Public Interest Careers Guide 2025

PUBLIC INTEREST CAREERS GUIDE 2025

DEAN OF THE UNSW LAW FACULTY

Andrew Lynch

UNSW LAW CAREERS MANAGER

Brooke Johnson

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

UNSW LAW SOCIETY PRESIDENTS

Matthew Kuk

Madeleine Morris

VICE PRESIDENT (PUBLIC INTEREST CAREERS)

Jasmine Lai

PUBLIC INTEREST CAREERS RESEARCH DIRECTORS

Geena Blackwood

Jay Sheng

PUBLICATIONS DESIGN VICE PRESIDENT

Teodulfo Jose O. Reyes

PUBLICATIONS DESIGN DIRECTORS

Ashna Aravinthan

Aaryan Pahwa

PUBLICATIONS DESIGN SUBCOMMITTEE

Ambeikaa Mishra

Inika Narayan

Lara Lim

Melina Le

Saavan Baba

Shayan Bidiwale

© 2025 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 case 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.

INTRODUCTION

Dean’s Foreword

UNSW Law Careers Manager’s Foreword

Law Society’s Presidents’ Foreword

Public Interest Careers Vice-President’s Foreword

CHAPTER I: GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC SERVICE

FEDERAL (GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC SERVICE)

Administrative Review Tribunal (ART)

Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)

Attorney-General’s Department

Australian Human Rights Commission

Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC)

Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS)

Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO)

Office of Australian Information Commissioner

Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications

Department of Defence

Department of Veterans’ Affairs

Department of Education

Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources

Fair Work Commission

Fair Work Ombudsman

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)

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

(ATO)

NSW (GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC SERVICE)

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 Department of Premier and Cabinet

CRIMINAL GOVERNMENT PRACTICE (GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC SERVICE)

Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions

Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (NSW)

Law Enforcement Conduct Commission

Police Prosecutors

Public Defenders

CHAPTER II: COMMUNITY LEGAL CENTRES AND

COMMUNITY LEGAL CENTRES (COMMUNITIES & NGOS)

Aboriginal Legal Service

Arts Law Centre of Australia

Australian Centre for Disability Law

Environmental Defenders Office

Central Tablelands and Blue Mountains Community Legal Centre (CTBMCLC) (prev.

Elizabeth Evatt Community Legal Centre)

HIV/AIDS Legal Centre

Immigration Advice and Rights Centre

Kingsford Legal Centre

Macarthur Legal Centre

Marrickville Legal Centre

Redfern Legal Centre

Refugee Advice & Casework Service

Welfare Rights Centre

Wirringa Baiya Aboriginal

MORE SOCIAL JUSTICE

Amnesty International Australia

Australian Pro Bono Centre

Cancer Council NSW

Intellectual Disability Rights Service

Justice Action

Justice Connect

NSW Council for Civil Liberties

Oxfam

Public Interest Advocacy Centre

Unions NSW

Voiceless

Maurice Blackburn Lawyers

Shine Lawyers

Slater and Gordon Lawyers

CHAPTER III: UNSW LAW INTERNSHIPS

The Australian Human Rights Institute

CHAPTER IV: THE BAR & JUDICIARY

Associate and Tipstaff Positions

New South Wales Bar Association CHAPTER V:

ORGANISATIONS (PUBLIC INTERNATIONAL LAW/INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC INTEREST)

Human Rights Watch

Centre for International and Environmental Law

Greenpeace

International Environmental Law Research Centre

International Tribunal for Law of the Sea

Asian Development Bank

International Monetary Fund

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

Asian Human Rights Commission

International Bar Association

International Commission of Jurists

International Committee of the Red Cross

International Criminal Police Organisation

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation

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 General Assembly

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)

United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

United Nations

United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)

United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women)

World Food Programme (WFP)

CHAPTER VI: TESTIMONIALS

TESTIMONIALS

Alicia Sohail (Youth Law Australia)

Benjamin Lee (LEE.ADV Strategic Advisory)

Jimmy Singh (Criminal Defence Lawyers Australia)

Mohammad Abu Sayeed (University of New South Wales)

Varuni Siriwardana (Department of Communities and Social Justice)

COLOUR CODE

Please refer to the below colour code throughout the guide to see which organisation offers employment opportunities and work experience to the relevant student year group:

YEAR

COLOUR

1 2 3

4

5

LAWSOC EVENT

To learn more about the organisations in this guide and to network with the organisations, keep an eye on the following UNSW Law Society Events that may happen in 2026:

UNSW Law Society Events Related Organisations

Administrative Law Panel

Careers in Criminal Law Night

Human Rights Conference

Law Reform Panel

Pro Bono and Legal Aid Panel

Careers in Academia Panel

• Administrative Appeals Tribunal

• Immigration Advice and Rights Centre

• Australian Federal Police

• Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions

• Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (NSW)

• Law Enforcement Conduct Commission

• Police Prosecutors

• Public Defenders

• Australian Human Rights Commision

• Refugee Advice & Casework Service

• The Australian Human Rights Institute

• Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC)

• NSW Law Reform Commission

• Public Interest Advocacy Centre

• Legal Aid NSW

• Australian Pro Bono Centre

• Aboriginal Legal Service

• Arts Law Centre of Australia

• International Environment Law Research Centre

• Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law

• Attorney-General’s Department

• Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications

• Department of Defence

• Department of Veterans’ Affairs

• Department of Education

• Department of Industry, Science and Resources

• Fair Work Commission

• Fair Work Ombudsman

Careers in Government Panel

Careers at the Bar Panel

Associateships and Tipstaff Panel

• Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

• Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

• Department of Health and Aged Care

• Department of Home Affairs

• Commonwealth Ombudsman

• Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet

• Department of Social Services

• Australian Competition & Consumer Commission

• Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA)

• Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC)

• Australian Taxation Office

• New South Wales Bar Association

• Supreme Court of NSW

UNSW Law Society

Events

Private Law x Public Interest Careers Fair

LAWSOC EVENT

Related Organisations

• Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC)

•ODPP

• NSW Crown Solicitor’s Office

•Attorney-General’s Department

•Department of Defence

•Department of Home Affairs

• Legal Aid NSW

• Aboriginal Legal Service

• Youth Law Australia

•Department of Communities and Justice

•Australian Criminal Intelligence Commisison

• Refugee Advice & Caseowrk Service (RACS)

•Kingsford Legal Centre

•Arts Law Centre

MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN OF THE UNSW LAW FACULTY

UNSW Law & Justice is dedicated to preparing students for impactful careers, and for many of you that may lead to roles within public interest organisations, reflecting our commitment to making a difference in the world. Our alumni have taken on influential positions in government agencies, community organisations, and NGOs, showcasing the professional fulfillment this career path offers.

As a faculty, we are deeply rooted in social justice advocacy, evident in our research centres, community centres, and institutes. I encourage you to explore the remarkable work being done in these areas through networking and attending faculty and LawSoc events. This will not only inspire you but also broaden your understanding of the diverse applications of ‘law in action.’ You can gain practical experience by participating in Work Integrated Learning elective courses, where you can complete an internship, with a range of public interest partner organisations.

Alternatively, you might undertake a Law Clinic elective with the Kingsford Legal Centre, the Land and Environment Court, or the Police Powers Clinic. As law graduates, your skills and expertise are crucial in the pursuit of justice. The public legal sector is at the forefront of addressing modern societal challenges, especially in the current global context of geopolitical uncertainty and the climate crisis. Emerging areas in the public interest sector include the growth of regulation and compliance, the expansion of security services, and balancing citizens’ rights concerning data privacy and public health.

I encourage you to engage fully in your university life, both academically and socially. The educational philosophy at UNSW Law & Justice is built around understanding the diverse experiences that shape people’s interactions with the law. To supplement your classroom learning, seek out opportunities to undertake practical experience that enhances your academic studies to ensure you are well-placed to make informed career choices. The Law & Justice Careers Service is available to all students to support you each step of the way. The true rewards and challenges of any career path are best understood through exploration and engagement. This Public Interest Careers Guide is designed to provide you with valuable information to get started in exploring the opportunities on offer. I extend my thanks to the UNSW Law Society for their support of the student body and congratulate the editors on the publication of this valuable resource.

Professor Andrew Lynch Dean of UNSW Faculty of Law & Justice

MESSAGE FROM THE UNSW LAW CAREERS MANAGER

Hi, I’m Brooke Johnson, Careers Manager for the Faculty of Law & Justice at UNSW.

A law degree is versatile and foundational, opening many career pathways, particularly within public interest. At UNSW, your Law & Justice faculty has a strong tradition in advocacy and social justice , which has led many of your alumni to roles in the public sector, community legal centres, and other national and international social policy-driven organisations.

Your law degree and the training you receive at UNSW are highly sought after by employers, as evidenced by UNSW Law & Justice ranking of #1 in Australia for Law in the 2025 QS University World Rankings, with exceptional scores for employer reputation. Identifying the right career pathway can take time. With so many choices available, you are encouraged to explore and gain an understanding of the different pathways available to law graduates.

Through our Work Integrated Learning ( WIL ) programs, you have the opportunity to enrol in elective courses and gain practical, hands-on experience with organisations that provide direct legal services and policy reform. These organisations span government and social justice entities amongst others, some of which are with centres based right here on campus.

The Law & Justice Careers Service is available to help you plan for your career and support you in ultimately securing a fulfilling job upon graduation. The Careers Service maintains ongoing relationships with employers to ensure you are updated on industry news and insights. The MyLaw intranet site provides career resources tailored to support you in planning for a future career in law. And the jobs board advertises legal-related casual, part-time, and graduate roles to students.

Many students have found the one-on-one Law & Justice career coaching appointments particularly valuable in assisting to map out a career plan or for support in job applications. These 45-minute sessions can be used to discuss career pathways aligned with your interests and strengths, create or review a career plan, review your resume and cover letter, discuss job search strategies, or address any other career-related topics. These sessions are available to all Law & Justice students and sessions can be scheduled via this link .

We look forward to engaging with you to support you on your career journey.

Brooke Johnson UNSW Law Careers Manager

MESSAGE FROM THE UNSW LAW SOCIETY PRESIDENTS

The UNSW Law Society is proud to continue supporting the UNSW Law community in pursuing their career ambitions and personal aspirations. A core part of this mission is ensuring that our students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to achieve their goals. It is with this in mind that we are excited to present the 2025 Public Interest Careers Guide.

This guide offers insight into a diverse range of career paths across government, not-for-profit organisations, and other agencies that the UNSW Law Society is privileged to support. It provides an overview of each sector, alongside application advice and key deadlines, designed to help you navigate your career journey with confidence. Public interest work is deeply rewarding, offering the chance to drive meaningful change and work alongside passionate, determined, and inspiring advocates.

Today, public interest careers are more important than ever — addressing critical issues such as refugee and immigration rights, advancing humanitarian causes, and promoting justice across our communities. We hope this guide inspires you to explore new pathways, discover your passions, and pursue a career that makes a difference.

Finally, we would like to sincerely thank the Public Interest Careers team and the publications team for their hard work in bringing this guide to life. Special thanks go to our Vice-President (Public Interest Careers) Jasmine Lai, Vice-President (Publications) Teo , and their directors Geena Blackwood and Jay Sheng for their leadership and dedication. We wish you the very best as you embark on your career journey, and hope this guide is a valuable resource along the way.

Matthew Kuk and Madeleine Morris UNSW Law Society Co-Presidents

MESSAGE FROM THE VICE-PRESIDENT (PUBLIC INTEREST CAREERS)

As the Vice-President of Public Interest Careers 2025, I have had the immense privilege of leading a team of directors and subcommittee members who are truly passionate about and dedicated to serving the UNSW law community. I would like to extend my thanks and gratitude to the directors I have had the pleasure of leading throughout the year, including Geena Blackwood and Jay Sheng for their tireless efforts in producing this guide. Advocacy and the pursuit of social justice form the foundational pillars upon which the UNSW Faculty of Law and Justice rests. As students studying law at UNSW, we are in a position of incredible privilege. By pursuing higher education at a world-renowned institution, we are encouraged and equipped with capabilities to debate the big issues, defend those who cannot defend themselves and make a difference in this world. The public sector is one avenue where we can apply, challenge and aspire to change the legal and socio-political systems around us. I hope that this publication will serve as inspiration for students to embrace the versatility of their law degree and advocate for those who are unable to advocate for themselves in fights for the causes they believe in. This guide will provide valuable information on the career opportunities available across a range of organisations in the public sector, encouraging students to pursue their true passions and interests, develop skills and amass experience that will further their legal careers.

The 2025 Public Interest Careers portfolio has hosted a number of events, including the highly successful Human Rights Conference, in collaboration with the UNSW Law Society Social Justice portfolio and International portfolio, as well as the Careers in Criminal Law Night, in collaboration with the UNSW Criminology Society. The Public Interest Careers portfolio collaborated with the Education portfolio to organise An Evening with the Justices and was privileged to host the Honourable Michael Kirby and the Honourable Angus Stewart. These events, alongside many others run by the Public Interest Careers portfolio, have provided unique insights into the diverse career pathways in the public sector and afforded valuable experiences to students, faculty members and external guests alike, further building the broader UNSW law community and connecting like-minded individuals.

We hope that this guide will provide inspiration for the work you dedicate yourselves to.

On behalf of myself and the UNSW Law Society, we wish you the very best of luck and look forward to seeing the impact of all you accomplish.

Jasmine Lai

Vice-President (Public Interest Careers), UNSW Law Society 2025

CHAPTER I: Government/Public Service

FEDERAL Government and Public Service

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

Administrative Review Tribunal

(ART)

Capital Cities except Darwin

Fun Fact

• In October 2024, the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) replaced the former Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). The reform aims to address longstanding issues and improve the review process by;

• Expanding membership to reduce backlogs and prevent unnecessary delays;

• Introducing a unified case management system to streamline processes, improve case tracking, and provide greater transparency for parties and the public;

• Enhancing procedures to deliver quicker outcomes; and

• Providing stronger support services to assist applicants throughout their review.

ABOUT

The Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) conducts independent merits review of administrative decisions made under Commonwealth laws. The ART reviews decisions made by Federal Government ministers, departments and agencies and, in limited circumstances, decisions made by state government and non-government bodies. The ART 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 ART 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?

The ART 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; and -Veteran’s appeals.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The ART 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 ART 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://www. art.gov.au/about-us/careers

LAWSOC EVENT

Administrative Law Panel

All

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)

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

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?

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; and

• Commercial, whose key function is to provide advice and draft agreements across divisions such as Music, Books, Audio, Magazines

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Internships at the ABC may be available to tertiary students who are required to complete a period of practical experience as part of their course. Internships are an unpaid period of work experience arranged between the educational institution, the ABC, and the student. There are a number of internship opportunities available, depending on what you would like to get out of the experience. More information can be found here: https://www.abc.net.au/careers/ work-experience/12007628

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Each year, ABC News offers cadetships to aspiring journalists, with opportunities in every State and Territory. The ABC NEWS Cadetship is a 12-month paid program. They offer 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 nation’s most trusted and independent source of Australian conversations. More information can be found here: https://www.abc.net.au/careers/ work-experience/12007628

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

Attorney-General’s Department

All capital cities

Fun Fact

The Attorney-General’s Department recruits their graduates through the Australian Government Graduate Program (AGGP) streams. This means you can enter the program by applying to your relevant stream:

• Accounting and Financial Management;

• Data;

• Economist;

• Generalist;

• HR;

• Indigenous Graduate Pathway; and

• Legal.

