Clinical placement offerings
Clinical placements applications now open
The Clinical Program offers real legal experience in a range of legal areas. Clinical placements are hosted by external organisations, In House placements offer special subject matter clinics at Monash Law Clinics Melbourne or onsite at our partner organisations. Be sure to check out dates and specific details on each placement below.
EXCITING NEW CLINICAL PLACEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Fintech Clinic (LAW4811), South Pacific Plastics Treaty Clinic (LAW4803), ISPT Legal Team (LAW4803), GeelongPort (LAW4803), Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (LAW4803), The Lost Dogs' Home (LAW4803), UN Global Compact Network Australia (LAW4803)
2024 Dates
Period | Start | End | Applications open | Applications close | Orientation |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 5 February | 10 May | 20 November (2023) | 8 January | 1 February |
2 | 13 May | 16 August | 12 February | 31 March | 9 May |
3 | 19 August | 6 December | 1 July | 22 July | 15 August |
Clinical units are subject to their own set of Discontinuation Dates. Students should check these before deciding to withdraw from a unit.
Placement Q&A
Curious about Monash Law's Clinical Guarantee and how you can get hands-on, practical legal experience? Join us for an interactive Q&A session with the Clinical Team on Wednesday 10 July 2024 (11:00am-11:30am). Zoom link will be sent to you in the morning of the Q&A. Register now
Clinical units
LAW4811 - In-house clinical placement: Law reform and systemic change
LAW4813 - In-house clinical placement: Client legal assistance
LAW4814 - Extended clinical placement
LAW4815 – International clinical placement
Placement offerings
IMPORTANT NOTE: Explore potential clinical placement opportunities for 2024. Please be advised that availability may differ for each clinical period.
Law firms View
Align Law Firm (LAW4803)
Align Law is a boutique firm founded by lawyers who have an entrepreneurial spirit. We pride ourselves in understanding our clients’ business needs and finding the best legal solutions. We act for high profile landmark projects for pre-eminent local and international clients. We are united in our vision to break away from the traditional mould in which law firms operate in order to become a truly innovative and forward thinking legal services provider.
Students participating in this clinical placement will be working with all team members at Align, supervised by our lawyers, and will be guided by one of the founding partners of Align Law. You will be immersed in a broad range of legal matters including, but not limited to, matters in Property Law, Planning Law, Construction Law and Corporate and Commercial Law.
Not only will you be encouraged to have client interaction, you will be tasked to take carriage of a minimum of one file (including client management) throughout the clinical placement period at Align Law. In addition, there will be plenty of events which you are invited to join to take a peek into what life is like at Align.
At Align your imagination is the limit. You will be encouraged to be creative, to challenge conventions, to collaborate with consultants, contacts, and clients and to identify and create alignments for yourselves.
Burch&Co (LAW4803)
We are Burch&Co., a boutique commercial law firm based in South Melbourne. With a strong commitment to excellence, we offer a wide range of legal services tailored to meet the needs of our clients. Our team consists of highly skilled and experienced lawyers who are passionate about delivering exceptional results.
At Burch&Co., we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and supportive work environment. Our collaborative approach allows us to tackle complex legal challenges while maintaining a personalised touch. Our practice groups include commercial law, corporate M&A, dispute resolution, and the start-up and capital team.
As a student placement program participant at Burch&Co., you will gain invaluable practical experience under the guidance of our legal professionals. We believe in nurturing talent and offering a stepping stone for budding legal professionals to embark on a successful career.
Areas of law
You will be working across multiple practice areas, with the option to work exclusively for:
- the Startup and Capital team, or
- the sports law and advisory arm of the business.
If you wish to be considered for an exclusive team placement, please indicate this preference in your application, although exclusive placement cannot be guaranteed.
General objectives and responsibilities
Regardless of the practice area, general expectations and objectives of student placement participants are:
- To uphold the voice of Burch&Co. in the delivery of legal services;
- To develop a deep and broad understanding and passion for the law;
- To assist the administrative and legal research functions of the firm;
- To be engaged with the firm and enjoy being a part of the law.
Responsibilities and tasks include:
- Conducting legal research, information retrieval and fact gathering;
- Attending client meetings and drafting file notes;
- Researching interesting recent case law developments or industry specific developments and preparing legal insights, think pieces or legal updates for the Burch&Co. Community and website;
- Assisting with file management including opening new files;
- Providing administrative support to the wider team;
- Assisting with ASIC searches, trade mark searches, and e-signing requests;
- Maintaining a high level of confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
Forty Four Degrees (LAW4803)
Forty Four Degrees is a boutique Australian Law Firm working to assist both individuals and businesses. As lawyers, our duty to the court and to the client is paramount, although sometimes in tension with each other. The mission of each lawyer at 44 is to navigate this with honesty, integrity, and humility.
Forty Four Degrees believes in taking the holistic approach to clients and their journeys and assisting them to navigate their interactions with the law.
We aim to be responsible corporate bodies in areas of social justice, environmental issues, and staff well being. We will be quick, mobile, and responsive to the market and emerging technologies.
Our policy is to promote diversity and equality to all people we interact with irrespective of their gender, race, ethnic origin, disability, age, nationality, national origin, sexuality, religion or belief, marital status and social class. We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination and will actively seek employees from diverse backgrounds as we appreciate the value of differing experiences.
Forty Four Degrees practices law across a range of areas including:
- Technology and startup law;
- Property law including conveyancing and leasing;
- Commercial law;
- Civil litigation;
- Wills & estates;
- Bankruptcy and insolvency;
- Criminal law;
- Family law; and
- Professionals facing investigations and charges from their regulatory bodies.
Duties of the placement might include:
- Observing legal processes and actively suggesting ways to implement technology to improve efficiency;
- Attending client and stakeholder meetings;
- Filing paperwork for various files;
- Going to court to file documents or instruct;
- Opening and closing files in LEAP;
- Under supervision, drafting orders and simple divorce applications;
- Indexing litigation files, discovery and drafting routine correspondence;
- Drafting letters of demand using precedents;
- Taking a chronology or client statement and ensuring that follow-up action is taken;
- Ensuring introductory materials are given if necessary and that client is allocated to the appropriate person;
- Researching cases for website, social media publication and CPD presentations; and
- Designing and drafting marketing materials and online web forms for client information purposes
King & Wood Mallesons (LAW4803)
IMPORTANT NOTE: Candidates will be shortlisted for interview by a panel from King & Wood Mallesons. You must be available for interview between 9-12 April 2024.
Students participating in this clinic will work with two Partners in the Mergers & Acquisition team, learning about corporate governance and the practical application of shareholder rights to companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX).
The M&A partners will take you through the legal and commercial frameworks and the current governance and corporate social responsibility challenges faced by ASX listed companies. With that background, you will do a ‘deep dive’ on a major ASX listed company’s corporate governance report, working closely with the M&A partners and also the company secretary or general counsel of the company.
In collaboration with the M&A partners and the chosen company’s company secretary or general counsel, students will prepare a group report that gives their views on how well the company complies with corporate governance reporting requirements and potential areas for improvement.
During the clinic, students will have full access to KWM’s offices and resources, sitting within the M&A team and will have weekly sessions with the M&A partners.
Media Arts Lawyers (LAW4803)
For over 20 years, Media Arts Lawyers has given practical and commercial legal advice to clients throughout the entertainment, media, and creative industries. Acting for high-profile talent and multinational companies alongside emerging and fledgling projects, we set the benchmark for creatively strategic legal solutions – no matter the deal size. Our combined experience means that we have the skill, deep networks, lateral thinking, and foresight to achieve the best commercial outcomes for our clients. We don’t just do the paperwork, we think creatively to develop strategic solutions and structure intelligent deals.
Duties of the placement might include:
- Taking notes during client consultations;
- Filing paperwork for various files;
- Marking up, comparing, reviewing and proofreading contracts;
- Drafting memos of advice;
- Drafting letters of demand and other correspondence using precedents;
- Researching laws, regulations and relevant cases;
- Students who have studied IP Law are encouraged to apply.
Mills Oakley Everyday Justice (LAW4803)
Mills Oakley Everyday Justice is a Community Legal Service owned, and operated in collaboration with, leading national law firm Mills Oakley. Everyday Justice delivers pro bono support to individuals and small businesses who aren’t eligible for Legal Aid or a Community Legal Centre. We’re a generalist service offering advice and representation in employment, residential and commercial tenancy, credit & debt, financial abuse, wills & estates, discrimination and public interest law, among a lot more.
You’ll be working on research briefs, legal drafting, taking instructions from clients and be their introduction to Everyday Justice. You’ll work with the team on developing advice for clients and be there for the delivery - we cover a lot of areas so we’ll match matters to your interest.
In house legal View
Asahi Beverages (LAW4803)
Asahi Beverages is one of the leading beverage companies in Australia and New Zealand. With a rich and varied history, Asahi Beverages markets quality alcohol and non-alcohol beverages, boasting a strong portfolio of established household brands and innovative, new-to-market products.
