Regional Graduate Solicitor Program – Grade I-III

Temporary Contract – Various Regional Locations

• 2.5-Year Contract (30 months) – Full-Time, 35 hours per week
• Salary: Legal Officer Grade I-III ($95,301 to $100,086 + super & annual leave loading)
• Locations: Broken Hill, Dubbo, Moree, Tamworth, and Wagga Wagga

About us
Legal Aid NSW helps people with their legal problems in areas like criminal law, family law, and civil law issues. We provide legal advice and representation, reaching out to some of the most vulnerable members of the community. Our regional offices play a critical role in ensuring equitable access to justice across NSW.

About the role
The Regional Graduate Solicitor Program is a structured program designed for new lawyers to gain hands-on experience in criminal law while making a meaningful contribution to regional communities.

The program requires:

• Initial intensive training: A 2-week induction program with experienced trainers and advocates.
• Initial placement in Sydney for up to 6 months, working in CBD and metro offices to build foundational legal skills.
• After completion of the initial Sydney placement candidates will then undertake a mandatory 12-month placement in a regional location (Broken Hill, Dubbo, Moree, Tamworth, or Wagga Wagga). You must be willing to relocate to any of these locations, depending on office needs.
• A temporary, Sydney-based or regional role after your 12-month regional placement, ensuring continued career development.
• Dedicated mentoring and supervision throughout the program to develop your legal and advocacy skills.

As a Regional Graduate Solicitor, you will provide legal advice and representation to clients, appear in court, and collaborate with stakeholders to deliver high-quality, culturally sensitive legal services.

About you

We are seeking dedicated and adaptable new lawyers who:

• Are prepared to relocate regionally for a minimum of 12 months as a requirement of the program.
• Will be admitted as legal practitioners by June 2025 (or earlier).
• Have less than 12 months post-admission experience (PQE).
• Are committed to developing expertise in criminal law.
• Have a valid driver’s licence and the ability to travel, including overnight stays.
• Are committed to providing culturally safe legal services and working with diverse communities.

This program requires a firm commitment, including mandatory relocation for the regional placement.

Why join us?

• Structured career pathway with hands-on experience in criminal law.
• Guaranteed Sydney-based role after 12 months in a regional location.
• Three weeks of provided accommodation to assist with relocation to your regional placement.
• Comprehensive training and mentorship to develop your legal and advocacy skills.
• Competitive salary with opportunities for advancement.
• Access to professional development, including Sydney-based training and legal conferences.
• Be part of an inclusive and diverse workplace, committed to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Essential requirements

To be eligible, you must:

• Be eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in NSW by June 2025.
• Provide a current NSW Practising Certificate before commencing.
• Hold Australian or NZ citizenship, Permanent Residency, or a valid work visa.
• Be willing to undergo a Criminal Record Check and Working with Children Check.
• Hold a valid Driver’s Licence and be willing to undertake circuit work including overnight stays.

How to apply

Submit your application online at iworkfor.nsw.gov.au. Late or emailed applications will not be accepted.

Your application must include:

• Why are you interested in the Regional Graduate Solicitor Program?
• What skills do you have that would assist you in practising criminal law in a regional location?
  

1. A resume (maximum 5 pages).
2. A cover letter (maximum 2 pages) responding to these questions:

If you would like to know more about these positions, the application process or the regional locations please join us.

5pm 3rd March - Join the meeting now

5pm 19th March - Join the meeting now

12 noon 14th April - Join the meeting now

Applications Close: Sunday 20 April 2025 at 11:59PM

Need help to apply?

It’s important to properly prepare before you apply for a role. Here is some other information to help you:

If you have any role-specific questions, contact Steven Wright on (02) 9219 6330.

If you are an Australian Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and are thinking about applying, you can contact the Aboriginal Services Branch to arrange a confidential conversation about any questions you may have.

The Role Description sets out the responsibilities of the role.

Legal Aid NSW is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and cultural safety. Adjustments can be made for applicants with disabilities.

Applying for a Role

Working at Legal Aid NSW

Apply now and take the first step in your rewarding legal career in regional NSW!