For more information visit https://www.ag.gov. au/about-us/careers/ employment-programs/ attorney-generalsdepartment-graduateprogram

ABOUT

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.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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 international law and cooperation;

4. National Anti-Corruption Commission - litigation and policy writing; and

5. Enabling Services - operational and human resources

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The Attorney-General’s Department Graduate Program will provide you with:

• An 11-month graduate program a thorough induction to ensure you are equipped to begin your program;

• 3 rotations within the department to develop your skills and areas of interest;

• Structured learning and development opportunities, including graduate major projects and Practical Legal Training (if eligible);

• A dedicated pastoral care coordinator a buddy network with our previous graduates; and

• Opportunities to participate in exclusive networking events, including discussions with senior executives.

For more information visit https:// www.ag.gov.au/about-us/careers/ employment-programs/attorneygenerals-department-graduateprogram

LAWSOC EVENT

Careers in Government Panel

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

Australian Human Rights Commission

Sydney

Fun Fact

The AHRC’s 2024 Project ‘Help way earlier!’ – transforming child justice investigates opportunities for reform of child justice and related systems across Australia based on children’s rights and sound evidence. The report includes the voices of children and their families, and stakeholder submissions, interviews and roundtables. For more information visit https:// humanrights.gov.au/our-work/ childrens-rights/publications/ help-way-earlier

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.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• initiating research into human rights and discrimination issues.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

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

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 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, graudates 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/

LAWSOC EVENT

Human Rights Conference

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC)

Sydney, Canberra, Brisbane

Fun Fact

The ALRC’s recent inquiry ‘Review of the Future Acts Regime’ forms part of the Government’s commitment in response to the Joint Standing Committee on Northern Australia’s report on the destruction of First Nations cultural heritage, A Way Forward. In undertaking this reference, the ALRC will have regard to the Socio-economic Outcomes and Priority Reforms of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap and will consider work underway to address recommendations arising from the A Way Forward Report. The ALRC has been asked to provide its final report to the Attorney-General by 8 December 2025. For more information visit https://www. alrc.gov.au/inquiry/review-ofthe-future-acts-regime/

ABOUT

The Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) is an independent statutory authority, which functions to conduct inquiries on behalf of the federal Attorney-General. 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?

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; and

• 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. Interns will assist with current inquiries through research and policy drafting.

More information can be found here: https://www.alrc.gov.au/ publication/annual-report-20132014-alrc-report-125/specialfeatures-4/alrc-internship-program

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 Sydney. All positions are based in Brisbane.

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

LAWSOC EVENT Law Reform Panel

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS)

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 the ASIS and made public for the first time, the ASIS’s functions and limits. Canberra

A Secret Agency

For over twenty years, the existence of the 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 “the 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, the ASIS is a part of the Foreign Affairs portfolio and is responsible to the Minister for Foreign Affairs.

ABOUT

The 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 well-being of its citizens.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The 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

The 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. You’ll complete a rotational program to help you learn about different parts of the organisation that will give you a strong understanding of the business of intelligence. The types of rotations and training and development opportunities you complete will depend on which graduate stream you choose. ASIS offers four graduate streams:

• Operational analysts;

• Technologists;

• Finance; and

• Legal.

Applications for the 2027 ACTIVATE graduate program will open in early 2026.

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

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO)

Fun Fact

Prime Minister Ben Chifley established ASIO by charter in 1949. He appointed Justice Geoffrey Reed, a Supreme Court judge, to lead the service. ASIO’s charter empowered the organisation to undertake intelligence activities for the protection of the Commonwealth against espionage, sabotage and subversion.

Initially headquartered in Sydney and then Melbourne, ASIO now has offices in all Australian states and territories. The Ben Chifley Building in Canberra has been ASIO’s headquarters since 2014, having been purpose-built to meet the unique requirements of a security intelligence agency. Read more about ASIO’s history here: https://www.asio.gov.au/ about/history

The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) is the nation’s security service. ASIO protects Australia and Australians from threats to their security. The focuses on counter espionage and foreign interference, counterterrorism and national security matters.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• Reforming data analytics and technology.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The ASIO Graduate Lawyer Program is a dynamic 12-month program, showcasing the breadth of legal work that ASIO undertakes and set graduates on a pathway for a career with purpose. The work ranges from providing real time legal advice on ASIO operations, through to legislative reform, administration and corporate law advice, and criminal and civil litigation. This role will offer a diverse range of opportunities providing foundational training and experience as a government lawyer.

More information about the program can be found here: https://www.asio.gov.au/careers/ entry-level-programs

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

Office of Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC)

Fun Fact

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) recently welcomed the first tranche of reforms to the Privacy Act 1988 as an important first step in strengthening Australia’s privacy framework.

The Bill to be introduced to Parliament will:

• Strengthen the OAIC’s enforcement toolkit, which will include a new mid-tier civil penalty for interferences with privacy and a low-level civil penalty provision for specific administrative breaches of the Act with attached infringement notice powers;

• Introduce a statutory tort for serious invasions of privacy, which would be an important addition to the suite of regulatory measures needed to address gaps in the existing privacy protection framework and address current and emerging privacy risks and harms (such as doxing). Sydney

• Require the OAIC to develop a new Children’s Online Privacy Code to enhance privacy protections for children in the online environment, particularly when using digital platforms; and

The OAIC are an independent agency within the Attorney-General’s portfolio. Their primary functions are privacy, freedom of information and government information policy. They are headed by the Australian Information Commissioner, who has a range of powers and responsibilities under the AIC Act, and exercises powers under the FOI Act, the Privacy Act and other laws.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The OAIC’s work involves:

• Conducting investigations;

• Handling complaints;

• Reviewing decisions made under the FOI Act;

• Monitoring agency administration; and

• Advising the public, organisations and agencies.

The 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 the OAIC’s three branches:

1. Dispute Resolution; 2. Regulation and Strategy; and 3. Corporate

More information can be found here: https://www.oaic.gov.au/ about-us/join-our-team/.

Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications

Canberra

Aviation White Paper released to strengthen sector towards 2050

The White Paper sets out the Australian Government’s vision for aviation towards 2050 and will deliver a range of initiatives to ensure a safe, competitive, productive and sustainable sector.

Extensive consultation with the aviation industry, state and territory governments, and the Australian community has informed the development of 56 policy initiatives to be delivered through the White Paper.

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).

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

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The DITRDC’s work involves:

• strategic advice and policy development;

• program and grants management;

• regulatory management; and

• collaborative stakeholder engagement.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The DITRDC offers a Graduate Development Program in Canberra. Applicants with degrees in public policy, law, sciences and communications are highly valued. Opportunities may be available across the sectors of aviation, cities, territoties, transport, maritime, post, regional, media technology and communications, corporate, arts and rail.

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

The Indigenous Graduate Pathway Program is available to all First Nations peoples. You will be able to complete one application and be considered for multiple agencies and departments within the Australian Public Service (APS).

For more information on application deadlines and how to apply visit https://www. indigenouscareers.gov.au/ recruitment-pathways/indigenousgraduate-pathway

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Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

Department of Defence

Australia-wide

Fun Fact

The Australian Government is acquiring quantum optical atomic clocks from Adelaide-based QuantX Labs to deliver position navigation and timing (PNT) capabilities to the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

Two contracts worth $2.7 million will enable AUKUS partners to develop PNT capabilities to support superior decision advantage and enhanced maritime domain awareness, which are key objectives under AUKUS Pillar II.

The ADF will use the quantum clock to test and evaluate timing in critical defence hardware, like communication and navigation systems, to determine operational resilience in global positioning systems (GPS) degraded environments.

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. 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.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

In various roles employees:

• Plan advice for the Minister for Defence;

• Develop strategic guidance for the ADF; and

• Evaluate information from classified and unclassified sources.

Work in the Legal Division involves:

• Providing legal advice, support and services on the management of legal affairs; and

• Operations law including humanitarian law.

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.

More information can be found here: https://www.defencejobs. gov.au/students-and-education/ defence-university-sponsorship/ what-is-dus.

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); and

• Bachelor of Computing and Cyber Security (3 years).

You can find more information here: https://www.defence.gov.au/ APSCareers/DCUS.asp and here: https://www.defence.gov.au/jobscareers/graduates.

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Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

Department of Veterans’ Affairs

All major capital cities

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 battlefields of Belgium and France to learn about WWI battles.

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

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• Historical information.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

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.

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; and

• Counselling Service

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.

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Chapter I: Government/Public Service

Department of Education

• Preparing their future workforce through globally competitive tertiary education, training and research sectors Canberra

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The work of the DESE involves:

• Ensuring quality, affordable and accessible early education and care for families

• Improving schooling outcomes for children

ABOUT

Department of Education, Skills and Employment 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.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The DOE 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;

• Legal Career Pathwaygraduates work with in-house legal counsel to provide advice across several different areas of law;

• Economic Career Pathwaygraduates conduct economic and labour market research and analysis; and

• Accounting and Financial Management Career Pathway -graduates prepare budgets, provide financial analysis and reporting.

You can find more information here: https://www.education.gov. au/graduate-and-entry-levelprograms/graduate-program

Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources

All major cities

... Government and business partner to establish mRNA production in Australia

The Australian Government, Moderna and the Victorian Government have finalised partnership arrangements to establish an mRNA vaccine manufacturing facility at Monash University in Melbourne. Once operational, the facility will be able to produce up to 100 million vaccine doses every year.

ABOUT

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

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The Department:

• Boost Australia’s competitiveness and economic transformation by backing business, science, innovation and investment;

• Deliver policies and programs to reduce emissions, increase renewable energy uptake and help Australia adapt to climate change; and

• Rely on building strong relationships between businesses, entrepreneurs, employees, the science community, government, regulators and international partners

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, and include vocational placements for internships, work experience and the Year in Industry program. You can find more information here: https://www. industry.gov.au/about-us/workwith-us/student-opportunities.

There are also opportunities for students, volunteers and work experience at Questacon.

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

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The Department offers a 12-month Graduate Development Program, with an additional optional sixmonth career transition support program. The graduate program offers on-the-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; and

• 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/ about-us/work-with-us/graduatesprogram.

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

Fair Work Commission

All capital cities

New laws in the Fair Work system from August 2024

From August 2024, the amendments to the Fair Work Act 2009 made by the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes No. 2) Act 2024:

• Empower the fwc to deal with applications relating to disputes about the right to disconnect;

• Change the definition of casual employment and change the pathway from casual to permanent employment and our role in relation to disputes;

• Change the general protections provisions in relation to sham contracting and protected workplace rights; and

• Give us powers relating to ‘employee-like’ workers performing digital platform work including: (1) the ability to make minimum standards orders and (2) dealing with disputes about unfair deactivation from a digital platform.

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?

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;

• Approving, varying and terminating enterprise agreements;

• 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, full-time or casual.

Positions include:

• Client Services Representative;

• Case Manager;

• Research Officer; and

• Conciliator

You can find more information here: https://fwc.bigredsky.com/page.

Associate postitions are also available on a non-ongoing basis of 12-18 months and their main duties include administration, case management, in-court duties and legal research.

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

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Chapter I: Government/Public Service

Fair Work Ombudsman

All capital cities

Former Darwin burger outlet operator penalised

The Fair Work Ombudsman has secured a $21,645 penalty in court against the former operator of a burger outlet in Darwin for a breach affecting a vulnerable young worker.

The Federal Circuit and Family Court has imposed the penalty against Territory Tough Pty Ltd, which formerly operated a burger outlet trading as ‘Good Thanks’ in Darwin’s CBD.

The penalty was imposed in response to Territory Tough failing to comply with a Compliance Notice requiring it to calculate and back-pay entitlements owing to a young worker it employed at the outlet as a full-time chef between May 2019 and June 2022.

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; and

• Inquiring into and investigating breaches of the Fair Work Act.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The Ombudsman educates and enforces workplace laws through:

• Workplace investigationsinvolves 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 do not comply with a compliance notice; and

• Litigation.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The FWO maintains an Employment Register for nonongoing opportunities of up to 18 months. Positions are available at all Australian Public Service levels, including entry-level.

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

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Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

The CEBRA team analysed border interception data on the brown marmorated stink bug, spongy moth, Asian honeybee, giant African snails and khapra beetles to estimate how many goods consignments they could contaminate. The full report is now available here: https://cebra. unimelb.edu.au/data/assets/ pdffile/0005/4968518/21Bfinalreport.pdf Canberra

Predicting Australia’s exposure to exotic pests

The Centre of Excellence for Biosecurity Risk Analysis (CEBRA) has developed forecasting models that analyse changing climates and international trade flows to determine which pests will hit Australia hardest over the coming decades.

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry work to enhance the agricultural, fisheries and forestry industries. They create new and maintain existing agricultural export opportunities, to provide gains for Australian agriculture and manage biosecurity risks to Australia to protect their multi-billion dollar agricultural industries and our way of life.

WHAT DO KIND OF WORK?

The Department works in three major ways: working with Administrative Arrangements Orders, enforcing laws and working with stakeholders, governments and the public.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The Department offers a graduate program with six career streams to choose from:

• Generalist;

• Veterinary Science;

• Finance and Accounting;

• Legal;

• Human Resources; and

• Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) Entry Level Professional Program.

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

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Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)

Canberra, International

New trade rules for the digital economy

Released on 26 July, the text of a new agreement on electronic commerce follows five years of negotiations among a large and diverse group of World Trade Organization (WTO) Members, jointly convened by Australia, Japan and Singapore.

The next phase of this work includes integrating these foundational rules into the broader WTO system.

Once in force the rules would be relevant to issues such as helping protect Australians online, and supporting Australian businesses in accessing new markets, simplifying transactions, creating improved certainty and lowering costs for online trade.

See the agreement here: https:// docs.wto.org/dol2fe/Pages/SS/ directdoc.aspx?filename=q:/INF/ ECOM/87.pdf&Open=True

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. The 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?

DFAT officers are involved in:

• Developing and implementing foreign, trade and development policy;

• Negotiating international agreements;

• Delivering an effective aid program; and

• 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; and

• 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

• Working on bilateral and multilateral legal issues, including international trade matters, law of the sea and international human rights.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The 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; and

• 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/dfat-aps-careers/ indigenous-programs/Pages/ indigenous-programs.

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Department of Health and Aged Care

All capital cities

The Genomics Health Futures Mission is investing $500.1 million in genomic research to improve the testing, diagnosis and treatment of life threatening and untreatable diseases.

In 2023-24, the Department of Health and Aged Care engaged Nous Group to review the Genomics Health Futures Mission’s progress in:

• Supporting genomics and genetics research in australia; and

• Meeting objectives in the genomics health futures mission roadmap and implementation plan, and the mrff’s 10-year investment plan and monitoring, evaluation and learning strategy.

Read the findings here: https:// www.health.gov.au/resources/ publications/mrff-Review-ofthe-Genomics-Health-FuturesMission?language=en

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; and

• Better sport outcomes.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• Identify and investigate issues and develop policy to provide the best possible solutions to challenges across health, ageing and aged care, and sport

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The 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.