Asahi Beverages is a member of Asahi Group Holdings, one of Japan’s leading beverage companies, and comprises of some of Australia and New Zealand's most successful beverage businesses, including Asahi Lifestyle Beverages (formerly known as Schweppes Australia), Asahi Beverages New Zealand and Carlton & United Breweries (CUB) which now incorporates Asahi Beverages alcohol division, Asahi Premium Beverages.
Students participating in this placement program will work with Legal Directors on-site, one day per week. Students will undertake a practical placement in the Legal & Corporate Affairs team at Asahi Beverages, Melbourne CBD Office, which is responsible for the Asia Pacific South zone comprising Australia, India and South East Asia. What you’ll be doing:
At Asahi Beverages Offices, under supervision by qualified solicitors, students will support the Legal Directors of Commercial, Corporate & Compliance and Operations for a range of activities including:
- Providing legal advice to the business, including functions such as Commercial, Sales, Marketing, Finance, Tax, Supply, Logistics, Procurement and People;
- Supporting on strategic files that may include mergers and acquisitions, divestments and strategic alliances;
- Managing the IP portfolio of the Asahi Beverages business and providing broader support in the management of IP issues; supporting the Sales and Marketing Compliance Committee in reviewing and approving all consumer facing material;
- Assisting with compliance reviews, training and investigations that assess and protect against bribery, corruption, competition and regulatory risks; and
- Advising in relation to employment law and industrial relations issues.
Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (LAW4803)
The Australasian Veterinary Boards Council is a public interest organisation with the following purposes:
- To encourage co-operation among the veterinary boards in Australia and New Zealand;
- To advise and make recommendations to the veterinary boards in Australia and New Zealand in relation to:
- The accreditation of veterinary schools and of courses leading to a degree in veterinary science or medicine;
- Assessment of the suitability for practice in Australia and New Zealand of persons with foreign veterinary qualifications; and
- Uniform criteria for recognition of qualifications for registration;
- To provide advice on matters concerning the occupational regulation of veterinarians including general and specialist registration;
- To encourage standardisation and quality assurance of veterinary services to the community in all jurisdictions;
AVBC also works to ensure the sustainability of the veterinary profession to protect animal welfare and the public.
As part of the placements, students would be required to conduct legislative and regulatory analysis, engage with stakeholders, critically assess the current legal and legislative landscape and contribute to the development of specific policies relevant to the Australasian veterinary profession. There may be the possibility of ongoing employment depending on the success of the placement(s).
Essendon Fields (LAW4803)
Essendon Fields
Essendon Fields is an award-winning commercial, aviation and retail precinct located on the site of Melbourne’s first airport, only 15mins from Melbourne’s CBD. The Essendon Fields’ Legal team comprises Stacey Pettit (General Counsel & Company Secretary) and Kim Grant (Legal Counsel). Both practitioners have strong property law backgrounds and have much to share with students in terms of the evolving legal landscape in the leasing sector, where keeping up with the latest developments and strategies is crucial for a successful leasing business. Stacey was recently listed as a Leading Female Lawyers in Australia – Elite Women 2023 by Australasian Lawyer and has been named by The Legal 500 on their GC Powerlist for Australia in 2022 and 2023.
Law students participating in this clinical placement will gain a practical understanding of in-house law within a business context, under the supervision of a supportive legal team. Students will be exposed to a broad spectrum of legal matters e.g. leases and licences, developments and interpreting and applying airport legislation.
The types of tasks students may be involved with while on placement include:
- Reviewing, editing and suggesting amendments to various agreements, with a focus on leases and licenses;
- Undertaking research and drafting memorandums on a range of legal issues related to property, as well as unique matters specific to airports;
- Investigating and implementing digital law initiatives;
- Professional office skills e.g. attending meetings and drafting letters; and
- A presentation to Essendon Fields’ senior management or department on a topic mutually agreed (i.e. previous intern presentations on Airport Act requirements for subleases).
Law students seeking general inhouse experience are encouraged to apply, particularly those with an interest in all areas of property, construction, commercial and aviation law. It is a fast-paced team, with a variety of work across the airport’s operations.
GeelongPort (LAW4803)
GeelongPort is Victoria’s second largest port located within Victoria’s largest regional city, Geelong.
Managing close to 12 million tonnes of cargo and 600 vessel visits per year, GeelongPort supports the agriculture, construction, energy and tourism sectors.
Situated on Corio Bay, GeelongPort is located 75 kilometres southwest of Melbourne in Geelong, Victoria. Operating over 90 hectares of land and comprising 15 berths over two primary precincts, Corio Quay and Lascelles Wharf, GeelongPort provides land, infrastructure and services to facilitate trade for some of Victoria’s largest businesses.
About GeelongPort’s Legal Team
The Legal team comprises Stephanie Pickett (General Counsel & Company Secretary) and Jaclyn Masters (Legal Counsel). Both have international legal experience and qualifications, have worked across inhouse, government, and private practice roles, and have been recently listed by The Legal 500 on their GC Powerlist and Rising Star lists respectively. The Legal team sits within the broader Corporate Affairs and Sustainability teams, all of which report into the General Counsel.
Law students seeking general inhouse experience are encouraged to apply, particularly those with an interest in governance, construction, property, or competition law. It is a fast-paced team, with a variety of work across the port’s operations, and a unique opportunity to be based on the port-site on Corio Bay. Any PPE required while participating in the placement (i.e. site tours) will be provided by GeelongPort.
Types of work/activities:
- Preparation of the internal Legal Update publication;
- Shadowing General Counsel & Legal Counsel at in-person and virtual meetings;
- Mentoring by both General Counsel and Legal Counsel during placement;
- Site tours of operational GeelongPort sites at Corio Quay and Lascelles Wharf;
- Opportunities to interact directly with key teams in the GeelongPort business including infrastructure delivery, finance, property & commercial, HSEQ, IT;
- End of internship presentation to GeelongPort head office team on topic mutually agreed (i.e. previous intern presented on cybersecurity and the legislative reforms around the security of critical infrastructure as applicable to the port);
- Assistance with governance projects (i.e. legislative obligations registers)
- Attending internal training and meetings, meetings with external counsel.
Imperium Capital Group (LAW4803)
A clinical placement at Imperium will offer valuable insight into a fast paced and dynamic private company that manages and acquires businesses with a view to analysing and implementing beneficial strategic change. The placement encompasses a range of learning opportunities and gives real world insight into the practice of law in the commercial sector in a range of industries.
Work will be conducted primarily with the General Counsel and involve:
- Legal research;
- Administration;
- Problem solving.
JJ Ryan Consulting (LAW4803)
JJ Ryan Consulting is a team of skilled and experienced engineers, designers and project managers that focus on problem-solving. We assist clients throughout the entire infrastructure life cycle with our skilled professionals delivering a variety of services, including:
- Strategic & commercial advisory;
- Program & project management;
- Engineering design;
- Contract administration;
- Asset management.
These services are provided to clients in a variety of market sectors, including:
- Transport Infrastructure;
- Buildings & Property;
- Energy & Resources;
- Environment & Urban Development;
- We are an international company with offices across Australia, New Zealand and the Middle East.
About the opportunity
We are seeking an enthusiastic and highly motivated WIL Student who will assist our in-house legal team with a number of tasks which include, but are not limited to:
- Undertake legal research and prepare internal memorandums on a number of different areas of law including but not limited to:
- Employment Law;
- Corporations Law;
- Insurance Law;
- Contract Law Equity and Trusts;
- Assist in the drafting and review of our Integrated Management System (IMS) policies, procedures and forms;
- Assist in reviewing commercial contracts (highlighting key terms);
- Assist in the preparation of legal reports to key internal stakeholders.
KMD Brands (LAW4803)
KMD Brands is a global outdoor lifestyle and sports company and certified B Corporation.
The Group consists of three iconic brands: Kathmandu, Oboz and Rip Curl. Kathmandu was founded in 1987 in New Zealand to equip people for travel and adventure. Outdoor footwear brand Oboz joined the group in 2018 and is based in Bozeman, Montana USA, the gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Rip Curl, acquired in 2019, is a leading global surf brand born in Bells Beach, Victoria, Australia, in 1969.
Our purpose is to inspire people to explore and love the outdoors. We’re aiming to be the leading family of global outdoor brands – designed for purpose, driven by innovation, best for people and plant.
The KMD Brands Legal function is based in South Melbourne and consists of a Group Legal Counsel, Legal Counsel and paralegals. The legal function is headed by the Chief Legal and ESG Officer in Christchurch.
Students may experience a variety of brand protection work (trademark, copyright), commercial negotiations (contract review, NDAs), general advisory, regulatory compliance, legal training as well as observing how our legal function partners with business units on a variety of urgent and longer-term projects.
Medibank Private (LAW4803)
At Medibank, we believe in Better Health for Better Lives. We are a health company providing private health insurance and health services to 3.7 million Australians. We have a clear purpose to impact better health outcomes for our customers, patients and our community.
