Victoria Legal Aid

First Nations clerkship program

We offer positions in our Clerkship Program to First Nations law students.

Every year we offer placements in our clerkship program to First Nations law students.

Our clerkship is unique because:

  • you can start a clerkship at any stage of your law degree
  • we offer multiple part time and full time positions each year
  • placements can be between four and 12 weeks long, depending on how many days you can work each week
  • you can return in following years until you have finished your studies
  • placements are available in our Criminal Law program, Family Law program or our Civil Justice program in Melbourne
  • placements are also available in our suburban and regional offices
  • you can also participate in our community legal education and law reform activities
  • we aim to have you placed in your preferred location and areas of interests where possible.

Applications

Applications are currently open, please visit our careers pageExternal Link to apply.

What people say about our program

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Clerkship Program, Charis Ballantyne

Clerkship participant Charis Ballantyne

'The Aboriginal Clerkship Program at Victoria Legal Aid (VLA) has been one of the most important aspects of my learning and career journey. The program has equipped me with valuable skills that go beyond mere legal knowledge or technical capabilities, which have prepared me for life as a lawyer. VLA is an incredibly nurturing and supportive environment, and I have consistently been met with patience, encouragement and recognition in all the work I have done. The program has opened many doors and career opportunities, exposing me to different kinds of work, a variety of practice areas, as well as the highs and lows of legal practice.'
– Charis Ballantyne, Clerkship participant.

More information

To discuss eligibility, express your interest or for more information about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Clerkship Program, please contact First Nations Consultant Steph McStay – email Steph.McStay@vla.vic.gov.au or phone (03) 9269 0496.

Disclaimer: The material in this print-out relates to the law as it applies in the state of Victoria. It is intended as a general guide only. Readers should not act on the basis of any material in this print-out without getting legal advice about their own particular situations. Victoria Legal Aid disclaims any liability howsoever caused to any person in respect of any action taken in reliance on the contents of the publication.

We help Victorians with their legal problems and represent those who need it most. Find legal answers, chat with us online, or call us. You can speak to us in English or ask for an interpreter. You can also find more legal information at www.legalaid.vic.gov.au

Reviewed 24 January 2024

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