The 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.

The 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/graduateprogram.

The 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-F08C47C4-9B45-AAB900B2B110&audie nceTypeCode=EXT&UseAudience TypeLanguage=1.

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Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

Department of Home Affairs

Canberra (limited opportunities available in other capital cities)

Global Business and Talent Attraction Taskforce

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 high-yield businesses interested in growing their success in Australia.

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. 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.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• domestically and globally

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

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 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.

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

• Secretary’s Book Club;

• Graduate Project;

• Refugee Week Grad Bake-off;

• APSC Graduate Events; and

• Graduation Ceremony

You can find more information here: https://www.homeaffairs.gov. au/about-us/careers/graduateprogram.

Applications open in March each year for the following year.

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Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

Commonwealth Ombudsman

Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney

Fun Fact

The Commonwealth Ombudsman Mr Iain Anderson, in his role as the Commonwealth National Preventive Mechanism (NPM), published Access All Areas: Monitoring Places of Detention 2022-23.

The report makes 12 recommendations to the Department of Home Affairs to make systemic improvements to how people are treated in immigration detention.

Recommendations are aimed at:

• Improving the detention network infrastructure so that people in detention can;

• Maintain contact with family and other community and cultural supports;

• Ensuring women and transgender individuals can be safely accommodated;

• Preventing criminal activities and addressing substance misuse in detention;

• Centres;

• Improving access to fresh air for those held in isolation; and

• Stopping the use of excessive force against people in detention.

Read the full report: https://bit. ly/4bohEG5

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 Ombudsman 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; and

• The Commonwealth.

The Ombudsman is also responsible for:

• Oversight of the commonwealth public interest disclosure scheme; and

• Inspection and monitoring of certain covert and intrusive powers by police and other law enforcement agencies.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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. The Ombudsman employees ensure the actions of agencies are fair and responsible by:

• Handling complaints;

• Conducting investigations;

• Performing audits and inspections; and

• 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 shortterm temporary employment on the Non-ongoing Employment Register.

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

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Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet

Women’s Leadership and Development Program

The Office for Women administers the Women’s Leadership and Development Program (WLDP), to fund and deliver a range of projects for Australian Women. The program contributes to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet’s Outcome 1. The objective of the WLDP is to improve outcomes for Australian women in six key priority areas:

• Women’s Job Creation;

• Women’s Economic Security;

• Women’s Workforce Participation;

• Women’s Leadership;

• Women’s Safety; and

• International Engagement.

The WLDP is split into two grant streams: Project Grants for one-off projects and Advocacy Grants to fund the formation of six civil society networks to ensure women’s voices are heard in the policymaking process.

The Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C) offers top-tier guidance and support to the Prime Minister, Cabinet, Portfolio Ministers, and Assistant Ministers for cohesive and innovative policy development and execution. PM&C manages policy coordination in various areas, including economics, domestic and international issues, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander affairs, and public service management.

PM&C’s roles:

• Coordinating government policies for practical improvements in Australians’ lives;

• Promoting a high-performing public sector in collaboration with the Australian Public Service Commission; and

• Consulting with government, private, non-profit sectors, and the community.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet operates in five main groups:

• Economy, Industry and G20 Sherpa Group;

• Social Policy Group;

• National Security and International Policy Group;

• Governance and APS Reform Group; and

• Chief Operating Officer Group.

GRADUATE OPPORTINITIES

PM&C offers a 12-month graduate program in Canberra with rotations in various areas:

• Domestic Policy: Create and coordinate policy solutions for Australia’s key economic, social, and environmental issues;

• Government: Promote consistency across government and coordinate public ceremonies and national honours;

• International Policy: Contribute to discussions on overseas trade, foreign aid, development, and international security;

• National Security: Provide advice on border protection and defence initiatives;

• Office for Women: Collaborate across government to advance gender equality;

• Regulation: Ensure the proper functioning of society and the economy through government-endorsed rules and compliance; and

• Public Data: Enhance the management, sharing, and publication of public data for the benefit of all Australians.

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

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Canberra

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

Department of Social Services

All major cities

Fun Fact

The ‘Getting the NDIS Back on Track No. 1’ Bill passed through Parliament on 22 August 2024. This is the first step to reforming the NDIS after the NDIS Review. The Bill received Royal Assent on 6 September and will become law on 3 October 2024. Changes to the NDIS Act because of the passing of the Bill will enable future improvements to the NDIS.

These changes will:

• Clarify the way participants access the ndis;

• Improve how ndis participant budgets are set and spent; and

• Strengthen the ndis quality and safeguards commission.

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 DSS partners with other government and nongovernment 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.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

DSS is responsible for administering services relating to:

• Families and children;

• Housing support;

• Seniors;

• Communities and vulnerable people;

• Disability and carers; and

• Mental health.

DSS employees assist with the delivery of programs and services, benefits and payments, and grants for service providers.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The DSS offers 70-80 spots annually in its graduate program to students of any discipline. This 10-month program includes two five-month rotations and is structured into Generalist, Data & Analysis, Public Affairs Specialist, Legal, and Finance streams. Relevant qualifications are needed for specialist streams. Graduates get access to learning opportunities, networking events, and short-term placements in notfor-profits and Services Australia service centers. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants have a culturally appreciative pathway for streamlined entry.

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

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Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) ABOUT

All capital cities, Townsville

Collective bargaining

The ACCC has the authority to authorise collective bargaining for businesses. In Sepetmber 2020 the ACCC granted authorisation 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.

The ACCC enforces the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 and related laws, aiming to promote competition, fair trading, and regulate national infrastructure. This benefits Australians through lower prices, better products, and increased choice. The ACCC focuses on ensuring market functionality, protecting competition, enhancing consumer welfare, and preventing anti-competitive behavior.

Strategies include:

• Promoting competition;

• Protecting consumer interests and supporting small businesses;

• Promoting efficient infrastructure operation and addressing market failure; and

• Conducting market studies and inquiries.

The AER, Australia’s national energy market regulator with an independent board, shares resources with the ACCC.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The ACCC comprises a Chair, two Deputy Chairs, and three Commissioners. These officials also chair seven sub-committees, each involving full-time and associate members with specialized expertise. The subcommittees and their functions are:

• Enforcement Committee: Recommends actions to ensure compliance with the Competition and Consumer Act 2020 (Cth);

• Mergers Review Committee: Evaluates the impact of mergers and acquisitions on competition;

• Communications Committee: Addresses regulatory and competition issues;

• Infrastructure Committee: Oversees issues related to access, price monitoring, transport, and water regulation;

• Adjudication Committee: Reviews applications for authorizations, exclusive dealing notifications, and trademark applications;

• Consumer Data Right Committee: Manages the ACCC’s role in implementing consumer data rights policy; and

• Compliance and Product Safety Committee: Sets policy direction, makes decisions on law reforms, and oversees compliance and education programs for consumers, small businesses, and product safety.

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC)

All capital cities

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; and

• 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;

Applications open each year in March. You can find more information here: https:// www.accc.gov.au/about-us/ employment-careers/graduateopportunities

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Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA)

All capital cities

Fun Fact

APRA is a sponsor of the UNSW Co-op program. This program provides students with financial assistance and the opportunity to gain practical experience through industry placements with employer sponsors. The Co-op program covers a number of disciplines. APRA offers an actuarial placement. More information is available on the UNSW website: https://www. unsw.edu.au/co-op-program

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.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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)

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/grantsand-scholarships.

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/ apra-graduate-careers.

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Careers in Government Panel

Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC)

All capital cities

Diversity in ASIC

ASIC is committed to workplace diversity and fostering an inclusive environment where all people, stakeholders and communities are treated with fairness and respect. They have a number of initatives to ensure this, including, an accessibility committee, multicultural committee, parents and carers network, rainbow network reconcilisation committee and women in ASIC committee.

ABOUT

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

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.

ASIC’s role under the ASIC Act is to:

• Promote confident and informed participation by investors and consumers in the financial system;

• Make information about companies and other bodies available to the public as soon as practicable; and

• Take whatever action necessary to enforce and give effect to the law.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• Advising on enforcement matters

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

ASIC offer a 24-month graduate program, including:

• Four rotations in different business areas;

• National graduate induction;

• Professional development provided through a blended learning approach;

• Continuous self-development through professional memberships and access to learning workshops (online & in person);

• Financial assistance towards further study;

• Flexible and dynamic working environment; and

• Lead and participate in a Graduate fundraising project

Graduates can rotate through the areas of mathematics, law, finance and information technology. More information can be found here: https://careers.asic.gov.au/ Graduate-program.html.

LAWSOC EVENT Careers in Government Panel

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

Australian Taxation Office

All capital cities

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.

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is Australia’s primary revenue collection agency. It manages tax and superannuation systems, collects revenue, administers GST for states and territories, oversees community benefit programs, manages the superannuation system, and maintains the Australian Business Register. The ATO operates under the Public Governance, Performance, and Accountability Act 2013, within the Treasury portfolio, and is accountable under the Public Service Act 1999.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• 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 Paid Internship Program (UPIP). Under the program, students have the opportunity to do work that involves research, administration and business support relevant to students studying business, commerce, law, design, economics, project management, information technology, marketing, or statistics.

This program gives you:

• Paid work experience in your field of study on a casual contract; and

• A competitive aps 2 casual pay rate of $40 per hour;

• A flexible placement to help balance work and university studies;

• Professional development and networking opportunities;

• A supportive team environment and dedicated career development manager; and

• A potential pathway to the graduate program.

You can find more information here: https://www.ato.gov.au/careers/ graduate-and-entry-level-programs

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The ATO offers a 12-month graduate program with a taxation stream for law degree holders. In this role, you’ll shape tax and superannuation systems by educating individuals on their rights and obligations.

Taxation graduates collaborate in teams to:

• Advise clients and gather information;

• Conduct client engagement activities, including risk reviews and audits;

• Make mitigation strategy recommendations;

• Administer GST;

• Research and analyze tax data and procedures;

• Interpret taxation laws and procedures; and

• Manage the superannuation system.

The ATO also mainatin a temporary employment register. You can find more information here: https://ato. nga.net.au/cp/index.cfm?event=jobs. listJobs&jobListid=65c825cc-dd76ca27-5ade-80445fad992c&CurATC=EX T&CurBID=8F00C525-8206-4649-B1859DB401358C99

LAWSOC EVENT Careers in Government Panel

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA)

Sydney

Strangers in Paradise - Speech by Deputy Governer Andrew

Hauser

In his speech at the Opening Dinner for the Citi A50 Australian Economic Forum 2024, the Deputy Governer identified three key things that have helped Australia navigate massive changes in the global economic and finanical system: Its unusually diverse range of resource endowments – below ground, in both ‘old world’ and ‘new world’ minerals; above ground, in human capital, agriculture and solar capacity; and beyond the seas, in its geographical position.

Its strong but adaptable progrowth institutions – political, legal, macro and microeconomic, and financial stability.

Its longstanding welcoming environment for foreign investment.

ABOUT

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is Australia’s central bank, operating under the Reserve Bank Act 1959. Its core mission includes maintaining currency stability, full employment, and the economic wellbeing of Australians. This involves implementing monetary policy to achieve a predefined inflation target, ensuring a robust financial system and efficient payment network, and issuing national banknotes.

RBA offers essential banking services to the Australian government, overseas central banks, and official institutions, alongside managing Australia’s gold and foreign exchange reserves.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• 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 in their third year (or equivalent) students majoring in economics, econometrics, finance, data science, legal, actuarial or related areas who intend to complete honours or similar research 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/ careers-at-the-rba/students-andgraduates/summer-intern-program. html.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The RBA offers a two-year graduate program with rotations. It’s open to students with degrees in economics, finance, data science, law, or similar fields.

Graduates may complete rotations in the following areas:

• Economic Group;

• Financial Markets Group;

• Payments Policy;

• Financial Stability;

• Risk and Compliance; and

• Note Issue.

Graduates with strong microeconomics and legal backgrounds are especially sought after for Payments Policy, supporting the Payments System Board’s oversight in Australia. Additionally, there are graduate programs in accounting, audit, and payments settlements.

You can find more information here: https://www.rba.gov.au/careers/ careers-at-the-rba/students-andgraduates/

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

The Treasury

Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne. Perth

Murugappan Family

In 2022, The Hon Jim Chalmers MP, as Treasurer and Interim Minister of Home Affairs exercised his power under seaction 195A of the Migration Act 1958, to intervence in the case of the Murugappan family. The effect of his intervention enabled the family to return to Biloela, where they can reside lawfully in the community on bridging visas while they work towards the resolution of their immigration status, in accordance with Australian law.

The Treasury serves as the government’s top economic advisor, with a mission to support informed policy decisions that benefit Australians while promoting strong, sustainable economic growth and fiscal responsibility. As a central policy agency, it analyses broad economic issues, understands government and stakeholder needs, and adapts swiftly to changing circumstances.

The Treasury offers expert economic analysis and policy guidance on various areas, including the economy, budget, taxation, financial sector, foreign investment, structural policy, superannuation, small businesses, housing affordability, and international economic policy. Additionally, it collaborates with state and territory governments on critical policy matters and oversees federal financial relations.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The Treasury is organized into five groups:

• Fiscal: Advises on budget, major expenditures, taxation policy, and retirement income;

• Macroeconomic: Provides advice on financial system security and corporate practices;

• Revenue: Monitors economic conditions, advises on macroeconomic policy, and assesses prospects;

• Markets: Offers advice on taxation and retirement income policies and assists with implementation; and

• Corporate & Foreign Investment: Provides strategic advice and services to the department, portfolio Ministers, and agencies in areas such as IT, communications, finance, and risk management.

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. Successful graduates will undertake 3 word rotations, as well as specialist learning and development workshops and activities.

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 highly-developed 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/

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

Australian Defence Force

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.

ABOUT

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is Australia’s military organization, responsible for key defensive roles and a range of peacetime services. The Navy, Army, and Air Force work closely together, tasked with defending:

• The nation, its borders, and coastline;

• The people and their values; and

• The way of life.

Additionally, the ADF supports various operations, including:

• International security and counterterrorism initiatives;

• Border protection against illegal activity and incursions;

• Humanitarian and peacekeeping efforts;

• Assisting communities affected by natural disasters; and

• Ensuring shipping safety, vital for 90% of our imports and exports.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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 univeristy 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/.

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

Australian Federal Police

Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne

AFP warning over passenger ‘air rage’ at Australian airports

The AFP is warning passengers that offensive, violent and disruptive behaviour, including incidents of ‘air-rage’ will not be tolerated in the air or on the ground, as passenger numbers increase during the busy school holiday travel period.

The passenger behaviour warning comes as AFP officers increase patrols across Australian airports as part of the school holiday travel period, ensuring all passengers safely depart and arrive at their travel destinations.