The Medibank Legal team provides strategic, high quality and timely legal services to the Medibank Group of Companies. The Medibank Legal team was also a finalist for ‘Healthcare Legal Team of the Year’ at the Lawyers Weekly Corporate Counsel Awards in 2022.
The placement is in the Medibank Legal team that supports the Marketing and Product teams at Medibank and ahm health insurance. This legal team primarily advises in the areas of the Competition and Consumer Act, Spam Act, Copyright Act, Trade Marks Act, and Health Practitioner Regulation National Law. Students with an interest in these areas of the law and the wider health industry are encouraged to apply.
Duties of the placement may include:
- Drafting case notes and presenting those findings to the Legal team;
- Reviewing, comparing, and amending contracts;
- Assisting in the drafting of legal guidelines, precedents, templates and training sessions;
- Preparing progress reports for the business on legal matters using Microsoft Teams and Excel;
- Observing legal processes and actively suggesting ways to implement technology to improve efficiency;
- Designing and drafting marketing materials and online web forms for business information purposes;
- Chairing team meetings and taking minutes in business meetings
Peninsula Health (LAW4803)
Peninsula Health is the major public health service for Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula. The Legal Services, Compliance and Risk Department at Peninsula Health is comprised of the following teams Legal Services; Compliance and Risk; and the Privacy and Information Release Unit. The Legal Services team consists of three lawyers, a law clerk, a MedicoLegal officer and two paralegal/administrative assistants. Legal Services provides Peninsula Health with expert legal advice, ensuring Peninsula Health’s strategic goals, objections and business operations conform and comply with legislative and regulatory requirements. Legal practice areas include:
- Health law advice;
- Medico-legal advice and dispute resolution;
- Coroners Court advice and representation;
- Guardianship and Administration advice and representation;
- Employment law advice and dispute resolution;
- Commercial and contract advice and transactions;
- Property advice;
- Intellectual property, including trademarks;
- Regulatory advice and management of AHPRA matters;
- Occupational Health and Safety advice; and
- Privacy, Confidentiality and Release of Information.
Sports Advisory Partners Australia (LAW4803)
Sports Advisory Partners Australia (SAPA)
Sports Advisory Partners Australia (SAPA) is a full sports advisory firm located in South Melbourne, with offices also in Sydney and Adelaide. SAPA has a commitment to providing quality, meaningful and useful support that enables stakeholders and sports to realise their potential. Our advisory services include legal, strategy, commercialisation, governance & integrity, advocacy, regulatory and leadership & culture. SAPA is a registered legal practice in NSW.
SAPA prides itself on fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment to deliver practical support for our clients. We build trust be showing our human side, understanding our clients’ needs and taking a values-based approach and empowering others to be best on ground.
As a student placement program participant at SAPA, you will gain invaluable practical experience working closely with the SAPA management team, helping you build the essential skills and foundations needed for a professional career in sport and/or law.
Responsibilities of Tasks
- Conducting legal research, information retrieval and fact gathering;
- Attending client meetings and drafting file notes;
- Providing administrative support to the wider SAPA team;
- Assisting with file management;
- Drafting correspondence and advice on legal, regulatory and integrity related issues;
- Drafting regulations, rules and policies; and
- Maintaining a high level of confidentiality and professionalism at all times
The Lost Dogs' Home (LAW4803)
The Lost Dogs Home North Melbourne
The Lost Dogs Home was established in 1910 with the aim to care for lost dogs, cats and other companion animals. We reunite lost pets with their families, find new homes for others, and always seek the best possible outcomes for all animals that come into our care.
Students on placement will work with the General Counsel, Director Legal & Risk at The Lost Dogs’ Home in North Melbourne.
The Legal & Risk function at LDH is fairly dynamic and moves between legal advice, contract drafting and review, and some litigation (typically more re-active) and the risk management functions which tend to be more pro-active e.g., managing the LDH policy framework, policy drafting and review, working with an external risk consultant with respect to our risk registers, business continuity plans etc. and coordinating legislative compliance activities.
Vicinity Centres (LAW4803)
Vicinity Centres is one of Australia's leading retail property groups with a fully integrated asset management platform, and $23 billion in retail assets under management across 60 shopping centres, making it the second largest listed manager of Australian retail property. Find out more about the company on our website https://www.vicinity.com.au/.
The Paralegal & Legal Operations Team at Vicinity Centres consists of 6 paralegals with varying levels of experience. One of our fundamental responsibilities is to partner with the Legal Team as a skilled resource and provide technical support on legal matters. The Legal Team advises the business on a broad range of legal matters including acquisitions and disposals of real estate, complex retail and mixed-use development related matters, retail and commercial lease transactions, large-scale bank and debt capital market financing arrangements, as well as business-as-usual operations matters. The Paralegal & Legal Operations Team and the Legal Team are within the broader Legal, Governance, Risk & Safety (LGARS) team which consists of approximately 70 legal, risk, governance, compliance and safety professionals.
This placement will be based in Vicinity's national corporate office in Chadstone within the Paralegal & Legal Operations Team. Applicants with an interest in general corporate law and legal operations are encouraged to apply.
The placement student would be involved in:
- Drafting and interpreting legal, policy, and procedure documents;
- Drafting correspondence;
- Contract execution; Research;
- Assisting with legal operations projects;
- Maintaining company information and registers;
- Performing company and property searches; and
- Discovery and other tasks related to court and tribunal proceedings.
Benefits for you:
- Learn how the skills you have gained from your university studies are practically applied in the context of a large commercial company;
- Experience varied and interesting work to help you understand how in-house law operates in businesses;
- Gain an understanding of the appropriate written and verbal communication styles and formats for a professional, legal environment;
- Learn how to better navigate the Office 365 Suite (Outlook, Teams, SharePoint etc) and other commercial systems often utilised by both in-house teams and private practice firms;
- Work with a welcoming and friendly team (some also university students) in a modern office neighbouring Chadstone Shopping Centre!
Selection criteria:
- An interest in the Vicinity Centres business;
- An interest in Corporate Law, Property Law and Legal Operations;
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
- Initiative, team player but also able to work independently and a ‘can-do’ attitude;
- Covid Vaccination (at least 2 doses);
- Preferably at least in the third year of degree;
- Must be available to attend placement onsite on Tuesdays;
- Agreeable to Vicinity Centres conducting a Background Check through our third party screening provider, Fit2Work.
Wingate Group (LAW4803)
About Wingate
Wingate is a leading Australian private markets finance and investment house that is dedicated to enlarging and enriching the lives of those with whom we interact. We are driven by our ethical approach, deep sense of responsibility and our capacity to inspire long term trusted relationships.
About the role
Wingate’s legal team provides legal services to all parts of the Wingate Group, including its property finance, corporate finance, corporate development, mortgage lending and shared service business units. Students participating in this placement program will work with Wingate’s six experienced lawyers at our offices at 101 Collins Street in providing a range of legal services and advice relating to:
- Finance transactions, including structuring and documenting lending transactions for property development, general corporate finance, securitisations and residential mortgage lending;
- Mergers and acquisitions;
- Funds management, including the operation and law relating to unit trusts and other investment vehicles.
Types of tasks you may be involved with while on placement:
- Research in relation to particular legal issues relevant to the business;
- Review and amendment under the guidance of a lawyer of contracts, including loan agreements, confidentiality; agreements, IT contracts, trust deeds and other fund documentation;
- Attendance at meetings with external counsel and clients to negotiate documents;
- Preparation of contracts based on internal templates;
- Assisting with implementation of legal initiatives within the business, including education and training of staff.
ISPT Legal Team (LAW4803)
About ISPT
Established in 1994 by some of Australia’s leading industry superannuation funds, ISPT has grown over nearly 30 years into a $21.5bn portfolio of 140 properties across Australia, ultimately benefitting the more than 50% of working Australians who invest with us through their super funds to grow their retirement savings.
Position summary
The Placement Student is responsible for supporting the ISPT legal team to provide high quality legal services to ISPT and its businesses in a collaborative, proactive, timely and cost-effective manner.
Key responsibilities
> Support the Legal team in delivering outcomes on time and in line with expectations.
> Assist in the following areas of law:
- Capital transactions, including property acquisitions and disposals;
- Property development and constructions;
- Leasing;
- Corporate law; and
- Related matters (eg. confidentiality agreements, general legal advice, dispute resolution and taxation).
> Assist with updates to ISPT’s precedent documents.
> Assist with document preparation and execution.
> Prepare and attend business meetings including taking notes.
> Undertake research and review of relevant legislation, and provide relevant presentations.
> Act in accordance with the Company’s policies, risk and compliance standards, Statement of Ethics and Code of Conduct and to reflect the values and behaviours of ‘Our DNA’.
