australian Federal Police

Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne

Operation Ironside In 2021, more than 200 members of Australia’s mafia and bikie underworld were charged following a 3 year collaborative investigation between the AFP and the FBI into an encrypted messaging app used by criminal organisations around the world.

The major investigation is Australia’s largest ever crime sting and successfully uncovered 21 murder plots and lead to the seizure of more than 3,000 kilograms of drugs, $45 million dollars in cash and assets and prevented a suburban mass shooting at an Australian cafe.

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ABOUT

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The AFP strives to build a more secure future for Australia and its global partners. Counter terrorism and national security are major business priorities.

Legal graduates will undertake at least three rotations in areas including: - Criminal assets - Litigation - Legislation - Organised crime - Industrial relations

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) is a multi-faceted law enforcement organisation.

So, too, is the AFP’s commitment to international relations which drive interagency collaboration and enable transnational crime to be tackled anywhere. At a national level, the AFP works with the Australian Government and key agencies on a range of counter-terrorism, crime-fighting and capacity building initiatives.

The AFP provides a range of investigation and operational support, security risk management, security vetting and information services to assist the public.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Lawyers are responsible for the provision of high quality, cost effective in-house professional legal services that directly support the operational law enforcement activities of the AFP. This may include: - providing advice to investigators on Commonwealth powers and offences - providing support to large scale and long running operations - reviewing and updating operational procedures based on Commonwealth legislation - providing advice on international and inter-jurisdictional operational issues - providing advice on and support to the conduct of prosecutions, including sufficiency of evidence, disclosure and protection of sensitive information

The AFP run a 12 month graduate program in Canberra. Graduates with law degrees are encouraged to apply.

You can find more information here: https://www.afp.gov.au/careers/ graduate-program

Government & Public Service

NSW

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Legal Aid NSW

Across NSW

Duty Lawyer Service Legal Aid have lawyers at all local courts in NSW, as well as some other courts and tribunals, called duty lawyers. Duty lawyers help people who have a matter at court that day who do not have their own lawyer.

Duty lawyers can: - give you advice about your matter - explain what might happen in court about your matter - help you to get an adjournment (to put off your matter to a later date, so you have time to get legal advice) - talk to the court/tribunal or other parties on your behalf - speak for you in court in most criminal matters.

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ABOUT

Legal Aid NSW is a statewide organisation providing legal services to socially and economically disadvantaged people across NSW. Legal Aid is the largest legal aid commission in Australia and employ over 1,300 staff.

Legal Aid provide legal services across NSW through a statewide network of 25 offices, two satellite offices and 243 regular outreach locations. They offer telephone advice through the free legal helpline LawAccess NSW. Legal Aid have limited resources and strict eligibilty criteria. Clients must pass four tests to qualify for help: - The Jurisdiction Test looks at whether legal aid is available in that jurisdiction and area of law.

- The Means Test looks at your income and assets.

- The Merit Test looks at whether it is reasonable in all the circumstances to grant aid taking into account, among other criteria, whether the your matter has a reasonable prospect of success and whether providing legal assistance will benefit you.

- The Availability of Funds Test means that aid will only be granted if Legal Aid NSW considers that there are sufficient funds available.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Legal Aid deliver legal services in most areas of criminal, family and civil law.

This includes: - legal advice over the phone - one-off legal advice and help with simple documents - providing representation in court as a duty lawyer - workshops and webinars - law reform and policy work

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Legal Aid offer unpaid PLT placements to graduates. Students must commit to 80 days, either part-time or fulltime.

PLT students undertake the following: - assist legal officers in conducting an effective legal practice - undertake file work and legal research - work collaboratively with practice staff (legal officers and administrative staff) - comply with the Legal Aid Commission Act, policies and practice management standards and undertake all related administrative and case management activities.

Applicants must have knowledge of issues relating to delivery of legal services to socially and economically disadvantaged people, and knowledge of relevant court procedures and Legal Aid Commission policies and procedures.

You can find more information here: https://www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/ about-us/working-at-legal-aid/ practical-legal-training-and-workplacements

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

NSW Public Service Commission (PSC)

Sydney

ABOUT

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The PSC reports to the NSW Premier.

Graduates in the Legal Stream assist senior solicitors in the conduct of litigation, advice and policy work in a range of contexts and roles across the NSW public sector. Graduates finish the program with a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice and are involved in the following work:

The PSC has the lead role in designing and implementing workforce management strategies and reform to ensure the capability of the NSW public sector workforce to deliver high quality public services to the people of NSW. The PSC builds best practice models for workforce management and drives the implementation of these at the NSW public sector, cluster and agency level. Through reporting, the PSC provides a regular assessment of how the NSW public sector is progressing in its uptake of these models.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Michael Siciliano - PSC Grad Program (2020-21) I spent most of my time in university hoping to serve the community, so I was keen to become a lawyer under a tailored program with the NSW Government. Currently, I work within the Department of Premier and Cabinet as part of the Constitutional, Elections and Inquiries Team. My work involves speaking to clients, writing correspondence, drafting legal advice, coordinating the return of papers to parliament and responding to GIPA applications.

One of my highlights has been to help brief the Premier on relevant legal issues related to the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements.

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PSC employees are responsible for: - identify reform opportunities for the government sector workforce - lead the strategic development and management of the government sector workforce in relation to workforce planning, recruitment, performance management, equity and diversity etc - Advise the Government on leadership structure for the government sector.

- Advise the Government on appropriate strategies, policies and practices in relation to the structure of the government sector workforce.

The NSW Public Service Commission run the NSW Government Graduate Program. Graduates work in three different roles over 18 months, across government departments including the Department of Communities and Justice, and the Department of Premier and Cabinet.

• research and analysis • Monitor and report on the delivery of projects • litigation support responsibilities (e.g. drafting affidavits or briefs) • explain legal issues and provide advice and solutions to clients • Support a range of projects, policies and other program initiatives • Work collaboratively within and across public sector agencies You can find more information here: https://www.psc.nsw.gov.au/ workforce-management/recruitment/ nsw-government-graduate-program

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

NSW Crown Solicitor’s Office (CSO)

Sydney Inquiries The CSO is responsible for representing NSW government agencies in inquiries. The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Allegations of Child Sexual Abuse investigated how institutions such as churches, schools, sports organisations and community and government agencies have responded to allegations of child sexual abuse.

The Crown Solicitor was engaged to represent the State of NSW, including hearings relating to the following: - Centres for Performing Arts (Australian Institute of Music and RG Dance) - Catholic and Anglican church authorities - Criminal justice issues relating to child sexual abuse in an institutional context (including consideration of the admissibility of tendency and coincidence evidence) - sporting clubs and organisations (including the NSW Institute of Sport).

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ABOUT

The CSO is the largest provider of legal services to state government agencies in NSW. The CSO has expertise in: - Government Law - Constitutional & Administrative Law - Child Protection - Commercial Law - Community Law - Property & Native Title - Public Safety & Justice - Regulatory & Environment - Employment Law & Industrial -Relations - Inquiries - Torts Law (Justice/Law Enforcement Agencies) - Torts (Service/Regulatory Agencies)

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Type of work varies depending on the practice group that employees work within, but includes: - advising on and drafting of intergovernmental agreements - providing advice on a range of legislation - education seminars and training - Providing legal advice and assistance for major government policy and legislative initiatives - Advising on major agency procurements and reforms - Ensuring regulatory compliance - representation in inquisitorial proceedings, including coronial inquests, royal commissions, special commissions of inquiry and standing commissions.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The CSO offer approximately 50 paralegal positions to students still completing their degree. Many students then go on to participate in the Graduate Program.

Positions are available for high achieiving law students who have completed at least two years of their law degree.

Paralegals are assigned to a practice group and are responsible for providing legal and administrative support to solicitors and other team members.

You can find more information here: https://www.cso.nsw.gov.au/ Pages/cso_workingwithus/cso_ workingwithus.aspx

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

CSO run a two-year graduate program. Graduates complete sixmonthly rotations across four practice groups.

Graduates may be involved in assisting with litigation, providing advice to clients and attending mediation. The purpose of the program is to train participants as government solicitors.

You can find more information here: https://www.cso.nsw.gov.au/ Pages/cso_workingwithus/cso_ workingwithus.aspx

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ)

Sydney

MERIT DCJ fund the Magistrates Early Referral Into Treatment program.

MERIT is a program available in most Local Courts in New South Wales that provides the opportunity for adult defendants with substance abuse problems to work, on a voluntary basis, towards rehabilitation as part of the bail process. The MERIT program allows defendants to focus on treating their drug or alcohol problem in isolation from legal matters and is focused on rehabilitation and reduced recidivism.

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ABOUT

On 1 July 2019, the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) brought together the former departments of Family and Community Services (FACS) and Justice. This brings under one roof, NSW government services targeted at achieving safe, just, inclusive and resilient communities.

DCJ focuses on achieving just outcomes for: - Children and young people - Aboriginal people - People with disability - People from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds - People experiencing domestic and family violence - Victims of sexual assault - Juvenile offenders - People at high risk of reoffending, and - People experiencing homelessness

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The work of employees is varied, and may include: - providing resources to service providers - connecting victims of family and domestic violence to support services - helping applicants of rental assistance or social housing - assisting with the oversight of corrective services and Youth Justice centres - connecting victims of crimes to support services - legal services including advising the government on law, justice and legal reforms, providing legal, professional and regulatory services, and administering the appointment of Justices of the Peace (JPs) in NSW

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

DCJ offer summer clerkships to students in their penultimate or final year of law school. Clerks are involved in: - preparing briefing notes for the Attorney General and other Strong Communities cluster Ministers; - liaising with stakeholders; - conducting in-depth analysis on proposed Bills or policy reform from other Ministers; - writing speeches; - attending meetings; - working with other Government Departments; and - conducting research.

Applicants must demonstrate interest in, and an understanding of, the work of the Department of Communities and Justice, and experience that would enable you to contribute to the Department.

You can find more information here: https://www.justice.nsw.gov.au/ justicepolicy/Pages/lpclrd/lpclrd_ clerkship.aspx

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates can undertake a rotation with the Department of Communities and Justice through the NSW Government Graduate Program, run by the NSW Public Service Commission

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

NSW Law Reform Commission (NSWLRC)

Sydney

Review of Sexual Consent Laws In response to the high-profile Lazarus case, the NSW AttorneyGeneral asked the NSWLRC to undertake a review of sexual consent laws in NSW. The review was announced in 2018 and considered sexual assault research and expert opinion, as well as community views, and developments in law, policy and practice in Australia and internationally.

The final report was transmitted to the Attorney-General in September 2020.

ABOUT

The NSW Law Reform Commission provides legal policy advice to Government on issues that are referred by the Attorney General (called “references”).

NSWLRC prepare reports which comprehensively analyse the issues identified in the reference, and make recommendations to Government for legislative reform.

When reviewing areas of the law NSWLRC seek to: - improve and modernise ​​​​ the law - simplify and consolidate the law - remove inefficiencies and defects in the law​ - repeal laws that are unnecessary and obsolete, and - ​provide improved access to justice To identify key issues with the law and areas for reform in a project, the Commission conducts intensive research including academic literature reviews and empirical research where required. They engage with stakeholders, and legal and industry experts through consultations, and discuss ideas for reform in consultation papers or question papers, which are available to stakeholders and the public to comment on through our website. Anyone can make a submission to the Commission on a reference.​

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The process of making law reform recommendations includes: - researching the law - conducting literature reviews - releasing consultation papers which provide background information, discuss key issues, and present options for reform - review submissions to gauge what people think about the law - conduct face to face consultations with with members of the community who are affected by the law, interest groups, experts, NGOs, and Government agencies.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The NSWLRC run a four-week paid internship program in July/August for one-two law students each year. The program is available for students in their final year of study.

Interns work on projects of the NSWLRC and NSW Sentencing Council.

Depending on the reference interns can be involved in undertaking research, contributing to drafting consultation documents, assisting with consultation processes, or helping draft reports. The Commission and Council credit the contribution of interns in their published papers.

You can find more information here: https://www.lawreform.justice.nsw. gov.au/Pages/lrc/lrc_internship/ Internship-main-page.aspx

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

NSWLRC does not have a Graduate Program, but students interested in their work should consider applying for the NSW Government Graduate Program, run by the NSW Public Service Commission.

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Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Council of Law Reporting for NSW

Sydney

History of the Council The first systematic attempt to prepare reports of the Court began in 1828, when James Dowling, a barrister and accomplished law reporter from England, took up an appointment as a judge of the Court and published his own decisions. Prior to 1862 the only source of court reporting in New South Wales was provided by colonial newspapers. Continuous law reporting in New South Wales began in 1863 with reports prepared by two barristers, based largely on newspaper reports. For the period prior to 1828, the only readily available source of court reports is the Macquarie University Division of Law website. The Council was established in 1963.

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ABOUT

The Council of Law Reporting for NSW was established under the Council of Law Reporting Act 1969. The Council’s overall goal is the efficient reporting of judicial decisions in NSW, primarily for use by the legal profession and the judiciary.

The Council is responsible for selecting cases to be published in the NSW Law Reports.

The Council is comprised of: - the Attorney General - the Solicitor General - the President of the New South Wales Bar Association - the President of the Law Society of New South Wales - Seven members of the legal profession appointed by the Governor: five barristers nominated by the NSW Bar Association and two solicitors nominated by the Law Society of NSW.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The process of publishing cases in the NSWLR involves: - considering judgements and decisions of superior courts in NSW and identifying those that will be significant in the development, interpretation and/or application of the law in NSW - drafting headnotes for each case - verifying judgements, including checking citations, quotations and references

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The Council offers paid positions as Legal Admin Assistants. The work only requires a commitment of half a day per week, and is ideal for law students.

Students must have completed at least one year of law school to apply.

Duties of admin assistants include: - data entry and management - Updating the NSWLR website when new cases are selected - Keeping case selection statistics and provide details to the General Manager for reporting to the Council.

- Conducting twice yearly audits of Caselaw to check that all decisions have been received.

- Monitoring the status of appeals in cases selected as reportable.

- Compiling materials such as appeal lists, judicial movements etc for the covers of the bound volumes.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

NSWLRC does not have a Graduate Program, but students interested in their work should consider applying for the NSW Government Graduate Program, run by the NSW Public Service Commission.

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC)

Sydney

Premier’s Priorities The NSW Premier is committed to 12 key priorities to make NSW a better place to live and work. In addition, the NSW Government has 18 state priorites for the state to grow the economy, deliver infrastructure, protect the vulnerable, and improve health, education and public services across NSW. The current policies aim to achieve: - a strong economy - highest quality education - well connected communities with quality local environments - putting customer at the centre of everything we do - breaking the cycle of disadvantage

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ABOUT

The Department of Premier Cabinet (DPC) leads the public sector to deliver on the Government’s commitments priorities.

and NSW NSW and

DPC support the NSW Premier and Ministers by: - carrying out a coordinated policy, project and reform agenda that boosts the efficiency, productivity and effectiveness of NSW - partnering with NSW Government agencies, as well as the private, notfor-profit and academic sectors, to ensure that services are delivered on time, within budget and to the community’s expectations - coordinating the initiatives of Ministers and their agencies to achieve the government’s targets - managing the passage of government legislation - supporting the delivery of major projects - coordinating and planning significant state events - working with the federal government and other state and territory governments on national reforms.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? DPC is made up of five groups: - Strategy and Delivery provide analysis and advice to the Premier - Transformation - future planning and preparing NSW for changes - Community Engagement improve culture and divesity - Office of the General Counsel develop and implement policy reforms within the Premier’s portfolio, manage litigation and legal services - People plan and deliver strategies across finance, IT, people and culture, projects and performance, and workplaces

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates can undertake a rotation with the Department of Premier and Cabinet through the NSW Government Graduate Program, run by the NSW Public Service Commission.

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP)

All Capital Cities, Townsville and Cairns

ABOUT

The Office of the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) is an independent prosecution service established by Parliament to prosecute alleged offences against Commonwealth law. They aim to provide an effective, ethical, high quality and independent criminal prosecution service for Australia in accordance with the Prosecution Policy of the Commonwealth.

The CDPP is within the Commonwealth Attorney-General’s portfolio, but operates independently of the Attorney-General and the political process.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Commercial Prosecution A recent prosecution by CDPP involves an independent financial advisor operating a business known as CFS Private Wealth. As part of his business activities, Graeme Miller provided financial services to retirees or people nearing retirement who were looking to invest their superannuation savings.

An investigation uncovered that he had operated a Ponzi Scheme, misappropriating client funds for his personal use, or to transfer to other clients, purporting they were returns on amounts he had misappropriated earlier. A total of $1.865 million in funds belonging to 10 victim clients was misappropriated in this way.

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Lawyers at the CDPP are involved in litigation across a variety of practice areas: - Fraud and money laundering - Commercial - Serious drugs - People smuggling and human trafficking - Child exploitation - Counter terrorism - Environment - Cybercrime and cyberbullying Lawyers at the CDPP are also involved in extradition and mutual assistance work where they assist in the investigation and prosecution of transnational and international crime.

Lawyers employed at the CDPP further assist with publications, law reform work and maintain a limited role in criminal confiscation.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The CDPP does not have a graduate program. However, if you are interested in federal criminal practice, you should consider applying for the Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Department graduate program, which involves crime prevention work.

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

NSW Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP)

Sydney

Witness Assistance Service The ODPP’s Witness Assistance Service (WAS) provides a range of support services and information to vulnerable witnesses to reduce as much as possible the extra stress of being involved in a serious legal matter.

WAS officers are social workers, psychologists or counsellors who understand both trauma and how the criminal justice system works.

WAS officers can support witnesses in preparing to give evidence, preparing victim impact statements and can provide court updates and debriefs.

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ABOUT

The NSW Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) prosecutes indictable offences under NSW law on behalf of the community.

The ODPP also prosecute all NSW child sexual assault offences and criminal cases against NSW police officers, whether or not they are indictable offences.

The ODPP prosecutes about 18,000 matters a year. These include: -committal proceedings in the Local Court and Children’s Court, to decide whether there is enough evidence for a matter to go to trial -trials in the District Court and the Supreme Court -appeals, in the District Court, Court of Criminal Appeal and High Court -hearings in the Local Court and the Children’s Court.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Solicitors are responsible for preparing the brief of evidence, liaising with the police and witnesses, organising conferences and any exhibits, and assisting the Crown Prosecutor at trial.

Crown Prosecutors appear in court, settle and determine the appropriate charges, and provide legal advice to the Director on a wide range of issues, including whether there is sufficient evidence to justify proceeding with a particular prosecution or whether the proceedings should be terminated.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

UNSW students can intern at the ODPP course credit. Students must apply for an internship through the myLaw website.

You can find more information here: https://www.odpp.nsw.gov.au/ careers/work-experience

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The ODPP offer a graduate program for students who have completed the coursework component of their PLT. The Legal Development Program is a full-time paid program that runs for 12 months.

Graduates are given the opportunity to develop and enhance: - organisational skills - analytical skills - legal research skills - legal drafting and written communication - knowledge of criminal law, practice and procedure - communication skills - teamwork skills.

You can find more information here: https://www.odpp.nsw.gov.au/ careers/legal-development-program

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC)

Sydney

Unlawful Strip Searches In December 2020, the LECC released their final report following a 2 year inquiry into unlawful strip searches by NSW Police officers.

The LECC found that the four strip searches subject to the inquiry were all unlawful. These included the strip searching of four minors at Splendour in the Grass which was deemed unlawful as officers made no attempt to contact a parent, guardian or support person, as required by law for a person aged under 18. The Commission made 25 recommendations including 3 to Parliament that sought clarity and guidance surrounding the definition of and use of strip searches.

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ABOUT

The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) was established in 2017 as a permanent independent investigative commission to provide oversight of the NSW Police Force and NSW Crime Commission.

LECC replaces the Police Integrity Commission (PIC) and the Police Compliance Branch of the NSW Ombudsman with a single oversight body with two clearly defined functions: detecting and investigating misconduct and corruption, and overseeing complaints handling.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The primary role of the LECC is to detect, oversight, investigate and expose misconduct and maladministration within the NSW Police Force and the NSW Crime Commission. This includes: - publishing investigation reports - referring matters to the NSW Police Force or Crime Commission - identifying problems in the systems, practices and procedures of those agencies that might lead to such misconduct or maladministration - monitoring the investigation of critical incidents (incidents involving a police officer that result in death or serious injury)

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

LECC have a specialist legal team, headed by General Counsel, that is responsible for the delivery of all corporate and legal services to the Commission.

LECC do not have a formal graduate program, but interested students can have a look at current vacancies: https://www.lecc.nsw.gov.au/whatwe-do/our-people/work-with-us Note that you cannot apply for a job at LECC if you have worked as a NSW Police or Crime Commission officer

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

NSW Police Prosecutors

Across NSW Duty of Disclosure In 2018, Harley Bradley bit the finger of Katie O’Connor to the bone. Bradley was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and a police prosecutor was appointed.

The police prosecutor refused to cooperate with the defendant’s requests for police information on O’Connor’s criminal history. Under section 183 of the Criminal Procedure Act, when a defendant indicates a plea of not guilty, the prosecution must provide a brief of evidence to the defence, which includes written statements and copies of documents and exhibits that the prosecution intends to rely upon to support its case.

The Supreme Court held that the police prosecutor had not met the duty required of her, and clarified that the duty of disclosure is not confined to DPP solicitors, but applies to investigating police officers and police prosecutors as well.

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ABOUT

Police Prosecutors are responsible for the prosecution of criminal proceedings, applications for apprehended domestic violence orders and other associated application proceedings in the Local Court and Children’s Court of NSW. Appeals filed in the District Court, Supreme Court or Court of Criminal Appeal connected with prosecutions in the Local or Children’s Court are generally handled by the NSW DPP.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Police prosecuters provide legal advice to all levels of the NSW Police Office. Often this involves supporting major operations and serious crime investigations with strategic legal advice.