In the past seven months, the AFP has responded to 748 incidents relating to public disturbances, intoxication and offensive behaviour at its airports.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) is a versatile law enforcement agency dedicated to enhancing Australia’s security, both domestically and internationally. Prioritizing counter-terrorism and national security, the AFP also places significant emphasis on fostering international relations to facilitate cross-border crime prevention. Collaborating with the Australian Government and various agencies, the AFP spearheads efforts in counter-terrorism, crime prevention, and capacity-building initiatives. Additionally, the AFP offers a wide array of investigative support, security risk management, vetting, and information services to aid the public.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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 interjurisdictional operational issues; and

• Providing advice on and support to the conduct of prosecutions, including sufficiency of evidence, disclosure and protection of sensitive information.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The AFP run a 12 month graduate program providing permanent, fulltime employment in specialist or support roles, working in a variety of areas and playing a key role in helping the AFP stay a step ahead of crime. At the end of the program, you will continue to work in the area that recruited you.

Graduates with law degrees are encouraged to apply.

Legal graduates will undertake at least three rotations in areas including:

• Criminal assets;

• Litigation;

• Legislation;

• Organised crime; and

• Industrial relations.

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

LAWSOC EVENT

Careers in Criminal Law Panel

NSW

Government and Public Service

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

Legal Aid 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; and

• Speak for you in court in most criminal matters.

ABOUT

Legal Aid NSW, the largest legal aid commission in Australia, has been serving socially and economically disadvantaged individuals throughout NSW since 1979. Originally named the Legal Services Commission, it became the Legal Aid Commission of NSW in 1987 and was renamed Legal Aid NSW in 2006. With over 1,300 staff, they offer legal assistance in criminal, family, and civil law, operating through 25 offices, two satellite offices, 243 outreach locations, and a free legal helpline, LawAccess NSW.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

•Law reform and policy work.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Legal Aid offers unpaid PLT placements to graduates, requiring a commitment of 80 days, either part-time or full-time. PLT students engage in:

• Assisting legal officers in effective legal practice;

• Conducting file work and legal research;

• Collaborating with practice staff (legal officers and admin);

• Adhering to the Legal Aid Commission Act, policies, and standards; and

• Completing administrative and case management tasks.

Applicants must possess knowledge of issues related to delivering legal services to disadvantaged individuals and familiarity with relevant court procedures, Legal Aid Commission policies, and procedures.

You can find more information here: https://www.legalaid.nsw. gov.au/about-us/careers

LAWSOC EVENT

Pro Bono and Legal Aid Panel

Across NSW

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

NSW Public Service Commission (PSC)

Sydney

Michael Siciliano

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.

ABOUT

The PSC plays a pivotal role in formulating and executing workforce management strategies, ensuring the NSW public sector remains equipped to provide top-notch services. It develops exemplary workforce models, overseeing their adoption across public sector entities in NSW. Regular assessments are provided via reporting, tracking the sector’s progress. Reporting to the NSW Premier, the PSC maintains its vital function.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The PSC plays a pivotal role in formulating and executing workforce management strategies, ensuring the NSW public sector remains equipped to provide top-notch services. It develops exemplary workforce models, overseeing their adoption across public sector entities in NSW. Regular assessments are provided via reporting, tracking the sector’s progress. Reporting to the NSW Premier, the PSC maintains its vital function.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The NSW Public Service Commission administers the NSW Government Graduate Program. Over 18 months, graduates rotate through various government departments, including the Department of Communities and Justice and the Department of Premier and Cabinet.

In the Legal Stream, graduates aid senior solicitors in litigation, policy work, and advice across the NSW public sector. They earn a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice and engage in:

• Research and analysis;

• Project delivery monitoring and reporting;

• Litigation support (e.g., drafting affidavits or briefs);

• Legal issue explanation and client advice;

• Assistance with projects, policies, and program initiatives; and

• Collaborative work across public sector agencies.

You can find more information here: https://www.psc.nsw.gov. au/workforce-management/ recruitment/nsw-governmentgraduate-program

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

NSW Crown Solicitor’s Office (CSO)

Inquiries

The CSO represents NSW government agencies in inquiries. The Royal Commission investigated child sexual abuse responses in churches, schools, sports, and government bodies. The Crown Solicitor represented NSW in hearings related to:

• Performing Arts Centers (Australian Institute of Music and RG Dance);

• Catholic and Anglican church authorities;

• Criminal justice issues in institutional child sexual abuse cases (including evidence admissibility); and

• Sporting clubs (including NSW Institute of Sport).

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); and

• Torts (Service/Regulatory Agencies).

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• Representation in inquisitorial proceedings, including coronial inquests, royal commissions, special commissions of inquiry

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://cso.nsw.gov.au/careers/ students-and-graduates.html

GRADUATE 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://cso.nsw.gov.au/careers/ students-and-graduates.html

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

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.

ABOUT

Since July 1, 2019, the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) merged the former departments of Family and Community Services and Justice in NSW. DCJ aims to enhance community safety, justice, inclusivity, and resilience.

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?

The work is varied, and may include:

• Providing resources to service providers;

• Connecting victims of family 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; and

• 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.

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ)

Sydney

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 DCJ, and experience that would enable you to contribute to the Department.

You can find more information here: https://dcj.nsw.gov.au/legaland-justice/laws-and-legislation/ policy-reform-and-legislation/ summer-clerkship.html

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.

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

NSW Law Reform Commission (NSWLRC)

Sydney

Review of Religious Exemptions in AntiDiscrimination Legislation

Anti-discrimination laws at federal, state, and territory levels often grant religious institutions exemptions to uphold their beliefs and practices.

The Australian Government has tasked the Australian Law Reform Commission with evaluating the potential limitation or removal of these exemptions while ensuring religious institutions can adhere to their ethos.

Additionally, the government wants a review of laws hindering the expression of the belief in marriage as between a man and a woman.

In 2022, Religious Freedom Bills lapsed due to the parliamentary term ending, and the ALRC is awaiting further instructions on this inquiry from the AttorneyGeneral.

ABOUT

The NSW Law Reform Commission advises the Government on legal issues referred by the Attorney General. They analyse these issues and suggest legislative changes. Their goals include:

• Modernising and improving the law;

• Simplifying and consolidating the law;

• Removing inefficiencies and defects;

• Repealing unnecessary and obsolete laws; and

• Enhancing access to justice.

To identify law issues and reforms, they conduct extensive research, engage with stakeholders and experts, and seek public input through consultation papers on their website, welcoming submissions from anyone.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• Conduct face to face consultations with with members of the community.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The NSWLRC run a four-week paid internship program in July/August each year. The program is available for students in their penultimate or 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://lawreform.nsw.gov. au/internship-program.html

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.

LAWSOC EVENT Law Reform Panel

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

Council of Law

Reporting for NSW

History of the Council

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.

• Drafting headnotes for each case; and

• Verifying judgements, including checking citations, quotations and references.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

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.

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; and

• 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?

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;

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;

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

• Conducting twice yearly audits of caselaw to check that all decisions have been received;

• Monitoring the status of appeals in cases selected as reportable; and

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

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; and

• Breaking the cycle of disadvantage.

ABOUT

The Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC) in NSW leads the public sector to fulfill government commitments. DPC supports the Premier and Ministers by:

• Coordinating policy, projects, and reforms to enhance efficiency and effectiveness;

• Partnering with various sectors for timely, budget-friendly service delivery;

• Aligning initiatives and managing legislation for government targets;

• Supporting major projects and planning state events; and

• Collaborating with federal and state/territory governments for national reforms.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

DPC is made up of five groups:

1. Strategy and Delivery - provide analysis and advice to the Premier;

2. Transformation - future planning and preparing NSW for changes;

3. Community Engagementimprove culture and divesity;

4. Office of the Genera Counseldevelop and implement policy reforms within the Premier’s portfolio, manage litigation and legal services; and

5. People - planning and delivering 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.

For more information visit https:// www.nsw.gov.au/departmentsand-agencies/premiersdepartment/careers/kick-startyour-career

CRIMINAL GOVERNMENTAL PRACTICE

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP)

All Capital Cities, Townsville, Cairns

Education Focus

The CDPP is committed to educating the community about Commonwealth criminal law and the consequences of breaking it. They do this by promoting the outcome of successful prosecutions through case reports and promoting sentences imposed through the media.

Their aim is to:

• Explain the role and work of the CDPP;

• Raise awareness of the range and complexity of crime;

• Publicise consequences of breaking Commonwealth Law;

• Send a strong message of deterrence; and

• Build public confidence in the justice system.

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 AttorneyGeneral’s portfolio, but operates independently of the AttorneyGeneral and the political process.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• 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.

LAWSOC EVENT

Careers in Criminal Law Night

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (NSW) (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.

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; and

• Hearings in the local court and the children’s court.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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 when completing a course that requires them to undertake a placement. 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 fulltime 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; and

• Teamwork skills.

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

LAWSOC EVENT

Careers in Criminal Law Night

Chapter I: Government/Public

Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC)

Sydney

Operation Tusket

Operation Tusket, initiated in 2017 by the Commission, delved into the NSW Police Force’s handling of the NSW Child Protection Register. This database houses personal information of individuals convicted of specific childrelated offenses. Offenders are mandated to report their details to the police for a designated period.

The investigation exposed longstanding issues with the Register spanning 17 years. These problems included child sex offenders evading police monitoring, unlawful requirements for personal information reporting, and wrongful convictions, sometimes leading to unlawful imprisonment under the CPOR Act.

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. The 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?

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; and

• Monitoring the investigation of critical incidents (incidents involving a police officer that result in death or serious

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

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

The LECC do not have a formal graduate program, but interested students can have a look at current vacancies: https://www.lecc.nsw. gov.au/connect-with-us#518a2431d843-4ffc-80ca-e8ad2c768093

Note that you cannot apply for a job at LECC if you have worked as a NSW Police or Crime Commission officer.

LAWSOC EVENT

Careers in Criminal Law Night

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

ABOUT

Police Prosecutors

Across NSW

Officer Charged After Investigation

A serving police officer has been charged following an investigation by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC).

Following inquiries, LECC requested the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) review their brief of evidence in relation to an alleged incident on Wednesday 24 February 2021. The constable – attached to the Central Metropolitan Region – is due to appear at Downing Centre Local Court on Thursday 17 November 2022, for the offence of fabricate false evidence with intent to mislead judicial tribunal.

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?

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; and

• Prosecution Support Unit.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Police Prosecutions Command recruit police officers and law students (through the Accelerated Prosecutor Recruitment Program -APRP) with the aptitude to become police prosecutors. Under the APRP, the NSW Police Force is now recruiting law graduates and fast tracking them into prosecuting.

You can find more information here: https://www.police.nsw.gov. au/about_us/organisational_ structure/units/police_ prosecutions_command

LAWSOC

EVENT

Careers in Criminal Law Night

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

Public Defenders

Across NSW

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.

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?

• Represent accused persons in District Court and Supreme Court trials;

• Handle arraignments and sentence matters in District Court and Supreme Court;

• Handle some murder committals in the Local Court;

• Handle appeals in the Court of Criminal Appeal and the High Court;

• Contribute to legal reform through submissions to the Attorney General and committee participation within the criminal justice system;

• Promote legal education through lectures, seminars, papers, and student/new barrister work experience; and

• Provide guidance to solicitors and Bar members on criminal law practice and procedure and offer representation throughout 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/

Chapter I: Government/Public Service

Public Defenders

Across NSW

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The Public Defender’s Office offers paid work experience for Aboriginal law graduates through the Aboriginal Law Graduates Program. The program aims to fulfill practical training requirements for solicitor or barrister practice or other legal roles.

Availability of the program is contingent on annual funding from the Attorney General’s Department and the presence of suitable candidates. Candidates are nominated by their law lecturers through the University’s Dean of Law or via the NSW Bar Association’s Equal Opportunity program in coordination with the respective Dean of Law.

You can find more information here:

https://www.publicdefenders.nsw. gov.au/Pages/public_defenders_ intern.aspx

LAWSOC EVENT

Careers in Criminal Law Night

CHAPTER II:

Community Legal Centres and Non-Governmental Organisations

COMMUNITY LEGAL CENTRES

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Aboriginal Legal Service

Across NSW & ACT

Joint Media Release: Child protection gap widens as NSW Government delays Aboriginal-led reforms

Peak organisations for Aboriginal children and legal services have accused the NSW Government of continuing to drag its feet on urgent reforms to the child protection system, while caseworkers remove Aboriginal children from their families at 10.5 times the rate of nonIndigenous children. “Almost five years since its release, the NSW Government is still yet to make a public commitment to all recommendations of the Family Is Culture Review. The urgent need to overhaul this harmful system is undeniable. Every day of delay is a day too many for our children, who continue to suffer from these longstanding failures,” John Leha, CEO of AbSec – NSW Child, Family and Community Peak Aboriginal Corporation said.

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 nongovernment 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.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

Areas of practice:

• Family law;

• Criminal law;

• Care and protection law; and

• 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; and

• Legal representation.

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; and

• 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

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Aboriginal Legal Service

Across NSW & ACT

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

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

ABOUT

Arts Law Centre of Australia

Sydney, NSW

Samuel Lee

As a pro bono solicitor at Arts Law, I speak with clients every single day on the phone, learn about the fascinating creative projects they are pursuing and help them solve their legal queries, often at zero financial cost to them. The work is as varied as the creative ideas and projects that the artists wish to pursue – whether that’s helping an emerging Australian musician draft their first contract with a record label, advise a writer pitching their screenplay to Netflix or assist an Indigenous artist to retain their rights to a public artwork they are installing in the CBD!

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.

Arts Law is an Australian nonprofit legal center providing free or low-cost specialized legal advice, education, and resources to artists and arts organizations. Their mission is to empower creative communities through the law, aiming to strengthen the value and respect for arts and culture. They’re committed to supporting artists with legal matters including contracts, copyright, and employment issues.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The Centre specialises in Arts Law, including:

• Business structures, governance and tax;

• Classification;

• Confidentiality;

• Contracts; and

• Wills and estates.

Type of work done by employees:

• Legal telephone advice;

• Review of documentation; and

• Referrals.

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: https://www.artslaw.com. au/support/volunteer/

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Australian Centre for Disability Law

Sydney

Talk Up!

The Talk Up Project is about empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability to know and understand their legal rights, through the creation and delivery of educational resources and workshops. It has 3 phases:

1. Listening – getting out into community and listening to what legal problems Aboriginal people with disability are facing;

2. Resource Building – Working together with community to build resources that help people to understand their rights and how they can navigate the legal problems they’re facin; and

3. Delivery – Gifting resources back to the community and running workshops to enhance legal knowledge and empower people to know and use their rights.

ABOUT

The Australian Centre for Disability Law advocates for the rights of people with disabilities by offering free legal advice, representing them in discrimination cases, and striving to remove barriers, eliminate discrimination, and empower individuals. Their vision is a society where people with disabilities live with dignity, their rights are respected, protected, and fulfilled. They achieve this through specialized legal assistance, education, and policy reform.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The 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.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

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

Alternatively, job vacancies can be found here: https://disabilitylaw. org.au/about/jobs/

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The 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. The ACDL relies on volunteers to managee the Advice Hotlines and support the legal staff in giving advice and undertaking case work.

Other volunteer duties include assisting with:

• Providing legal advice;

• Providing referrals; and

• Casework and legal advocacy including drafting complaints, participating in conciliations, legal research and litigation.

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

Alternatively, job vacancies can be found here: https://disabilitylaw. org.au/about/jobs/

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Environmental Defenders Office

Sydney, Brisbane, Hobart, Adelaide, Darwin and Perth

Fun Fact

The NSW Land and Environment Court ruled in favour of the Bushfire Survivors for Climate Action (BSCA) (represented by the 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.