Australian and international human rights View
Afghanistan Support Clinic (LAW4811)
Monash University through its Law Clinics Program and with encouragement from the Castan Centre for Human Rights Law established the Afghanistan Support Clinic where law students assist the Ham Diley Campaign with research and drafting.
The clinic is working with the Ham Diley (همدلى) Campaign, which means empathy or solidarity in Farsi. The Ham Diley Campaign started as a volunteer-initiative by two human rights lawyers and PhD candidates, Azadah Raz Mohammad (University of Melbourne) and Karin Frodé (Monash University), in collaboration with Simone Abel, the former CEO of the non-profit organisation the Capital Punishment Justice Project. It is a response of solidarity and empathy with the people of Afghanistan following the Taliban's return to power on 15 August 2021.
Since August 2021, the Ham Diley Campaign has made tangible impacts through its policy and casework. Highlights include involvement in the evacuation of 90 individuals at risk of persecution. The Campaign is working closely and has generated support and assistance from with Afghan and international scholars, journalists, diplomats, organisations, and international lawyers.
The Ham Diley Campaign is now focusing on research and promoting accountability for mass atrocities and extra-judicial killings committed by the Taliban (1994 - current), including: Production of a Handbook on Universal Jurisdiction commissioned by diaspora groups − Advocacy for a permanent investigative mechanism for Afghanistan Submissions to relevant Australian and UK parliamentary committees, focusing about women and girls in Afghanistan.
The Clinic will not be running in Clinical Period 1 2024 as the Campaign will be focusing on planning the launch of the Handbook on Universal Jurisdiction. Updates on any future Clinic rounds will be provided after the launch in March/April 2024 when the Campaign will re-assess next stages.
Castan Centre Human Rights Clinic (LAW4811)
The Castan Centre Human Rights Clinic offers law students with an interest in human rights the opportunity to conduct policy and advocacy work on behalf of a client organisation with support and guidance from Castan Centre staff.
The Clinic provides an opportunity for students to conduct research with real impact on the work of the organisations involved and gives students professional experience in the human rights field. It forms part of the 6 credit unit LAW4811 ('In-House Placement') and will run once a week for a period of 12 weeks.
About the Castan Centre
The Castan Centre is a world-renowned academic centre within the Monash Faculty of Law using its human rights expertise to create a more just world where human rights are respected and protected. The Centre’s innovative approach to public engagement and passion for human rights is redefining how academic institutions can create important and lasting change.
Questions
Students interested in the clinic are welcome to contact Gina Bekker, the Castan Centre for Human Rights Clinic Supervisor at gina.bekker@monash.edu.
Eleos Anti-Death Penalty Clinic (LAW4811)
Established in July 2018, the Eleos Anti-Death Penalty Clinic was the start of an ongoing collaboration between Monash Law and the Melbourne-based NGO Capital Punishment Justice Project (CPJP). CPJP’s mission is to abolish the death penalty worldwide; it has a wide partnership network of capital defence lawyers and anti-death penalty activists. As partners, Monash Law and CPJP have created Eleos Justice, a regional-first hub for evidence-based research, policy and clinical casework devoted to abolishing the death penalty.
At the Eleos Anti-Death Penalty Clinic, we partner with anti-death penalty NGOs and lawyers across the Asia-Pacific region to support them with their casework and advocacy; students utilise their emerging legal skills and work alongside our partners. Our students work in small teams on a variety of projects from assisting on casework and research for strategic litigation, drafting UN submissions, to producing campaign briefs for policy makers in retentionist states who may be trying to introduce legislation that expands the scope of the death penalty.
Students in the Clinic have also produced three short videos—'children of death row inmates’ and ‘the right to effective legal representation’ and ‘Women and Death Row’ for the World Coalition Against the Death Penalty to mark various World Days Against the Death Penalty.
Grata Fund - Democracy and Freedoms Clinic (LAW4811)
Grata Fund - Democracy and Freedoms Clinic
Monash Law Clinics and the Grata Fund are partnering to offer a new clinic on strategic litigation focusing on cases that advance, promote and protect our democracy and freedoms.
Grata Fund empowers people and communities to hold the powerful to account through integrated litigation and movement campaigns on the issues of human rights, democracy and climate change.
Law students participating in the Democracy and Freedoms Clinic learn to use their legal skills to develop litigation strategies for test cases for Grata Fund, draft briefs to counsel, conduct legal research, draft advocacy reports, and work on community legal education to capacity-build civil society to engage in litigation. Current areas of focus include developing litigation on freedom of information, overreach of executive power, and challenging government policies using racial discrimination law.
The Clinic is a unique opportunity for Monash Law students to work with experienced public-interest and human rights lawyers at the cutting edge of the law to develop circuit-breaking litigation. Students are challenged to think creatively to implement legal interventions to protect our democracy and hold the government accountable.
Under the close supervision of the Clinical Supervisor, students will learn about movement lawyering, how to develop test cases, and how to run integrated campaigns to support strategic litigation. This exciting new offering is run within the Monash Law Clinics - Melbourne legal practice in the Melbourne CBD, with frequent contact with the Grata Fund team online. Students will be on site one day per week and will also engage in follow-up work either on site or remotely.
Holding Redlich - Human Rights Team (LAW4803)
This placement is established in conjunction with the Castan Centre for Human Rights. Students are required to attend Holding Redlich, where they undertake a range of tasks associated with litigation involving human rights in the broadest sense – everything from compensation for workplace injuries and discrimination to assisting asylum seekers and elderly victims of fraud and predatory lending. This placement is for students with an interest in human rights law.
Immediate casework supervision is provided by the law firm, with academic coordination by a member of staff.
Activities may include:
- Attendance at client interviews;
- Attendance at meetings with clients and barristers;
- Attendance and preparation for mediations;
- Attendance and support at Court;
- Undertaking detailed legal research in support of legal practitioners preparing cases;
- Other administrative duties as directed.
Modern Slavery Clinic (LAW4811)
According to the most recent Global Estimates of Modern Slavery: Forced Labour and Forced Marriage report produced in collaboration between the ILO, Walk Free and the International Organization for Migration, an estimated 50 million people were victims of modern slavery in 2021.
The Modern Slavery Law Clinic, established in 2019, provides students with a unique opportunity to work on advocacy and policy projects addressing various forms of modern slavery. The focus of the clinic is in the main on Asian States and ASEAN in particular. Students will work in small groups under the close supervision of Dr Gina Bekker (the Clinical Supervisor), as they provide legal/research support to partner organisations. Weekly meetings and seminars, covering topics including the importance of self-care for social justice lawyers, advocating for change and public interest litigation will run alongside client projects, so as to equip students with key skills relevant for law-related work in the social justice field.
See below to listen to former students speak on the topic of modern slavery and their work in the clinic.
Whilst not a pre-requisite, students are strongly encouraged to enrol in LAW4687 – Human Trafficking, Modern Slavery and the Law, as this will provide them with the subject-matter expertise foundational to providing assistance to others in dealing with legal issues of modern slavery. LAW4687 is taught by Professor Jean Allain, a world leading legal scholar on issues of human trafficking and modern slavery.
For further information on the Modern Slavery Law Clinic please contact Gina Bekker.
National Justice Project (LAW4811)
The National Justice Project Clinic provides students with a unique opportunity to undertake a work placement at a university-run legal clinic focusing on the dynamic and ground-breaking work of the National Justice Project which aims to end systemic discrimination in Australia through strategic litigation, advocacy, education and outreach.
Students work under the close supervision of a lawyer-teacher on real-world active social justice matters in small groups.
Students have had the opportunity to work on projects from active cases and complaints that the National Justice Project team is working on from work selected from their key project areas by their in-house solicitors:
- Aboriginal Health Justice – for First Nations people who have been disadvantaged by discrimination, professional misconduct, or negligence in medical care. Work is carried out through a combination of inquests, complaints & negligence cases.
- Police, Prisons and Youth Services - to combat abuse and discrimination in policing and corrections of First Nations People, including for people with disability.
- Asylum Seeker and Refugees matters – the National Justice Project seeks justice for people who are harmed by Australia’s punitive policies through a combination of litigation, complaints and Inquests.
Students in the past have assisted lawyers of the National Justice Project in a variety of legal work including preparation of litigation of offshore refugee cases by compiling medical chronologies, preparing evidence, and conducting legal research; drafting complaints and research based on recommendations from Coronial Inquests into Deaths in Custody; assisting drafting submissions to Parliament such as The NSW Parliament Select Committee on the High Level of First Nations People in Custody, the Oversight and Review of Deaths in Custody and the Senate Enquiry Into Missing and Murdered First Nations Women and Children. They have drafted Briefs to counsel, complaints pathways tables, and advices in negligence and discrimination claims, as well as research into matters such as Indigenous Child Removals, use of Bodycam Footage, the Raise the Age Campaign, NDIS & CTARS cyber breaches, and supplied resources for the NJPs online Law Hack: Disability Justice.