Units within the Police Prosecutions Command include: - Coroners Court - Operational Legal Advice Unit - Covert Applications Unit - Executive Legal Supoport Unit - Prosecution Support Unit

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The NSW Police Force offers graduates a fast-tracked program to becoming a Police Prosecutor.

The pathway to becoming a Police Prosecutor is as follows: 1. Full time or Online study of the Associate Degree of Policing Practice to become a Police Officer 2. On the job training at a police station for 12 – 24 months 3. Completion of the Associate Degree in Police Practice 4. Transfer to Police Prosecutions, training for around 12 months passing all classroom and practical instruction and assessments to achieve designation status as a Police Prosecutor.

5. Serve a minimum tenure of 3 years as a Prosecutor within the Metropolitan area.

You can find more information here: https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/ recruitment/the_career/accelerated_ prosecutors_recruitment_program

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

NSW Public Defenders

Across NSW

ABOUT

Public Defenders are available to represent clients charged with serious criminal offences anywhere in New South Wales, if they have been granted legal aid.

Public Defenders are appointed by the Governor in Council. The Governor usually acts upon the advice of the Attorney General, who is authorised

by Cabinet to give the Governor such advice. A Public Defender appointed by the Governor has tenure and can only be removed from office as a result of incompetence, misconduct, bankruptcy and mental illness

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Rolling Court List Program The RLC program is available for in-house legal aid matters where there is no co-accused and no fitness issues. It aims to resolve trial matters by early case management, thus reducing the time taken from committal to finalisation and addressing some of the factors leading to the backlog of cases in the NSW District Court. Counsel are typically briefed earlier than in other metropolitan courts, and the ongoing working relationships between them and their respective instructing solicitors from Legal Aid NSW and the ODPP leads to a more efficient disposition of matters. This level of professional trust and communication enables issues in a trial or sentence matter to be identified at an earlier stage.

It saves time and expense if the matter can be resolved before trial by an early plea of guilty or appropriate charge modification.

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Public Defenders: - represent accused persons, usually before a judge and a jury, in District Court and Supreme Court trials - appear in arraignments and sentence matters in the District Court and Supreme Court - appear in some murder committals in the Local Court - appear in appeals in the Court of Criminal Appeal and the High Court - contribute to the reform of the law through submissions to the Attorney General and participate on committees within the criminal justice system - assist in legal education by giving lectures and seminars, writing papers and providing work experience for students and new barristers Public Defenders also assist solicitors and members of the Bar with advice on criminal law practice and procedure and are available to represent clients anywhere in New South Wales.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

UNSW students can intern at the Public Defenders Officer for course credit.

Students must apply for an internship through the myLaw website.

Consideration will be given to exceptional students wishing to do the work experience component of their practical legal training with Public Defenders. Note that this is unpaid work.

You can find more information here: https://www.publicdefenders.nsw. gov.au/Pages/public_defenders_ intern.aspx

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The Public Defender’s Office offer paid work experience to successful candidates for the Aboriginal Law Graduates Program.

The aim of this program is to help Aboriginal law graduates meet the professional practical training requirements to enable them to practise as a solicitor or barrister, or gain employment in some other legal position.

The availability of this program depends on annual funding from the Attorney General’s Department and the availability of suitable candidates.

Candidates for the program are nominated either by their law lecturer via the Dean of Law at their University, or under the NSW Bar Association’s Equal Opportunity program in consultation with the Dean of Law at the relevant University.

You cand find more information here: https://www.publicdefenders.nsw. gov.au/Pages/public_defenders_ intern.aspx

CHAPTER II:

Communities and NGOs

CAREERS IN COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS AND NGOS Community Legal Centres (CLCs) are independent NGOs that provide free legal services, typically to disadvantaged people. CLCs can be generalist and service a particular catchment (for example, Kingsford Legal Centre services people who live in the Randwick and Botany Bay local government areas). CLCs can also be specialist, and offer state-wide or nation-wide services to certain groups of people (for example, Aboriginal Legal Service provides services to Indigenous people living anywhere in NSW or the ACT. CLCs sometimes receive government funding or grants, but largely rely on donors. They hence have limited resources and often have very strict eligibility criteria for clients. For example, most CLCs will not offer employment law advice to people with a salary of $80,000 or more.

The services that a CLC provides varies depending on the capacity of the Centre, but generally includes legal advice, legal referrals, legal representation, community education and law reform and policy work.

NGOs is a broad term that encompasses a number of social justice organisations, including CLCs. Other organisations we have included in this Guide include law-specific NGOs (such as the Australian Pro Bono Centre), or NGOs that have established a legal department (such as Cancer Council).

Opportunities for students and graduates Due to limited resources, CLCs rely on volunteers to carry out their work. Most CLCs offer volunteering opportunities to students who are still studying. This can include administrative work, client interviewing, drafting legal advice and legal research. Most CLCs also offer work experience for PLT students. This is usually unpaid, and involves working more closely with solicitors on casework, representing clients and providing legal advice.

Many NGOs also offer internships to students. Note that these are generally unpaid as well.

The application process for CLCs and NGOs typically involves submitting a CV and cover letter, and completing an interview. You may also be asked to complete a written task to demonstrate your skills.

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Aboriginal Legal Service (ALS)

Across NSW and ACT Bugmy Evidence Project Aboriginal peoples across the country face troubling disadvantage.

Courts have recognised this deprivation may have profound and long-lasting effects on the lives of Aboriginal people and communities. The Bugmy Evidence Project is creating community documentation of social disadvantage.

The library will will provide historical information to demonstrate the disadvantage existing at the time individuals were growing up in those communities. Community reports will provide evidence from Aboriginal communities in NSW, spanning generations. These reports are created to satisfy an evidentiary need: that of proving disadvantage.

The library will aid courts in sentence proceedings by directly connecting the individual’s experience to a social context, leading to shorter jail terms, short non-parole terms and more opportunties for rehabilitation

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ABOUT

The Aboriginal Legal Service (ALS) were established in 1970 as the first dedicated and free legal service for First-Nations people.

The ALS was founded in response to the new laws that were imposed following dispossession that have played a fundamental role in the systemic oppression of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

ALS operates as a non-government legal service providing culturally appropriate information and referral, and legal advice and court representation to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men, women and children across NSW and ACT. ALS has 22 offices and almost 200 staff across NSW and the ACT, with almost 44% of whom are Aboriginal. They employ 91 solicitors, 26 field officers and 83 admin officers in 24 offices and branches across New South Wales and the ACT. Ultimately their mission to getting justice for Aboriginal people and the community.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Areas of practice: - Family law - Criminal law - Care and protection law - Tenancy (ALS run the Western Aboriginal Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service and Greater Sydney Tenants Advice Service) Type of work done by employees: - Legal advice - Referrals - Legal representation - Help with legal documents and applications - Negotiations with landlords - Law reform and policy work

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

ALS have opportunites for student volunteers to help with research, law reform, human resources, campaigns, communications and IT. The Student Legal Volunteer Program allows students to work closely with ALS Solicitors and staff to understand the workings of a Criminal law or a Children’s Care and Protection Law practice in an Aboriginal community organisation setting.

Student legal volunteers can receive hands-on training in: - Legal research - Drafting submissions, letters and Court documents - Attending Court with Solicitors, - Preparing briefs for Counsel and much more.

All ALS offices have the capacity to manage Student Legal Volunteers.

You can find more information here: https://www.alsnswact.org.au/ volunteer

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

ALS offer PLT placements to graduates to assist in the work in criminal law, care and protection and family law practice areas.

For Practical Legal Training placements in the ‘Crime’ Practice, contact Sheri Misaghi: sheri.misaghi@alsnswact. org.au For Practical Legal Training placements in the ‘Care and Protection’ and ‘Family’ Practice, contact Brittany Tilden: brittany.tilden@alsnswact.org. au

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Arts Law Centre of Australia

Sydney

ABOUT

Arts Law is Australia’s independent national community legal centre for the arts, a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee. They aim to provide free or low cost specialised legal advice, education and resources to Australian artists and arts organisations across all art forms, on a wide range of arts related legal and business matters. Arts Law’s Artists in the Black program delivers targeted services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists nationally.

In accordance with its mission, Arts Law applies an “artist first” policy.

As a result, they decline to advise arts organisations even in situations where there is no conflict of interest with an individual artist if giving legal advice to the arts organisation would subsequently prevent them from advising an individual artist in relation to the same matter.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Fun Fact Research conducted by the Arts Law Centre of Australia estimates that as much as 80 per cent of First Nations arts and crafts in tourist shops are inauthentic.

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The Centre specialises in Arts Law, including: - Business structures, governance and tax - Classification - Confidentiality - Contracts - Copyright and moral rights - Debt - Defamation - Designs and patents - Indigenous cultural and intellectual property - Insurance and liability - Privacy and image rights - Trade marks, business names and reputation Type of work done by employees: - Legal telephone advice - Review of documentation - Referrals - Alternative Dispute Resolution - Education workshops - Law reform and policy work

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Students can volunteer at Arts Law as either an administration assistant or research assistant.

Student volunteers play a valuable role supporting the solicitors in the provision of legal advice. They are the first point of contact for clients and are tasked with providing information and taking accurate legal instructions.

Volunteers may also conduct legal research for the solicitors, get involved with advocacy projects, sit in on legal advice sessions as note-takers, as well as assist with the general administration of a legal centre.

Note that volunteers must have completed intellectual property or media law subjects and have a strong interest in the arts.

You can find more information here, including expressions of interest: https://www.artslaw.com.au/support/ volunteer/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Australian Centre for Disability Law (ACDL)

Sydney Case Study - Employment Danielle was diagnosed with Hepatitis C. She worked at an accounting firm and did not tell them about it when she got the job.

One day, she told a close workmate.

When she came to work the next day, she found that her workmate had told other people. After lunch, there was a note on her desk calling her a ‘druggie’. Danielle’s employer seemed shocked to hear about the behaviour of the others but was worried that if he said something it might cause conflict within the team.

Danielle approached ACDL for advice. ACDL told her that she might have a complaint of disability discrimination or harassment under the law, but Danielle did not want to make a complaint at this point in time. ACDL wrote a letter detailing the requirements under disability discrimination law and asking the employer to resolve the matter swiftly.

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ABOUT

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The ACDL work for recognition and respect of human and legal rights, remove barriers, eliminate discrimination, empower people with disability, and increase provision of access to justice. The ACDL were previously known as the NSW Discrimination Legal Centre Inc.

Other volunteer duties include assisting with: - Providing legal advice - Providing referrals - Casework and legal advocacy including drafting complaints, participating in conciliations, legal research and litigation Publications dealing with discrimination issues - Law reform activities

The Australian Centre for Disability Law (ACDL) was established in 1994 as a specialist Community Legal Centre, promoting the rights and self-determination of people with disabilities through legal advocacy.

THE ACDL provides free legal advice and represents people with disabilities in discrimination cases.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

ACDL provide legal services in the area of disability discrimination.

Employees undertake work including: Legal advice and referrals, casework and representation, law reform and projects and replying to feedback and complaints.

ACDL offers volunteering opportunities to students in their final year and to graduates. Volunteers must be able to commit to two days per week for at least six months. ACDL relies on volunteers to managee the Advice Hotlines and support the legal staff in giving advice and undertaking case work.

You can find more information here: https://disabilitylaw.org.au/about/ staff-and-volunteers/ Expressions of interest can be forwarded to recruitment@ disabilitylaw.org.au

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Volunteer work can be counted towards PLT requirements and is available to graduates as well as final year students.

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Environmental Defenders Office (EDO) Sydney, Brisbane, Hobart, Adelaide, Darwin and Perth

Established in 1985, the Environmental Defenders Office (EDO) is the largest environmental legal centre in the Australia-Pacific. They work to protect the climate, communities, and shared environment by providing access to justice, running groundbreaking litigation and leading law reform advocacy.

EDO works all around Australia, with farmers, conservation groups, Traditional Owners, individuals in rural and metropolitan areas.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Climate Change The NSW Land and Environment Court ruled in favour of the Bushfire Survivors for Climate Action (BSCA) (represented by EDO), which determined that the NSW Environment Protection Authority has a duty to take serious action on greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.

It is the first time that an Australian Court has ordered a government to take meaningful action on climate change.

The court’s ruling means that the EPA has been ordered to develop environmental quality objectives guidelines and policies to ensure protection from climate change.

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ABOUT

The EDO’s work includes: Holding government and industry to account oveer matters like development, pollution and environmental mismanagement; - Representing community groups in public interest litigation; Designing and advocating for stronger state and federal environmental laws; - Offering expert legal and scientific advice to people and communities; - Providing workshops, factsheets, handbooks, and other legal tools to help all Australians understand the law and participate in legal processes; - Training the next generation of environmental lawyers to protect people and our most precious places.

The EDO has extensive experience in: - Climate change and energy - Biodiversity and threatened species protection - Aboriginal culture and heritage and access to country; - Water management; - Mining and coal seam gas - Forestry and native vegetation management; - Protected areas

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Student volunters take part in: - Legal research on matters concerning biodiversity, climate change, pollution, planning, mining and water law; - Assisting in the preparation of court documents and drafting letters and legal advices; - Assisting solicitors in case work and litigation in Court; - Engaging in public interest legal environmental work for a broad scope of clients; Drafting submissions and participating in law reform work; and - Assisting solicitors in the preparation of educational materials for the community.

Students must have studied planning and/or environmental law.

Volunteers must be able to commit at least one day per week for at least three months.

You can find more information here: https://www.edo.org.au/volunteerwith-us-2/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Legal volunteering can count towards PLT requirements. Graduates must have completed planning and/or environmental law units.

Applications are currently open.

You can find more information at: edo.org.au/volunteer-with-us-2/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Elizabeth Evatt Community Legal Centre (EECLC)

Katoomba

Cicada Project EECLC is currently working in partnership with Dr Jane Bolitho, University of NSW to develop “The Cicada Project”, a survivororiented restorative justice framework encompassing a suite of projects focussing on sexual violence and assault. EECLC works in collaboration with local and international partners and receive support, mentoring and guidance from experienced and accredited restorative practitioners in the development of our programs and services.

The Cicada Project seeks to provide people harmed by sexual and family violence with safe spaces to talk about what they need and an opportunity for meaningful justice.

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ABOUT

Elizabeth Evatt Community Legal Centre is a not for profit organisation providing free legal advice to people in the Blue Mountains, Oberon, Lithgow, Bathurst and Orange regions.

EECLC is the only free legal service in this region, with the nearest Legal Aid offices located in Penrith and Orange.

EECLC’s primary function is to improve access to the justice system. EECLC gives priority assistance to the most vulnerable people in our community

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The Centre provides advice on: - Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs) - Consumer rights - Credit and debt matters - Discrimination - Employment - Family law and care matters - Family violence - Sexual assault - Fines - Minor traffic offences - Victims compensation - Wills - Powers of attorney - Enduring guardianship Type of work done by employees - Legal advice - Duty Legal Advice at AVP list days - Task assistance and representation - Tenancy (EECLC runs the Blue Mountains Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service) - Community legal education - Law reform and policy work

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

EECLC offers Advice Line Volunteer positions to law students. Students must commit one day per week with a preferred commitment of 12 months, and have a comittment to social justice.

Advice Line duties include: - Conducting intake and assisting solicitors in responding to callers seeking legal advice Providing information and appropriate referrals - Responding to face to face requests from the public - Assisting solicitors with legal tasks - Data entry and filing - Assisting with administrative tasks - Assisting with preparation for community legal education sessions and other projects as required You can find more information here: https://www.eeclc.org.au/index.php/ contact-us/volunteer

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

EECLC offers PLT placements for graduates. Graduates must be willing to commit two days per week for a minimum of 40 days and have a commitment to social justice.

Duties of PLT students include: • To provide clients with information, advocacy support and assistance with legal forms and documents.

• To assist with client intake, • To assist with preparation of advice to clients, including online legal research.

• To assist with ongoing case work.

• To assist with project work for example, community legal education and law reform.

• To assist with conflict checks Expressions of interest are currently open.

You can find more information here: https://www.eeclc.org.au/index.php/ contact-us/volunteer

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

HIV/AIDS Legal Centre (HALC)

Sydney

Training Medical Professionals The HALC has been involved in providing training for healthcare professionals and community members.

HALC contributed seminars and presentations to a variety of healthcare professionals about the rights and responsibilities of people with HIV, the duties of clinicians in relation to patients with HIV and provided updates on changes to public health laws. These sessions also serve to build upon and expand our relationships within the wider HIV community, which is vital given that the majority of clients are referred to HALC.

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ABOUT

The HIV AIDS Legal Centre (HALC) is a not-for-profit, specialist community legal centre, and the only one of its kind in Australia. HALC provides free and comprehensive legal assistance to people in NSW with HIV or Hepatitisrelated legal matters, to tackle the severe stigma and discrimination associated with HIV. HALC delivers services to people from vulnerable social and cultural backgrounds, including people from the LGBTQI community, people suffering from mental illness, sex workers, injecting drug users and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

HALC offers volunteer placements for law students. Students must commit a minimum of three days per week.

Students are involved in: - direct client contact - involvement in numerous and diverse matters - usually some court appearances - submission writing - drafting of legal documents - strategising for client outcomes - hands on carriage (with supervision) of matters You can find more information here: https://halc.org.au/volunteering/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

HALC provides advice to clients suffering from HIV and Hepatitisrelated issues in a broad range of practice areas.

Volunteer work is also available for graduates who are undertaking their PLT. PLT students are required to commit to a minimum of four days per week and undertake similar work to student volunteers.

Type of work done by employees: - Legal advice - Legal referrals - Community legal education - Law reform and policy work

If you are interested at volunteering at HALC, you can forward your CV and a cover letter to halc@halc.org.au

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Immigration Advice and Rights Centre (IARC)

Sydney Select Committe on Temporary Migration In 2019, the federal Senate resolved to establish a Select Committee on Temporary Migration to inquire into and report on the impact temporary migration has on the Australian economy, wages and jobs, social cohesion and workplace rights and conditions.

IARC made a submisison recommending: 1. the removal of condition 8105 (40-hour work fortnight) from Student visas; 2. amending condition 8607 to allow for at least 90 days for a visa holder to find a new sponsor with the possibility of a waiver of this condition where there is evidence of workplace bullying/harassment/ exploitation; and 3. there be a PR pathway created whereby holders of 457 visas or TSS visas working in their nominated occupation for a period of three years or more are automatically eligible to apply for a subclass 189 or 190 visa

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ABOUT

IARC is a not-for-profit, specialist community legal centre providing free legal advice and assistance to people throughout New South Wales.

From its inception, IARC’s vision has been for vulnerable people to receive fair and just immigration outcomes.

IARC’s clients are financially disadvantaged, coming from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and frequently have low level English language skills. Many experience intersecting layers of disadvantage including homelessness, low education levels and disability.

They have often experienced torture and trauma. Nearly half of their clients have experienced or are at risk of family violence.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Areas of practice: - Immigration and domestic violence - Family visas - Refugee and Humanitarian visas - Citizenship - Visa cancellations IARC employees’ work can include: - Legal advce - Legal information - Representation - Community legal education - Law reform and policy work

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

IARC’s offers volunteer placements to law students who have completed at least two years of their degree.

Students must commit to one day per week for at least six months.

Volunteer legal assistants work directly with clients to provide information and referral services, take instructions and schedule appointments. Legal assistants also provide general admin support such as answering the phones, photocopying and filing and will have opportunities to assist with legal research and drafting.

Applicants should have administrative/ paralegal experience; good oral and written communication skills; the ability to take initiative and genuine interest in the issues affecting vulnerable migrants in Australia.

You can find more information here: https://iarc.asn.au/support-our-work/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

IARC offers opportunities to complete practical legal training for admission to legal practice in New South Wales.

PLT students will receive training and supervision and assist with legal research, drafting, observing and client appointments and help with other administrative and legal tasks.

Students must commit to a minimum of three days per week for 60 days.

You can find more information here: https://iarc.asn.au/support-our-work/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Kingsford Legal Centre

Sydney

ABOUT

Since 1981, Kingsford Legal Centre (KLC) has been committed to social justice and to promoting access to and reform of the legal system.

We aim to provide quality legal services to the community and to promote excellence in clinical legal education while fostering a critical analysis of the justice system.

Kingsford Legal Centre is part of the UNSW Sydney Faculty of Law and Justice and provides a number of clinical legal education programs to its students. KLC’s lawyers, volunteers and students help over 1,500 local community members each year.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Sexual Harassment Clinic In 2020, KLC introduced a specialist state-wide clinic for people experiencing sexual harassment.

The clinic aims to focus law reform work in improving legal options and processes for people who have experienced sexual harassment, to look at ways in which the system can be improved and to work collaboratively with other services.

The service is open to people across NSW and will provide advice and casework. The Centre aims to focus on people in lower paid, insecure and marginalised work but covers all types of sexual harassment – not just at work.

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Areas of practice: - Domestic Violence - Credit and Debt - Victim’s Compensation - Criminal Law - Employment Law - Discrimination Law - Centrelink Problems - Motor Vehicle Accidents - Consumer Matters - Neighbourhood Disputes - Fines - Tenancy - Limited advice on Family law matters

Type of work done by employees: - Legal advice - Legal referrals - Representation - Community legal education - Law reform and policy work

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES UNSW students undertake client interviewing at KLC as part of the Lawyers, Ethics and Justice course.

Students can also participate in longer clinic programs as an elective.

Clinics run in Term 1 and Term 3 and cover community law, employment law or family law.

Students are involved in the following types of work: - client interviewing - legal research - writing letters - preparing briefs for counsel - writing law reform submissions - undertaking advocacy in court or tribunals - develop community education materials You can find more information about clinics here: https://www.law.unsw.edu.au/ students/clinics/kingsford-legalcentre

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates can volunteer at KLC as part of UNSW Law’s PLT program.