ABOUT

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

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

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• Providing workshops, factsheets, handbooks, and other legal tools to help all Australians understand the law and participate in legal processes.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Student volunters take part in:

• Legal research on matters concerning biodiversity, climate change, pollution, planning, mining and water law; and

• Assisting in the preparation of court documents and drafting letters and legal advices.

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/ volunteer-with-us-2/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

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

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

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

ABOUT

Central Tablelands and Blue Mountains Community Legal Centre (CTBMCLC) (prev. Elizabeth Evatt Community Legal Centre)

History

The Central Tablelands and Blue Mountains Community Legal Centre started as a project of the Katoomba Neighbourhood Centre in 1985 with one volunteer worker. Funding was later obtained to employ a part-time co-ordinator and solicitor and the Centre was incorporated as the Blue Mountains Community Legal Centre in 1986.

Since then the Centre has grown substantially. On 12 March 2006 they changed their name from the Blue Mountains Community Legal Centre to Elizabeth Evatt Community Legal Centre (EECLC) to reflect their expansion into the Central Tablelands region west of the Blue Mountains. The new name acknowledged the significant contribution of Elizabeth Evatt to the justice sector as a judge, law reformer, academic and international human rights advocate.

In 2020 they decided their name should more clearly reflect the regions we service. With Elizabeth Evatt’s blessing they changed their name to Central Tablelands and Blue Mountains Community Legal Centre (CTBMCLC) on 2 September 2021.

Central Tablelands and Blue Mountains Community Legal Centre (CTBMCLC) is a not for profit organisation providing free legal advice to people in the Blue Mountains, Oberon, Lithgow, Bathurst and Orange regions.

They auspice two programs:

• The blue mountains tenants’ advice and advocacy service (bmtaas), providing advice, advocacy and representation to tenants in the blue mountains; and

• The cooperative legal services delivery program (central tablelands), facilitating coordination of legal service delivery across our regional network.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• Providing workshops, factsheets, handbooks, and other legal tools to help all Australians understand the law and participate in legal processes.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The CTBMCLC 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; and

• 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

The CTBMCLC 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 (eg. community legal education and law reform); and

• To assist with conflict checks.

Expressions of interest are currently open. Graduates with previous experience in a Community Legal Centre or other service for socially disadvantaged people are encouraged to apply.

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

Katoomba, NSW

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

HIV/AIDS Legal Centre

Sydney, NSW

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. The HALC provides free and comprehensive legal assistance to people in NSW with HIV or Hepatitis-related legal matters, to tackle the severe stigma and discrimination associated with HIV.

The 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?

The HALC provides advice to clients suffering from HIV and Hepatitis- related issues in a broad range of practice areas.

Type of work done by employees:

• Legal advice;

• Legal referrals;

• Community legal education; and

• Law reform and policy work.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The 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; and

• Hands on carriage (with supervision) of matters.

You can find more information here: https://halc.org.au/volunteering/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Volunteer work is also available for graduates who are undertaking their PLT. For students undertaking their Practical Legal Training (PLT) placement generally they would like a commitment of 4 days per week, however the minimum is 3 days per week at this stage.

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

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Immigration Advice and Rights Centre

Sydney, NSW

The Immigration Kit

Commissioned by IARC and written by experienced migration lawyers from IARC and private practice, The Immigration Kit is a comprehensive, plain language guide to Australian immigration, refugee and citizenship law.

The Immigration Kit provides up-to-date information about bridging visas; family visas; skilled migration; refugee and humanitarian visas; students; temporary workers; and Australian citizenship. It is an essential reference for migration lawyers and agents and a valuable educational resource for students and members of the public.

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. ehensive, plain language gu

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

Areas of practice:

• Immigration and domestic violence;

• Family visas;

• Refugee and Humanitarian visas;

• Citizenship; and

• Visa cancellations.

IARC employees’ work can include:

• Legal advice;

• Legal information;

• Representation;

• Community legal education; and

• 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 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/

LAWSOC EVENT

Administrative Law Panel

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

ABOUT

Kingsford Legal Centre

Sydney, NSW

Power2Prevent Coalition

KLC was part of the Power2Prevent Coalition which advocated strongly for legislative change on the issue of legal costs in cases of workplace discrimination and sexual harassment. As of 2023, the bill proposes that people who successfully claim workplace discrimination and sexual harassment can recoup their legal costs, while those who are unsuccessful are protected from having to pay the defendant’s legal costs (except in certain, limited circumstances).

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?

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; and

• Limited advice on Family law matters.

Type of work done by employees:

• Legal advice;

• Legal referrals;

• Representation;

• Community legal education; and

• 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;

• Reparing briefs for counse;l

• Writing law reform submissions;

• Undertaking advocacy in court or tribunals; and

• Develop community education materials.

You can find more information about clinics here: https://www.law.unsw. edu.au/students/clinics/kingsfordlegal-centre

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

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Macarthur Legal Centre

Sydney, NSW

Children and Young People

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

ABOUT

The 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 the MLC is to promote social justice and provide free and accessible legal services to people who experience social and economic disadvantage.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

MLC offer a number of volunteering opportunities to students:

• Daytime front desk volunteer: duties include taking calls, greeting clients face-toface, and various office administrative duties;

• Advice session intake volunteer: responsible for collecting client information, conducting conflict checks and obtaining client instructions; and

• 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.

The MLC is not accepting volunteers at the moment, however you can find more information and updates here: http://maclegal.net.au/about/ volunteering/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

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

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Marrickville Legal Centre

Sydney, NSW

Pro bono Partnership with Fragomen to support temporary visa holders

Temporary visa holders are more vulnerable to exploitation and discrimination as they generally have limited knowledge and understanding of Australian laws and where to go for help. The pro bono partnership works

ABOUT

Marrickville Legal Centre is a notfor-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.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

Areas of practice:

• General legal inquiries;

• Domestic and family violence;

• Family law;

• Strata; and

• Tenancy.

Type of work done by employees:

• Legal advice;

• Legal referrals;

• Community outreach; and

• Community legal education.

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/getinvolved/

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/getinvolved/

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Redfern Legal Centre

Sydney, NSW

Fun Fact

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

ABOUT

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

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, the RLC participates in acttivities that reduce inequalities and defects in laws, the legal system, and administrative and social practices that impact on disadvantaged people.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

Areas of practice:

• Tenancy & Housing;

• Health Justice Partnership;

• Financial Abuse;

• Employment Law;

• International Students;

• Government complaints;

• Police complaints;

• Money problems; and

• Discrimination & Human Rights.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Students can volunteer at RLC as a Legal Assistant. completed at least two years of an undergraduate law

Students must commit one day a week for 6 months, and must have completed at least two years of an undergraduate law degree or have been accepted into a graduate law degree, or have relevant experience.

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

You can find more information here: https://rlc.org.au/jobsvolunteers/volunteer-legalassistants

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The 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.

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Refugee Advice & Casework Service

Sydney, NSW

The UK has dropped its offshore policy. Why can’t Australia?

Throughout the election, Starmer and the Labour party pressed for change. And after a landslide victory, Starmer declared the Rwanda policy “dead and buried” on his first full day as Prime Minister. Australia continues to rely on offshore processing in Regional Processing Centres, despite years of well-documented evidence alleging conditions akin to torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. It is time for Australia to bring an end to its offshore processing scheme. What was initially devised as a short-term circuit breaker in response to a surge in maritime arrivals has become a cruel and enduring feature of Australia’s immigration policy. This inhumane approach towards refugees and people seeking asylum must be replaced with a safe and permanent pathway to settlement for every person subject to offshore processing.

ABOUT

The Refugee Advice & Casework Service (RACS) aims to support refugees by offering free legal services and advocacy. They assist marginalized groups seeking asylum in Australia, including women facing violence, LGBTIQA+ individuals, stateless people, unaccompanied children, and those seeking family reunion. RACS also works on advocating for fair treatment of refugees through legal reforms and complaints against human rights violations to Australian and UN bodies.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• Community legal education.

RACS also specialises in policy and law reform work, which can include:

• Lobbying and making direct representation to Government, regulators, policitians and other organisations; and

• Preparing submissions and responses to Government.

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, formfilling, 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-with-us-volunteer

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Refugee Advice & Casework Service

Sydney, NSW

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, a demonstrated 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-with-us-volunteer

LAWSOC EVENT

Human Rights Networking Night

TESTIMONIAL

Rhiannon Bell

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!).

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

ABOUT

Welfare Rights Centre

Sydney, NSW

Community legal education

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. You can access their schedule and register here: https://welfarerightscentre.org.au/community-worker-training/

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?

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 answering 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/volunteerwith-us/

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.

The centre is not currently accepting applications but you can find more information here: https:// welfarerightscentre.org.au/work-withus/ “

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

ABOUT

Wirringa Baiya

Aboriginal Women’s Legal Centre

Sydney, NSW

Did you know?

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

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 genderspecific 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 notfor-profit service, paying special attention to the intersecting needs of economically and socially disadvantaged First Nations 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?

Wirringa Baiya focuses on issues relating to violence.

Type of work done by employees:

• Legal advice;

• Court support;

• Community legal education;

• Law reform and policy work;

• Cultural awareness training; and

• 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 them on (02) 9569 3847.

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.

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Women’s Legal Service

NSW First Nations Women’s Legal

Program

The WLS runs 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

ABOUT

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

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

The 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?

Areas of law:

• Domestic and family violence;

• Family law;

• Sexual assault;

• Victims support;

• Human rights;

• Care and protection; and

• 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; and

• Working Women’s Legal Service.

Type of work done by employees:

• Legal advice;

• Outreach services;

• Casework and advocacy;

• Education and training; and

• Community legal education.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The WLS provides volunteering opportunities for students who have completed at least two years of their

law degree. 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.

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.

Currently, the volunteer program is suspended due to COVID-19. However, you can stay up to date with opportunities here: https://www. wlsnsw.org.au/about-us/volunteerwith-wls-nsw/#students

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The WLS provides PLT placements “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/volunteerwith-wls-nsw/#students

Sydney, NSW

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

ABOUT

Youth Law Australia

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.

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, technology-based 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; and

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

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• Sexting and image based abuse;

• Drug matters;

• Traffic offences;

• Sexual assualt; and

• Education.

Type of work done by employees:

• Legal advice;

• Legal referrals;

• Child rights monitoring and advocacy;

• Research;

• Law reform and policy work; and

• School-based legal 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.

You can find more information here: https://yla.org.au/about-us/ our-people/”

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

Sydney, NSW

MORE SOCIAL JUSTICE

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Amnesty International Australia

Sydney, Perth

Fun Fact

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

ABOUT

Amnesty International is an international NGO focused on human rights.

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

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?

• Amnesty sends experts into conflicts or countries where human rights abuses are occurring to investigate and to produce accurate, reliable research;

• Lobbying governments and other powerful groups, ensuring they keep their promises and respect international law; and

• 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; and

• Anti-racism.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Amnesty International Australia has a range of volunteer opportunities available. You can check for current openings at this link: https://www.amnesty.org.au/ work-with-us/positions/

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; and

• Community campaigning.

Students can also intern at Amnesty International Australia for course credit. For more information, visit: https://my.law. unsw.edu.au/current-students/ law-action/internships/externallyhosted-internships “

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Australian Pro Bono Centre

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.

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 pro-bono services... facilitating pro bono practice and enabling the collection and exchange of information”.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

Interns are involved in the following:

• A variety of research tasks;

• Writing research documents and other forms of correspondence and publications;

Pro Bono and Legal Aid Panel. Sydney

APBC also run a Professional Indemnity Scheme which provides free professional indemnity insurance to lawyers and paralegals working on pro bono projects approved by the Centre. This removes one of the biggest barriers to in-house and private lawyers engaging in pro bono work.

• 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.

• Assisting to update the Centre’s websites;

• Preparing and editing our weekly newsletter, this will include learning how to create an EDM; and

• Basic operational/ administrative tasks.

You can find more information here: https://my.law.unsw.edu. au/current-students/law-action/ internships/externally-hostedinternships

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The APBC administers 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

LAWSOC

EVENTS

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Cancer Council NSW

Sydney

Fun Fact

The daffodil is recognised internationally as the symbol of hope for all people affected by cancer. Cancer Council chose it as our emblem as it heralds the return of spring, pushing its way through frozen earth after winter, representing new life, vitality and growth.

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?

Cancer Council NSW works to:

• Support families affected by cancer;

• Speak out on behalf of the community;

• Empower people to reduce their cancer risk; and

• 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 full-time placements (internships), 1-2 days per week, or one-off working days.

Opportunties include:

• Helping at events and fundraising activities;

• Planning and coodinating events; and

• Office administration and support.

For more information, visit: https://www.cancercouncil.com. au/get-involved/volunteer-withus/

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Intellectual Disability Rights Service

Sydney

Fun Fact

JAS successfully secured NSW government funding for a statewide Justice Advocacy Service and a new court-based diversion program in six local courts.

ABOUT

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

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The 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.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The 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.

JAS is not currently accepting volunteer applications through their websites, but will be holding information sessions in regional areas. You can find more information here: https:// idrs.org.au/volunteers/volunteerapplication-forms/volunteeronline-application-form/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The IDRS accepts applications for legal student volunteers for people looking to complete their Practical Legal Training (PLT) placement with IDRS.

The 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.

JAS is not currently accepting volunteer applications through their websites, but will be holding information sessions in regional areas. You can find more information here: https:// idrs.org.au/volunteers/volunteerapplication-forms/

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Justice Action

Sydney

Fun Fact

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; and

• Supply computer tablets to prisoners so that community interaction, rehabilitation programs and education can continue.

ABOUT

Law Reform Panel

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

• 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; and

• 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/get-involved/

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Justice Connect

Sydney, 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.

ABOUT

Justice Connect designs and delivers 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 their network of pro bono member firms so that people facing legal problems can get the help they need.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

Justice Connect works in a range of specialisations, including:

• Seniors Law;

• Homeless Law;

• Self-representation services;

• Workplace rights;

• Natural disaster community support;

• Disability rights; and

• Refugee and migrant rights.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

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/ work-with-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/work-withus/practical-legal-training/

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

NSW Council for Civil Liberties

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. The 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.

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.

The NSWCCL is non-sectarian and non-party political.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

• 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; and

• 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. It gives you the chance to network with some of the Executive and Committee members.

The NSWCCL also invites university students to join the NSWCCL campaigns or action groups. More information can be found here: https://www.nswccl. org.au/support signup

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

ABOUT

Oxfam Australia

Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Canberra, Adelaide

Oxfam Australia is a not-for-profit, secular, community-based aid and development organisation. An affilate of Oxfam International, their work includes longterm developmental projects, responding to emergencies, and campaigning to improve the lives of disadvantaged people around the world.

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

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

• Advocating for just and sustainable economies for people and planet;

• Empowering women, girls, and non-binary 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; and

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

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Oxfam invites students to volunteer. Volunteers work in a range of areas, including:

• Customer service;

• Research;

• Editing;

• Events;

• Finance; and

• Human resources.

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.