The National Justice Project Clinic aims to deliver the highest possible standard of legal and advocacy services while maintaining its focus on educational opportunities. It provides an exceptional opportunity for students to experience more practical-focused units and develop the skills needed to work in the social advocacy sector, framed in terms of real-life case studies.
Students have been assisting Victorian-based Barrister Steven Castan, chair of the National Justice Project with the caseload from the National Justice Project and its team of dedicated lawyers led by its CEO George Newhouse.
About the National Justice Project
The National Justice Project (NJP) is a not-for-profit human rights legal service that aims to assist some of Australia's most vulnerable people and communities by providing them with access to justice. T
he National Justice Project fights for justice, fairness and inclusivity by tackling systemic discrimination through the power of strategic legal action, education and advocacy.
Together with our clients and community partners, we work to create systemic change and we strive to amplify the voices of communities harmed by government inaction and discrimination.
We advocate for law reform, policy change, attitudinal change, improved services, community awareness and a justice system that is fair, just and equitable.
Find out more at https://justice.org.au/.
TradeLab Clinic (LAW4811)
TradeLab Clinic
The TradeLab Clinic placement offers a unique opportunity to work with real clients on pressing issues of international trade and investment law. Students will work in small teams and under the close supervision of one or more Academic Supervisors on a 12 week long project answering specific legal questions.
Students will participate in introductory sessions to provide substantive background to the respective topics, as well as sessions to improve research and legal writing skills. At the end of the semester, each team will submit written legal memos and orally present their projects in class in the presence of the beneficiary and other invited guests. Students will also benefit from mentoring by experts in the areas in which they are working. '
Monash TradeLab’s past clients have been developing country governments, international organisations and non-governmental organisations.
Preference is given to students who have completed or are completing one of the units below, or students who have equivalent knowledge or experience.
LLB
LAW4122 - International law
LAW4668 - International investment law
LAW4681 - Global economic law
LAW4526 - World Trade Organisation (WTO) Law
LAW4343 - Sovereignty and globalisation
JD/LLM
LAW5414 Public International Law
LAW5392 - Globalisation and international economic law
LAW5384 - International investment law
LAW5369 World Trade Organization (WTO) law
LAW5644 Sovereignty and globalisation
Courts View
County Court of Victoria (LAW4803)
Students participating in this placement program will work with judges and other judicial staff members of the County Court of Victoria as well as faculty members from Monash University. Students complete 12 placement days (1 day/week for a period of 12 weeks). Places in this placement program provide an opportunity to high performing law students from the Faculty of Law to gain experience at the County Court of Victoria. Places are very limited.
This placement program will include the following activities:
- Assisting judges and other judicial staff in Judges’ Chambers at the Supreme Court of Victoria with:
- Drafting speeches;
- Preparing case summaries;
- Legal research;
- Assist Judges’ Associates in other legal and administrative duties in Chambers and Court as directed.
Coroners Court of Victoria (LAW4803)
The Coroners Court of Victoria (CCOV) was established on 1 November 2009 with the introduction of the Coroners Act 2008 (Vic). CCOV is led by the State Coroner of Victoria.
Victorian families are at the centre of the work of CCOV – from conducting thorough investigations, providing respectful services and how court information and documents are shared.
CCOV has three roles:
- Independently investigating deaths and fires. Certain deaths and fires are reported to the Coroners for independent investigation. Their investigations seek to establish the facts – when, where, how and why the death or fire happened.
- Reducing preventable deaths. Wherever possible, the Coroner will suggest ways to prevent similar deaths or fires by making well informed and practical recommendations, based on the evidence before them.
- Promoting public health and safety and the administration of justice. CCOV regularly reports on data and trends regarding preventable deaths in Victoria to help inform public health responses.
While providing a rewarding and meaningful work experience, the coronial jurisdiction is a sensitive, demanding and confronting environment. As such, those working at the court can be exposed to a range of challenging experiences, images and materials. It is important to consider this when coming to work at the CCOV as it’s not for everybody. CCOV has a range of programs/processes in place to ensure a safe and supportive workplace.
For more information on CCOV, please visit our website at coronerscourt.vic.gov.au.
Students will work within a Coroner’s team comprising a Solicitor and Registrar, or with another senior member of the Legal Services team. The Coroner’s Solicitor supports the Coroner in their investigation into reportable deaths and fires by providing case management and legal assistance.
During placement, students will undertake the following under supervision:
- Legal research and analysis;
- Assist in the preparation of written legal findings for the Coroner;
- Observation of practice, discussion, and shadowing;
- See here for 'A Day in The Life of a Coroner's Solicitor'.
IMPORTANT NOTE TO STUDENTS: The work at the Coroners Court of Victoria may involve material that some students may find confronting. It is important that you listen to the message from Coroner McGregor BEFORE you apply. We also suggest you visit the website.
Judicial College of Victoria (LAW4803)
Judicial College of Victoria
The Judicial College of Victoria (JCV) provides education and resources to judges, magistrates, and VCAT members which enable Victoria’s judicial officers to stay up to date with developments in the law and social issues, and to build and maintain the skills they require to rigorously perform their roles.
Publications produced by the JCV are written primarily for the use of judicial officers but are also publicly available and are an important resource for all court users and the community more broadly. Students will work closely with the Judicial Information Services team on preparing County Court sentencing summaries for inclusion in the College’s sentencing database.
Access to relevant documents and materials, as well as video meetings with relevant JCV staff, will be facilitated via Microsoft Teams throughout the placement.
Students will be located at Monash Law Clinics, Level 11, 555 Lonsdale St, Melbourne.
Community legal View
AED Disability Legal Clinic (LAW4803)
IMPORTANT NOTE: This placement is for 1 day/week for 12 weeks
AED Legal Centre is a legal advocacy program established by the Association of Employees with Disability Inc. (AED). The Centre provides free legal advocacy to people with a disability in the areas of employment, education and training. The Centre is a member of the Federation of Community Legal Centres of Victoria.
Legal advocacy is conducted by Kairsty Wilson, solicitor and manager of the Centre who is supported by paralegal staff. We also have a Wednesday night service staffed by volunteer law students and pro-bono legal practitioners and supervised by Kairsty.
Why we exist:
AED’s main objective is to protect and advance the rights of people with disability who experience difficulties and/or discrimination in employment or education because of their disability.
What we do:
- Advocate workplace solutions on behalf of employees with disability;
- Educate employees with disability about their rights and employment law – so that they can make better informed decisions;
- Draft complaints of discrimination or unlawful dismissal;
- Provide legal representation at the Australian Human Rights Commission, Federal Court of Australia, Federal Magistrates Court, Fair Work Commission,
- Assist employees on how to disclose their disability to employers.
Students will work under supervision of the legal staff as well as under supervision of the Legal Manager and Legal Practitioner at all times. The range of work students can expect include client interviews, preparing documents and conducting research. There will also be other opportunities for students to gain legal experience, such as attending conciliations, mediations and hearings. However, this will largely depend on the needs of our clients at the time of your placement.
For students considering their professional placement with us, an interest in working with people with disability is essential.
Duties of the placement might include:
- Taking notes during client initial interviews;
- Ensure introductory materials are provided and client instructions are recorded;
- Summarizing client issues;
- Taking a chronology or client statement;
- Attending and taking notes at client meetings;
- Filing paperwork for various files;
- Attend court to file documents or instruct;
- Drafting applications to FWA under guidance of staff and lawyers;
- Drafting letters, using precedents and own initiative.
ATO Tax Clinic (LAW4813)
ATO Tax Clinic is a partnership between Monash Law Clinics and the Australian Taxation Office, under the National Tax Clinic program.
The clinic provides a comprehensive service which includes:
- Providing advice to clients to better understand the tax system, including advising clients on lodging tax returns, negotiating with the Australian Taxation Office, drafting and lodging objections to assessments, applying for reviews of audit outcomes, providing advice to clients, and assisting unrepresented taxpayers and small businesses when they need to interact with the ATO;
- Undertaking educational activities to better inform taxpayers and the broader community on matters of interest and concern Advocating on behalf of clients when systemic taxation related issues are identified in their dealings with regulatory or government agencies;
- The experience for students selected for this new clinic may involve a mixture of developmental work (finding and creating appropriate resources for potential clients) along with direct client work.
cohealth Monash Legal Assistance Clinic (LAW4813)
2020 was also instrumental in showing all of us how quickly we needed to be able to adapt and respond with our service delivery during the intense periods of lockdown as a result of the pandemic of COVID-19. Community lawyers experienced first hand how the pandemic forced health professionals to work closely with lawyers to refer, manage and advise people who had very complex health needs to plan and determine end of life or substituted decision making documents because of the high risk and vulnerable population groups they both served.
This clinic is designed to address many of the health harming legal needs faced by people who live with chronic health problems. Students will work closely with a senior lawyer and health professionals to assist, advise and advocate for clients with a range of legal issues such as debt, family violence, advanced care directives, enduring powers of attorney, medical treatment decision maker documents, wills, housing and tenancy issues and social security.