You can find more information here: https://www.law.unsw.edu.au/study/ unsw-practical-legal-training

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Macarthur Legal Centre

Sydney

Children and Young People Macarthur Legal Centre runs the Children’s Court Assistance Scheme (‘CCAS’) at Campbelltown Local Court.

A CCAS worker, and volunteers, provide information, referrals and non-legal assistance to children and young people appearing before the Children’s Court.

MLC also offer mediation services to children and young people with current matters before the Children’s Court as an alternative to litigation.

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ABOUT

Macarthur Legal Centre (‘MLC’) was established in 1987 and is part of a network of community legal centres, which provides free legal advice, referrals and assistance to people living in the Macarthur region of NSW. The goal of MLC is to promote social justice and provide free and accessible legal services to people who experience social and economic disadvantage.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Areas of practice: - Family Law - Care and Protection - Child Support - Credit and Debt - Wills, Power of Attorney and Guardianship - Traffic Matters - Fines and SDRO Matters - Neighbourhood Disputes - Employment Law - Discrimination - Consumer Complaints - Centrelink Issues - Youth Law - Victims Support - Civil Law Matters - Tenancy (MLC run the South West Sydney Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service) - Domestic Violence Court Advocacy (MLC run the Macarthur Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service ) Types of work done by employees: - Legal advice and information - Legal referrals - Legal outreach - Casework - Community legal education - Law reform and policy work - Youth and family mediation

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

MLC offer a number of volunteering opportunities to students: - Daytime front desk volunteer: duties include taking calls, greeting clients face-to-face, and various office administrative duties - Advice session intake volunteer: responsible for collecting client information, conducting conflict checks and obtaining client instructions.

- Research positions: these are available from time to time for specific research projects. Research students are typically recruited from advice session volunteers.

Volunteers must commit to at least one day per week. Advice session intake volunteers must also have completed at least one year of their degree.

You can find more information here: http://maclegal.net.au/about/ volunteering/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

MLC also offer PLT placements, however these are limited. PLT students are usually recruited from advice session volunteers.

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Marrickville Legal Centre

ABOUT

Marrickville Legal Centre (MLC) is a not-for-profit community legal centre based in Sydney’s inner west and working across NSW. Established in 1979 by a group of law students who recognised a gap in accessible legal services in Sydney’s inner west, MLC is Sydney’s second community legal centre, after Redfern Legal Centre.

Marrickville Legal Centre recognise that some members of the community experience greater barriers to access to justice than others. They prioritise service delivery to young people, people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, people with a mental illness, people with a disability, people who have experienced family violence, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Sydney

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? MLC’s Reach MLC provides legal assistance and advice to the community of the inner-west, south-west, southern suburbs of Sydney, and beyond.

There are 1.5 million people living in our key catchment: that’s 30 per cent of Sydney’s total population!

Areas of practice: - General legal inquiries (consumer disputtes, credit and debt, minor criminal matters, discrimination, employment, victims compensation) - Problems arising from gambling - Domestic and family violence - Family law - Strata - Tenancy (Marrickville Legal Centre runs Inner West Tenants’ Advice & Advocacy Service and Northern Sydney Area Tenants’ Service) Type of work done by employees: - Legal advice - Legal referrals - Community outreach - Community legal education

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STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Students can volunteer at Marrickville Legal Centre as a Client Support Officer or Admin Volunteer.

Client Support Officers must have completed at least two years of a combined undergraduate law degree or one year of a graduate law degree.

Students must commit to one day per week for six months. Client Support Officers work at front desk undertaking leagl work.

Admin Volunteers assist with support services and may be involved in social media, data entry, research and fundraising work. Students must commit to at least eight hours per week.

You can find more information here: https://www.mlc.org.au/get-involved/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Marrickville Legal Centre offer PLT placements. PLT students assist with client intake, give legal information and referral, assist with casework, and perform other administrative tasks in a community legal environment.

Applicants must demonstrate and understanding of and committment to social justice causes and volunteering and legal ethical issues affecting community legal centres.

You can find more information here: https://www.mlc.org.au/get-involved/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Redfern Legal Centre

Sydney

ABOUT

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The RLC aims to promote social justice by providing free legal advice, legal services and education to disadvantaged people in NSW; in particular to residents of inner Sydney and to the groups who advocate for them. Additionally, RLC participates in acttivities that reduce inequalities and defects in laws, the legal system, and administrative and social practices that impact on disadvantaged people.

Legal Assistants are involved in legal invormation and referral, client intake and interviewing and administrative duties.

The Redfern Legal Centre was established in 1977 as a result of the scarcity of affordable legal services for disadvantaged and marginalised people. RLC is the first community legal centre in NSW and the second in Australia.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

RLC and UNSW UNSW law students have an outstanding, longstanding history with RLS. Many of the early volunteers were products of the new law curriculum at the University of New South Wales, which was perceiveed as being quite radical at the time.

Areas of practice: - Tenancy & Housing - Health Justice Partnership - Financial Abuse - Employment Law - International Students - Government complaints - Police complaints - Money problems - Discrimination & Human Rights

RLC also provides generalist advice to clients who experience disadvantage such as people living with a disability, AATSI people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; and students.

Type of work done by employees: - Legal advice - Legal referrals - Community legal education - Law reform and policy work

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Students can volunteer at RLC as a Legal Assistant. Students must commit half a day per week for 12 months, and must have completed at least two years of an undergraduate law degree or have been accepted into a graduate law degree.

Legal Assistants may also be given the opportunity to become an administrative assistant to a solicitor, or a volunteer tenancy advisor.

You can find more information here: https://rlc.org.au/jobs-volunteers/ volunteer-legal-assistants

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

RLC provides PLT placements for graduates. Graduates must be able to commit to two to three days per week.

PLT students are involved in client intake, file review, general administration, research, legal drafting, interviewing clients, and follow up on client matters.

Applicants must have demonstrated understanding or and commitment to social justice, understanding of ethical practice issues affecting community legal centres, and experience in customer service or administration.

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Refugee Advice & Casework Service (RACS)

Sydney

Rhiannon Bell - RACS (202021) At RACS, I assisted people who had fled their home countries and were seeking protection visas in Australia. This involved advising individuals and families on the process, reviewing client files to assist in preparing applications, giving advice on attendance at interviews, and drafting pre- and post-interview submissions.

I would strongly recommend volunteering at RACS. The work RACS does makes a real difference for the clients. I am grateful to have worked with people who are passionate about helping others and who were always incredibly patient with me whilst I was at an early stage of my career (and always had a million questions!).

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ABOUT

The mission of Refugee Advice & Casework Service (RACS) is to achieve justice and dignity for refugees through the provision of effective legal services and influential advocacy.

RACS provides critical free legal advice, assistance and representation, for financially disadvantaged and vulnerable people seeking asylum in Australia, including: - women who have experienced or fear domestic, family or gender based violence - members of the LGBTIQA+ community - stateless people - children who are seeking protection without their parents - people seeking family reunion in Australia RACS advocate for systemic law reform and policy that treats refugees with justice, dignity and respect, and make complaints about serious human rights violations, to Australian and United Nations complaints bodies.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? RACS specialises in human rights laws relevant to refugees and asylum seekers.

Type of work done by employees: - Legal advice - Legal referrals - Legal representation for people who have had refugee claims refused - Outreach services - Community legal education - Lobbying and making direct representation to Government, regulators, policitians and other organisations - Assisting clients making complaints to the UN, Australian Human Rights Commission

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

RACS offers volunteer positions to law students who are in their second year or above. Students must commit one day per week for three months.

Student volunteers are involved in research, form-filling, assisting with client enquiries, scheduling client appointments and various other administrative and legal tasks.

Applicants must be able to demonstrate a commitment to human rights and social justice, an understanding of the issues that affect people seeking asylum, and a capacity to problem-solve.

You can find more information here: https://www.racs.org.au/work-withus-volunteer

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

RACS offer unpaid PLT placements to graduate students. PLT students must commit three days per week for 60 days.

PLT students are involved in research, drafting statements, observing and assisting with client appointments, accompanying lawyers to client meetings and DOHA interviews and various other legal and administrative tasks.

Applicants must have previous volunteer and administrative experience and be able to demonstrate a commitment to human rights and social justice, an understanding of the issues that affect people seeking asylum, and a capacity to problem-solve.

You can find more information here: https://static1.squarespace.com/ static/5ca341d4aadd343de55b7b50/ t/5ddf0c1d0c91bc6c3b927 2b0/1574898718631/2019-1127+PLT+Position+Description.pdf

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Welfare Rights Centre

Sydney

Community Legal Education Welfare Rights Centre run monthly community legal education sessions on different topics, from Robodebts and social security and young people to domestic violence and disability support pension.

Sessions are targeted towards different audiences, including yourh workers, social workers, migrant support workers, volunteers and lawyers.

Welfare Rights Centre are currently developing pre-recorded materials that can be accessed online.

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ABOUT

Established in 1983, the Welfare Rights Centre provides legal advice on Centrelink and social security matters to people in NSW. The Welfare Rights Centre provide free legal information, advice and representation to thousands of NSW residents every year who are adversely affected by Centrelink decisions. The Centre also provides education to improve knowledge and understanding about social security law in the community. We use the knowledge and experience we gain through our casework to advocate for reforms to the law and policy that would make the Australian social security system fairer for everyone. The Centre also provides assistance to the community through community education and training, law reform and lobbying.

The Welfare Rights Centre has remained the lead service agency in NSW for social security law and policy.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? The Welfare Rights Centre specialises in almost all aspects of social security and family assistance law.

The centre can advise people about their social security rights, entitlements and obligations and assist people through the social security rights, entitlements and obligations and assist people through the social security review and appeals system, including Centrelink internal review and the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. All initial advice is provided via phone.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Students can volunteer at Welfare Rights Centre as an Administrative Volunteer or a Casework/ Advice Volunteer. Students must commit to half a day per week and have a dedication towards human rights and social justice.

Volunteers are responsible for asnwering calls, providing information to the public, booking appointments, and assisting with legal tasks.

The centre is not currently accepting volunteers but you can find more information here: https://welfarerightscentre.org.au/ jobs-and-volunteers

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Welfare Rights Centre offer PLT placements to graduates.

PLT students are involved in legal research, drafting advice, drafting correspondence to clients and medical practitioners and client interviewing.

PLT students assist solicitors in delivering advice to clients and making sure clients get back on payment.

More information can be found here: https://welfarerightscentre. org.au/jobs-and-volunteers

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Wirringa Baiya Aboriginal Women’s Legal Centre

Sydney

ABOUT

The purpose of Wirringa Baiya Aboriginal Women’s Legal Centre is to provide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and children in NSW with a gender-specific service sensitive to their culturally diverse needs; and to provide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women victimssurvivors of violence with access to appropriate legal representation, advocacy, advice, and referral.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women manage the not-for-profit service, paying special attention to the intersecting needs of economically and socially disadvantaged AATSI women and children.

Wirringa Baiya was the first and only Aboriginal women’s legal centre managed by Aboriginal women in NSW, and the first within Australia.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Wirringa Baiya focuses on issues relating to violence.

Did you know?

The words Wirringa Baiya in traditional language mean “Women Speak”.

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Type of work done by employees: - Legal advice - Court support - Community legal education - Law reform and policy work - Cultural awareness training - Outreach services

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Wirringa Baiya welcomes the interest of legal and non-legal volunteers, especially female volunteers.

If you are interested in volunteering at the Centre, call us on (02) 9569 3847 or email Wirringa Baiya at wirringa_ baiya@clc.net.au.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Wirringa Baiya accepts students completing their PLT depending on the Centre’s capacity.

PLT students work closely with solicitors on a range of civil, family and care and protection matters. Students are required to request, gather and review evidence, draft submissions, draft letters to clients and others and other supporting tasks as required.

Students may also be asked to assist with community legal education.

Applicants should note that some of the work can be quite confronting and possibly triggering.

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Women’s Legal Service NSW (WLS NSW)

Sydney

First Nations Women’s Legal Program WLS run the First Nations Women’s Legal Program, which aims to to provide services that best meet the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women. The program was developed in 1995, in consultation with Aboriginal women.

The First Nations Women’s Legal Program is staffed by Aboriginal women and offers free services including: - Free legal advice via the First Nations Women’s Legal Contact Line - Assistance in finding a lawyer Training and community workshops across NSW - Resources and information about the law - Face-to-face advice from solicitors through FNWLP Outreach Clinics

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ABOUT

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

As a non-profit organisation WLS NSW provides a voice for women in NSW, promoting access to justice for women who are disadvantaged by intersecting social and economic circumstances.

Applicants must have an understanding of social justice issues for women, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, and those experiencing economic, social and cultural disadvantage and lack of access to legal services.

The Women’s Legal Service NSW (WLS NSW) has been providing services for women to access the law for more than 30 years.

WLS NSW aims to foster legal and social change to redress the inequalities that women experience through legal advice and casework, community legal education and law and policy reform.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Areas of law: - Domestic and family violence - Family law - Sexual assault - Victims support - Human rights - Care and protection - Discrimination and employment

WLS NSW also provides legal advice and ongoing casework through their specialist programs: - Domestic Violence legal Service - First Nations Women’s Legal Program - Working Women’s Legal Service Type of work done by employees: - Legal advice - Outreach services - Casework and advocacy -Education and training - Community legal education

WLS provides volunteering opportunities for students who have completed at least two years of their law degree.

Applicants must also have an understanding of areas of law relevant to the work of Women’s Legal Service NSW, including domestic violence, sexual assault, family law and discrimination.

Applicants interested in public interest are encouraged to apply.

You can find more information here, including where to send applications: https://www.wlsnsw.org.au/about-us/ volunteer-with-wls-nsw/#students

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

WLS provides PLT placements to graduates. Applicants must be committed to working a minimum of two days per week for at least six months.

PLT students are involved in assisting clients by obtaining and lodging recognition payments with Victims Services, obtaining Parenting Orders with the Federal Circuit Court of Australia, drafting and lodging breach of summary complaints, participating in conferences, and contributing to policy reform.

You can find more information on the selection criteria here: https://www.wlsnsw.org.au/about-us/ volunteer-with-wls-nsw/#students

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Youth Law Australia (YLA)

Sydney

Child’s Rights Monitoring YLA monitors and advocate for the rights and best interests of young people in Australia. YLA is a member of the Child Rights Taskforce, which is Australia’s peak children’s rights body made up of over 100 organisations. Through their role on the Taskforce, YLA assist in drafting and reviewing reports made to the UN on the state of children’s rights observance in Australia. In 2017, YLA prepared the “Children’s Rights” section of the Shadow Report for the 6th periodic report of the ICCPR

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ABOUT

Youth Law Australia (YLA) is a community legal service that is dedicated to helping children and young people in Australia and their supporters to find a legal solution to their problems.

Previously named the National Children’s and Youth Law Centre and known as Lawstuff, YLA is Australia’s only national, technologybased community legal service. YLA works to help keep more children in school, out of trouble and free from bullying, harassment or child abuse.

YLA works across 3 key areas: - Legal help: providing free and confidential legal advice, assistance and referals to young people and their advocates.

- Child rights monitoring and advocacy: advocating for the rights and best interests of young people in Australia.

- Influential leadership: undertaking leading research, law reform, and school-based legal education to empower young people.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? YLA provides specialist legal services to young people under the age of 25, including in the area of: - Harrasment, cyberbullying and stalking - Age of consent - Family and domestic violence - Sexting and image based abuse - Drug matters -Traffic offences - Sexual assualt - Education

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

YLA offers volunteer opportunities for UNSW law students only. Students must be in their penultimate or final year of their degree and commit to one day per week.

Volunteers are involved in legal research for projects, submissions, and legal advice; drafting legal correspondence to clients; administrative tasks; submission writing; and updating legal factsheets.

Applicants must demonstrate experience, or understanding and interest in child’s rights and law and technology.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates can volunteer at YLA as part of UNSW Law’s PLT program.

You can find more information here: https://www.law.unsw.edu.au/study/ unsw-practical-legal-training

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Amnesty International Australia

Sydney and Perth

ABOUT

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Amnesty International Australia was established in 1985, as a subsidiary of the charity which was formally established in 1961 by British lawyer Peter Benenson.

You can check for current openings at this link: https://www.amnesty.org.au/workwith-us/positions/

Amnesty International is an international NGO focused on human rights.

Amnesty has other offices in Africa, Asia-Pacific, Central and Eastern Europe, Latin America and the Middle-East. These offices give Amnesty International a presence in over 70 countries and ensures they can quickly respond to events, wherever they happen.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Amnesty sends experts into conflicts or countries where human rights abuses are occurring to investigate and to produce accurate, reliable research.

Fun Fact In the field of human rights organisations, Amnesty is the third-oldest after the International Federation for Human Rights and the Anti-Slavery Society.

They also lobby governments and other powerful groups, ensuring they keep their promises and respect international law.

Through communications, reports, and working with global media, Amnesty exposes human rights abuses and call the guilty to justice.

Amnesty has a range of key priorities, including: - Indigenous justice - Refugees - LGBTQIA+ rights - Women’s rights - Climate justice - Anti-racism - Statelessness - Crisis response - Ending the death penalty

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Amnesty International Australia has a range of volunteer opportunities available.

Volunteer support may include: - Researching for campaigns - Data entry and admin support - Creating content and updates for Amnesty members and supporters - Coordinating and planning grassroots events - Community campaigning Students can also intern at Amnesty International Australia for course credit.

For more information, visit: https://my.law.unsw.edu.au/currentstudents/law-action/internships/ externally-hosted-internships

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Australian Pro Bono Centre

Sydney

National Pro Bono Target APBC is repsonsible for overseeing the National Pro Bono Target, which is a voluntary and aspirational target of at least 35 hours of pro bono legal services per lawyer per year that can be signed up to by: - Law firms; - incorporated legal practices; - individual law firm solicitors; - individual barristers; and - barristers’ chambers.

The National Pro Bono Target for in-house corporate and government lawyers is a voluntary and aspirational target of at least 20 hours of pro bono legal services per lawyer per year that can be signed up to by: - in-house legal teams; and - individual in-house lawyers.

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ABOUT

Established in 2002, the Australian Pro Bono Centre call themselves the centre of leadership for pro bono legal services. They aim to grow participation and excellence in pro bono, closing the justice gap and creating a more equitable and sustainable society.

The Centre was established following the National Pro Bono Task Force’s report in 2001, which recommended the establishment of a centre that would ”stimulate and encourage the development, expansion, and co-ordination of probono services... facilitating pro bono practice and enabling the collection and exchange of information”.

The Centre promotes and supports pro bono as an adviser, advocate, reseacher, and resource provider.

The Centre was previously known as the National Pro Bono Resource Centre.

Please note: the Centre does not provide legal advice or legal assistance, or refer individuals to pro bono lawyers.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Staff at APBC are involved in: - Administering the National Pro Bono Target - Conducting the National Law Firm Pro Bono Survey - Administering the National Pro Bono Professional Indemnity - Insurance Scheme - Policy reform and advocacy

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

UNSW students can intern at the APBC for course credit. Students must apply for an internship through the myLaw website.

Interns are involved in the following: A variety of research tasks - Writing research documents and other forms of correspondence and publications - Assisting to update the Centre’s websites - Preparing and editing our weekly newsletter, this will include learning how to create an EDM - Basic operational/administrative tasks You can find more information here: https://my.law.unsw.edu.au/currentstudents/law-action/internships/ externally-hosted-internships

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

APBC administer the Social Justice Opportunities website, which posts opportunities about social justice jobs and volunteer positions for students and graduates.

Most of the opportunities published are targeted at recent graduates, including PLT positions.

You can view the SJOpps website here: https://www.sjopps.net.au

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Cancer Council NSW

Sydney

Facts and Figures n the 1980s, the cancer survival rate was less than 50%. Today, almost seven in 10 Australians will survive for at least five years after a cancer diagnosis and in some cancers the survival is as high as 90%.

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ABOUT

Cancer Council NSW is Australia’s leading cancer charity, working across every area of every cancer.

Cancer Council works to unite the community, provide support, invest in research and save lies, in order to reduce cancer risk, increase cancer survival, improve the quality of life for people affected by cancer, and improve cancer outcomes for priority populations.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Cancer Council NSW works to: - Support families affected by cancer - Speak out on behalf of the community - Empower people to reduce their cancer risk - Find new and better ways to detect and treat cancer”

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Cancer Council NSW offers a range of volunteer opportunities across Sydney. These can range from fulltime placements (internships), 1-2 days per week, or one-off working days.

Opportunties include: - Helping at events and fundraising activities - Planning and coodinating events - Office administration and support For more information, visit: https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/ get-involved/volunteer-with-us/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Intellectual Disability Rights Service (IDRS)

ABOUT

IDRS is a free service for people with cognitive impairment across NSW. IDRS works alongside people with cognitive impairment to promote and protect rights.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

IDRS provide help with legal problems, support persons at police stations and courts, support to appeal decisions of the National Disability Agency, rights education for people with cognitive impaiment, peer support and assistance for parents with intellectual disability at risk of losing care of their children.

Sydney

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

IDRS Values IDRS have 3 core values: 1. JUSTICE - what we seek 2. RESPECT - what we give 3. PERSISTENCE - how we do it

IDRS accepts applications for Justice Advocacy Service (JAS) Volunteers.

These people are individuals who want to give back to their community and provide help to the people around them. It provides opportunities to develop new skills, or build on existing experience and knowledge.

JAS Volunteers support victims, witnesses, suspects, and defendants at police stations, court, and legal appointments.

To apply, visit: https://idrs.org.au/volunteers/ volunteer-application-forms/ volunteer-online-application-form/

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GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

IDRS accepts applications for legal student volunteers for people looking to complete thei Practical Legal Training (PLT) placement with IDRS. IDRS takes on law students who are in the final 2 years of undergraduate legal studies and who demonstrate clear interest and likely aptitude for helping IDRS and their clients.