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

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Public Interest Advocacy Centre

Same-sex Marriage Test Case

Same-sex marriage test case In September 2017

ABOUT

The PIAC is an independent, non-profit 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:

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.

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. Sydney

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.

• Equality and nondiscrimination;

• 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; and

• Sustainable, affordable energy and water for households.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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.

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

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

ABOUT

Unions NSW

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The Unions NSW job board sometimes posts jobs suitable for students. You can see the current positions here: https://www. unionsnsw.org.au/job-board/ Sydney

Fun Fact

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.

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 was founded in 1871 as the Trades and Labour Council of Sydney in 1871.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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.

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Voiceless

ABOUT

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

Fun Fact

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Voiceless are not currently accepting applications for volunteering. However, they do provide a comprehensive guide to other volunteering opportunities at other animal law organisations. Find more information here: https://voiceless.org.au/animallaw/animal-law-services/ National

In December 2021, Voiceless published an exclusive interview with Dr Jane Goodall: https:// voiceless.org.au/a-conversationwith-dr-jane-goodall/

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.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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.

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

ABOUT

Maurice Blackburn Lawyers

Sydney CBD, Paramatta

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.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

Specialisations include:

• Injury law;

• Class actions;

• Superannuation claims;

• Insurance claims;

• Financial services disputes;

• Wills and estates; and

• Employment law.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Maurice Blackburn has a wide range of student opportunities, from Law Clerks, to legal assistants to paralgeals. To check regular vacacies, go to https://www. mauriceblackburn.com.au/careers/ careers-with-us/legal-support/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Maurice Blackburn offers a 12-month Graduate Program in Melbourne, providing comprehensive training in plaintiff law.

It allows active participation and offers opportunities for professional development and insights into the firm. The program includes formal training and hands-on experience and supports Practical Legal Training (PLT) if needed.

Graduates are placed in various practice areas nationwide, gaining in-depth knowledge and building relationships through legal networking.

More information can be found here: https://www. mauriceblackburn.com.au/careers/ graduates/

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

ABOUT

Shine Lawyers

Darwin, Perth, Across Greater Sydney, Various in QLD, Various in VIC

Shine Lawyers is an Australian law firm specialising in personal injury compensation law, operating on a no win no fee basis. Shine has operated for over 40 years and is an ASX listed firm, with branches across the East Coast of Australia, with locations in Darwin and Perth.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

-Personal Injury Law; -Negligence Law; -Workers Compensation Law; -Car Accident Claims; -Compensation Law; -Class Actions; -Aviation Law; -Environmental Claims; -Abuse Law; and -Workplace Claims.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Shine Lawyers have a wide variety of positions available, from legal work to administration and more.

To view current availability or to enquire, go to https://www.shine. com.au/careers/current-jobs

Chapter II: Communities & NGOs

Slater and Gordon Lawyers

Across NSW and Victoria, Various in the UK

ABOUT

Slater and Gordon are a leading Australian consumer law firm. Our mission is to give people easier access to world class legal services. The firm provides specialist legal and complementary services in a broad range of areas, focusing on servicing the needs of unions and working people. Slater and Gordon was founded in Australia in 1935.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

• Personal Injury;

• Superannuation and Insurance;

• Class Actions;

• Commercial Litigation; and

• Employment Law

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Slater and Gordon Lawyers offers positions to students to complement the graduate program.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The Slater and Gordon Graduate Program commences with an 18-month contract working within a specific practice area of law and can lead to the offer of a permanent position within our firm.

Find out more here: https://www. slatergordon.com.au/careers/lawstudents

TESTIMONIAL

I am a lawyer in the Class Actions team at Slater and Gordon Lawyers. Class actions is a dynamic and constantly evolving area of law and the matters we work on are varied, ranging from consumer, shareholder, medical to human rights class actions. Being on the plaintiff side, the best part is that we represent ordinary Australians and hold big corporations to account for their misconduct. We work on extremely complex and highprofile matters and we currently have cases running against groups like the CBA, Optus, Bayer and even the state of NSW. In addition to litigation work, our graduates and junior lawyers also have the opportunity to identify and investigate corporate and governmental wrongdoing, which can potentially lead to new class actions.

-Beatriz Linsao

CHAPTER III: UNSW Law Internships

Chapter III: UNSW Law Internships

The Australian Human Rights Institute

Sydney

ABOUT

In 2018, the Australian Human Rights Institute was created as part of UNSW’s Strategy 2025 to enhance the university’s ability to create a world-class research institute focused on human rights to further the strategic goals of pursuing academic excellence and enhancing social impact.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The Australian Human Rights Institute at UNSW works to address human rights issues through multidisciplinary research, empowering communities and educating future human rights leaders. With over 100 Associates from various faculties, research projects focus on understanding rights barriers and realization in areas such as business, health, gender, climate change, and sports. The Institute collaboratively engages with universities, human rights organizations, government, corporations, and NGOs to bridge academic research and real-world challenges, advancing knowledge exchange and promoting human rights progress.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

UNSW Law offers internships through the Australian Human Rights Institute program, providing course credit. Opportunities cover modern slavery research, health and human rights, UN Committee for the Rights of People with Disabilities, and Migrant Justice Worker Initiative. An editorial internship is also available at the Australian Journal of Human Rights. For application details, deadlines, and eligibility, visit https://my.law.unsw.edu.au/ current-students/lawinaction .

The Global Student Fellowship Program offers a six-week fellowship with international organizations, providing $6,500 upon completion. Multiple fellowship opportunities are available annually. For more information and applications, visit humanrights.unsw.edu. au/students/global-studentfellowship. UNSW Law welcomes student volunteers for research projects and events in the Human Rights Conference Series.

Chapter III: UNSW Law Internships

TESTIMONIALS

The Australian Human Rights Institute

Sydney

”The Global Student Fellowship was a fantastic opportunity and provided a valuable experience in working in the human rights and development sector. I consider it one of the best decisions of my university career. I developed several key skills. The most notable was a fuller understanding of human rights and their application in context. It is one thing to learn about concepts and topics in the abstract in a classroom setting, it is a whole other to engage with practical issues as a relevant stakeholder”

-Samuel Pryde, 2021 Global Student Fellow (Jubilee Australia)

“Interning at the Australian Human Rights Institute was a fantastic experience. The passion and drive of the staff was inspiring and I was given so many opportunities to participate directly in the work of the Institute, both supporting larger Institute projects, and engaging in individual projects, such as writing articles for the website”

-Annabelle Spence (Australian Human Rights Institute intern, Semester 1 2018)

The Bar and Judiciary/The Courts

CHAPTER IV:

The Bar and Judiciary/The Courts

Chapter IV: The Bar and Judiciary/The Courts

Associate and Tipstaff Positions

Tips for Aspiring Tipstaves and Associates

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.unsw. edu.au/news/2018/03/tipsfor-aspiring-tipstaves-andassociates

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?

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; and

• 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

NSW

Chapter IV: The Bar and Judiciary/The Courts

New South Wales Bar Association

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 the article here: https://www.unsw. edu.au/news/2018/03/tipsfor-aspiring-tipstaves-andassociates

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?

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; and

• 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

CHAPTER V:

Public International Law/

International Public Interest

POLITICAL BODIES

Public International Law/ International Public Interest

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic

ABOUT

The United Nations (UN)

United States

The United Nations (UN) is an international organization comprising 193 member states, established in 1945 with a mission guided by its founding Charter. The UN addresses critical global issues such as human rights, climate change, disarmament, terrorism, health emergencies, justice, peace, and security. It provides a platform for member states to express their views and engage in dialogue through various bodies like the General Assembly, Security Council, and Economic and Social Council. The UN offers internships and opportunities through diverse bodies like UN, UNESCO, UNICEF, UNDP, UNEP, and others, fostering collaboration and problem-solving at an international level.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The work of the United Nations otuches 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 disarment and non-proliferation.

Working at the UN requires both passion and perservereance. You will be exposed to the most pressing issues, and an opportunity to engage in the most prominent diplomatic dialogues and meetings.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

https://legal.un.org/ola/website/ employ.aspx

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

https://legal.un.org/ola/website/ employ.aspx

Chapter V: Public International Law/InternationalPublicInterest

Switzerland World Trade Organisation (WTO)

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.

ABOUT

The World Trade Organisation (‘WTO’) was formed in 1995 and is concerned with the rules of trade between nations. It is the only global international organisation that deal with multilateral agreements, negotiated and signed by majority of the world’s trading nations and ratified in their parliaments. With the primary goal of helping exporters, importers, producers and suppliers of goods and services conduct their business, WTO is a place to settle trade disputes between governments. It also promotes mechanismsfor the elimination of trade discrimination, tariffs and other barriers to international trade.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The WTO Secretariat in Geneva, Switzerland, employs 600+ staff from 80+ member countries. Roles encompass lawyers for dispute settlement, analysts for foreigntrade policy, economists, and statisticians. Core functions include trade negotiations (covering goods, services, and IP agreements), dispute settlement support, and building trade capacity/policy through research and technical assistance.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

There are 3 main streams of internships offered at the WTO. However, since Australia is neither classified as a developing country nor least developed country, only 1 stream is open. That is, the WTO Internship Programme which is open to post-graduate students from all WTO members and countries engaged in accession negotiations. Assignments are given to interns with the intention to enhance their understanding of the WTO and trade policy more generally. Interns work in the following areas: -Trade law; -Economics; -Statistics; -Trade policy; and -Languages.

More info: https://www.wto.org/ english/thewto_e/vacan_e/iypp_e. htm#WTO_Internship

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic Interest

World Trade Organisation (WTO)

Switzerland

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The WTO Young Professional Programme was launched in 2016 to attract young progressionals from developing and least-developed countries that are members of the WTO. The programme aims to enhance their knowledge of WTO and international trade issues, whilst providing a pathway of being recruited by WTO and/or other regional and international organisations in the future.

Successful applicants are allocated to specific devisions based on needs and priorities of WTO. The areas of work may include: accessions, agriculture, dispute settlmement, intellectual property rights, government procurement, competition policy, market access, rules, trade and development, trade and environment, trade in services and investment, trade facilitation, trade polkicy analysis and traderelated techcnical assistance. Duration is 1 year.

More info: https://www.wto.org/ english/thewto e/vacan e/ypp e.htm

World Bank

United States

Human Capital Project

Human Capital Project is a global effort to acclerate more and better investments in people for greater equity and economic growth. As of July 2021, HCP has 82 countries participating, and have reached out to the human capital across South Asia and Europe as well as to some of the most disadvantaged ophans in the world.

ABOUT

The World Bank is an international financial institution that provides loans to developing countries for capital-intensive projects and iniatives. THe World Bank’s official goal is to reduction of poverty.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The World Bank works in every major area of development. They provide a wide array of financial products and technical assistance. They assist developing and leastdeveloped countries to share and apply innovative knwoledge and solutions to the challenges they face. This could range from advice, to risk insurance and low-interest loans/grants.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The World Bank’s Internship Program offers exposure to its mission and work, welcoming individuals to contribute innovative ideas and research experience. Successful candidates are typically in their first year of graduate studies or pursuing a PhD. The program focuses on various fields such as Economics, Finance, Law, Human Development, Social Science, Agriculture, Environment, and more. Additionally, the Legal Vice Presidency offers a dedicated Legal Internship Program in Washington, D.C., and selected country offices, available in Summer, Fall, and Spring. General requirements include citizenship from any IBRD member state, enrollment in relevant programs, and proficient English language skills.

More info at: https://www. worldbank.org/en/about/careers/ programs-and-internships/ internship.

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic Interest

International Court of Arbitration

Fun Fact

As of January 2020, the court has registered 25,000 cases since its creation and sees continual expansion in recent years with record number of cases registered in 2019.

ABOUT

The ICC, founded in 1923, resolves international commercial disputes under the International Chamber of Commerce. With 100+ arbitrators from 90+ countries, it offers “judicial supervision of arbitration proceedings” in English and French (any language for cases). Its mission is to ensure proper ICC Rules application, assist with procedures, enhance efficiency, control time and costs, aid enforcement, and maintain confidentiality through innovative arbitration tools and procedures.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The responsibilities of the ICC include:

• Confirming, appointing and replacing arbitrators, as well as deciding on challenges made against them;

• Monitoring the arbitral process to make certain that is is properly performed;

• Scrutinising and approving all arbitral awards;

• Setting, managing and adjusting fees and advances; and

• Overseeing emergency proceedings before the start of the arbitration.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Multiple internship opportunities exist across various countries. Interships are offered in the following departments*:

• Dispute Resolution Services;

• Global Partnerships and Developent;

• International Chamber of Commerce;

• Business Analyst/Secretariat General of ICC; and

• Arbitration Case Management Team.

*These may change as new opportunities arise.

More info: https://iccwbo.org/ careers/internship-opportunities/

Chapter V: Public International Law/InternationalPublicInterest

International Court of Justice (ICJ)

Netherlands

Fun Fact

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.

ABOUT

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. It was established in 1945 by the Charter of the United Nations.The seat of the Court is at the Peace Palace in The Hague (Netherlands). The Court comprises of 15 judges, who are elected for terms of office of nine years by the United Nations General Assembly and the Security Council. Its official langages are English and French.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The Court’s role is to settlement, in accordance with international law, legal disputes submitted to it by States and to give advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorised United Nations organs and specialised agencies.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Internship at The Registry. Since the ICF is both a court of justice and an international organ, the Registry’s tasks are not only those of a service helping in the administration of justice - with sovereign States as litigants - but also those of a secretariat of an international commission. Its activities are judicial, diplomatic and administative in nature.

This internship is an opportunity to put your knowledge and experience into practice, under the supervision of Registry officials.

More info: https://www.icj-cij.org/ en/internships

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The ICJ offers a Judicial Followship Programme. The programme was established in 1999 to enable recent law graudates to gain experience working at the ICJ. It aims to improve participants’ understanding of international law and the Court’s procedures by actively involving them in the work of the Court and build their experience under the supervision of a Judge.

More info: https://www.icj-cij.org/ en/judicial-fellows-program

ORGANISATIONS

Public International Law/ International Public Interest

Chapter V: Public International Law/InternationalPublicInterest

Human Rights Watch

Headquartered in New York with regional offices in across the world (including Sydney and Melbourne).

Petitions

The HRW initiates public petitions for social change, focusing on transparency in the textile industry to combat worker abuse. Sweatshop workers lack information about brands they work for, hindering accountability and enabling abuse.

Transparency benefits both workers and brands, aiding in reporting and prevention of labor abuses. 40+ companies have committed to the Transparency Pledge, but many still conceal their clothing production locations

ABOUT

The Human Rights Watch (HRW) is a prominent international non-governmental organisation headquartered in New York City, that conducts research resarch and advocacy on human rights. Built upon a strong tradition for defending and pressuring human rights around the world through governments, armed groups and businesses, the group is composed of 450 people from 70+ nationalities who are experts, lawyers, journalists in their own right. The HRW works to protect the most at risk, from vulnerable minorities and civilians in wartime, to refugees and children in need.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

At the HRW, their work can be split into roughly 3 pillars: investigate, expose and change. As a globally influential think tank, researchers have uncovered countless records of human rights abusess, which is then widely reported in media furthering their reach. Their advocacy efforts are directed towards governments, groups and corporations with the desire to change or enforce their laws, policies and practice, making them fairer and more just.

