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First Nations clerkship program

Our Clerkship Program for First Nations law students offers four to 12 week placements at any stage of your career.

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

Current applications

Applications are currently closed, however please contact the First Nations Employment Consultant, Kristen Bell at kristen.bell@vla.vic.gov.au for further information.

Eligibility

You can start a clerkship at any stage of your law degree. There is flexibility within the program for you to complete the clerkship in-line with your study commitments.

About the program

Our clerkship program offers a four to 12 week placement, depending on whether you work part-time or full-time.

In addition to on-the-job legal experience, you can also participate in our community legal education and law reform activities

Opportunities in our Melbourne CBD office vary, and can include placement in either of these programs:

  • Criminal law.
  • Family law.
  • Civil justice.

You can also apply for a placement in one of our suburban or regional offices, and experience the diversity of legal activities in these locations.

Past participants

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Clerkship Program, Charis Ballantyne

Tell us about your experience in the program The Aboriginal Clerkship Program at Victoria Legal Aid (VLA) has been one of the most important aspects of my learning and career journey.

What did you learn? 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.

Tell us about working at Victoria Legal Aid? 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.

Has this helped with your future career? 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.

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 Employment Consultant Kristen Bell by:

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