To apply, visit: https://idrs.org.au/volunteers/ volunteer-application-forms/ “

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Justice Action

ABOUT

Founded in 1979, Justice Action is a not-for-profit community organisation based in Sydney, Australia. Justice Action focuses on abuses of authority in the criminal justice and mental health systems in Australia.

Justice Action aims to improve the social and mental health of prisoners and involuntary patients by providing prisoner, mental health, and court support. It also engages in policy development, initiates campaigns and liases with stakeholders.

Sydney

Justice Action is run by a team of interns who are university students in law and other degrees.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? COVID-19 In light of the recent COVID-19 outbreaks in NSW, Justice Action has called on the Commissioner to: - use release powers to enable social distancing - expedite vaccination and testing for prisoners - mandate vaccination and testing for staff - supply computer tablets to prisoners so that community interaction, rehabilitation programs and education can continue.

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JA empowers individuals in prisons and prison hospitals by ensuring access to the tools and information they need to defend and develop themselves.

JA builds networks among prisoners, victims, families and others, and exposes abuses of authority in the media and in JA publications, as well as fostering education for those behind bars.

JA provides prisoners and inpatients court support by investigating complaints and following focus cases.

JA promotes policy changes and alternatives to imprisonment JA works at local, national, and international levels with organisations such as the Community Justice Coalition and the International Conference on Penal Abolition among others to ensure that Austrralia’s human rights obligation are met in relation to those it imprisons.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

If you are interested in volunteering with Justice Action, fill out the form at this link: https://justiceaction.org.au/getinvolved/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Justice Connect

Sydney and Melbourne Maggie’s Story Maggie went to Justice Connect’s Women’s Homelessness Prevention project in 2016, seeking help after several episodes of homelessness.

In 2010, Maggie left a violent relationship of 23 years. She had only enough money for her daughter and herself to fly to Melbourne and for a taxi from the airport to the hotel.

Maggie and her daughter lived in transitional housing, hostels, and slept rough.

Justice Connect provided Maggie and her daughter with court support and gave her connections to find permanent housing, work and educational opportunities for her daughter.

Today, she is safely housed and studying. Her daughter is in year 12, after Maggie kept her in school the whole time.

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ABOUT

Justice Connect designs and delives high impact interventions to increase access to legal support and progress social justice. Justice Connect has specialised legal services and works with priority groups and projects to respond to rising legal need and matters in the public interest.

Justice Connect has close connections with over 10,000 lawyers through our network of pro bono member firms so that people facing legal problems can get the help they need.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Justice Connect works in a range of specialisations, including: - Seniors Law - Homeless Law - Self-representation services - Workplace rights - Natural disaster community support - Disability rights - Refugee and migrant rights

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Justice Connect is not currently recruiting new volunteers.

Justice Connect accepts law students as volunteers. Many volunteers are later accepted to complete their PLT with Justice Connect.

Follow this link for infomation: https://justiceconnect.org.au/workwith-us/volunteer/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Justice Connect offers unpaid PLT placements to students who have completed their law degree.

Applicants must be willing to undetake a minimum of 50 days of practical legal training at Justice Connect.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanderr people, POC, people from culturally and linguistically diverse and refugee backgrounds, people with divese religious beliefs, gender diverse people, LGBTIQ+ people and people living with a disability are strongly encouaged to apply.

For more information, visit: https://justiceconnect.org.au/workwith-us/practical-legal-training/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

NSW Council for Civil Liberties

ABOUT

Founded in 1963, the NSW Council for Civil Liberties is one of Australia’s leading human rights and civil liberties organisations. They monitor and fight against infringement of rights and liberties and the abuse of power by government, its agencies, and others.

NSWCCL is non-sectarian and nonparty political.

Sydney

Local NSW fishermen are being prosecuted under State law contrary to their Native Title Rights Members of the Aboriginal community who have a right to fish under the Native Title Act 1993 are being prosecuted under the Fisheries Management Act 1994 (NSW) (FMA) contrary to those rights. Mounting a native title defence is both time consuming and expensive, meaning that a number of Aboriginal men have been incarcerated as they have been unable to defend themselves.

A legislative amendment that would resolve this situation was passed 11 years ago, but hasn’t yet commenced. NSWCCL has written to the NSW Minister for Agriculture to urge him to immediately rectify this situation - rights that require a costly legal defence to enjoy are not worth the paper on which they’re written.

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WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Work includes: - Influencing public debate - Securing amendments to laws or changes in policy to strengthen democratic rights and liberties - Prepaing submissions to government - Engaging regularly in public debates - Producing content - Holding events

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Students interested in volunteering or interning with the NSWCCL are invited to attend Committee Meetings held fortnightly at Sydney Town Hall in the Council Chambers (COVID-19 permitting). It gives you the chance to network with some of the Executive and Committee members.

NSWCCL also invites university students to join NSWCCL campaigns or action groups.

More information can be found here: https://www.nswccl.org.au/support_ signup

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Justice Connect offers unpaid PLT placements to students who have completed their law degree.

Applicants must be willing to undetake a minimum of 50 days of practical legal training at Justice Connect.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanderr people, POC, people from culturally and linguistically diverse and refugee backgrounds, people with divese religious beliefs, gender diverse people, LGBTIQ+ people and people living with a disability are strongly encouaged to apply.

For more information, visit: https://justiceconnect.org.au/workwith-us/practical-legal-training/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

NSW Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby

ABOUT

The NSW Gay & Lesbian Rights Lobby (GLRL) advocates for the equality of the LGBTQIA+ community. It is run primarily by volunteers, and relies heavily on donations from the community.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? The GLRL lobbies politicians, government departments, policy makers and the media to redress discrimination.

Sydney

Inner West Pride Center The GLRL have lobbied heavily for a Pride Centre in the Inner West.

The Pride Centre is intended to provide a safe, welcoming and inclusive space for the LGBTIQ community. There are many vulnerabilities experienced by the LGBTIQ community. Keeping this in mind, the Pride Centre will provide access to programs and services specific to the Inner West community. This space will grow community wellbeing.

In March 2019, The Inner West Council conducted a survey in regard to the visioning of a Pride Centre. The results found 87% of respondents said it was very or extremely important to have a Pride Centre in the Inner West.

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They also advocate for community leadership to ensure social equality is achieved - not just legislative equality.

They represent the LGBTQIA+ community at the local, state and national level through statewide consultations. They work closely with bisexual, transgender and intersex organisations, and all Members of Parliament to advance the rights of these communities in NSW. They educate the LGBTQIA+ community on how to activate their rights. They provide information to the community, media and individuals on LGBTQIA+ rights and areas of discrimination. They refer clients to legal and welfare services and direct them to ways to enforce their rights.

They empower the community to take action in the push for equality.

The GLRL runs volunteer working groups which organise campaigns and events highlighting equality issues.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The GLRL requires volunteers with all kinds of skills, interests and talents to help on an ongoing or one-off basis. By filling out their online form you will be added to their database of volunteers and receive updates on upcoming volunteering opportunities.

Volunteer opportunities include: - Helping out at Mardi Gras season events, including marching in the parade with us or helping out at Fair Day - Getting involved in campaigns – writing letters, submissions and emails to politicians - Helping staff fundraising cloakrooms at gay and lesbian parties - Being involved in ongoing working groups - Being a member of the committee of management.

More info: https://glrl.org.au/volunteer-2/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Oxfam

Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Canberra, Adelaide

Afghanistan Crisis Oxfam has been implementing women’s economic empowerment programs in Afghanistan for six years with the support of the Australian Government. The agency is calling for Afghan citizens who have worked with international NGOs, women’s rights activists, human rights defenders, LGBTIQ+ people and advocates, media, women and girls, and members of ethnic and religious minority groups to be provided with urgent assistance if they seek to leave the country for fear of persecution.

Oxfam joined more than 300 organisations signing onto a joint letter outlining seven urgent actions the Government should take to respond to the growing crisis in Afghanistan.

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ABOUT

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Last year, Oxfam Australia’s work reaches approximately 4.64 million people in 28 countries.

Volunteers can work in the office, chatting to supporters, researching programs, or assisting the campaigns team. Volunteers can also join an Oxfam group and meet people with a common interest in social justice and sustainable development.

Oxfam Australia is a not-for-profit, secular, community-based aid and development organisation.

An affilate of Oxfam International, their work includes long-term developmental projects, responding to emergencies, and campaigning to improve the lives of disadvantaged people around the world.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Work includes: - Advocating for just and sustainable economies for people and planet - Empowering women, girls, and nonbinary people to shape the world they live in - Backing communities leading the way out of the climate crisis to a fairer future - Working in solidarity with Australia’s First Peoples towards justice, equality, and self-determination.

- Working in partnership with communities and local organisations to drive the greatest possible impact in addressing poverty and inequality.

Oxfam invites students to volunteer.

Volunteers work in a range of areas, including: - Customer service; - Research; - Editing; - Events; - Finance, and; - Human resources.

University students can also gain unpaid internship placements at Oxfam.

For more information: https://www.oxfam.org.au/getinvolved/volunteer-with-us/ internship-vacancies/ For volunteer and internship vacancies, visit: https://app.betterimpact.com/ PublicEnterprise/197d61ec-1ab2461c-8d54-9699092721b7

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC)

Sydney

Same Sex Marriage In September 2017 PIAC challenged in the High Court the decision of the Commonwealth government to hold a postal survey on same sex marriage. PIAC brought the case (the Wilkie case) on behalf of Andrew Wilkie, the Independent member of Parliament for the Tasmanian electorate of Denison; Felicity Marlowe, a Melbourne mother in a same-sex relationship with three children, and advocate for Rainbow Families; and PFLAG Brisbane (‘Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays’), with their national Spokesperson Shelley Argent. The case was ultimately lost by PIAC, but provides a useful demonstation of the kind pf public interest work they are involved in.

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ABOUT

PIAC is an independent, nonprofit organisation that works with people and communities who are marginalised and facing disadvantage. The organisation’s purpose is described as working to “”build a fairer, stronger society by helping to change laws, policies and pratices that cause injustice and inequality”.

The organisation’s curent priorities include: - Equality and non-discrimination - First Nations Justice - Reducing Homelessness - Climate Change and Social Justice - A fairer NDIS - Government accountability - Fair-use of police powers - Equal access to health care for asylum seekers - Sustainable, affordable eneergy and water for households

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Work at PIAC can involve: - Legal advice and representation, specialising in test cases and strategic casework; - Research, analysis, and policy development; and - Advocacy for systems change and public interest outcomes

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

PIAC offer unpaid PLT placements to students who have completed, or as close to finishing, their law degree.

Students must commit to three days per week for 60 days.

PLTs are supervised by a Senior Solicitor within the strategic litigation team, and have an opportunity to work with lawyers and policy officers across our organisation.

The major projects currently being undertaken by PIAC with a strong legal component include the generalist strategic litigation practice and the Indigenous Justice Program.

The Volunteer PLT Placement contributes to the provision of a successful, innovative, and responsive legal practice through assisting with PIAC’s telephone information and advice service and with PIAC’s litigation and associated policy and law reform, training and administrative work.

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Unions NSW

Sydney

Eight Hour Days Unions NSW were part of the initial push to make sure the Eight Hour Day was extended to all workers, not just skilled tradespeople.

They also were instrumental in establishing the first work-based childcare centre in Australia.

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ABOUT

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The Jobs Board of Unions NSW can be found here: https://www.unionsnsw.org.au/jobboard/

Unions NSW is the peak body for the state’s trade unions, representing over 600,000 union members across the state. Unions NSW campaign in workplaces to ensure union members get a fair a go, with decent wages and conditions. They argue publicly for policies and laws that support the rights of working people. Unions NSW is funded by its members and not through government.

Unions NSW negotiates with government and employers around decent wages and working conditions and better social services. They also campaign for policies and laws that give working people a “fair go” at work, in their retirement, and in their communities.

Employees work for a number of Unions and Divisions acorss NSW. Employees may also have the chance to find work to represent unions across Australia.

Roles include: - division organisers - industrial organisers - payroll managers

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Voiceless

ABOUT

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Voiceless is the home of animal law and animal protection education, working to educate and inspire the next generation of change makes to think critically and make positive changes for animals.

Find more information here: https://voiceless.org.au/animal-law/ animal-law-services/

Since 2004, Voiceless has been at the forefront of the animal protection movement.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Australia-wide

ALE and APE The Animal Law Education (ALE) is a multi-faceted program that supports, develops and delivers animal law education for law schools and the burgeoning lawyers studying at them. Through the law, Voiceless can seek better protection for animals.

The Animal Protection Education (APE) encourages high school students to think critically about animal protection.

Voiceless provides teachers with free, professionally developed and beautifully designed resources, which allow them to deliver complete lessons in the classroom.

APEs are created by educators for educators and aligned with the Australian high school curriculum.

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Voiceless works to empower and mainstream the animal protection movement, shine a light on cruel industry practices, advance legal protection for animals, raise public awareness, and increase animal protection in science and technology.

Voiceless is not a law practice and is unable to provide any type of legal advice.

Due to the pandemic, Voiceless are not currently accepting applications for volunteering. However, they do provide a comprehensive guide to other volunteering opportunities at other animal law organisations.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Voiceless offers part-time and fulltime employment. Work revolves around fundraising, communications, marketing and operations Opportunities to work at Voiceless appear on jobs boards such as Ethical Jobs: https://www.ethicaljobs.com.au

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Youth Action

ABOUT

Youth Action (formerly YAPA) is the peak organisation representing young people and youth services in NSW. They respond to social and political agendas relating to young people and the youth services sector, and provides proactive leadership and advocacy, shaping the agenda on issues affecting young people and youth services.

Sydney Youth and Mental Health At Youth Action’s What’s Up West?

2013 youth conference, Western Sydney’s young people identified youth mental health as an issue of particular concern for them.

Members of Outburst! Western Sydney Youth Action Group also identified that one of their biggest problems was that many of their friends were experiencing poor mental health but they felt they lacked the skills to help them.

While they acknowledged the importance of seeking professional help, they felt there was a role they could play in supporting their friend as well.

Youth Action’s Friend2Friend initiative addresses this problem by providing workshops for young people to develop an understanding of youth mental health issues; learn different strategies to help a friend experiencing poor mental health; and gain an awareness of the importance of self-care when supporting others with mental health concerns.

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WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Youth Action: - monitors and responds to government policies and proposals affecting young people - promotes and advocates on issues affecting young people and youth services - brings young people and youth workers together to act on issues affecting them - works to raise a positive profile of young people in the media and in the community - provides training, forums, and conferences to young people and youth workers - provides information and referral - produces a range of resources, publications and newsletters “

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Due to the pandemic, Youth Action are currently not accepting internship applications.

More information can be found here: https://www.youthaction.org.au/ internships_student_placements

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES Full-time paid positions are advertised on the Youth Action website.

You can find the link here: http://www.youthaction.org.au/ work_with_us

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Reconciliation NSW

Sydney Uluru Statement from the Heart Reconciliation NSW supports the Uluru Statement from the Heart and the From the Heart campaign for a Voice to Parliament enabled by the constitution.

The Uluru Statement from the Heart, based on the direction of the 12 First Nations Regional Dialogues, is the continuation of calls over many decades by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to move past Australia’s colonial legacy by being recognised and heard in their own countries, and with the right and capacity to practice selfdetermination.

It outlines a series of reforms – Voice, Treaty, Truth – where a constitutionally enshrined ‘First Nations Voice’ which would be able to speak into Parliament is supported a Makarrata Commission to supervise a process for both agreement making between governments and First Nations, and historical truth-telling.

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ABOUT

Reconciliation NSW is an independent, not-for-profit organisation. Established in 2001, Reconciliation NSW is the lead body for reconciliation in New South Wales, inspiring and enabling all Australians to build relationships, respect, and trust between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians.

Reconciliation NSW is a member of the Australian Reconciliation Netwok, whom they partner with to deliver reconciliation outcomes acoss the country.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Work Includes - Connecting individuals, schools, and organisations to resources and services relating to reconciliation - Supporting an independent network of Local Reconciliation Groups, hosting a range of events and activities to advance reconciliation in their communties.

- Connecting schools with Aboriginal Elders, writers, and educators - Working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders to advocate and influence policy discussion to advance social justice, equity, and self-determination.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES Reconciliation NSW accepts applications to volunteer. If interested, send a CV and a brief description of how you would like to be involved to info@ reconciliationnsw.org.au

Volunteers are required for at least one business day a week for a mininum of 2-3 months.

Work as a volunteer can include: - Data entry/administration - IT skills - Strategic and business planning - Communication/social media and fundraising - Business development and management - Submission writing - Graphic design - Photography and video editing

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers

ABOUT

Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers, established more than 120 years ago, is a modern firm built on strong foundations of providing robust advocacy and expert advice for their clients. With a focus on personal injury compensation law, the firm is well respected for being there for clients when it matters.

Sydney CBD, Parramatta, Campbelltown, Newcastle, The firm is comprised of legal practitioners specialising in litigation Raymond Terrace, and dispute resolution, property, Tuggerah and employment & industrial relations and plaintiff personal injury law.

Wollongong, ACT and Melbourne WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Recent Projects An area of Personal Injury Compensation law you may not have considered is work for people who are a part of the Stolen Generation. Carroll & O’Dea have a team dedicated to achieving compensation for these individuals. In line with this, as part of International Women’s Day celebrations, the firm made a donation to ‘Happy Boxes’, an organisation which provides selfcare products to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.

Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers also host monthly ‘Tuesday Lunchtime Speakers’, featuring distinguished guests and friends of the legal sector. Some recent and notable speakers include Renée Bianchi, the President of the Women Lawyers Association of NSW, and Richard Harvey, the 2020 President of the Law Society of NSW.

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At Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers, solicitors manage a wide range of legal issues for clients, compiled into ‘Worlds’: - Business - Personal - Community & Associations - Compensation Their clients comprise a broad cross-section of corporate, personal, government, not for profit and SME.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers offer positions for Law Clerks, Paralegals and Legal Assistants. The perfect place to get your foot in the door, these positions will see you working alongside specialists in the field, supporting them in making a profound difference in the lives of our clients.

Keep an eye on their careers page for opportunities: https://www.codea.com.au/our-firm/ careers/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Hear from one of their junior lawyers, Yue Lucy Han, as to why she chose Carroll & O’Dea, and what her experience at the firm has been like so far: “I began my legal career at Carroll &O’Dea Lawyers as a law graduate.

I chose this firm for its culture – one that focuses on client service, innovation and investment in it’s people. No two days look the same in my role as a Business lawyer as our practise spans across transactional to dispute resolution matters.”

More information: https://www.codea.com.au/our-firm/ careers/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Maurice Blackburn Lawyers

ABOUT

Founded in 1919, Maurice Blackburn Lawyers was founded by Maurice Blackburn. The firm is an Australian plaintiff law firm and has represented clients in a number of high-profile cases since its establishment.

Today, Maurice Blackburn is a national firm with over 30 offices throughout Australia and more than 1000 staff.

Sydney CBD and Parramatta

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Maurice Blackburn has a wide range of student opportunities, from Law Clerks, to legal assistants to paralegals.

To check regular vacacies, go to: https://www.mauriceblackburn.com. au/careers/careers-with-us/legalsupport/

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Specialisations include: - Injury law - Class actions - Superannuation claims - Insurance claims - Financial services disputes - Wills and estates - Employment law “

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Social Justice Accolades Maurice Blackburn has received numerous awards, including Large Law Firm of the Year Award at the 2018 Victorian Legal Awards, and the 2012 Children’s Law Award for its work in social justice.

Gaining entrance to the Graduate Program at Maurice Blackburn means an exciting start to your legal career in one of Australia’s leading social justice law firms. The 12 month Graduate Program provides a broad range of training designed to give you insight into all aspects of plaintiff law. The program encourages active participation and contribution which enables you to be rewarded with excellent training opportunities, tangible professional development and an insight into life at Maurice Blackburn. The Program has been specifically designed to combine formal training with invaluable hands-on experience. If required, Maurice Blackburn will also support you to complete Practical Legal Training (PLT), a necessary requirement for admission.

The Program is a national program with Graduates placed across various practice areas and locations nationally. The program will be a 12-month placement with a practice area, giving the ability to create in-depth knowledge and experience in that area of law. You will work closely with senior lawyers and partners, and other internal and external experts, and be able to build lasting relationships through legal networking events. As a Law Graduate we encourage you to shadow experienced lawyers, attend court and client meetings, and even brief counsel.

For more: https://www.mauriceblackburn.com.au/careers/graduates/

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Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Shine Lawyers

Major cities in NSW, VIC, QLD

Commitment to Gender Equality Shine Lawyers has been recognised for its professionalism and commitment to social justice.

In 2010, the firm won the National Minister’s Award for Outstanding Equal Employment Opportunity Initiative/Result for the Advancement of Women at EOWA’s Business Achievement Awards. In 2012, the firm won the Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI) Diversity Award for Gender Equality in the Workplace.