Recently, they have worked on big crises, including: Covid-19, Syrian civil war, policing in the US and on the Rohingya crisis.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The HRW’s Development and Outreach Interns will primarily contribute to outreach and development iniatives using databases, monitoring press coverage, planning events, posting on social medias and conducting background desk research. Other projects may be assigned as they arise and match the intern’s interests.

Internships typically last for three months with the possibility to extend.

Vacancies will appear on the HRW Career Seach function as they become available: https://careers. hrw.org/jobs/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Vacancies will appear on the HRW Career Seach function as they become available: https://careers. hrw.org/jobs/

Centre for International and Environmental Law

Offices in Washington, DC, and Geneva, Switzerland

Fun Fact

Every year CIEL’s International Environmental Law Award recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the effort to achieve solutions to environmental problems through international law and institutions.

ABOUT

The Centre for International and Environmental Law (CIEL) is a public interest, not-for-profit organisation that utilises the power of the law to protect the environment, promote human rights, and ensure a just and sustainable society. They aim to strengthen international environmental law and policy around the world in areas of biodiversity, climate change, human rights and the einvironment as well as trade and sustainable development.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

CIEL’s mission is pursued through legal research, advocacy, education, and community partnerships. Their work focuses on:

1. Promoting environmental democracy by empowering people and protecting environmental human rights defenders;

2. Counterbalancing corporate power to incentivize environmentally friendly behavior and hold corporations accountable;

3. Redirecting financial flows away from harmful investments to serve people and the planet; and

4. Strengthening International Environmental and Human Rights Law to address current needs in a changing geopolitical landscape.

STUDENT & GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

CIEL offers internships and fellowships for law students and recent graduates interested in public interest law, international environmental law, and human rights law. Interns in Washington commit to 10 weeks (15+ hours/ week), while Geneva interns commit 12 to 24 weeks (24+ hours/week), and must be enrolled in a relevant course of study. Strong research and writing skills are essential, along with some prior experience or coursework in the respective fields.

Greenpeace

Amsterdam

Fun Fact

After a launch of their ‘Cool IT’ campaign in South Korea, Naver committed to powering its data centres with 100% renewable energy. Not only did the corporation change their views on renewable energy, the Korean ministry of science is looking to revise its laws to make it more accessible for other companies to switch to renewables.

ABOUT

Greenpeace is a leading international campaigning organisation using peaceful protest, direct action, lobbying and research to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions to a more sustainable future. Greenpeace’s various goals include creating a coal free future, an economic recovery with a focus on people and the planet, preserviong the Great Barrier Reef, protecting the Antarctic, a call for Australia’s largest electricity-using companies to switch to 100% renewable energy as well as protecting our oceans and forests.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

Greenpeace tackles environmental crime through three pillars: investigate, connect, and act. They investigate global corporations, aligning with their values and exposing those hindering progress. Greenpeace collaborates with various groups and communities to find effective solutions. Taking action follows investigation and engagement, from urging sustainable sourcing to participating in rallies and advocacy efforts.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Student vacancies will appear on the Career Seach function as they become available: https://workfor. international.greenpeace.org/

(https://www.greenpeace.org.au/ jobs/ for Australia)

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The aforementioned internship opportunity for students is also available to recent graduates and young professionals.

International Environmental Law Research Centre

Offices in Switzerland (Geneva), the UK (London) and Kenya (Nairobi), and India (New Delhi)

ABOUT

The International Environmental Law Research Centre (IELRC) is an independent research organisation focusing on international and comparative environmental law issues. IELRC aims to contribute to the establishment, modifying and implementation of legal and institutional frameworks that foster the sustainable conservation and use of the environment and its natural resources.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

IELRC conducts policy-specific academic research to foster equitable and sustainable environmental management at the local, national and international level. The IELRC specialises in research areas such as biosafety, biodiversity, climate change, intellectual property, justice and human rights as well as water and sanitation law. The IELRC has a particular emphasis on the environmental issues and conditions existing in India and East Africa.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Vacancies will appear on the IELRC Career Seach function as they become available: http:// www.ielrc.org/about_careers.htm

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The aforementioned internship opportunity for students is also available to recent graduates and young professionals.

International Tribunal for Law of the Sea

Germany

Fun Fact

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, the swearing-in 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 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.

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?

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; and

• Press Office: Engaging in public relations to encompany the Tribunal’s vision for a global reach with interesting and meaningful publicity.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The Tribunal offers about twenty annual internships to government officials and students in various fields such as law, international relations, and more. This program provides participants with insights into the Tribunal’s work and allows the Tribunal to benefit from their expertise. Interns contribute to various areas of the Tribunal’s activities, including law of the sea, international law, public information, publications, and translation. More details can be found at: https://www.itlos.org/en/ the-registry/training/internshipprogramme/

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The aforementioned internship opportunity for students is also available to recent graduates and young professionals.

Asian Development Bank

Philippines ABOUT

Fun Fact

Regional: Integrated and innovative solutions for more livable cities. The knowledge and support technical assistance (TA) will support the efforts of the developing member countries (DMCs) of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to build livable cities that are green, competitive, inclusive, and resilient by applying innovative and integrated solutions in project development, design, and execution.

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?

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 ADB Internship Program offers project-based learning for graduate students, providing experience in alignment with ADB’s operational needs. Open for applications twice a year, it allows students to work collaboratively with professionals from diverse countries and deepen their understanding of development finance. Interns must be enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program related to ADB’s work, with strong English proficiency and relevant professional experience. Applications are submitted online through ACES.

International Monetary Fund

Washington DC, United States of America

Fun Fact

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 IMF was established in 1944 in the aftermath of the Great Depression of the 1930s. 44 founding member countries sought to build a framework for international economic cooperation. Today, its membership embraces 190 countries, with staff drawn from 150 nations.

The IMF is governed by and accountable to those 190 countries that make up its near-global membership.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an organization of 190 countries, working to foster global monetary cooperation, secure financial stability, facilitate international trade, promote high employment and sustainable economic growth, and reduce poverty around the world.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The IMF offers recruitment programs for entry-level roles:

• Economist Program (EP): Requires a recent PhD graduate or nearing completion, nationality from an IMF member country, and age under 34;

• Research Assistant Program (RAP): Requires a recent bachelor’s degree with a 3.5 GPA, with some exceptions for locally-based master’s degree candidates; and

• Fund Internship Program (FIP): For Economic internships, suitable for PhD students under 32 or master’s students under 28. Legal Department Internships require completion of an advanced law degree within one to two years and age under 32.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The aforementioned internship opportunity for students is also available to recent graduates and young professionals.

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

Paris, France

Fun Fact

In particular, the coalition is looking at advancing local policy innovations in education, labour markets and skills, housing and the urban environment, and infrastructure and public services to ensure that none of their urban residents are left behind. Mayors are comparing challenges and solutions, and learning from one another.

ABOUT

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is an international organisation that works to build better policies for better lives. Their goal is to shape policies that foster prosperity, equality, opportunity and well-being for all. We draw on 60 years of experience and insights to better prepare the world of tomorrow.

Together with governments, policy makers and citizens, we work on establishing evidence-based international standards and finding solutions to a range of social, economic and environmental challenges. From improving economic performance and creating jobs to fostering strong education and fighting international tax evasion, we provide a unique forum and knowledge hub for data and analysis, exchange of experiences, best-practice sharing, and advice on public policies and international standard-setting.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

The organization, in collaboration with governments and stakeholders, strives to establish evidence-based international standards and address a spectrum of global challenges. They offer a knowledge hub with comprehensive reports, surveys, data points, policy briefs, and articles, serving as a trusted source for informed decision-making in policy arenas worldwide.

They act as a global forum facilitating discussions, policy exploration, and knowledge sharing among nations and partners to enhance policy effectiveness, addressing critical issues such as inequality, youth unemployment, gender disparity, and more.

Additionally, the organization sets international standards and codes, ranging from legally binding instruments to recommendations, guiding policymakers and promoting best practices on various aspects, from consumer protection to environmental preservation.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The OECD Internship Programme is open to students enrolled in a fully accredited degree programme (Bachelor, Master, PhD) during the entire duration of their internship. The programme aims to provide successful candidates with the opportunity to improve their analytical and technical skills in an international environment. Applications are accepted throughout the year via the online application platform. Selected interns are expected to work remotely until further notice

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The Young Associates Programme (YAP) is a two-year programme for recent undergraduates to gain professional experience in multilateral policymaking, research and analysis. To be eligible, you must hold a Bachelor’s or equivalent degree in the academic field related to the position(s) of interest, have a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0, and be fluent in one of the two OECD official languages (English and French). You must also demonstrate evidence of being able to work constructively in a team, show how you will be able to contribute as a YA in your area of work, as well as your motivation to pursue a graduate degree in a relevant field after completing the Programme.

In addition, it would be an asset if you have undertaken research, written reports or thesis related to the work.

Asian Human Rights Commission

Fun Fact

The Asian Legal Resource Centre (ALRC) brings the issue of arbitrary detention and the deterioration of justice mechanisms in Bangladesh to the attention of the United Nations Human Rights Council. Bangladesh is currently a Member of the Council.

Since the Council’s inception, the ALRC has repeatedly highlighted the lack of judicial independence in Bangladesh through its written statements and oral interventions. Each time the Council convenes, the Bangladeshi authorities appear to set new records in their abuse of the country’s judiciary.

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?

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

The AHRC and ALRC offer limited internship placements for case documentation, research, and communication assistance. Priority is given to individuals from partner organizations, who receive accommodation and support in Hong Kong. Others can apply if they meet certain conditions: stay for at least six months, have a strong legal background, country experience, and a keen interest in human rights. Applications are judged based on merit and AHRC’s needs. Interns must be willing to work in countries with challenging human rights conditions. Selfsupported internships are very limited.

To apply for a self-supported internship, provide personal details, explain your interest in human rights and Asia, share your educational and professional background, specify the desired internship period, mention flexibility with dates, describe how you will financially support the internship, and submit the application at least four months before the intended start date.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates are also welcome to apply to the internship program.

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic Interest

International Bar Association

London UK, Washington DC

US, The Hague

Fun Fact

The First International Conference on Agricultural Law was hosted by the IBA’s Agricultural Law Section, Project Pravo-Justice, and the Ukrainian Bar Association in September 2021. The conference covered various legal topics in agriculture, including land reform, climate change, technology, trade, infrastructure, and taxation. The event featured experts from Europe and Ukraine sharing their insights and best practices. A recording of the conference is available for streaming, and it is shared by Bergeson & Campbell, P.C., with Lynn L. Bergeson serving as the Senior Vice Chair of the IBA’s Agricultural Law Section.

ABOUT

The IBA is the leading organization for international legal practitioners, bar associations, and law societies. Established in 1947, it aims to promote global stability and peace through the administration of justice. With a membership exceeding 80,000 individuals from over 170 countries, the IBA has evolved to include international lawyers and law firms. It provides assistance to the global legal community and influences the development of international law reform. Through its expertise and global membership, the IBA shapes the future of the legal profession worldwide.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

Grouped into two divisions – the Legal Practice Division and the Public and Professional Interest Division – the IBA covers all practice areas and professional interests, providing members with access to leading experts and upto-date information.

Through the various committees of the divisions, the IBA enables an interchange of information and views among its members as to laws, practices and professional responsibilities relating to the practice of business law around the globe.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Intern positions are available at the International Bar Association (IBA) in London, Washington DC, and The Hague. Selected interns will assist the IBA in developing academic papers and research on key legal topics of local and international relevance. They will support various aspects of the association, including the IBA’s Human Rights Institute in London, the Legal Policy & Research Unit in London, the ICC and ICL Programme in The Hague, and the North America office in Washington DC. Interns will have the opportunity to draft policy papers, prepare background research for grant proposals, and assist in implementing technical assistance programs in developing countries.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Internships are also open to graduates and young professionals.

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic Interest

International Commission of Jurists

Switzerland (Headquarters), Branch Offices in Thailand, Guatemala, South Africa, Nepal, Belgium and Tunisia

Fun Fact

On September 24, 2021, the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ), in collaboration with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) Regional Office for Central Asia (ROCA) and the Nationwide Movement “Yuksalish,” launched a new project in Uzbekistan. The project, titled “Enhancing the Quality of Uzbekistan’s Application of International Law” (EQUAL), is a threeyear initiative funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the ICJ. It aims to enhance the implementation and protection of economic, social, and cultural rights in Uzbekistan. This project follows the successful completion of the EU-funded project “Advancing Civil Society in Promoting ESC Rights Standards (ACCESS)” from 2017 to 2021 in Uzbekistan. During the launch event, the partners will present the objectives and plans of the EQUAL project to advance the implementation of international law in the country.

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?

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.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) offers an immersive internship program for postgraduate students, providing practical experience in human rights legal and advocacy work at the international level. Interns gain a better understanding of the ICJ’s goals and objectives, the organization of a Human Rights NGO, and the functioning of United Nations human rights bodies in Geneva. They also work in a professional office environment, participate in staff meetings and discussions, conduct research, draft papers and reports, maintain databases, and support other ICJ activities. Interns have the opportunity to attend lectures and events related to human rights in Geneva.

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/

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic Interest

ABOUT

International Committee of the Red Cross

Switzerland

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.

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 war-torn 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?

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

The ICRC offers annual apprenticeships for students at its Geneva headquarters. Apprenticeships are available in fields such as business, administration, information, documentation, and logistics. As an apprentice, you will gain handson experience, receive coaching from experienced supervisors, and develop your skills. The apprenticeships last from one to three years and lead to a Swiss Federal Certificate of Proficiency (CFC). Recruitment takes place in March, and apprenticeships start in September. To apply, visit the ICRC career opportunities page and look for “apprenticeships”.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Every year, over 80 “associate” positions are available for recent graduates at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) headquarters in Geneva. These positions serve as a first professional opportunity for graduates to develop their expertise and gain valuable experience in the leading humanitarian organization. Associates join various departments, including International Law and Policy, Communication and Information Management, Operations, Financial Resources and Logistics, and Human Resources, where they contribute to research, evaluation, analysis, and writing. The ICRC values its associates and provides them with the chance to grow their skills, potential, and employability while making a meaningful impact.

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic Interest

International Criminal Police Organisation

France (Headquarters), Singapore

Fun Fact

The 8th INTERPOLEuropol Cybercrime Conference, held online for the first time on October 6, 2020, brought together over 400 cyber experts from various sectors to discuss emerging cyber threats, trends, and strategies. The conference highlighted the opportunistic nature of cybercriminals during the global COVID-19 pandemic and emphasized the need for closer collaboration between law enforcement, private industry, international organizations, CERTs, and academia to address the evolving landscape of cybercrime. The conference also recognized the accelerated digital transformation and increased reliance on connectivity and digital tools, calling for enhanced cooperation to combat cyber threats.

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.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

You may work in one of three anticrime departments:

• Cybercrime;

• Organised and Emerging Crime; and

• 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 internships in both policing and support services, providing work experience in an international organization and an understanding of international police cooperation. Internships are available in various areas, including security, crime matters, communications, strategic planning, and human resources. Most internship opportunities are based in INTERPOL’s Lyon headquarters in France, but there are also opportunities in other duty stations. The length of an internship varies from six to 11 months, depending on the needs of the hiring service. More information about INTERPOL internships can be found on their website.