In this clinic, students will play an integral role in legal advice, case management, file work, correspondence, preparation of legal documents, brief Counsel, and possibly undertake court advocacy work. In other words, students will become part of a team to assist the clients to take action to protect their rights, choice and control and relieve them of the challenges legal problems create so they can focus on their wellbeing.
About cohealth
cohealth is a large not-for-profit community health organisation that has numerous community health sites across Melbourne. They run a variety of programs across these sites, and are leaders in the goals to improve health and wellbeing for all and lead the way in reducing health inequity in partnership with people and the communities in which they live.
Learn more at https://www.cohealth.org.au/.
Djirra Aboriginal Family Violence Legal Service (LAW4803)
Djirra is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO) that works towards a future where all Aboriginal women are strong, safe, independent, healthy and positive in their lives, culture and communities. All Djirra’s work is designed by and for Aboriginal women and is deeply respectful of and connected to community. Self-determination is the foundation of everything we do: it is Our Cultural Way. Djirra’s vision is to provide high quality culturally appropriate services for Aboriginal women in Victoria who have experienced or are experiencing family violence.
We are committed to ending family violence against Aboriginal women and their children through holistic and culturally safe specialist services, prevention programs and advocacy for change. Our services have state-wide reach.
The Aboriginal Family Violence Legal Service (AFVLS) is a program of Djirra. AFVLS provides legal and non-legal assistance and facilitates access to justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have experienced family violence or sexual assault.
AFVLS operates a culturally safe, trauma informed, holistic and intensive client service model. Clients are assisted by Lawyers and Paralegal Support Workers to access a variety of legal, social, psychological, cultural, health and other support services to address their complex needs and issues.
Lawyers provide legal services including advice, representation and advocacy in the areas of:
- Child protection;
- Family violence intervention orders;
- Family law; and
- Victims of crime assistance.
Students will be encouraged and invited to participate in various tasks, including but not limited to drafting Court documents (and other correspondence), attending Court (both online and in-person) and engaging in general case and client management, during the course of their placement.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This placement requires students to have a current Working with Children Check (WWCC), to provide evidence of COVID -19 Vaccinations (2x) and to complete a National Police Check (paid for by Djirra)
Extended clinical placement (LAW4814)
- Appeals from VCAT decisions under s 148 of the VCAT Act;
- Judicial review of government decisions under Order 56 of the Supreme Court (General Civil Procedure Rules) - such as review of decisions of Medical Panels under the Wrongs Act;
- Judicial review proceedings under the Administrative Law Act;
- Appeals on questions of law from the Magistrates' Court, the Coroners Court, and the Children's Court.
Family Violence Clinic (SMLS) (LAW4803)
In this placement, students provide assistance to victims of family violence. This clinic is designed for students who are interested in assisting victims of family violence by attending the court on family violence list days and assisting the duty lawyer and to help clients make victims of crime applications to the Victims of Crime Tribunal. The clinic is based at South-East Monash Legal Service.
Activities include:
- Providing legal information, advice and support to victims of family violence;
- Attendance at the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on a weekly basis, where we provide duty lawyer support and representation to people with family violence maters;
- Assisting in the preparation of compensation applications to the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT), in accordance with the Victims of Crime Assistance Act;
- Liaising with expert witnesses (e.g. psychologists and psychiatrists) to obtain reports in support of applications toVOCAT;
- Briefing of barristers and attendance at VOCAT hearings;
- Assistance and ongoing legal casework in a range of related areas, which might include: the preparation of a divorce application (this may include an opportunity to represent the applicant in a divorce hearing), preparation of a new will, etc.
Pre-requisite Units: LAW4328 (or LAW5216), LAW4330 (or LAW5218) or LAW5050.
Integrated Services for Survivor Advocacy (ISSA) (LAW4803)
This is our longest-running clinic. Run in conjunction with the Integrated Services for Survivor Advocacy (ISSA) at South-East Monash Legal Service, this clinic offers legal services to victims of sexual assault and sexual abuse.
This placement is designed for students who have developed an interest during Professional Practice in supporting victims of sexual assault. Students will undertake casework in conjunction with ISSA staff as needed. The clinic is intended for emotionally mature students who see themselves as potential criminal lawyers (whether acting for the prosecution or defence), as well as students interested in personal injury law and other areas of law that involve dealing with vulnerable and marginalised populations.
Activities include:
- Providing legal information, advice and support to victims of sexual assault, sexual abuse and their families;
- Assisting in the preparation of compensation applications to the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT), in accordance with the Victims of Crime Assistance Act;
- Liaising with expert witnesses (e.g. psychologists and psychiatrists) to obtain reports in support of applications to VOCAT;
- Briefing of barristers and attendance at VOCAT hearings;
- Preparation of Sentencing Act applications (where compensation is sought from the offender themselves, as part of the offender’s sentencing process);
- Assistance and ongoing legal casework in a range of related areas, which might include: the preparation of a divorce application (this may include an opportunity to represent the applicant in a divorce hearing), preparation of a new will, etc; and Other administrative duties as directed.
JobWatch Clinic (LAW4803)
In this placement, students are based at Jobwatch, a community legal centre located in central Melbourne. Staff at JobWatch specialise in providing legal advice and ongoing casework to people with employment law problems, including unfair dismissal, workpace harassment and discrimination claims and other general protection claims. Students receive extensive training and support to give advice on the telephone advice line in relation to various employment law issues, and assist with legal education materials, preparation of cases and legal research.
Activities may include:
- Provision of legal information and support to people with employment law issues; -
- Assisting legal practitioners at JobWatch in the preparation of applications to the Fair Work Ombudsman and/or Fair WorkCommission;
- Undertaking detailed legal research in support of legal practitioners preparing cases; and Other administrative duties as directed.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students are encouraged to apply for this internship Students who have studied Employment Law or Anti Discriminatory Law are also encouraged to apply.
Lawyer Assisted Family Dispute Resolution (LAW4813)
Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) is a type of mediation which helps separated parents resolve disputes in relation to children with the assistance of an impartial mediator called a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP).
In this clinic, each student will assist the supervising lawyer from Monash Law Clinics in a lawyer-assisted FDR (LAFDR) session and represent one of the parents during mediation. The other parent will be represented by another lawyer from another Community Legal Centre (CLC).
Lawyer Assisted Family Dispute Resolution (LAFDR) sessions are conducted by experienced FDRPs from Sunshine Family Relationship Centre.
In addition, students will conduct interviews under supervision with clients who are either preparing to participate in the FDR process or have additional legal needs after their FDR sessions have concluded.
Activities may include:
- Taking instructions from clients under supervision;
- Writing file notes;
- Reviewing court or any other documents relevant to the case;
- Shadowing the supervising lawyer during negotiations with the other party's lawyer
- Observing the LAFDR process;
- Drafting parenting plans and proposed consent orders
- Learning about intersections of family violence, child safety, post-separation conflict and family law issues;
- Conducting research on family law, dispute resolution, access to justice and wider policy issues.
This clinic is run from our office on Level 11, 555 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne.
National Disability Insurance Scheme Clinic (LAW4813)
- Assessing the merit of clients' cases and considering what additional evidence might be useful to strengthen them;
- Assisting clients to apply to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal;
- Preparing clients for case conferences at the Tribunal, and dealing with the outcomes of such conferences;
- Providing clients with information about how best to prepare for appointments with Victoria Legal Aid;
- Helping clients to find legal assistance for their NDIS proceedings.
Social Security Rights Victoria Clinic (LAW4813)
Monash Law Clinics and Social Security Rights Victoria are partnering to offer a new clinic in the area of social security rights.
Law students participating in the Social Security Advocacy Clinic will learn to use their legal skills to address the use of the law to promote effective economic justice. The Clinic is a special opportunity for Monash Law students to work with experienced social security lawyers.
Under the close supervision of the Clinical Supervisor, students will learn about social security law and service delivery. Students will have the opportunity to consider ways to work on policy projects as identified by SSRV to support social justice and foster government accountability. For its pilot offering, this clinic will operate remotely, drawing on the systems and infrastructure of Monash Law Clinics and SSRV. Students will work remotely as a group one day per week for 12 weeks and will also engage in follow-up work each week.
Tenants Victoria VCAT Lawyer Program (LAW4803)
Tenants Victoria is the specialist rental law community legal centre in Victoria. We provide legal advice, casework support, and other services to renters experiencing hardship or disadvantage. We also provide community organisations with training, information and support in relation to the rental law, and advocate to make legal and housing systems fairer for renters in Victoria.
Through our VCAT Lawyer Program we provide advocacy support for renters who have an upcoming VCAT hearing at which they are at risk of losing their home, or where the hearing relates to safety issues (i.e. family violence or urgent repairs). In this clinic, each student will support the VCAT Lawyer to assist renters at a VCAT hearing (usually held by telephone, using Teams), or assist the VCAT Lawyer in other aspects of file management.