ABOUT

Shine Lawyers is one of Australia’s largest and most well-renowned law firms, having been active in the country for over 40 years. The firm specialises in personal injury compensation law, however it has also expanded its coverage to personal negligence, class actions, abuse law (i.e. law relating to emotional, physical or sexual abuse) and workers’ compensation.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? Working at Shine Lawyers is varied and involves reaching out to clients through a variety of legal services. The firm is composed of diverse teams with expertise in the aforementioned fields, and work is supplemented by a wide range of benefits to employees, including study assistance.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Legal role types include: - Administration and Secretarial - Paralegal - Solicitor and Law Clerks - Branch/Department Manager - Legal Partner/Special Counsel - General Manager Support roles include: - Accounting and Finance - Call Centre and Customer Service - Corproate Services, Procurement and Maintenance - Human Resources, Learning & Development and Recruitment - Information Technology and Knowledge Management - Marketing and Communications More info: https://www.shine.com.au/careers/ role-types

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STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Casual roles are open for Law Clerk positions. Law Clerks perform the following duties: - Developing strong relationships with clients, providing regular and effective communication whilst managing the client’s expectations - Providing accurate legal advice in a professional, ethical and effective manner to suit client needs, whilst incorporating the firm’s ideology - Obtaining maximum compensation for clients through opening new files - Progressing files in a timely manner and resolving files with professional fees billed in accordance with targets - Utilising internal case management systems, including Elite, effectively and in accordance with Shine requirements - Drafting legal documents in a concise and effective manner - Seeking professional guidance and development from senior solicitors and managers where appropriate - Taking an active role in building the external profile of the branch/department More info: https://www.shine.com.au/careers

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Slater and Gordon Lawyers

Across NSW and Victoria

ABOUT

A law firm founded in Melbourne, Australia in the 1930s, Slater and Gordon Lawyers is a major name in the Australian legal professional landscape. The public law firm possesses an impressive number of offices, with over 40 currently active in Australia, along with shares quoted on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). The firm specialises in personal injury and work related matters.

The firm also boasts an impressive international reach. In 2012, the firm expanded to the UK, and is now one of the largest firms for consumer law in the UK.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Lawyers Weekly Australian Law Awards Lawyers at Slater and Gordon have been nationally recognised for their work. In 2017, seven lawyers from the firm were nominated as finalists for the Lawyers Weekly Australian Law Awards. The following, three lawyers representing the firm were nominated for the same accolade.

Due to the variety of work available at Slater and Gordon Lawyers, a career with the firm enables individuals to hone their skills in areas such as Finance, Marketing, Human Resources and Information Technology, among others. These departments enable the firm to engage effectively with pressing social justice issues in the country

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The Paralegal Program is a brilliant opportunity to contribute to a variety of exciting and challenging cases.

Commencing with an 18-month contract working within a specific practice area of law, it can lead to the offer of a permanent position within the firm. Law students work with senior lawyers to stand up for the rights of their clients and gain handson experience providing legal services to everyday Australians.

More info: https://www.slatergordon.com.au/ careers/law-students

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GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES Diciplines include: - Legal - Finance - Marketing - Human Resources - Information Technology

More info: https://slaterandgordon. csod.com ux/ats careersite/4home?c=slaterandgordon

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Marsdens Law Group

Sydney (CBD, Camden, Campbelltown, Liverpool and Oran Park)

ABOUT

Established in 1968, Marsdens Law Group operates in 5 offices throughout Sydney. In the area of social justice, Marsdens Law Group offers legal services relating to injury compensation, not-for-profit organisations, corporate governance and class actions. Matters range from broad (e.g. medical negligence, victims of crime compensation) to niche (dust diseases).

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO? The firm’s size allows for a varied set of roles and positions within its offices. Roles include Partners, Solicitors, Personal Assistants, Paralegals, Clerks, Receptionists and Administrative Assistants. Marsdens Law Group is openly and proudly committed to providing a work-life balance for its employees.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES Multilingual Staff Marsdens Law Group acknowledges Australia’s increasingly multicultural society, and the firm is proud of its linguistic diversity. Staff members within the firm can speak languages such as Arabic, Mandarin, Spanish and Thai, and they utilise the firm’s linguistic diversity to assist clients with translation.

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Summer Clerkships: Marsdens Law Group is able to provide temporary employment for students who are presently studying law during the November to February University holiday break.

Students are able to enquire by sending an email to Human Resources for Marsdens Law Group.

More info: https://www.marsdens.net.au/aboutus/careers/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES Graduates get to work in a wide range of matters, including: - Commercial law - Criminal law - Dispute resolution and litigation - Family law - Injury compensation law - Local government, planning and environmental law - Property law - Wills and estate planning - Property development

Opportunities frequently arise for employment with Marsdens within the administration of the firm whether as Personal Assistants, Paralegals, Accounts, Clerks, Receptionists or Administrative Assistants.

More info: https://www.marsdens.net.au/aboutus/careers/

CHAPTER III:

The Bar and Judiciary

CAREERS IN THE BAR AND JUDICIARY Building a remarkable career in the judicial branch of government requires ambition and perseverance.

According to the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, a career in the judiciary requires candidates to possess a range of abilities and qualities, including a high level of knowledge and expertise, intellectual and analytical ability, a capacity to work under pressure, an ability to maintain authority and inspire respect, and a willingness in ongoing judicial education.

CLCs sometimes receive government funding or grants, but largely rely on donors. They hence have limited resources and often have very strict eligibility criteria for clients. For example, most CLCs will not offer employment law advice to people with a salary of $80,000 or more.

The services that a CLC provides varies depending on the capacity of the Centre, but generally includes legal advice, legal referrals, legal representation, community education and law reform and policy work.

NGOs is a broad term that encompasses a number of social justice organisations, including CLCs. Other organisations we have included in this Guide include law-specific NGOs (such as the Australian Pro Bono Centre), or NGOs that have established a legal department (such as Cancer Council).

Opportunities for students and graduates Students are able to gain work experience by applying for tipstaff or court associate positions. These roles may last indefinitely or for a specified amount of time. Note that these roles are offered by courts as well as barristers’ chambers For a list of barristers’ chambers, click on this link: https://nswbar.asn.au/using-barristers/chambers.

Legal tipstaves and researchers conduct often complex legal research on behalf of judges. This would generally involve a detailed analysis of case law and an examination of legal developments in areas where precedents may not be well defined. These skills may be used in drafting background papers and assisting judicial officers in their work.

Associates provide broadly based executive support to enable the judge to meet obligations both within the court and to external stakeholders, including legal practitioners, litigants in person and members of the public.

Applications tend to be highly competitive, but this will depend on the court and the position which is being applied for. The application process may include: - Submitting a cover letter and CV (possibly along with an academic transcript) - Referee checks - One-on-one interview For more information on these types of positions, please check this link as a general guide from the Supreme Court of NSW: http://www.supremecourt.justice.nsw.gov.au/Pages/sco2_aboutus/sco2_careers.aspx#associate_roles.

You can find more information about how to prepare for the application process at the end of this Guide.

The Bar Exam The distinctive feature of practice at the bar is advocacy before the courts and tribunals. Accordingly, the Bar Council sets an exam in subjects related specifically to advocacy: legal ethics for barristers; aspects of evidence; and practice and procedure for barristers. Admission to the Supreme Court is not a pre-requisite for sitting the Bar Exam, but it is necessary to pass this exam before commencing the Bar Practice Course.

More information on the NSW Bar Exams can be found here: https://nswbar.asn.au/becoming-a-barrister/bar-exams.

You may also refer to the final section of this Guide for a brief overview on the process of becoming a barrister in New South Wales.

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Associate and Tipstaff Positions

NSW

Tips for Aspiring Tipstaves and Associates Writer and solicitor Stella Kim published an article about her experience working in the judicial branch of government. She writes, “Do your research. Find a judge whose interests/legal speciality align with yours. Beyond a judge’s swearing in speech, you could also consider their daily court lists (found online), previous judgments and any other extracurricular lectures/speeches.”

You can read her article here: https://www.law.unsw.edu.au/ news/tips-aspiringtipstaves-andassociates

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ABOUT

Being an associate or tipstaff, allows students to gain valuable experience working alongside judges, barristers and solicitors. The District Court of NSW, Federal Court of Australia and High Court of Australia offer roles as a judge’s associate or as a legal researcher. The Supreme Court of NSW offers tipstaff and legal researcher roles. These roles may also be available in other courts and tribunals.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Tipstaves are employed as part of the personal chambers staff of a particular judge. They provide legal research, in-court duties and other support for the judge. Tipstaves are expected to possess highly developed communicaiton and interpersonal skills and proficiency in the use of IT. They must also be able to professional display tact, confidentiality and confidence in their interactions with court users, practitioners, the judiciary and other court staff. On the other hand, associates closely accompany judges, and are expected to deal with adminstrative issues in an effective and timely manner.

STUDENT/GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Positions as tipstaves or researchers are extremely popular and are therefore highly competitive.

Candidates applying for positions are expected to display the following skills and abilities: - Highly developed legal research, conceptual and analytical skills - Excellent organisational skills - Strong interpersonal skills - High level computer and keyboard skills Law graduates applying for tipstaff or researcher positions are expected to have a strong academic record in their law studeis. Highly developed legal research skills and involvement in extracurricular activities or voluntary work in legal areas are also highly desirable. Tipstaff positions are generally not advertised and the selection of tipstaves is conducted directly by the judge(s).

For opportunities in the Supreme Court of NSW, see this link: https://www.supremecourt.justice. nsw.gov.au/Pages/sco2_aboutus/ sco2_careers.aspx

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

NSW Bar Association

ABOUT

The New South Wales Bar Association is a professional association for practising barristers and associate members, such as clerks and judges.

The Association promotes the public good in relation to justice and the provision of legal services.

This is achieved by promoting and maintaining the highest standards of excellence among local practising barristers.

NSW

Court Technology Assistance for Barristers and Court Participants In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the New South Wales Bar Association has prepared a Protocol for In-Person Hearings while Social Distancing. It is designed to apply to all in-person hearings and is intended to provide guidance to practitioners who are required to appear in court in person during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Bar Association also assists those required to use online hearings as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Their Innovation and Technology Committee provides email assistance to members having connectivity issues.

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In pursuit of this objective, the New South Wales Bar Association: - Carries out its regulatory functions through the work of the Bar Council and its committees - Co-ordinates pro bono or reducedcost legal services to underprivileged sections of the community - Operates the Bar Library - Appoints senior counsel (SCs), barristers who have demonstrated outstanding skill as advocates and advisers in the administration of justice - Promotes diversity and equality at the bar through its Best Practice Guidelines and other policies - Monitors educational qualifications and entry requirements via its Education Committee - Organises the Bar Exams and the Continuing Professional Development Program (CPD) - Supports the standards of practising barristers by running the Bar Practice Course, the Ethical Guidance Scheme and the Mentoring Program - Assists in matters of professional discipline of members and the resolution of complaints against them through the work of Professional Conduct Committees and the Bar Council - Maintains a Professional Standards Scheme

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Barristers are independent, specialist advocates who are trained to appear in a courtroom, in commissions of inquiry and in alternative forms of dispute resolution. Barristers may also provide objective advice on particular legal problems for clients, solicitors, businesses and governments. Barristers act as mediators and arbitrators as well as conducting other dispute resolution processes.

STUDENT/GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Students may work as research assistants for barristers.

The NSW Bar website has a database of barristers who you can contact to enquire about opportunities and work experience: https://find-a-barrister.nswbar.asn.au

CHAPTER IV:

Public International Law

CAREERS IN PUBLIC INTERNATIONAL LAW Exciting and ever-changing, the field of public international law opens you to opportunities for working abroad. The field boasts an incredibly diverse network of organisations, all of which possess unique qualities that suit different interests, passions and skills.

International NGOs, global banks, and international courts and agencies make up the bulk of opportunities presented in this publication. Many of these organisations will allow you to gain work experience outside of Australia. Therefore, relocating to another country for work purposes is a possibility that should be acknowledged when considering this career path. If you are interested in diplomacy, international relations, human rights advocacy or international finance, this field may be highly suitable for you.

Opportunities for students and graduates Many of the public international law opportunities listed in this Guide pertain to specific organs under the United Nations which boast comprehensive and dynamic internship programs which allow candidates to specialise in topics of their interest. Skills and extracurricular activities which may strengthen your application include: - Public speaking / debating skills / Advocacy - Participating in IR-related events, conferences and projects (e.g. Model United Nations) - Learning one or more languages - Writing / Publication experience - Postgraduate study in international law, international relations or a similar field.

These activities would help to demonstrate your competence in key areas of diplomacy and shows a genuine interest in the field.

Internships and Graduate programs often lead to permanent employment in the diplomatic and international legal space. They can last from several weeks to a few months, with the possibility of long-term employment upon completion. It should be noted that a number of these programs are not directly related to law, but rather serve as foundational pursuits which will introduce you to the inner workings of reputable organisations and are a stepping stone to other roles within these bodies.

Application processes may vary greatly. As a foundation, you may consult the CV and Cover Letterwriting section at the end of this Guide to help you with preparing a strong application.

Public international law is incredibly broad. Working in this field will expose you to alternatives to working as an international lawyer. These include: - Diplomat - Foreign correspondent - NGO employee - Policy advisor

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

International Court of Arbitration

France (with Secretariat offices located in Hong Kong, São Paolo, Abu Dhabi and New York)

Knowledge 2 Go ICC Knowledge 2 Go is the International Chamber of Commerce’s e-commerce platform.

It offers a wide range of ICC offerings from produced by ICC’s Knowledge Solutions experts and regional offices (known as national committees) in over 90 countries and regions worldwide

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ABOUT

Established in 1923, the International Court of Arbitration is the leading arbitral institution in the world.

It operates as a vital part of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and it resolves issues in the fields of international commerce, trade and investment.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Employees at the ICC perform various tasks. A central role of an ICC employee is to ensure that ICC Rules are being met during the handling of each case, and to ensure ease of overcoming procedural obstacles for parties to a case.

Other roles and tasks include: Confirming, appointing and replacing arbitrators, as well as deciding on any challenges made against them - Monitoring the arbitral process to ensure that it is performed with speed and efficiency - Scrutinising and approving all arbitral awards to reinforce quality and enforceability - Setting, managing and, if necessary, adjusting fees and advances - Overseeing emergency proceedings before the start of the arbitration

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The ICC offers various internships, namely: - Events Coordination Internship - International Court of Arbitration (Hong Kong) Internship - Dispute Resolution Services Internship - Project Coordination Internship - International Court of Arbitration (New York) Internship You can find more details on each internship and apply here: https://iccwbo.org/careers/ internship-opportunities/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

As a leading international arbitral institution, the ICC Court attracts a growing caseload from all over the world. The cases are administered by specialised teams with knowledge and experience of the major legal and cultural traditions. Each team is headed by a Counsel and includes two or three Deputy Counsel. The post is based at the ICC International Secretariat in Paris.

Types of roles include: - Deputy Counsel - Communications Officer - Trade and Finance Director More can be found here: https://iccwbo.org/careers/jobopportunities/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

International Court of Justice

The Netherlands

ABOUT

Being one of the six principal organs of the United Nations, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) provides a platform for states to settle international disputes. The rulings within this Court, as well as the advisory opinions which stem from this institution, form crucial sources of international law. All UN members are parties to the ICJ statute, and so the ICJ’s rulings, although not absolutely binding on states, have a profound influence on the ongoing development of global legal affairs.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Professional staff members are appointed by the ICJ. Employees for the ICJ are part of the Registry, which is a network of numerous departments and divisions which help the ICJ effectively perform its functions.

These departments are wide-ranging, and include the Department of Legal Matters, Publications Division, Finance Division and the Judges’ Secretaries.

Judges All 15 judges hail from 15 different countries. Currently these include: USA, Russian Federation, Slovakia, France, Morocco, Brazil, Somalia, China, Uganda, India, Jamaica, Lebanon, Japan and Germany.

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STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The International Court of Justice offers internships of one to three months to students and young professionals who are in the early stages of their careers. The internship is an opportunity for them to put their knowledge and experience into practice, while performing certain tasks for the Court under the supervision of Registry officials.

Given the size of the organization, only a limited number of internships can be offered throughout the year.

Placements are, however, possible in all departments and divisions of the Registry. The working languages of the Court are English and French.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) recruits staff in both the Professional (P) and General Service (GS) categories.

The working languages of the Court are English and French. Professional staff members are appointed by the Court on a proposal by the Registrar; General Service staff are appointed by the Registrar with the approval of the President. Short-term staff, in both the Professional and General Service categories, are appointed by the Registrar. Registry staff are subject to Staff Regulations approved by the Court.

Around 100 people currently work in the Registry.

The Registry is divided into the following departments and divisions: - The Department of Legal Matters - The Department of Linguistic Matters - The Information Department - The Administrative and Personnel Division - The Finance Division - The Publications Division - The Library of the Court - The Archives, Indexing and Distribution Division - The Text Processing and Reproduction Division - The Information Technology Division - The Security and General Assistance Division - The Judges’ Secretaries.

You can find the application guidelines here: https://www.icj-cij.org/en/ employment

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

International Criminal Court (ICC)

The Netherlands Fostering Cooperation, Complementarity and Universality Since the Rome Statute entered into force in 2002, the International Criminal Court (“ICC” or “Court”) has continuously worked to promote cooperation, complementarity and universality, as critical components for effective functioning of the Rome Statute legal system. The Court has done so in a variety of ways, including through the organization of or participation in high-level regional cooperation seminars and symposiums, technical events to enhance cooperation, and events with focus on the legal profession. To date, the Court has organized over 50 events, gathering over 1000 external participants from more than 90 States Parties and nonStates parties to the Rome Statute, alongside over 40 international and regional organizations, national bar associations and civil society organizations.

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ABOUT

The International Criminal Court hears cases relating to the gravest offences against the international community.

Based in The Hague, Netherlands, the ICC was established from the Rome Statute and is a vital institution built to combat injustice and violence.

The International Criminal Court investigates and, where warranted, tries individuals charged with the gravest crimes of concern to the international community: genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and the crime of aggression.

The Court is participating in a global fight to end impunity, and through international criminal justice, the Court aims to hold those responsible accountable for their crimes and to help prevent these crimes from happening again.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Employees at the ICC perform a wide variety of tasks.

Roles include: - Working as a legal adviser in the Pre-Trial, Trial and Appeals Divisions under the general authority of the President of the Division and the direct supervision of the Head, providing support and advice on questions of procedural and substantive law.

- Handling and preserving evidence and legal documents to be used in legal proceedings - Planning the training activities of Court staff - Attending committee meetings and conferences - Ensuring the continued development of the quality and efficiency of legal research and the efficient use of electronic research tools.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The International Criminal Court offers approximately 200 internships per calendar year for students and graduates across various fields (including but not limited to) law; human resources; translation and interpretation; IT management; and social psychology.

These internships are offered as an opportunity for candidates in the early stages of their career to gain exposure to the day-to-day working environment of the ICC, and to put their knowledge and experience into practise under the supervision of working professionals. Interns are required to work full time for a period between three and six months (to be agreed prior to commencement).

Internship placements will not be extended beyond six months.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES Legal and non-legal roles are open for applications: https://www.icc-cpi.int/jobs

Legal roles include: legal officer, legal adviser Non-legal roles include: external relations and cooperation officer.

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea

Germany Stepping Forward Despite the Pandemic While the COVID-19 pandemic clearly poses a challenge to the Tribunal’s work, steps were taken to ensure that the administrative session of the Tribunal at the end of September 2020, the swearingin of the newly-elected Judges and the hearing in the Dispute concerning delimitation of the maritime boundary between Mauritius and Maldives in the Indian Ocean (Mauritius/Maldives) in October 2020 took place as planned.

These events and public sittings were held in a hybrid format, in which some participants took part in person, and others remotely. To ensure public access to the hearing, a livestream was provided on the Tribunal’s website. The Tribunal is determined to meet the challenge presented by the pandemic and to adapt in order to fulfil its mandate, dealing expeditiously with the cases currently pending before it as well as any new cases that may be submitted

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ABOUT

The International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) was established in 1982 by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which has over 160 signatories. The ITLOS is an international judicial organ designed to deal with matters relating to all ocean space, its uses and resources, and disputes over the interpretation and application of the UNCLOS.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Interns for the ITLOS work in a variety of departments, namely: - The Legal Office: Carrying out research on a variety of legal issues, preparing legal documents and reports. Interns may conduct research on specific topics and give an oral presentation to the Legal Office.

- The Library: Navigating and maintaining online databases, ensuring ease of access to documents.

- Linguistic Services: Assisting with the translation of legal materials in one of the working languages of the ITLOS, i.e. English and French.

- Press Office: Engaging in public relations to encompany the Tribunal’s vision for a global reach with interesting and meaningful publicity.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Approximately twenty internships are available each year for young government officials or students of law, international relations, public relations, political science, library science and translation. The programme is designed to give participants the opportunity to gain an understanding of the work and functions of the Tribunal and to enable the Tribunal and its members to benefit from the assistance of persons with relevant knowledge and skills in areas within the scope of activities of the Tribunal. Participants in the programme are expected to be able to contribute to the work of the Tribunal in fields such as the law of the sea, public international law, international organizations and international relations, political science, public information, publications and library science, and translation.

You can find the opportunity here: https://www.itlos.org/en/the-registry/ training/internship-programme/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES The aforementioned internship opportunity for students is also available to recent graduates and young professionals.

Public International Law

Organisations

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Asian Development Bank (ADB)

Phillipines

ABOUT

ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) envisions a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty in the region. Despite the region’s many successes, it remains home to a large share of the world’s poor: 263 million living on less than $1.90 a day and 1.1 billion on less than $3.20 a day.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Poverty Alleviation A primary objective of the ADB is the reduction of poverty and the alleviation of socio-economic hardship across countries in the Asia-Pacific region. With the onset of economic turmoil, it is crucial that international actors such as the ADB take the initiative in extending economic assistance to the countries that require such support.

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ADB assists its members, and partners, by providing loans, technical assistance, grants, and equity investments to promote social and economic development. ADB maximizes the development impact of its assistance by facilitating policy dialogues, providing advisory services, and mobilizing financial resources through cofinancing operations that tap official, commercial, and export credit sources.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The Internship Program is a projectoriented learning opportunity for graduate students to gain experience through research assignments based on ADB’s current operational needs.

ADB advertises internship assignments twice a year and welcomes motivated, open-minded, and self-directed individuals to apply.