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/What-you-can-do/Careers/ Vacancies

More information on careers at INTERPOL can be found here: https://www.interpol.int/en/Whatyou-can-do/Careers

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic Interest

ABOUT

United Nations

Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation

France (Headquarters). Field Offices in the Asia-Pacific region include Samoa, Thailand, China, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Indonesia, India and Nepal. There are also Field Offices in the 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.

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?

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 info: 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/

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic Interest

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.

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?

UNICEF’s New York headquarters offers a wide range of opportunities in different functional areas, including fixed-term and temporary staff positions, internships, volunteer opportunities, and consultancies. These opportunities cover various divisions and teams, such as 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, programs, and public partnerships. The workforce at UNICEF includes international professionals, national officers, general service staff, and consultants/individual contractors.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The UNICEF Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates the opportunity to gain practical experience with UNICEF’s work worldwide. Internship opportunities are published by UNICEF offices when they identify the need for an intern to support their team. Interested candidates can submit their applications through the UNICEF website. The duration of the internship is typically between 6 and 26 weeks, and the type of work depends on the needs of the assigned office and the qualifications and interests of the intern. Most interns work on projects that involve research, database management, and communications, among other areas.

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic

United Nations Conference on Trade and Development

Switzerland

ABOUT

UNCTAD, established in 1964 by the UN General Assembly, supports fair and effective access to the benefits of a globalized economy. They help countries address the challenges of economic integration by providing analysis, consensusbuilding, and technical assistance. UNCTAD’s efforts at the national, regional, and global levels enable countries to achieve inclusive and sustainable development through trade, investment, finance, and technology. Their work includes addressing macro-level development challenges, promoting beneficial integration into the international trading system, diversifying economies, managing financial volatility and debt, attracting investment, increasing access to digital technologies, promoting entrepreneurship and innovation, facilitating value chain development, streamlining crossborder trade, protecting consumers, promoting competition, and adapting to climate change and sustainable resource use.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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, with interns expected to work five days per week. Interns will work from home, as the current modalities of work at the United Nations Offices are online. Applicants from developing countries with a maximum 6 hours time difference with New York are encouraged to apply. Interns are required to have the necessary IT equipment and connection for online meetings. The responsibilities of the intern include monitoring and summarizing relevant UN meetings, assisting in the preparation of briefings and meetings, and performing research and information cataloguing related to the work of UNCTAD. Opportunities for internships can be found on the UN careers website.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Recent graduates are also encouraged to apply to the aforementioned UNCTAD internship program.

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

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.

ABOUT

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.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

UNDP focuses on helping countries build and share solutions in three main areas:

• Sustainable development;

• Democratic governance and peacebuilding; and

• Climate and disaster resilience.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

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 part time and full-time basis throughout the year.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The UNDP uses various personnel categories, including Professional (P)and Director (D) staff, as well as General Service (G) staff. P and D positions require strong analytical and communication skills, substantial experience, and often leadership ability. General Service roles include administrative, secretarial, and clerical support, as well as specialized positions such as building maintenance. The higher the level of the job, the more complex the functions become. Opportunities for internships at UNDP can be found on their website.

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic Interest

ABOUT

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

Kenya (Headquarters)

Financing Circularity for a Greener Economy

UNEP FI’s report, Financing Circularity: Demystifying Finance for the Circular Economy, presented at the Global Roundtable 2020, proposes ways for financial institutions to drive the transition to circular economies. The shift to circular economies can result in USD 4.5 trillion in annual economic output by 2030, support Sustainable Development Goals, safeguard ecosystems, and enable sustainable recovery after COVID-19. Financial institutions can provide businesses with financial products that contribute to the circular economy, conserve natural resources, and reduce waste. However, financial institutions lack awareness, expertise, and services to realize these business opportunities.

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?

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; and

• 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

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates are also offered the opportunity to apply for the aforementioned internship programs.

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic

United Nations General

Assembly

New York

75th Session of the General Assembly

The General Assembly, led by its President, has been carrying out its work via novel means to guarantee business continuity and mitigate the spread of the disease. Year in year out, every September, Member States have met in the General Assembly Hall at Headquarters in New York for the annual session and its highly visible general debate. The modalities of the 75th session differ this year in light of the global health crisis. The pandemic is not the only issue the world faces. Racism, intolerance, inequality, climate change, poverty, hunger, armed conflict and other ills remain global challenges. These challenges call for global action, and the 75th session of the General Assembly is a critical opportunity for all to come together and chart a course for the future.

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?

Diplomatic meetings and deliberative sessions are the primary element of the work at the UN General Assembly.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The Australian Mission to the United Nations offers internship positions during the high-level session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) from mid-September to mid-December. The internship program is intense and diverse, requiring flexibility, analytical thinking, and a firm understanding of diplomatic principles. Interns will work under experienced officers and assist with policy work on the main UNGA Committees, attend meetings and negotiations, and assist with events and high-level visits. Training will be provided at the beginning of the program. The Australian Mission represents Australia at UN meetings and conferences and participates in the ongoing work of other UN bodies.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates are also offered the opportunity to apply for the aforementioned internship programs.

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic Interest

ABOUT

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

Switzerland (Headquarters)

Youth with Refugees Art Contest

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 2020 edition was “everyone counts in the fight against COVID-19, including refugees”. UNHCR received 2,000 drawings from 100 countries.

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 69 years later, the organization is still hard at work, protecting and assisting refugees around the world.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• Health.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

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

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Recent graduates can also apply to UNHCR’s Internship Programme.

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic

United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)

Austria (Headquarters), 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. In 2016, the campaign theme is ”Listen First” The aims is to increase support for prevention of drug use that is based on science and is thus an effective investment in the well-being of children and youth, their families and their communities.

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.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

The UNODC accepts unpaid interns on an ad hoc basis, with a focus on candidates from developing countries. The internship program aims to provide enrolled university students with the opportunity to work at UNODC, gain practical experience, and contribute to the organization’s work. Interested students should contact the Regional Office in Bangkok or the Country Offices directly, as the internship programs are administered by each respective office.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

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. Around 1,500 people work at UNODC headquarters in Vienna and in field offices around the world.

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic

United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

New York (Headquarters), 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.

ABOUT

UNFPA is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. Their 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?

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 students the chance to gain practical experience in various aspects of UNFPA work. Applicants should have an interest in development, adaptability, and the ability to work with diverse cultures. Interns are supervised by UNFPA staff and selected based on qualifications. Requirements include enrollment in an advanced degree program or recent graduation, proficiency in English, and knowledge of French, Spanish, or Arabic is a plus.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

UNFPA organizes its personnel into three main staff categories: Professional (P) and Director (D)staff, General Service (G) staff, and National Professional Officers (NO). These categories are used across the United Nations system and have different levels that correspond to increasing responsibilities and requirements. The organization offers various employment and internship opportunities to support its work around the world. For more information on local positions, it is recommended to contact the UNFPA office in your area.

United Nations

New York (Headquarters), various regional and liaison offices around the world

ABOUT

The United Nations, founded in 1945, comprises 193 Member States and operates based on its founding Charter. It addresses global challenges like peace, climate change, human rights, and more. The UN’s unique international status empowers it to take action on various issues, including disarmament, terrorism, and gender equality. It serves as a platform for member nations to express their opinions in the General Assembly, Security Council, and other bodies. Through facilitating dialogue and negotiations, the UN acts as a mechanism for governments to collaborate, find common ground, and solve problems collectively.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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.

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 TechnologyLegal;

• Public Information and Conference Management - Internal Security and Safety;

• Logistics, Transportation and Supply Chain; and

• 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

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic

ABOUT

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in Help for Refugees from Palestine

Jordan (Field Office), Various locations in the Middle East

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has provided assistance to four generations of Palestine refugees. These refugees are defined as individuals who lost their homes and livelihoods during the 1948 conflict in Palestine. UNRWA’s services are available to all registered Palestine refugees and their descendants, totaling around 5.6 million individuals. The agency offers various services, including basic education, primary healthcare, and humanitarian assistance to those in need. UNRWA plays a crucial role in supporting the welfare and development of Palestine refugees in its areas of operation.

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. 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.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

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; and

• Microfinance.

Employees work in one of these five teams in order to effectively carry out the organisation’s operations.

The United Nations offers unpaid internships for a duration of at least two months and up to six months. Interns are responsible for arranging and financing their own travel and medical insurance, as well as covering their own living expenses during the internship. The internships are available in various locations, including Amman, Beirut, Jerusalem, New York, and Brussels. Interns contribute to the UN’s work by supporting inter-agency tasks, non-governmental and donor liaison tasks, public information work, and other necessary tasks.

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates may also apply to the aforementioned internship opportunities.

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic

United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women)

United States (Headquarters), Thailand (Asia-Pacific Regional Office), Liaison Offices in the Asia-Pacific Region: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Fiji, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste and Vietnam

Fun Fact

Gender inequality is a major challenge to sustainable development, as identified by UNEP’s Global Gender and Environment Outlook 2016. It negatively affects access to natural resources and the right to a clean environment. The report calls for genderresponsive approaches to address barriers to sustainable development. UN Women emphasizes the need for increased financing for gender equality, technology utilization, and inclusive development. Women, including activists like Greta Thunberg, Vanessa Nakate, and Maria Alejandra Rodriguez Acha, are demanding action to reduce carbon emissions and involve diverse voices in climate decision-making.

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.

WHAT KIND OF WORK?

UN Women works on campaigns for global gender equality. They work closely with NGOs and members of civil society to further their advocacy. 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 focused on International Women’s Day events. To express interest, use the online form for upcoming opportunities. The internship program runs from November to March and is open to students who can receive course credit. Interns provide administrative and event support, gaining valuable experience in the non-profit sector. Internship positions are advertised around September each year. For more information please visit https://unwomen.org. au/get-involved/volunteering-andinternships/

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) can be found here: https://www.unwomen.org/en/ about-us/employment

Chapter V: Public InternationalLaw/InternationalPublic

World Food Programme (WFP)

Fun Fact

VIENTIANE

– The Government of the Republic of Korea announced its support to the Ministry of Health and the World Food Programme (WFP) to continue providing food to returning migrants in mandatory COVID-19 quarantine. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea has released USD 200,000 in humanitarian assistance dedicated to Lao PDR’s response to COVID-19. This donation will enable WFP to continue its food assistance to migrant workers in 18 quarantine centres across 7 provinces of Lao PDR. WFP and its implementing partners -the Swiss Red Cross, the Lao Red Cross and World Vision International will provide three daily nutritious meals to over 5,600 returning migrant workers.

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?

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.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

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

GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES

The WFP offers Legal Officer positions with various responsibilities, including contributing to the determination of legal strategy, developing the organization’s regulatory framework, providing legal advice on various issues, participating in negotiations and settlement of claims, and undertaking legal research and analysis. These positions provide long-term opportunities for a fulfilling career in fields such as food security, diplomacy, or public service. For more information, visit the WFP website.

CHAPTER VI: Testimonials

Chapter VI: Testimonials

Alicia Sohail

Youth Law Australia

I work as a Solicitor at Youth law Australia, a nationwide legal centre for children and young people. Lawyers at YLA provide legal advice and advocacy in every jurisdiction in Australia and in almost every area of law, from employment to family and to bullying at school. I work within the Harm Practice, where we deal with very complex and difficult matters, that require lots of sensitivity and practical problem solving. Along with legal assistance, we often need to support the young person by connecting them to relevant services, such as counselling or crisis accommodation. Whilst our work can be challenging, it is incredibly rewarding to be part of a team that is dedicated to supporting and empowering young people everywhere.

Chapter VI: Testimonials

Benjamin Lee

I have my own peacebuilding and negotiation practice and also serve as the Executive Director of an international advisory body. Right now, I’m working with pro-democracy activists in our region to support their engagement with governments and to help shape their negotiation tactics at the UN in Geneva and New York. It’s fascinating and rewarding work.

Before this, I served with the UN in Afghanistan, Cambodia, Iraq, Myanmar and with the UN’s Commission of Inquiry on Syria, mostly conducting human rights investigations. I was also a negotiator for Australia at the UN in Geneva, and Human Rights Advisor on a Bill of Rights process in Northern Ireland. My practice borrows from these experiences and shows that public interest careers can be diverse, intrepid and often your own design. LEE.ADV Strategic Advisory

Chapter VI: Testimonials

Jimmy Singh

Criminal Defence Lawyers

Australia

I am the principal and director of Criminal Defence Lawyers Australia. I practice exclusively in the area of criminal law and focus mainly on serious crime cases, such as murder, white collar crime, money laundering, and serious sexual assault charges. A normal day involves calling my clients whose cases are listed the next day, preparing my next day’s court matters, attending court in the mornings, and conducting consultations in the afternoon. This requires good time management skills and a good team who works well together to assist.

I was inspired to pursue a career in criminal law from the time I studied a course at university involving the Evidence Act. I found this exciting and challenging. This led me to realise that criminal law is the only area of law that requires lawyers to attend court on a daily basis which also benefits the community by protecting everyday peoples rights. I knew that I would not get the kind of thrill I get in criminal law from any other area of law. An interesting case I am currently working on involves a mother charged with sexually touching her 10 years old son. My client had a stroke leading up to the alleged incident which had caused an impairment in her frontal lobe brain. This explains that if she in fact did commit the offence, she did not know the nature or quality of her act in the sense of not being able to reason with a moderate degree of sense and composure about whether the act, as perceived by reasonable people, was wrong. This is otherwise known as the mental health defence reflected in the common law case of Queen v M’Naghten (1843) 8 E.R. 718. This has now been reflected in the legislation under Part 3 of the Mental Health and Cognitive Impairment Forensic Provisions Act 2020 (NSW).

Chapter VI: Testimonials

University of New South Wales

I am a law academic and legal researcher, currently completing my PhD in Constitutional Theory at UNSW, Sydney. My research has been published in a range of leading, highly ranked journals, including International Journal of Constitutional Law (Oxford Journals), Global Constitutionalism (Cambridge Journals) and Asian Journal of International Law (Cambridge Journals). I chose a career in teaching and research because it allows me to pursue my passion for knowledge while exploring ideas in depth. As a researcher, I feel responsible for generating new knowledge through continued research, focusing not only on what the law is but also what the law should or ought to be. At the same time, being an academic provides me with a great deal of professional freedom, along with unique opportunities for intellectual growth and impact.

Mohammed Abu Sayeed

Chapter VI: Testimonials

Varuni Siriwardana

Department of Communities and Social Justice

The Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) is an organization dedicated to ensuring everyone’s right to access justice and support for families through early intervention and inclusion, which benefits the entire community.

I joined DCJ in 2013, shortly after being admitted as a Solicitor in NSW. During my time here, I have worked across various teams, including the Child Law team, Civil Litigation, Inquests Inquiries and Representation, and Commercial and Property team.

Our graduates and junior lawyers provide efficient and effective legal and litigation services, including appearances before the Children’s Court; support research in relevant areas of law; contribute to the delivery of high-quality legal services; interpret and prepare legal documents; assist in the development of legal reviews, and support law reform initiatives.