Activities may include:
- Taking instructions from clients under supervision;
- Writing file notes;
- Reviewing documents relevant to the case;
- Shadowing the VCAT Lawyer during negotiations;
- Drafting correspondence or VCAT documents;
- Conducting research on rental law, access to justice and wider policy issues.
Unfair Dismissal Experts (LAW4803)
Unfair Dismissal Experts is a specialist industrial relations firm that operates exclusively in the Fair Work Commission’s jurisdiction. We support employees around Australia who have experienced unfair dismissal or adverse actions in their workplace. We do this by preparing applications on their behalf and attending conciliations to negotiate outcomes with their former employers, or representing them at hearings where matters become litigious. We have a team of experienced lawyers and industrial relations consultants who help hundreds of clients each year navigate through the complex Fair Work Commission framework. We embrace flexibility, automation and technology and, as such, all of our staff work remotely.
Activities will include the following:
- Speaking to clients to take instructions for preparation of their unfair dismissal or general protections application, and also provide general guidance or status updates about Fair Work Commission processes;
- Preparing submissions and speaking notes for our consultants prior to a conciliation or hearing;
- Drafting and sending correspondence to clients, the respondent’s representatives and the Fair Work Commission;
- Attending Fair Work Commission conciliations (either as an observer or as an advocate) to advocate for clients against their former employer;
- Negotiating, drafting and finalising settlement deeds and agreements;
- Undertaking research on emerging Fair Work Commission cases or changes in law to help us maintain precedent documents and publish articles on our website.
Law technology and innovation View
AGL LawTech Clinic (LAW4803)
Law Tech Clinic collaboration with an AGL
Monash University Law Clinical Program have partnered with AGL to deliver a new clinic to enable students to get hands-on experience in applying technology to solve service problems. Students will have an opportunity to work closely with an Australian listed public company, involved in both the generation and retailing of energy and decarbonisation solutions for residential and commercial customers, and for the Australian energy transition.
This clinic is designed to educate students about the changing demands of industry, and provide a practical knowledge on how to use technology to provide excellence in service. Students will work on a designated business case and ultimately present their final project to AGL and Monash Law delegates.
FinTech Clinic (LAW4811)
The rapidly evolving Financial Technology (FinTech) sector is reshaping the financial services industry and its regulatory framework. This evolution introduces new dynamics and challenges, notably in areas such as crypto-assets, central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), regulatory technology (RegTech), open banking, Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) schemes, robo-advisors, payment innovations, AI in finance, and digital identity. These advancements bring about significant market, legal, and regulatory uncertainties, demanding a forward-thinking approach and specialized skill sets.
Recognising the imperative for legal education to adapt, Monash Law is proud to introduce a pioneering clinical placement focused on FinTech. The FinTech Clinic, under the guidance of Associate Professor Cheng-Yun (CY) Tsang, a distinguished figure in FinTech regulation, aims to equip law students with the policy-oriented, regulation-aware expertise essential for the modern financial landscape. In partnership with FinTech Australia and Blockchain Australia, the Clinic offers a unique educational experience designed to develop the legal and regulatory acumen needed in this dynamic sector.
Commencing in Clinical Period 2, students will engage in project-based work, tackling legal tasks, regulatory research, and government submissions on critical issues such as crypto-asset regulation, CBDCs, AI in finance, and RegTech.
This opportunity provides students with invaluable exposure to leading industry and policy experts, facilitating collaboration with professional colleagues across Melbourne, Sydney, and beyond. The FinTech Clinic not only prepares students for the complexities of FinTech law and regulation but also positions them at the forefront of legal innovation and practice in the financial technology arena.
Lander & Rogers AI LawTech Clinic (LAW4803)
Lander & Rogers AI LawTech Clinic
Lander & Rogers is Australia's largest independent law firm and is known for driving innovation within the legal industry.
During this clinical placement, students will work alongside lawyers, the tech team and key members of the firm's award-winning, multi- disciplinary team of problem solvers and innovators, the iHub. Over the course of the placement, students will uncover unique legal use cases for employing artificial intelligence, test new applications and platforms, and help shape the firm's policy around artificial intelligence.
A Monash law student who recently participated in the Lander & Rogers AI Clinical Placement— the first program of its kind in Australia — said: "It was a great experience. I hope future students will also get the chance to explore continuing developments in AI and build on the work that Landers has done.
Government / governance View
Law Reform Clinic (LAW4811)
Through the Australian Law Reform Commission, the Victorian Law Reform Commission, the Victorian Parliament and the Australia Institute, Monash Law Clinics offers students a chance to see policy and law reform processes at work.
The Australian Law Reform Commission reviews Australia’s laws to ensure they provide improved access to justice for all Australians by making laws and related processes more equitable, modern, fair and efficient. The Victorian Law Reform Commission holds a similar role in respect of Victorian laws, dealing with references from the Attorney-General and community law reform projects suggested by the public.
Committees of the Victorian Parliament consider policy and law reform issues relating to a range of pending legislation and important social issues.
The Australia Institute is an independent public policy think tank. It provides input into a range of law reform processes.
Students will undertake research and other written tasks for one of these institutions, and will contribute to law reform papers, reports and submissions.
Students will be supervised by a member of Monash Academic staff with oversight from staff at the host institutions.
This is a very limited opportunity that will only be offered to selected students. The primary placement location will be at Monash Law Clinics Melbourne (at Monash Chambers, 555 Lonsdale St).
Victorian Small Business Commission (LAW4803)
The VSBC is an independent Victorian Government agency of 20 staff working in a supportive team environment to help Victorian small businesses through advocacy and by offering low-cost dispute resolution services, including mediation so that they can resolve disputes quickly, enabling them to focus on running and building their businesses. Students will work one day per week or in blocks as part of one of the VSBC teams. In the Dispute Resolution Services team students may assist small businesses with the activities listed below by shadowing or assisting a dispute resolution officer, obtaining information from businesses in a dispute, writing file notes, helping to arrange or observing mediations, and researching topics associated with the legislation administered by the VSBC. Students may also work in the VSBC’s Advocacy & Engagement and Corporate services & Business Improvement teams on communications and corporate/reporting and finance related functions.
The VSBC can help with:
- Business-to-business disputes;
- Business-to-government disputes;
- Retail leasing disputes;
- Disputes between owner drivers/forestry contractors and their hirers;
- Farm debt mediation;
- Disputes between taxis, hire cars and rideshare drivers and operators;
- Franchising disputes.
The VSBC helps small businesses through providing:
- Preliminary assistance: VSBC staff provide information to small businesses on their rights and obligations to prevent or help resolve issues. This is done by email, over the phone, on the website or our brochures and fact sheets.
- Pre-mediation assistance: VSBC staff contact both parties, by phone, or email to help resolve the dispute.
- Low-cost mediation: Experienced, independent mediators provide the opportunity for parties to meet to confidentially discuss issues and try to reach an agreement.
- Information and resources: The VSBC provides a helpline, information materials, news and events via its website to help businesses build knowledge.
- Knowledge building: The VSBC educates small business on business practice and behaviours that promote better decision making through events and initiatives.
Victorian Ombudsman (LAW4803)
The Ombudsman provides a free, independent, accessible and impartial service to Victorians. Her role is to ensure that state and local government services are delivered in a fair and reasonable manner that is compatible with the rights protected by the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006. The Ombudsman also investigates allegations of improper conduct referred by the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC).
The Ombudsman also promotes excellence in public administration in Victoria through systemic investigations, publication of authoritative reports and engagement within both the government sector and the broader community.
Victorian Ombudsman is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing an inclusive, accessible and safe work environment.
Students will be working on a discrete project, usually in pairs. Each project will require students to conduct legislative and regulatory analysis, examine and be involved in the engagement with stakeholder group, critically assess relevant legal and legislative landscape, prepare briefing and contribute to the development of policies.
Past projects have included:
- The Victorian Ombudsman’s jurisdiction in relation to disability, including the transition to NDIS;
- Australian Parliamentary and industry Ombudsmen approaches to conducting internal reviews of their decisions against their Legislative framework. A comparison and analysis with the Victorian Ombudsman complaints about the outcomes of a case decision was made;
- “Authority to act” approaches byvarious organisations, including scoping of legislative requirements, examining best practice elsewhere and culminated in drafting a template authority to act for the Victorian Ombudsman;
- Victorian Integrity system legislative changes preparation and implementation and the relationship with the oversight bodies;
- Victorian waste management and recycling legislation, services and policy application. Students examined mechanisms to manage waste and recycling concerns across local government areas and developed recommendation around opportunities to improve practice;
- Assessment of risks, opportunities and implications across legal, public and non-Government sectors through the lens of the Victorian Ombudsman Act.
UN Global Compact Network Australia (LAW4803)
About UN Global Compact Network Australia
As a special initiative of the UN Secretary-General, the United Nations Global Compact is a call to companies everywhere to align their operations and strategies with ten universal principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption. Launched in 2000, the mandate of the UN Global Compact is to guide and support the global business community in advancing UN goals and values through responsible corporate practices. With more than 10,000 companies and 3,000 non-business signatories based in over 160 countries, and more than 60 Local Networks, it is the largest corporate sustainability initiative in the world.