The internship program offers the opportunity to: - Work in a major international development organization - Work collaboratively with experienced professionals from over 50 different countries - Gain a deeper understanding of development finance and the impact of the work ADB does - Contribute to ADB’s business through research outputs More info: https://www.adb.org/work-with-us/ careers/internship-program

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

At ADB, economists, engineers, lawyers, accountants, administrators, editors, statisticians, agriculturists, and various specialists with expertise and experience in different sectors of development come together to fight poverty in Asia and the Pacific.

More info: https://www.adb.org/work-with-us/ careers

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

International Monetary Fund (IMF)

ABOUT

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an international organisation that is composed of 190 countries.

Its aim is to encourage cooperation between countries when it comes to ensuring that the global exchange and facilitation of currency remains stable, regulated and closely observed.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

United States

Global Reach The IMF is a significant actor in international affairs as it regulates the system of exchange rates and international payments that enables countries and their citizens to transfer money with one another.

In 2012, the IMF’s mandate was updated in order to include all macroeconomic and financial sector issues that shape global stability are included in the IMF’s field of concern. The IMF performs three main functions/ services: - Economic Surveillance (i.e. of the global market) - Lending (to member states experiencing existing or potential problems in order to stabilise their financial reserves) - Capacity Development (to modernise economic policies and institutions, and to train people).

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Professional staff members are appointed by the ICJ on a proposal by the Registrar. Employees for the ICJ are part of the Registry, a network of numerous departments and divisions which help the ICJ effectively perform its functions. These departments are wide-ranging, and include the Department of Legal Matters, Publications Division, Finance Division and the Judges’ Secretaries.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The IMF recruitment programs for entry-level economists, research assistants, and interns offer the opportunity to work in a variety of departments and to make an immediate contribution to the IMF’s mission while providing a unique platform to launch your career.

Graduates are permitted to apply for the FIP, as well as other entry-level recruitment programs, such as: - The Research Assistant Program - The Economist Program More info: https://www.imf.org/en/About/ Recruitment/workingat-the-imf

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The Fund Internship Program (FIP) is the IMF’s official internship program.

Summer interns gain an insider’s view of the membercountry-focused mandate and critical international work of the IMF. You will build professional networks while you apply your research and analytical skills to help the IMF explore questions of real importance to member countries and to global economic stability.

Whether you see a future for yourself in international organizations or are simply curious about policy and operational work, this is an ideal opportunity to familiarize yourself with both while leveraging your cutting-edge skills and expanding your research experience.

The IMF recruits for the FIP on a global basis with approximately 50 students from around the world joining the IMF each year at their headquarters in Washington, D.C. These paid internships take place between June and October and run for 10 to 12 weeks.

More info: https://www.imf.org/en/About/ Recruitment/working-atthe-imf/fundinternship-program

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Organisation for Economic CoOperation and Development (OECD) France

Champion Mayors for Inclusive Growth Many municipal governments recognize the need to step up to address the challenge of inequalities in an urban context and are mobilising to bring about change. As part of this momentum, in 2016 the OECD launched Champion Mayors for Inclusive Growth, a coalition of mayors dedicated to advancing a more inclusive global agenda.

By exchanging directly with other local leaders worldwide, mayors share strategies and experiences in making cities more inclusive.

ABOUT

The French-based Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) is a well-known intergovernmental organisation founded in 1961. It has 37 member states. As a collective, these member states are considered to be developed economies, and boast an impressively high Human Development Index (HDI). The OECD has been granted United Nations Observer Status.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Working at the OECD mainly revolves around research and policy. There are analysts who draft documents on the economic conditions in each country, and there are writers who draft policy recommendations based on the Organisation’s research.

The OECD offers a comprehensive career development program for its employees. Employees are able to expand their horizons in conferences, workshops and events hosted by the Organisation, participate in French language classes, and complete online courses to develop their personal and professional skills.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

OECD Internship Programme is designed to bring highly qualified and motivated students with diverse backgrounds into the Organisation to work on projects linked to the Strategic Orientations of the Secretary General and to support the corporate functions of the Organisation. Its main goal is to give successful candidates the opportunity to improve their analytical and technical skills in an international environment.

The Internship Programme is open on an on-going basis. Students enrolled at a fully accredited degree programme (Bachelor, Master, PhD) during the entire duration of their internship can apply online. Selected interns are expected to work remotely until further notice.

More info: https://www.oecd.org/careers/ internship-programme/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The Young Associates Programme (YAP) is a two-year programme targeted at recent undergraduates who wish to gain a significant first professional experience in the world of multilateral policymaking, research and analysis. It is designed to act as a springboard for them to target future postgraduate study at top-ranked universities.

The YAP is a 24-month programme designed to expose recent undergraduates to a variety of research and analytical work on major policy areas.

More info: https://www.oecd.org/careers/youngassociate-programme/

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Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

World Trade Organisation (WTO)

ABOUT

The World Trade Organisation (WTO) was formed in January 1995.

It is concerned with matters of trade between nations. The WTO actively engages in the facilitation of goods between member states whilst also operating as a mechanism for the elimination of trade discrimination. Its purpose is to reduce tariffs and other barriers to international trade.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Switzerland

Commitment to Ease of Trade The WTO’s commitment to greater ease of trade is significant, as approximately two-thirds of WTO members are developing countries.

Moreover, WTO membership provides these countries a greater degree of access to markets at lower tariff rates without succumbin to competitive pressure. The WTO’s global influence is further solidified through the fact that the organisation plays a major role in influencing the way in whcih international trade agreements are written, as many trade agreements explicitly mention the WTO as an intermediate dispute-settling body among signatories.

The place of work is at the WTO’s headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.

The WTO Secretariat employs over 600 staff from approximately 80 member countries. In-house roles are diverse. There are lawyers that deal with dispute settlement, and there are analysts that deal with traderelated policy. There are also economists and statisticians that conduct research on a daily basis.

Core functions include: - Dispute settlement lawyers, who assist the WTO by providing legal advice and to conduct research on issues in dispute settlement.

- Trade policy analysts and legal/ economic affairs officers, who deliver technical assistance and training on areas of their specialty.

- Research economists, who undertake research projects and prepare the WTO’s flagship publication, the World Trade Report. Like trade policy analysts and legal/economic affairs officers, research economists also deliver technical assistance and training on areas of their specialty.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The WTO Internship Programme provides an opportunity for postgraduate students from WTO member and observer countries to gain valuable experience from working at the WTO. More info: https://www.wto.org/english/ thewto_e/vacan_e/iypp_e.htm

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The WTO Young Professionals Programme was launched in 2016 as an opportunity for qualified young professionals from developing and least-developed countries that are members of the WTO to enhance their knowledge regarding WTO and international trade issues. The program is part of the Secretariat’s efforts to increase diversity and broaden the representation of the membership.

The selected young professionals are allocated to a specific division of the WTO Secretariat in accordance with the needs and priorities of the organization and based on the areas of interest of the young professional.

The areas of work may include accessions, agriculture, dispute settlement, intellectual property rights, government procurement, competition policy, market access, rules, trade and development, trade and environment, trade in services and investment, trade facilitation, trade policy analysis and trade-related technical assistance. Duration is one year.

More info: https://www.wto.org/english/ thewto_e/vacan_e/ypp_e.htm

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Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC)

Hong Kong

ABOUT

The Asian Human Rights Charter (AHRC) is an independent, nongovernmental institution that promotes human rights education and awareness across Asia. It was founded in 1984 by jurists and human rights activists. As an influential body in the region, the AHRC is committed to garnering attention from citizens within the region and rallying support to ensure relief for victims of human rights violations. The AHRC gives a high regard to each Asian country’s agreement to uphold civil and political rights, as well as economic, social and cultural rights.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Asian Charter The AHRC aims to fulfil specific objectives stipulated in the Asian Charter: “Many Asian states have guarantees of human rights in their constitutions, and many of them have ratified international instruments on human rights.

However, there continues to be a wide gap between rights enshrined in these documents and the abject reality that denies people their rights. Asian states must take urgent action to implement the human rights of their citizens and residents.”

Work opportunities for the AHRC are in Hong Kong. Roles range from administrative to publications.

Moreover, the AHRC produces ‘think tank papers’ as comprehensive guides to the state of human rights in the Asian region.

The AHRC’s research also expands to the exploration of issues in Australia, particularly with regards to the plight of asylum seekers and refugees, as well as Indigenous Australians in custody

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Interns at the AHRC or its sister organisation the ALRC typically support a country or programme desk through case documentation, research and communication assistance.

The AHRC approaches its partner organisations in Asia with which it has a close and long term working relationship and discusses the selection of interns from those organisations. The available internship placements are normally limited to one internship per country per year at this point. Internships for persons from the partner organisations are given priority. For these persons, the AHRC provides accommodation and support while in Hong Kong.

Arrangements for the duration of stay are flexible, but usually the period is 3-4 months.

Interns with a strong legal background, country experience and a strong interest in human rights are preferred. Applications are judged on their individual merits and according to the needs of the AHRC at the time.

Interns must also be prepared to accept assignments to countries in the region with difficult human rights conditions. The number of such selfsupported internships are limited to a very few placements per year.

More info: http://www.humanrights.asia/getinvolved/internship/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates are also welcome to apply to the internship program.

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Human Rights Watch (HRW)

New York and various regional offices (including Sydney) Petitions

One of the HRW’s petitions concerns the need for transparency in an industry which often concels abuse against workers behind the countless layers of textiles produced by workers in developed countries.

The vast majority of workers do not know whom to turn to for improving their working conditions because the brands they make clothes for are kept secret. This lack of transparency allows brands to avoid accountability and fuels abuses against workers.

Transparency benefits workers— they can inform brands when they experience labor abuses.

Transparency also helps brands— they can better take steps to stop and prevent labor abuses.

Currently, 40 companies have committed to the Transparency Pledge, but hundreds continue to hide where they make their clothes.

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ABOUT

Human Rights Watch (HRW) is a prominent international NGO with headquarters in New York City. Built upon a strong tradition of advocating for human rights around the world, the group is composed of about 450 people from many different nations and walks of life. These people have taken up professions such as law and journalism, and are now committed to directing their work towards attracting the attention of governments, armed groups and businesses in order to catalyse change and law reform to address human rights violations.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

As a globally influential think tank, researchers for HRW have investigated countless records of human rights abuses. They have also expanded to researching issues in terrorism, world hunger and discrimination against women, members of the LGBT+ community and people with disabilities. Meanwhile, the Media Department of HRW develops strategies and plans campaigns to further the group’s reach.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

HRW’s Development and Outreach Interns will primarily contribute to outreach and development initiatives, using database, monitoring press coverage, planning events, using social media to promote events, and conducting background desk research. Other projects may be assigned as they arise and match the intern’s interests.

Interns will be available for three months beginning in early-mid October 2021 with the possibility to extend.

Vacancies will appear on the HRW Career Search function as they become available: https://careers.hrw.org/jobs/?job_ type=Internship/Volunteer

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Vacancies for full-time roles will appear on the HRW Career Search function as they become available: https://careers.hrw.org/jobs/?job_ type=Internship/Volunteer

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

International Bar Association

UK (Headquarters) and Regional Offices in the United States, South Korea and Brazil

Power in Numbers Today, the Association is composed of over 80,000 individual lawyers, as well as numerous national and regional bar associations, and law societies. The IBA possesses power in numbers, and releases guidelines on legal practice to make the most of its wide reach and influence.

ABOUT

In the 1940s, the United Nations’ voiced its aim of supporting the administration of justice. In response to this aspiration, members of various national bar associations congregated in New York in 1947 to establish the International Bar Association.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The International Bar Association prides itself in its ability to bring together people from different legal backgrounds through its organised meetings and discussions. The IBA is grouped into two divisions: - Officers of the Legal Practice Division of the International Bar Association facilitates the exchange of information about the practice of law in different countries. Members of the Association are highly encouraged to partake in the regular discussions chaired by this Division.

- The Steering Group of the International Bar Association arranges activities, projects and committees dedicated to refining the issues associated with working as a lawyer and dismantling concerns relating to the responsible and professional practice of law (especially business law), regardless of jurisdiction.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Intern positions are available for undergraduate law students, postgraduate law students, and newly qualified lawyers at the International Bar Association’s offices in London, Washington DC and The Hague.

The role of an intern: Selected interns will assist the IBA in developing academic papers and research on key legal topics of both local and international relevance.

Interns will have an opportunity to become involved in the work of the following aspects of the Association: - Supporting the IBA’s Human Rights Institute (in London) - Supporting the IBA’s Legal Policy & Research Unit (in London) - Supporting the IBA’s ICC and ICL Programme (in The Hague) - Supporting the IBA’s North America office (in Washington DC) Interns will be able to draft policy papers on substantive legal issues as well as assisting in preparing background research for grant proposals. Interns will also be able to assist in implementing technical assistance programmes in developing countries.

More info: https://www.ibanet.org/Education_ and_Internships/ Legal_Internship_Programme.aspx

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Internships are also open to graduates and young professionals.

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International Commission of Jurists

Switzerland (Headquarters), Branch Offices in Thailand, Guatemala, South Africa, Nepal, Belgium and Tunisia

Pillars The ICJ boasts a very prominent reputation built on several pillars, including: - Intergovernmental cooperation to improve countries’ human rights records, - Balance of diplomacy, capacity building and constructive criticism, - Working for access to justice for victims, survivors and human rights defenders, particularly from marginalised communities, and - Guiding, training and protecting judges and lawyers worldwide.

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ABOUT

The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) is an international human rights NGO. It is a standing group of 60 renowned jurists, and is committed to work towards the improvement of international human rights conditions for the world’s diverse legal systems.

The ICJ provides advocacy and policy work to support lawyers and judges when it comes to upholding human rights and the rule of law.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Staff of the ICJ work to connect with regional programs and national initiatives. They utilise the research output of the Commission to contribute to policy-making.

Legal advisers of the ICJ address a broad range of questions across international human rights law and international humanitarian law.

Other roles in the Commission comprise areas such as finance and administration.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Recent graduates are encouraged to apply to the ICJ internship program, as the program is designed especially for their ease of entry into the diplomatic and international law space.

Other vacancies can be found here: https://www.icj.org/about/jobs/

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The ICJ offers an immersive internship program for postgraduate students.

Participation in such a programme offers interns the opportunity: - To gain practical experience of human rights legal and advocacy work at the international level; - To gain a better understanding of the ICJ’ goals and objectives and of how a Human Rights NGO is organised; - To gain exposure to the practical functioning of the United Nations human rights bodies and mechanisms based in Geneva; - To gain valuable experience of working in a professional office environment; - To help interns in career development.

For many the experience of an internship with the ICJ has established a life long commitment and career in the international human rights field.

ICJ interns are integrated into the ICJ’s staff and become part of a team of junior support staff who participate and contribute to staff meetings, discussions and briefing sessions, research human rights issues, draft papers and reports, maintain information databases, and provide support to other ICJ activities. The interns will also have the opportunity to attend lectures, and other events related to human rights held in Geneva.

More info: https://www.icj.org/about/ internships/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

International Commttee of the Red Cross (ICRC)

Switzerland

ABOUT

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) ensures humanitarian protection and assistance for victims of war and other situations of violence.

The ICRC seeks to assist various groups, including civilians in wartorn areas (or areas in which armed conflict is at risk of placing civilians in grave danger), women, children, detainees, internally displaced people, refugees, asylum seekers, people with disabilities and missing people.

Notably, their role in the international humanitarian law space is significant, as it is the leading endorser of the rules of conflict embedded in the Geneva Conventions.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement The ICRC is a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, along with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and over 90 National Societies. It is the oldest and most honoured organisation within this sphere of organisations, and it is one of the most decorated and distinguished organisations in the world. The ICRC has won three Nobel Peace Prizes in 1917, 1944, and 1963.

With 18,000 staff working across over 90 countries, the ICRC actively engages its employees with work that directly impacts people affected by armed conflict and violence.

Working at the ICRC is therefore an engaging and rewarding experience, as employees experience the conducting of world-class research at the headquarters, with the possibility of gaining field experience working in areas with vulnerable groups and significant numbers of civilians in need.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Every year, more than 20 students and apprentices join the ICRC as part of their studies. They are based at the headquarters in Geneva.

ICRC also offers apprenticeships in the fields of business and administration, information and documentation, and logistics. During your time with ICRC, you will learn about what they do, be coached by trained supervisors, develop your competencies and practise them on a daily basis. Trainers oversee your workplace curriculum, ensuring it meets the requirements of the vocational education programme.

Apprenticeships last between one and three years. They lead to a Swiss Federal Certificate of Proficiency (CFC). Recruitment takes place in March each year and apprenticeships start in September. If you are interested, please look for “apprenticeships” under their current career opportunities.

More info: https://careers.icrc.org/content/ Graduates/?locale=en_GB

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Every year, more than 80 “associate” positions at our headquarters in Geneva are open to recent graduates, as a first professional opportunity to develop their expertise and benefit from an enriching professional experience in the world’s leading humanitarian organization.

For a period of up to 12 months, you will join one of their departments, such as International Law and Policy, Communication and Information Management, Operations, Financial Resources and Logistics, and Human Resources. You will contribute to our work, including in the fields of research, evaluation, analysis and/or writing.

More info: https://careers.icrc.org/content/Graduates/?locale=en_GB

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Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

International Criminal Police Organisation

ABOUT

The International Criminal Police Organization is an intergovernmental organization. It has 194 member countries, and we help police in all of them to work together to make the world a safer place.

To do this, INTERPOL enables police in different countries to share and access data on crimes and criminals, and they offer a range of technical and operational support.

France (Headquarters) and WHAT KIND OF WORK DO Singapore EMPLOYEES DO? Cybercrime Conference Taking place online for the first time, the 8th INTERPOLEuropol Cybercrime Conference (6 October 2020) saw more than 400 cyber experts from law enforcement, private industry, international organizations, CERTs and academia tune in to discussions on emerging cyber threats, trends and strategies.

Recent findings from INTERPOL and Europol have made clear that cybercriminals around the world have been able to capitalize on the global COVID-19 pandemic, turning the health crisis into an opportunity.

At the same time, the pandemic has accelerated the digital transformation and increased our reliance on connectivity and digital tools. With rapid developments in the global cyber landscape, closer collaboration between law enforcement and the public and private sectors to deal with the everchanging nature of cybercrime has become increasingly pressing.

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You may work in one of three anticrime departments: - Cybercrime - Organised and Emerging Crime - Counter-terrorism You will have the opportunity to get involved in formulating policy in various countries to continually improve law enforcement.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

INTERPOL offers a range of internships across both policing and support services. This is a great opportunity to get work experience in an international organization and understand how international police cooperation works.

Internships can be in policing services for those of you who are interested in security and crime matters. They also offer internships across their support services, from communications and strategic planning to human resources.

Most of the internship opportunities are based in their Lyon headquarters in France, but there are some opportunities in other duty stations.

The duty station of each internship is indicated in the vacancy notice. The length of an internship depends on the needs of the hiring service and is indicated in each vacancy notice. It varies from a minimum of six to a maximum of 11 months.

More info on INTERPOL internships can be found here: https://www.interpol.int/en/Whatyou-can-do/Careers/Internships

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates can also apply to the INTERPOL internship program.

Other vacancies can be found here as they arise: https://www.interpol.int/en/Whatyou-can-do/Careers/Vacancies More information on careers at INTERPOL can be found here: https://www.interpol.int/en/Whatyou-can-do/Careers

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

United Nations

New York (Headquarters) and various regional and liaison offices around the world

ABOUT

The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945. It is currently made up of 193 Member States. The mission and work of the United Nations are guided by the purposes and principles contained in its founding Charter.

Due to the powers vested in its Charter and its unique international character, the United Nations can take action on the issues confronting humanity in the 21st century, such as peace and security, climate change, sustainable development, human rights, disarmament, terrorism, humanitarian and health emergencies, gender equality, governance, food production, and more.

Celebrating 75 Years

The UN also provides a forum for its members to express their views in the General Assembly, the Security Council, the Economic and Social Council, and other bodies and committees. By enabling dialogue between its members, and by hosting negotiations, the organisation has become a mechanism for governments to find areas of agreement and solve problems together.

2020 marked the 75th anniversary of the United Nations

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The work of the United Nations touches every corner of the globe and focuses on a broad range of fundamental issues, like sustainable development, protection of the environment and refugees, disaster relief and mitigation, counter terrorism, as well as disarmament and nonproliferation.

Working at United Nations requires both passion and perseverance. You will be exposed to the most pressing issues, and an opportunity to engage in the most prominent diplomatic dialogues and meetings.

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STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Students can become interns for the United Nations. The objective of the internship is to give you a first-hand impression of the day-to-day working environment of the United Nations.

The internship programme lasts for at least two months and can be as long as six months. Once selected, you must begin your internship either prior to or within one year of graduation.

More info: https://careers.un.org/lbw/home. aspx?viewtype=ip

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The following departments fall under the United Nations’ scope of employment: - Management and Administration - Economic, Social and Development - Political, Peace and Humanitarian - Information and Telecommunication Technology - Legal - Public Information and Conference Management - Internal Security and Safety - Logistics, Transportation and Supply Chain - Science The diversity of occupations and multidisciplinary mandates means that you may not only change functions, departments but even organizations or fields of work. While such shifts require learning, time and effort, they also provide valuable experience, broader perspectives and challenging work.

More info: https://careers.un.org/lbw/Home. aspx

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

UNESCO

France (Headquarters) and Field Offices in the AsiaPacific Region, United States, Switzerland, Brazil and Peru, among others.

Memory of the World UNESCO established the Memory of the World Programme in 1992.

The impetus came originally from a growing awareness of the parlous state of preservation of, and access to, documentary heritage in various parts of the World Wars and social upheaval, as well as a severe lack of resources, have worsened problems which have existed for centuries. Significant collections worldwide have suffered a variety of fates. Looting and dispersal, illegal trading, destruction, inadequate housing and funding have all played a part. Much is vanished forever; much is endangered. Happily, missing documentary heritage is sometimes rediscovered.

