Canberra Seasonal Clerkship Programme (Nov 2026)

Notre Dame; Canberra; On-site; AUD 20,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentoring and support program

Hands-on experience

Pro bono opportunities

Job summary

A leading Australian law firm is seeking a seasonal clerk for an eight-week clerkship program in Canberra. This opportunity includes mentoring by experienced lawyers, hands-on experience across various practice areas, and contributions to pro bono activities. Candidates must be in their penultimate or final year of a law degree and possess strong academic performance and excellent communication skills. This role provides a supportive, ambitious environment conducive to personal and professional growth.

Qualifications

• Open to students in their penultimate or final year of a relevant law degree.
• Must have full Australian or New Zealand working rights.
• Requires strong communication and collaborative skills.

Responsibilities

• Participate in an eight week clerkship program.
• Work on complex legal matters with leading lawyers.
• Contribute to pro bono practice.

Skills

Strong academic performance

Excellent communication skills

Collaborative approach

Drive to achieve outcomes

Education

Relevant law degree

Job description

A Great Place to Work

As a seasonal clerk at Johnson Winter Slattery, you will:

• Participate in an eight week clerkship program
• Work on complex legal matters with leading lawyers across our national network
• Gain hands‑on experience across a variety of practice areas
• Receive mentoring and support through a structured development program
• Contribute meaningfully to our pro bono practice
• Be part of a supportive, high‑performing, and social firm culture

Who We Are

Johnson Winter Slattery is a leading Australian law firm advising corporates and funds on complex transactions, disputes, and regulatory matters. We are known for our long‑term client relationships, commercial approach, and deep industry understanding.

We are a firm of over 450 people, including 80+ partners, located in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra, Brisbane, and Perth — and are regularly engaged on cross‑border matters. In 2025, we announced an alliance with TMI Associates, one of Japan’s top law firms.

We are proud of our strong pro bono program, focused on supporting disadvantaged and marginalised communities, and our commitment to responsible business and social justice.

Your Career With Us

Our graduate and clerkship programs offer exposure to high‑profile matters and diverse practice areas. You’ll be mentored by partners and senior lawyers who are genuinely invested in your development.

At JWS, your opportunities reflect your ability — not your title. You’ll be encouraged to think commercially, contribute meaningfully, and take ownership of your work from day one.

We are looking for clerks who combine strong academic performance with excellent communication skills, a collaborative approach, and a drive to achieve the best outcomes for clients.

Our clerkship program is open to students in their penultimate or final year of a relevant law degree with full Australian or New Zealand working rights (citizenship or permanent residency).

Pre-registernow and we will let you know once this opportunity opens!