In Australia, the business-led Global Compact Network Australia (GCNA) brings together participants to the UN Global Compact, including a number of Australia's leading companies, civil society organisations and universities in a platform for dialogue, learning, influence and action that is practical and leading edge. We guide businesses on how a principles-based approach to doing business by advancing the Ten Principles and contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) drives long-term business success.
About the placements
The United Nations Global Compact offer placement opportunities across the following areas:
Environment / climate View
Climate Justice Clinic (LAW4811)
The Climate Justice Clinic (CJC) is a Monash law specialist clinic that runs every Wednesday at the Monash Law Chambers in the CBD. Participation in the Clinic will count as LAW4811 - In-House Placement.
The CJC involves a wide range of legal work in a number of commercial law practice areas (public law, administrative law, human rights, environment and planning law) with an overarching focus on climate justice.
Students will work with leading Australian environmental organisations, senior barristers working in Environment and Climate law, community organisations and campaign groups, and collaborate with community legal services throughout Victoria. Students work in teams in a supportive and friendly environment to liaise with clients, practice their advocacy skills, write legal memorandums and letters of advice, complete legal research, and meet and present their findings to clients.
The CJC is supervised by lawyers from Norton Rose Fullbright, Russell Kennedy and Lander & Rogers.
The CJC includes an engaging reading program to contextualise the clinics’ legal work within the broader climate justice movement, and features regular guest speakers providing great opportunities for networking with both public and private sector law firms and environmental NGOs. Guest speakers include senior environmental barristers, commercial lawyers, environmental litigators from Environmental Justice Australia (EJA) or the Environmental Defenders Office (EDO), climate activists and campaigners.
Former students have described their experience of the CJC as ‘one of the favourite parts of their degree’ and ‘a fantastic learning opportunity’, emphasising that the CJC allowed them to develop their practical legal skills, and presented them with unique opportunities such as taking part in client meetings with national environmental organisations. Another benefit many students comment on is their exposure to the concept of climate justice, with one stating that they ‘came away feeling more optimistic about the prospective legal remedies’ in the space and that ‘it was great to see all the things people are doing to bring about change, in and outside the law.’
Any enquiries or questions about the Clinic can be directed to Hubert Algie, Clinic Supervisor, at hubert.algie@monash.edu.
Publications
Submission to Senate Inquiry into Greenwashing, Climate Justice Clinic
(PDF, 7.72 MB)
Environment Protection Authority Victoria (LAW4803)
Students on placement at the EPA will be involved in a review of statutory guidance used by industry to inform their compliance with environmental protection legislation, to consider consistency with new laws. It has some complexity as a task as students will be asked to consider a risk based approach to focus their efforts, and consider how to detect advice that, without referencing outdated Acts, nonetheless proposed actions for industry that are no longer consistent with new expectations. The placement will not be long enough to enable a top-to-bottom review…so we invite them to think how most usefully to achieve the most important outcomes! We will invite placement students to work together as a pair or small team, and to develop a project plan to test assumptions with their supervisors and guide their work, giving them useful transferrable skills on delivering projects in a professional environment.
Students will be supervised by both our Legal and our Legal Policy areas, giving a taste of how legally qualified professionals can pursue a career outside of direct practice, and also how in house counsel operates within public sector organisations.
PLEASE NOTE that this placement is for 2 days/week (plus half day/week in your own time for any follow up work) for a period of 6 weeks. Selected students will be asked to overlap their placement days so that they can work together, so there is some flexibility on the actual day of the week that students come onsite. Please direct any queries to Melissa Fletcher (melissa.fletcher@monash.edu) or Ross Hyams (ross.hyams@monash.edu).
South Pacific Plastics Treaty Clinic (LAW4803)
South Pacific Plastics Treaty Clinic
The National Environmental Service of the Cook Islands (on behalf of the South Pacific Island States) is seeking law students for a placement in Clinical Period 2, 2024 to help them with the ongoing negotiations to create a Global Plastic Treaty. The amount of material produced at such a negotiation has tended previously to overwhelm Pacific Island states who lack the legal resources internally to be effective negotiators. They recognize this problem and are looking to Monash staff and students to help them be better able to respond quickly and effectively and produce better environmental outcomes both for their citizens and globally.
Students will be involved in researching, summarizing, analysing and collating materials (not legal advice) on behalf of the South Pacific Island states both before and during the official negotiations of the International Negotiating Committee to create a Global Plastic Treaty.
Other View
Tannery Chambers (LAW4803)
Tannery Chambers is a small, newly formed public law focused barrister’s chambers. It is based in an old, converted tannery on the land of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people in Collingwood. We pay our respects to the traditional owners of these lands, and acknowledge their ongoing connection to country and that sovereignty was never ceded.
Each barrister from Tannery Chambers’ has a diverse practice, and holds a passion for social justice. Tannery Chambers barristers include:
The Tannery Chambers placement will see you work closely alongside one or more of these barristers in a unique setting. You will work on real cases and have the potential to make a real impact. Your work will be diverse, engaging and demanding. It will likely include in-depth legal research on niche areas of law, assisting in the drafting of high-quality memoranda, preparing briefs for hearing or contest, and assisting liaising with clients and the preparation of witnesses. You will likely also have the opportunity to assist in tribunal or court hearings.
Tannery Chambers is keen to provide opportunities to persons from diverse backgrounds with a passion for social justice and a particular interest in public law. Your application should reference your relevant experience, whether it comes from study, work, volunteering, or life more broadly. We look forward to welcoming you to the Tannery.
Learn more at tannerychambers.com.au.
Guidelines and further information
Pre-Requisite Units
For students who commenced their LLB (Hons) course in 2015 or later:
LAW1111; LAW1114; LAW1112; LAW1113; LAW2101; LAW2102; LAW2112; LAW2111 + LAW3112.
For students who commenced their LLB course prior to 2015:
LAW1100 OR LAW1101 and LAW1102 or LAW1104; LAW2100 OR LAW2101 and LAW2102; LAW2200 OR LAW2201 and LAW2202; LAW3300 orLAW3301 and LAW3302.
For JD students:
The achievement of at least twelve units or 72 credit points towards the Master of Laws (Juris Doctor) to include: LAW5000, LAW5001, LAW5002, LAW5003, LAW5004, LAW5005, LAW5006, LAW5007+ LAW5011.
In addition, students intending to undertake any of the following clinics:
- Sexual Assault Clinic
- Family Violence Clinic
must have completed LAW4328 (or LAW5216), LAW4330 (or LAW5218) or LAW5050. In other clinics preference for a placement will be given to students who have completed these units.
Specific placements may have further pre-requisites. Please see the Placement description for a list of these units.
Assessment
The assessment for LAW4803 will be comprised of:
- A host supervisor report (20%)
- Reflective Journals (40%)
- Video case report (40%)
The assessment for LAW4811 will be comprised of:
- Clinical Responsibilities (60%)
- Reflective Journals (20%)
- Video/Oral Presentation (20%)
All assessments will total 100%. In the case of PG students participating in either unit, PG word/time count tariffs will apply for the reflective journal, video case report and video/oral presentation elements.
In addition, students will be required to complete a seminar program:
- 1 Induction seminar (compulsory 3 hours on zoom) and
- 3 online seminars (each approx. 30 minutes online and on demand)
General Informations - FAQ's
How many credit do you get for LAW 4803 or 4811?
- 6 Credit Points.
How long is the placement?
- No less than one day/week for a period of 12 weeks for local placements
What is the timing of the placement?
- Placements are run all year round according to LLB Clinical Periods NOT Semesters. Please see the CLE website for Clinical Period timeframes. There are 3 LLB Clinical Periods per year
Do I need to have completed pre-requisite Units?
- Yes, so placements require you to have completed certain Units. Look at the specific placement description for more details
How do I apply?
- Applications are made through In Place using the Clinical Placement Application Form (add link)
Can I do more than one placement in my course?
- You can only complete one placement under LAW 4803, however you can go on and take an In House Placement (LAW 4811), a Work Integrated Learning Placement (LAW 4810/LAW 5057), Professional Practice (LAW 4328/LAW 5050) or Family Law Assistance Program (LAW 4330)
- Preference will be given to students who are near to completing their degree and who have not yet completed another placement for example LAW4330, LAW4811 or LAW4328.
How is my application assessed?
- All applications are assessed after the closing date. Selection will be based on a combination of the Cover Letter, CV (interests and experience) and course marks (WAM). For some placements, the host organisation may wish to interview a shortlist of applicants and contribute to the final selection.
Enquiries
Undergraduate student services | Melissa Fletcher - Clinical Placement for Undergraduate and JD | Sally Andersen - Clinical Placement for Undergraduate and JD |