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ABOUT

UNESCO is the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It seeks to build peace through international cooperation in Education, the Sciences and Culture.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

UNESCO develops educational tools to help people live as global citizens free of hate and intolerance. UNESCO works so that each child and citizen has access to quality education. By promoting cultural heritage and the equal dignity of all cultures, UNESCO strengthens bonds among nations. UNESCO fosters scientific programmes and policies as platforms for development and cooperation.

UNESCO stands up for freedom of expression, as a fundamental right and a key condition for democracy and development. Serving as a laboratory of ideas, UNESCO helps countries adopt international standards and manages programmes that foster the free flow of ideas and knowledge sharing.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The UNESCO Internship Programme offers you pratical work in a multicultural environment. Aside from helping you understand the Organization’s mandate, programmes and main thrusts, it also enhances your academic knowledge with relevant work assignments that can help you prepare for your future career.

More info: https://careers.unesco.org/content/ InternshipProgramme/?locale=en_GB The UNESCO Volunteer Programme offers opportunities to contribute to a wide range of UNESCO programmes.

Volunteers may also provide online volunteering services where assignments are completed, in whole or in part, via Internet and a home computer.

More information: https://careers.unesco.org/content/ UNESCOVolunteers/?locale=en_GB

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Recent graduates can also apply to UNESCO’s internship and volunteering programs.

Other job opportunities can be found here: https://careers.unesco.org/go/Alljobsopenings/782502/

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) New York (Headquarters), with Branch Offices around the world including Australia

’Learn With Me’ Video Series COVID-19 has impacted the lives of millions. However, despite school closures and other lockdown measures, the young people in UNICEF’s video series called ‘Learn With Me’ are finding new and interesting ways to stay engaged whilst coping with home-schooling and staying indoors. From dance to sport, from cooking to art, they are turning to their passions and interests to stay positive and learn new skills.

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ABOUT UNICEF, also known as the United Nations Children’s Fund, is a United Nations agency responsible for providing humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

UNICEF’s New York headquarters offers a diverse range of opportunities supporting all functional areas, including fixed-term and temporary staff positions, internships, volunteer opportunities and consultancies.

Divisions and teams at this location cover communication, data, research and policy, emergencies, ethics, evaluation, field results, financial and administrative management, human resources, information and communication technology, internal audit and investigations, innovation, the Executive Director’s activities, the Executive Board, programmes and public partnerships.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The UNICEF Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates the opportunity to gain direct practical experience with UNICEF’s work.

Internship opportunities are available worldwide.

When a UNICEF office identifies the need for an intern to support their team, they publish the opportunity, and all eligible candidates can submit their application through their website.

For the internship to be worthwhile and effective, the duration is usually between 6 and 26 weeks. The type of work will depend on the needs of the office to which you are assigned, your qualifications and interests. If you have specific interests or requirements for your degree, you should include this information on your cover letter.

Most interns work on one or several projects that include research, database management, communications and many other areas.

More info: https://www.unicef.org/careers/ internships

UNICEF’s workforce is made up of diverse types of employees reflecting various levels of responsibilities, expertise and duties: - International Professionals are recruited internationally and serve in all duty stations globally. They hold leadership, managerial or specialist functions which require a high level of technical expertise.

- National Officers are nationals of the country where their duty station is located and perform a range of functions. These staff members have in-depth knowledge of the local setting, institutions and partners.

- General Service staff are locally recruited and provide administrative and support services across all areas of the organization in both headquarters and field duty stations.

- Consultants and individual contractors are engaged by UNICEF for their expertise in a specific field. They provide specialized services for a range of timebound projects and initiatives.

More info: https://www.unicef.org/careers/explore-careers-unicef

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

ABOUT

United Nations Conference on Trade and Development They support developing countries to access the benefits of a globalized (UNCTAD) economy more fairly and effectively,

UNCTAD is a permanent intergovernmental body established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1964.

Switzerland

COVID-19 Statistics UNCTAD held a series of sessions during the World Statistics Congress 2021 to help improve data and statistics for the analysis of COVID-19’s impacts on societies, economies and the planet, and advance progress towards the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Organized by the International Statistical Institute, the congress held online from 11 to 16 July underlined the importance of reliable, timely and readily available data and statistics for an inclusive recovery from the pandemic. It took place under the theme “Statistics and data science for a better world”.

and they help equip countries to deal with the potential drawbacks of greater economic integration. To do this, they provide analysis, facilitate consensusbuilding, and offer technical assistance. This enables countries to use trade, investment, finance, and technology as vehicles for inclusive and sustainable development.

Working at the national, regional, and global level, the UNCTAD’s efforts help countries to: - Comprehend options to address macro-level development challenges - Achieve beneficial integration into the international trading system - Diversify economies to make them less dependent on commodities - Limit their exposure to financial volatility and debt - Attract investment and make it more development friendly Increase access to digital technologies - Promote entrepreneurship and innovation - Help local firms move up value chains - Speed up the flow of goods across borders - Protect consumers from abuse - Curb regulations that stifle competition - Adapt to climate change and use natural resources more effectively

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Employees work on ad hoc projects relating to investment, international trade, technology, economics and various others.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The UNCTAD internship is unpaid and full-time, i.e. an intern is expected to work five days per week.

Given the current modalities of work at the United Nations Offices around the world (work online from home), the intern will be expected to work from home and will not be required to move physically to New York.

Applicants from developing countries with a maximum 6 hours time difference with New York are thus particularly encouraged to apply. Interns are expected to have the necessary IT equipment and connection to attend online meetings.

Software to conduct work will be provided.

Carrying out their tasks under the supervision of a senior staff member, the intern will perform the following functions: - Monitor and provide summaries of relevant UN meetings of the General Assembly, ECOSOC and other.

Support activities with UN institutions, among others: ECOSOC Secretariat, DESA, OHRLLS. - Assist in the preparation of UNCTAD’s briefings and meetings. Provide support to UNCTAD staff on mission to New York by organizing meetings with representatives of Member States, UN Departments and Agencies and other stakeholders as necessary.

- Update and improving information contained in the NYO databases and performing Internet-based research and information cataloguing related to the work of UNCTAD. Opportunities appear on the UN careers website: https://careers.un.org/lbw/home. aspx?viewtype=SJ&ex

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

United Nations Development Program (UNDP)

New York (Headquarters)

ABOUT

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

Broadly speaking, there are the following categories of personnel at UNDP: - Professional (P) and Director (D) staff - General Service (G) staff

UNDP works in about 170 countries and territories, helping to achieve the eradication of poverty, and the reduction of inequalities and exclusion. They help countries to develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities and build resilience in order to sustain development results.

UNDP focuses on helping countries build and share solutions in three main areas: - Sustainable development - Democratic governance and peacebuilding - Climate and disaster resilience

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES 2030 Agenda The 2030 Agenda is a plan of action for people, planet and prosperity. It also seeks to strengthen universal peace in larger freedom. It recognizes that eradicating poverty in all its forms and dimensions, including extreme poverty, is the greatest global challenge and an indispensable requirement for sustainable development. All countries and all stakeholders, acting in collaborative partnership, are implementing this Agenda

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Internships at UNDP are a great opportunity for students and recent graduates to acquire direct exposure to UNDP’s work. Internships can take place in UNDP Country Offices, at Regional Hubs or at Headquarters in New York. The duration of an internship assignment varies in length according to the availability and academic requirements of the intern, as well as the needs of UNDP. Assignments are available on a parttime and full-time basis throughout the year.

UNDP uses the personnel categories employed across the United Nations system. Within each category, there are different levels that reflect increasing levels of responsibility and requirements.

P and D positions require strong analytical and communication skills, substantial experience and, often, solid leadership ability. There are a variety of jobs within these categories, ranging from programme specialists and operations experts to communications specialists, information systems professionals, and many others. These positions are normally internationally recruited.

General Service roles include administrative, secretarial and clerical support as well as specialized positions such as building maintenance. These positions are crucial to the smooth operation of the organization. The higher the level of the job, the more complex the functions become.

More info: https://www.undp.org/content/ undp/en/home/jobs/types-ofopportunities/staff.html

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

United Nations Environment Program (UNEP)

Kenya (Headquaters) Move Towards A Greener Economy Launched at the UNEP FI’s Global Roundtable 2020, a report called Financing Circularity: Demystifying Finance for the Circular Economy outlines how financial institutions can help redesign global economies by changing the way we consume and produce.

The move to circular economies could generate USD 4.5 trillion in annual economic output by 2030 while helping to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, protect the health of our ecosystems and enable sustainable recovery in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Banks, insurers and investors can play a critical role by providing businesses with financial products that contribute to the circular economy, conserve natural resources and avoid or reduce waste. Financial institutions currently lack awareness of circularity as well as the expertise, products and services to harness business opportunities.

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ABOUT

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment.

Their mission is to provide leadership and encourage partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing, and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The UNEP categorizes its work into seven broad thematic areas: climate change, disasters and conflicts, ecosystem management, environmental governance, chemicals and waste, resource efficiency, and environment under review.

In all of their work, they maintain our overarching commitment to sustainability.

They work closely with Member States as well as representatives from civil society, businesses, and other Major Groups and Stakeholders.

They are always looking for new ways to leverage partnerships to drive sustainable development.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The following internship programs are offered: - Environment Affairs Intern - Programme Support Intern - Enterprise Risk Management Intern These internships can last several months, may require a full-time committment and may be unpaid.

More info: https://www.unenvironment.org/ work-with-us the year

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates are also offered the opportunity to apply for the aforementioned internship programs.

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

United Nations General Assembly

ABOUT

The General Assembly is the main deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of the United Nations. Comprising all 193 Member States of the UN, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of international issues including peace and security.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

New York

76th Session of the General Assembly On 7 June 2021, Maldivian politician and diplomat, and current Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdulla Shahid was elected to the position of President of the General Assembly.

In his vision statement, Shahid laid out some of his priorities for the session. Specifically, a stronger and more effective United Nations to inspire unity and solidarity, and above all hope. His “Five Rays of Hope” include recovering from COVID-19, rebuilding sustainably, responding to the needs of the planet, respecting the rights of all and revitalising the united nations.

He also pledged that his team would be gender balanced, multinational and geographical diverse.

Finally he pledged to uphold the rules of procedure of the General Assembly for him, his team and the entire Assembly.

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Diplomatic meetings and deliberative sessions are the primary element of the work at the UN General Assembly.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Each year the Australian Mission offers six - seven internship positions that run for the duration of the high level session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) from midSeptember to mid-December.

The Australian Mission to the United Nations in New York is one of four posts representing Australia’s interests in the United Nations system.

The other posts are in Geneva, Vienna, and Nairobi.

The Mission serves as the nucleus of the Australian delegation to the regular sessions of the General Assembly, and represents Australia at a range of UN meetings that take place when the Assembly is not in session.

The work of the Mission is intense and diverse, requiring flexibility, analytical thinking and a firm understanding of diplomatic principles. The environment is complex and demanding but the work is highly rewarding for the right people.

Interns will work under the guidance of experienced officers and will be expected to contribute to the regular diplomatic reporting undertaken by the Mission. They will primarily assist with policy work on the six main UNGA Committees – for example, attending committees and meetings, and assisting with negotiations of texts and resolutions. Interns will also assist with events and high level visits associated with “Leaders’ Week”, the high level week of the General Assembly.

Interns represent the Australian Government in a formal capacity in an international environment, therefore social and cultural maturities, as well as being a clear communicator, are essential qualities.

More info: https://unny.mission.gov.au/ unny/130311_ungainterns.htm

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

ABOUT

The office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) was created in 1950, during the aftermath of the Second World War, to help millions of Europeans who had fled or lost their homes.

Today, over 71 years later, the organization is still hard at work, protecting and assisting refugees around the world.

Switzerland (Headquarters)

Youth with Refugees Art Contest

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

UNHCR works in 135 countries, with personnel based in a mixture of regional and branch offices and sub and field offices. Their teams work hard to help the displaced, specializing in a wide range of disciplines, including: - Legal protection - Administration - Community services - Public affairs - Health

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES The UNHCR’s Youth with Refugees Art Contest encourages young people across the world to use their creativity to support people forced to flee.

The specific theme of the 2021 edition was “Together through sport”. The 5 best designs were turned into footballs made by an ethical manufacturing company and sold to support sporting activities for refugees

UNHCR’s Internship Programme offers eligible students and recent graduates the opportunity to gain experience in the humanitarian sector in an international environment, in line with their academic programme or future work in a field related to UNHCR’s mission. Internships are offered at various locations depending on the needs and capacity of offices to receive and supervise interns and provide them with meaningful assignments. An internship can begin at any time during the year and it normally lasts two to six months.

More info: https://www.unhcr.org/en-au/ internships.html

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GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Recent graduates can also apply to UNHCR’s Internship Programme.

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)

Austria (Headquarters), and branch offices around the World

International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking UNODC launches campaigns to raise awareness of drugs and crime problems. On 26 June every year, UNODC marks the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The aims is to increase support for prevention of drug use that is based on science and is thus an effective investment in the wellbeing of children and youth, their families and their communities.

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ABOUT

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is a global leader in the fight against illicit drugs, transnational organized crime, terrorism and corruption.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

UNODC is seeking qualified, energetic professionals in a wide range of fields to join in the effort to combat the threats posed by drugs, crime and terrorism. UNODC offers challenging assignments - monitoring drug abuse and trafficking trends, helping States achieve substantial reductions in drug supply and demand and assisting countries in forging new partnerships for tackling important issues such as money-laundering, smuggling of migrants and trafficking in human beings.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Around 1,500 people work at UNODC headquarters in Vienna and in field offices around the world.

The UNODC serves various purposes, including: - Running campaigns - Holding commissions to investigate crime as well as the distribution, spread and usage of illicit drugs around the world.

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) accepts unpaid interns on an ad hoc basis. Candidates from developing countries are strongly encouraged to apply for the internship programme. The purpose of the programme is threefold: - To provide a framework enabling enrolled university students from diverse academic and national backgrounds to be temporarily attached UNODC - To expose university students to the work of the United Nations and to enrich their educational experience through practical work in an international organization - To make available to UNODC, on a temporary basis, the assistance of qualified and motivated university students.

Students interested in serving as interns at UNODC should contact the Regional Office in Bangkok or the Country Offices directly, as internship programmes are administered by each respective office.

More info: https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/ about-unodc/employment.html

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

ABOUT

UNFPA is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. Our mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person’s potential is fulfilled.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

New York (Headquarters) and various regional and liaison offices around the World

Family Planning Family planning is central to women’s empowerment and sustainable development. Today, more than 300 million women in developing countries are using contraception, but more than 214 million women who want to plan their births do not have access to modern family planning.

UNFPA works with governments and partners to promote universal access to quality, integrated sexual and reproductive health services. UNFPA also promotes comprehensive sexuality education and youth leadership, which empower young people to exercise autonomy, choice and participation with regard to their sexual and reproductive health and rights.

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A specialized agency such as UNFPA focuses on achieving universal access to sexual and reproductive health, realizing productive rights, and reducing maternal mortality, and to accelerate progress on the International Conference on Population and Development (ICDP) agenda.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The UNFPA Internship Programme offers a small group of outstanding students the opportunity to acquire direct exposure to UNFPA operations.

It is designed to complement development-oriented studies with practical experience in various aspects of UNFPA work.

Applicants should have expressed interest in the field of development; ability to adapt to new environments and work with individuals from different cultural backgrounds. Interns work under the supervision of a staff member at UNFPA. The background of the interns is matched with the needs of the organization.

The following qualifications are required for consideration: - Students should be enrolled in an advanced degree programme or have graduated within the last 12 months; - Students must have written and spoken proficiency in English; fluency in French, Spanish or Arabic is an asset.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

UNFPA uses the personnel categories employed across the United Nations system. Within each category, there are different levels, which reflect increasing levels of responsibilities and requirements. The information in this section will help you decide which personnel category, and what level, you fit into. This will be useful when you start searching and applying for jobs.

Broadly speaking, there are three distinct staff categories for personnel at UNFPA, and in the UN system as a whole: - Professional (P) and Director (D) staff - General Service (G) staff - National Professional Officers (NO) There are also other kinds of employment and opportunities at UNFPA and in the UN. These are not necessarily staff positions, but they are roles that support UNFPA’s work around the world.

More info: https://www.unfpa.org/resources/ united-nations-staff-categories

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) Jordan (Field Office) and various locations in the Middle East Help for Refugees from Palestine UNRWA is unique in terms of its long-standing commitment to one group of refugees. It has contributed to the welfare and human development of four generations of Palestine refugees, defined as “persons whose normal place of residence was Palestine during the period 1 June 1946 to 15 May 1948, and who lost both home and means of livelihood as a result of the 1948 conflict.” The descendants of Palestine refugee males, including legally adopted children, are also eligible for registration. UNRWA services are available to all those living in its areas of operations who meet this definition, who are registered with the Agency and who need assistance.

When the Agency began operations in 1950, it was responding to the needs of about 750,000 Palestine refugees. Today, some 5.6 million Palestine refugees are eligible for UNRWA services.

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ABOUT

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) supports the relief and human development of Palestinian refugees.

Following the 1948 Arab-Israeli conflict, UNRWA was established by United Nations General Assembly Resolution 302 (IV) of 8 December 1949 to carry out direct relief and works programmes for Palestine refugees.

The Agency began operations on 1 May 1950.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

A limited number of unpaid internships are offered in the Agency’s offices in Amman, Beirut, and Jerusalem, and at the Representative Office New York and Representative Office to the EU in Brussels.

A limited number of unpaid internships are also offered each year in the Agency’s Headquarters in Amman, Jordan.

Internships last from three to a maximum of 11 months.

In the absence of a solution to the Palestine refugee problem, the General Assembly has repeatedly renewed UNRWA’s mandate, most recently extending it until 30 June 2023.

Unpaid internship opportunities are also open at the representative Office New York and Representative Office to the EU in Brussels, for a minimum of three months and a maximum of six.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

The positions are available preferably on a full-time basis, and may be renewed subject to requirements of the office. Interns will contribute to UNRWA’s interagency, nongovernmental and donor liaison tasks, as well as public information work, and provide other support as needed.

Employees work in the Middle East, in countries such as Lebanon, Syria and Jordan. There are five fields of operation, namely: - People - Education - Health - Relief and Social Services - Microfinance Employees work in one of these five teams in order to effectively carry out the organisation’s operations.

More info: https://www.unrwa.org/careers/ internships

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES Graduates may also apply to the aforementioned internship opportunities.

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

UN Women

ABOUT

The United Nations Equity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, also known as UN Women, is a United Nations entity working for the empowerment of women. It formed in early 2011 in response to the need to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment.

United States (Headquarters), Thailand WHAT KIND OF WORK DO (Asia-Pacific EMPLOYEES DO? UN Women works on campaigns for Regional Office) and global gender equality. They work liaison offices in the Asia- closely with NGOs and members of civil society to further their advocacy.

Pacific Region Leading Women UNEP’s Global Gender and Environment Outlook 2016 (GGEO) identified gender inequality as one of the main challenges to advance the environmental dimension of sustainable development, as it has negative impacts on access, use and control of natural resources, as well as the right to a clean, safe and healthy environment for all. The GGEO further calls for the adoption of gender responsive approaches in addressing barriers tosustainable development.

According to UN Women, in order to catalyze systemic and lasting change, there is a need to vastly increase financing for gender equality, to harness the potential of technology and innovation and ensure that development is inclusive of women and girls who face multiple forms of discrimination.

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Work is vastly varied and is rewarding for those who are passionate about finding innovative ways to promote gender equality.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

UN Women offers volunteering and internship opportunities.

The majority of volunteer positions are centered around International Women’s Day events.

Their internship program usually runs from November to March and is available only to students who are able to receive course credit on completion of their internship.

Interns provide administrative and event support to their team, helping us to grow their supporter base throughout International Women’s Day. Interns gain valuable experience in the non-profit sector, learning skills in events, fundraising and supporter communications.

Internship positions are advertised around September each year.

More info: https://unwomen.org.au/about-us/ volunteering-and-internships/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

UN Women is one of the UN organizations that participates in the Junior Professional Officer (JPO) programme. The JPO programme allows young professionals to acquire hands-on experience in the development field under the sponsorship of their respective governments.

This opportunity and others (including full-time paid opportunities) an be found here: https://www.unwomen.org/en/aboutus/employment

Public Interest Careers Guide 2021

World Food Programme (WFP)

ABOUT

The World Food Programme (WFP) is the designated food-assistance body of the United Nations. It is the largest international organ that addresses food security and world hunger. The WFP is based in Rome and has offices in over 80 countries, and this global reach enables the WFP to assist an average of over 90 million people every year.

WHAT KIND OF WORK DO EMPLOYEES DO?

WFP’s efforts focus on emergency assistance, relief and rehabilitation, development aid and special operations. Two-thirds of their work is in conflict-affected countries where people are three times more likely to be undernourished than those living in countries without conflict.

Italy

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES Nobel Peace Prize The World Food Programme won the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize for its work in alleviating world hunger in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The recent events concerning the virus have caused problems for countless people all over the world attempting to access adequate sources of food.

The WPF has tirelessly aided up to 97 million people despite the current food crisis.

The World Food Programme is always looking for talented, motivated and enthusiastic students from around the world. An internship at WFP is a great opportunity to acquire practical work experience while contributing to the goal of reaching the WFP’s aim of Zero Hunger.

The World Food Programme has been awarded with a Gold Standard Internship Host Badge by The University of Oxford for the support and the quality of the internship experience it has provided to their students over the last few years.

Internships appear based on the WFP’s need during certain times of the year.

More info: https://www.wfp.org/careers/ internships

133

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Legal Officerships are offered by the WFP. In this role, you will perform different tasks, including: - Work under the general supervision of the Senior Legal Officer, you will be responsible for the following duties by contributing to the determination of strategy and approach to legal matters.

- Contributing to the development of the Organisation’s regulatory framework.

- Providing legal advice on a wide range of issues, including drafting and negotiating contracts.

- Providing advice on liability exposure and risk mitigation.

- Participating in negotiations and settlement of claims and disputes with public and private entities.

- Undertaking legal research and analysis and prepare legal opinions, studies, briefs, reports and complex correspondence.

This a long-term opportunity with prospects of building a solid foundation for a fulfilling career in food security, diplomacy or public service.

More info: https://www.wfp.org/careers/jobopenings

CHAPTER V: Testimonials

TESTIMONIALS

I am a tipstaff to a Judge of Appeal in the Supreme Court of New South Wales. It has been a great learning experience, and I especially recommend it to anyone with an interest in litigation and advocacy. As part of that role I attend court with the judge whenever he is sitting, which gives me the opportunity to observe firsthand court procedure and the oral argument. The role also involves a substantial amount of legal research, as well as proofing judgments. For me, the most rewarding part of the job has been the opportunity to work closely with my judge who has been a fantastic mentor to me.

My advice to anyone interested in being a tipstaff is to identify what areas of law and types of matters you are interested in, and apply widely to judges who hear those kinds of cases.

Christopher Chiam

Tipstaff to Justice Meagher

Everyone’s experience as a tipstaff is different depending on the judge they work for. But, commonly the work includes: - proof-reading judgments; - legal research; - summarising facts and evidence; - printing and indexing court folders; and - organising lunches for the judges; As a tipstaff in the common law division I have been able to observe murder trials, sentencing hearings, bail applications, Court of Criminal Appeal hearings, Court of Appeal hearings and applications under the high risk offender legislation.

Some additional interesting projects I have helped with include helping draft suggested jury directions for the Criminal Trial Courts Bench Book and summarising criminal law decisions of interest as they come up.

Daniel Larratt

Tipstaff in the Common Law Division, NSW Supreme Court

TESTIMONIALS

I joined the Office of Constitutional Law as a graduate in 2020, where I now work as a Legal Officer. As part of my business as usual work, I provide advice and assistance on matters of constitutional law, policy and litigation, and on other issues of public law.

litigation strategy.

I routinely provide advice and assistance in relation to constitutional issues having general implications for Commonwealth and federal arrangements, including the Australian Government’s COVID-19 response. This covers advice on questions of the Attorney-General’s intervention in constitutional litigation, and the implications of such litigation for Commonwealth policy. I provide instructions in constitutional litigation and work closely with counsel, including the Solicitor-General, to devise the Commonwealth’s

I also provide advice on co-operative federal arrangements, such as those based on referrals of power by the states, and questions of Commonwealth constitutional amendment, including the current proposal to recognise Indigenous Australians in the Constitution. I am in the privileged position of being able to listen to and learn from some of the finest legal minds in Australia on a regular basis.

During my graduate year, AGD supported me by fully covering the cost of my Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice and providing me with study leave to complete my practical legal training. I had the opportunity to work alongside experienced private and public lawyers as a graduate government lawyer in an insolvency litigation team, and also had the opportunity to work in a policy-focused area specialising in whole-of-government protective security policy. A unique aspect of my work in the public service was the opportunity to also work temporarily in program delivery, supporting vulnerable Australians as part of the Government’s COVID-19 surge taskforce.

Working in AGD, I use my legal training to make a positive difference in Australia and the world. I would encourage anyone with an interest in public law, legal policy, or one of the many policy areas we administer to apply for a role at AGD or the public service generally.

Dylan Lloyd

Legal Officer, Office of Constitutional Law, Attorney-General’s Department

TESTIMONIALS

The role of Associate at the Federal Court of Australia (equivalent to a ‘tipstaff’ in most State courts) entails working in the chambers of a Justice of the Court alongside either an Executive Assistant or another Associate. The role is to assist the judge in everything relating to the management of his or her docket. This includes co-ordinating and assisting during hearings, listings management, undertaking research tasks and, most importantly, proofing judgments before delivery and publication. The matters are varied and interesting with most judges working across a number of the Court’s National Practice Areas – these include everything from Commercial & Corporations to Administrative & Constitutional Law. In the Federal Court, each judge hires their own Associates and the hiring timeframes are varied. Information on this is available on the Court’s website.

Lachlan Peake

Associate to Justice Perram, Federal Court of Australia I am an Investigations Officer at the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner, in the Commissioner-initiated investigations team. My team investigates systemic privacy issues at public and private organisations under the jurisdiction of the Privacy Act: for example, we commenced proceedings against Facebook last year. My work includes exercising statutory powers to compel information from respondents, analysing evidence, drafting reports, and making recommendations as to appropriate regulatory action, from warnings to civil penalties. The OAIC also resolves privacy complaints, administers the notifiable data breach scheme, reviews freedom of information decisions, and collaborates with the ACCC regarding the consumer data right.

Lauren Stinson

Investigations Officer, Office of the Australian Information Commissioner

TESTIMONIALS

As a legal assistant at Redfern Legal Centre, my responsibilities include: • conducting client intake interviews • identifying legal issues present in a client’s situation • maintaining client records • writing intake notes for solicitors and • providing legal information and referrals to other services.

Volunteering at a CLC has been extremely rewarding - you are able to help people receive legal advice they would otherwise be unable to attain, making a real difference in their lives. I’ve enjoyed being able to speak with a diverse range of clients and have gained exposure to complex legal issues in an encouraging and supportive environment. If you are willing to learn, passionate about social justice and a clear, empathetic communicator I would highly recommend applying to volunteer at RLC or another CLC!

Selina Ta

Legal Assistant, Redfern Legal Centre

CHAPTER VI:

Applying for Jobs in the Public Sector

THE APPLICATION PROCESS What to Expect?

Jobs in the public sector have different application requirements. Be prepared to spend a considerable amount of time preparing each application to ensure that all the necessary selection criteria have been met. Given the three levels of government and myriad of jobs within each level, there are a multitude of public sector jobs with their distinctive criteria and requirements. This guide will assist you in your process of applying for public sector jobs and give you insight into the candidate and application requirements of each job.

WRITING A COVER LETTER A cover letter should take your own experiences and tie them together in a way that meets the organisation’s aims and addresses the qualities of their ideal employee. A successful cover letter should: - Highlight significant parts of your resume - Describe why your experiences are relevant to the position you are applying for - Demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively - Address selection criteria in the application kit - Demonstrate an understanding of the organisation and their values A good cover letter has three elements, and ideally, you should dedicate one paragraph to each element (you can see how we have done this in the sample below): 1. Hook 2. Pitch 3. Sell The hook is your elevator pitch. Make a good first impression and catch the reader’s attention so they continue reading by setting out the themes that bind your whole application together. A good hook should hit the key capabilities set out in the job description.

The pitch is where you explain why you want to work for that particular employer. A good pitch is personal and focuses on your qualities and best points rather than the organisation’s. It should demonstrate that you have done your research and that you understand the organisation’s values and capability framework (if this applies). You should use authentic experiences and examples to demonstrate your suitability for the role.

The sell is where you explain why you have the necessary skills and experience for the position.

Pick your skills strategically to match the selection criteria and capability framework. Make sure to provide concrete examples of how you have used your skills in practice, and touch on your personal interests and values as well.

WRITING A CURRICULUM VITAE (CV) A CV should provide an employer with a snapshot of you. It should tell the employer whether or not you are a suitable candidate for the position. The substance of a CV must provide a summary of your skills, abilities and accomplishments, as well as demonstrate your ability to communicate in a written format.

Make sure you unpack your experiences and use active verbs. For example, instead of saying ‘I did some research’, say ‘conducted legal research on public listing rules and the rights of incarcerated persons to support the provision of legal advice by the solicitor’.

Instead of saying ‘I had some client experience’, say ‘responsible for interviewing clients to determine their suitability for Centre advice/developed well-refined client service skills through core responsibility for the administrative management of the Centre’s front desk’.

Tips for writing a CV: 1. Your CV should be two pages or less in length 2. Avoid the following formatting errors: • Inconsistent margins • Mixed fonts • Sending your CV in Microsoft Word (always save the document as a .pdf to preserve formatting) 3. Use font size ranging from 10.5 to 12 points 4. Write your ‘Education’ and ‘Employment’ experiences in reverse chronological order 5. Use action verbs that add value to your job descriptions such as “Organised agendas for…” rather than “My responsibilities included…”

6. Be sure to proofread your CV to detect any grammatical or formatting issues.

SAMPLE COVER LETTER Jane Doe 0422 567 487 janedoe@gmail.com 20 September 2020 Mrs Martha Majetic Front Desk Manager Woodside Community Legal Centre 1 Woodside Street, Woodside NSW 2100 Dear Mrs Majetic, My name is Jane Doe and I am currently in my second year of a Laws/Arts (International Studies) degree at UNSW. I am writing to express interest in the Volunteer Clerk position as advertised on the UNSW Law Jobs Board.

[THE HOOK] I have a passion for public interest law and believe that I am an ideal candidate for the Volunteer Clerk position. Throughout my degree, I have been a director in the UNSW Law Society’s Public Interest Portfolio, where I have organised several events where I host panels and information sessions with legal staff working in the public sector. This experience has given me a unique insight into public interest work, and has prompted me into seeking more public interest experiences. I am also a subcommittee member of the UNSW Vinnies Society, and regularly volunteer at community events where I work alongside my peers to create charity events to raise awareness and funds for the St Vincent de Paul Society.

[THE PITCH] I am drawn to applying for Woodside Community Legal Centre for a few of reasons. Firstly, after talking to solicitor, Henry Parikh, who attended a UNSW Law information evening, I was made aware of the compassionate and hands-on approach that Woodside CLC takes to helping the community.

Indeed, I was inspired by the collaborative work that the organisation does in line with other firms and organisations to achieve your mission. I also have a particular interest in immigration law, and I understand that this is an area of the law that Woodside CLC works considerably in.

[THE SELL] Throughout my time at university, I have participated in several law competitions including mooting, which requires highly developed research skills and the ability to effectively communicate through written and oral means. As a general editor of the UNSW Law Journal, I proofread articles submitted by academics and legal practitioners for grammatical mistakes, and confirm the validity of citations. This role has given me an eye for detail and a respect for formal legal writing. Last term I was an intern at the Australian Pro Bono Centre, where I assisted staff with research and policy projects. This allowed me to refine my legal research and drafting skills, and is what piqued my interest in immigration law. I believe my passion for social justice and strong communication and legal research skills make me an ideal candidate for this position. I look forward to an opportunity to interview. Thank you for your consideration.

SAMPLE CV

First name Last name M: 0400 123 456 | E: example@gmail.com A: 123 High St, Kensington, NSW, 2031

EDUC ATI O N UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES e.g. BA (Major)/LLB ▪ WAM (discretionary) ▪ Scholarships ▪ Awards ▪ Exchanges HIGH SCHOOL HSC ▪ ATAR ▪ Awards ▪ Scholarships 

Date – Date (anticipated)

Date of completion

EMPLOYMENT reverse chronological

 

LEG AL EXPERIENC E

(Can include voluntary roles and internships) EMPLOYER Job Title (plus days/hours work per week) ▪ ▪ ▪

OTHER EXPERIENC E

EMPLOYER Job Title ▪ ▪ ▪

Date – Date

Date - Date



E X T R A C U R R I C U L A R A C T I V I T IES

ORGANISATION– e.g. UNSW Law Society/Charities/Community Groups Position Title ▪ ▪ ▪

MEMBERSHIPS   

SKILLS ▪ Languages ▪ Technical/computer skills 

Date - Date

SAMPLE CV (Continued)

INT E R E S T S ▪ 



E.g. Building furniture

R E FE R E E S Referee names and contact details available upon request.

OR Name Job Title Company Mobile: Email:

Name Job Title Company Mobile: Email:

OR Name Job Title Company Contact details available upon request.

Name Job Title Company

ASSESSMENT CENTRES An assessment centre is a process where several candidates (usually 8 to 12) rotate through a number of assessment activities in one session (e.g. interview, written activity, group activity) Assessment centres are commonly part of the application process for government jobs or graduate programs.

Commonly assessed skills include: • Communication (written and verbal) • Presentation • Teamwork and interpersonal • Adaptability/Flexibility/Resilience • Analytical/Problem Solving • Creativity and innovation • Time management/Organisational • Leadership The skills assessed will be based around the relevant capability framework (see more information about capability frameworks below).

Activities you may participate in include group activities and presentations. Group activities involve completing a task together. The tasks may require some discipline-specific knowledge (e.g. reviewing financial reports) or be discipline-neutral tasks (e.g. building a bridge with Lego; or reviewing charities and deciding which charity the organisation should support). Discipline-neutral tasks may be more common when the position is advertised across broad knowledge/degree backgrounds.

Group-tasks often focus on assessing communication, interpersonal, problem solving, and organisation skills. Assessors observe and grade whether candidates demonstrate positive or negative behaviours for each skill or interest. For example, positive team-work behaviour includes contributing valuable ideas, and seeking opinions of others. Negative behaviours include repeating others’ ideas, interrupting, and dominating the discussion.

Presentations are mostly an assessment of communication skills. Candidates may be given a task to undertake (e.g. conduct a review) and subsequently present information (e.g. summary, solution, recommendations) back to the assessors – individually or as part of a group presentation.

For more information see the UNSW Law Career Service guide to Assessment Centres: https://my.law.unsw.edu.au/system/files/careers-resources/assessment_centre_guide.pdf This resource includes a useful table outlining all positive and negative behavioural indicators for particular skills.

ASSESSMENT CENTRES (Continued) Psychometric Assessments Psychometric assessments are used as a type of capability-based assessment. The types of skills tested are informed by the relevant capability framework (see more information about capability frameworks below). The main types of assessment are: • Ability assessments • Personality questionnaires Ability assessments may test for general ability (IQ), specific cognitive abilities (e.g. abstract reasoning, verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning) or psychomotor abilities and specific aptitudes (e.g. vision, hearing, management potential, leadership potential). They are designed to discriminate between highly talented candidates, and therefore most people do not finish them.

Ability assessments are typically 15-40 minutes long and consist of short questions where there is only one right answer but lots of wrong answers.

This is an example of an abstract reasoning question:

ASSESSMENT CENTRES (Continued) This is an example of a verbal reasoning question:

Personality questionnaires typically take 30-90 minutes to complete and contain ‘forced choice’ and free form questions. Questions are often quite vague, (i.e., could be answered differently depending on the situation) and subsequently a person’s first or gut response is the best indication of how they would generally respond in the situation. Answering honestly about yourself, rather than how you would like to be or how you think the employer wants you to respond, will help you get the truest picture of your personality characteristics and help the employer make an appropriate choice.

ASSESSMENT CENTRES (Continued) You can find practice psychometric assessments here: • Assessment Day: https://www.assessmentday.co.uk/ • CAPP Practice Assessments: https://practice.cappassessments.com/ • Institute of Psychometric Coaching: https://www.psychometricinstitute.com.au/Free-Aptitude-Tests.asp • Practice Aptitude Tests: https://www.practiceaptitudetests.com/universities-psychometric-test-resource/ • Practice Reasoning Tests: https://www.practicereasoningtests.com/ • Psychometric Success: https://psychometric-success.com/ • 12MINPREP: https://www.12minprep.com/ • SHL Practice Tests: https://www.shl.com/shldirect/en/practice-tests/

THE INTERVIEW Behavioural Questions Interview questions at each stage of recruitment, in the group interview, individual tasks and individual interviews, will be largely behavioural and focused on the particular capability framework.

Behavioural questions are designed to determine whether you possess certain skills or attributes.For example, an employer looking for someone with problem solving skills may ask you to describe a situation where a problem arose and how you fixed it.

More examples of behaviour questions include: • What drew you to this role/agency/department?

• How do you cope with change?

• Name a time that something hasn’t gone your way. What did you learn from this experience?

• Tell me about a time you needed to demonstrate resilience in the workplace? What are some strategies you used and what was the outcome you reached?

• Sometimes we introduce ideas in the workplace that our colleagues don’t agree with. Describe a situation in which you had to persuade people to accept an idea. How did you do it? What was the outcome?

You can find more examples of behavioural questions here: https://my.law.unsw.edu.au/system/files/careers-resources/sample_behavioural_questions.pdf Capability Frameworks Capability frameworks are typically used in government jobs. Job descriptions will outline key capabilities, skills and attributes that applicants must satisfy to be considered for a position. They are usually standardised across the sector. For example, the NSW Public Sector Capability Framework outlines 16 capabilities categorised into four groups (personal attributes, relationships, results and business enablers) that all applicants must satisfy.

You can have a look at them here: https://www.psc.nsw.gov.au/workforce-management/capability-framework/the-capabilityframework Ensure you take the time to research the particular capability framework for the program you are applying to. Be prepared to explain why you possess each particular capability.

While formulating a STAR response (situation, task, action, result) for each capability can assist in creating a structurally coherent answer, don’t just consider whether you’ve demonstrated the particular capability. Consider what the content of your answer demonstrates about your intention: how the experience you’re speaking on shaped your interest in the particular department or agency and what you will carry with you from your experiences into your new role. A great interview answer reflects a more outside picture perspective of why the particular capability is important for the role and demonstrates that you intend to develop these capabilities over time.

For more applying information and resources, see the UNSW Law Careers Service website: https://my.law.unsw.edu.au/careers/resources

CHAPTER VII:

Qualifying as a Lawyer

QUALIFYING AS A LAWYER IN NEW SOUTH WALES In New South Wales, a person is admitted as a Lawyer of the Supreme Court of NSW, and, once admitted, may practice as either a barrister (by obtaining a practicing certificate through the NSW Bar Association), or as a solicitor (by obtaining a practising certificate through the Law Society of NSW).

To become a solicitor in New South Wales you must meet the eligibility requirements for admission as detailed in sections 24 and 25 of the Legal Profession Act 2004 (NSW). To be eligible for admission, an individual must be: • Over 18 years of age; • Have completed the required academic and Practical Legal Training (PLT) requirements; and • Be a ‘fit and proper person’ (generally, this means that an individual is of good character.

For more information see section 9 of the Legal Profession Act 2004 (NSW)).

Practical Legal Training (PLT) Once you have completed your law degree, you must then undertake approved Practical Legal Training. The Legal Profession Admission Rules 2005 contains a list of accredited law degrees (Second Schedule) and Practical Legal Training course providers (Fourth Schedule).

In contrast to the broad theoretical knowledge gained at university, Practical Legal Training provides instructions on a wide range of tasks and procedures, such as: • Legal research • Fact and legal analysis • Problem solving • Legal writing and drafting • Interviewing and oral communication • Advising • Advocacy • Dispute resolution.

A course in PLT is available through the Professional Program at the College of Law. Some universities, including UNSW, also offer PLT programs.

The Professional Program consists of three components: • Coursework Component: 15 weeks of fulltime or 30 weeks of part-time study • Work Experience: 75 days of work experience under a practising lawyer • Continuing Professional Education (CPE): 10 hours of CPE seminars and a workbook and journal, or an alternative such as the Legal Business Skills series.

QUALIFYING AS A LAWYER IN NEW SOUTH WALES (Continued) Admission First-time admittees should apply for admission to the Supreme Court of NSW via the Legal Profession Admission Board (LPAB). Once you have completed your academic study and your Practical Legal Training, and satisfy the English Language Proficiency requirements (if applicable) you may make an application for admission using Form 10 of the Legal Profession Admission Rules 2005. Applications for admission must be accompanied by two character references in Form 3.

Practicising Certificate Prior to admission, the LPAB provides a list of proposed admittees to the Law Society of New South Wales. The Law Society will send you a kit including an application form for a Practising Certificate.

If you are intending to commence practice as a solicitor in New South Wales you will need to: • Complete the application form for a Practicing Certificate and send it, together with payment, to the Law Society Registry by the date specified; • Attend an admission day at the Supreme Court of NSW to receive your original Certificate of Admission; and • Take your Certificate of Admission to the Law Society to receive your Practising Certificate

BECOMING A BARRISTER Barristers are lawyers who provide specialist services and advocacy skills to represent clients before courts and tribunals. They prepare court documents and advise clients about their legal problems and prospects of success in litigation. Barristers work on their own; partnerships or incorporations are not allowed. They are usually briefed by a solicitor before commencing work.

Requirements The following processes are required for admission into the Bar. A person must: • Be admitted as a lawyer by the Supreme Court of NSW (or in another state); • Obtain a 75 pass mark for all three Bar exams (‘Ethics for barristers’, ‘Aspects of evidence’ and ‘Practice and procedure for barristers’), before commencing the Bar Practice Course. This is a condition precedent to undertaking the Reading Program; and • Complete the Reading Program, which involves a period of ‘reading’ for at least 12 months under the supervision of a barrister with not less than seven years’ standing. The Program includes a month-long Bar Practice Course, which involves study of advanced advocacy and barrister-related skills. During the 11 months after completion of the course, other requirements are imposed: criminal reading and civil reading, participation in two advocacy workshops, and attendance at six extension sessions.

For full time practice at the Bar, one must commence within ten months of passing the exams.

USEFUL RESOURCES

PIC Opportunities UNSW Law Jobs Board https://my.law.unsw.edu.au/careers/jobs-board Social Justice Opportunities https://www.sjopps.net.au/ Ethical Jobs https://www.ethicaljobs.com.au/ Australian Public Service https://www.apsjobs.gov.au/s/ NSW Government Jobs https://iworkfor.nsw.gov.au/ CLC Volunteering http://www.clcvolunteers.net.au/ For more useful resources, see the UNSW Law Careers Service website: https://www.law.unsw.edu.au/students/careers/student-resources