First Nations traineeship
Our First Nations Traineeship program provides an opportunity for law students who identify as First Nations to be a part of a structured learning program and experience what it's like to work at one of Australia's leading law firms.
Clayton Utz acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of this Country and their ongoing connections to land, waters and community. We pay our respect to Elders past and present. One way we pay that respect to Traditional Custodians is to help more First Nations people walk with us in the legal profession. Through this Traineeship program, law students who identify as First Nations can get the benefits of a structured learning program, experience what it's like to work at one of Australia's leading law firms, share their knowledge and perspectives with us, and build the skills to be the leaders of tomorrow.
Imagine your tomorrow – let your journey begin with us
We know that navigating the start of your career can be challenging - figuring out where to go, who to talk to, and how to take that first step. Our First Nations Traineeship is designed to support and guide you through those early steps. If you’re a proud Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student our opportunities offer a welcoming environment to gain hands-on experience at one of Australia’s leading law firms.
Supporting your journey
We know how important it is to feel supported as you start your career. That’s why we’ve put together a dedicated team to guide you:
- A First Nations Adviser who understands your background and will help you navigate your career with confidence.
- A dedicated mentor who will offer guidance and support, help you feel confident as you and set and reach your personal and professional goals.
- A support person who will be with you every step of the way, ensuring you feel comfortable, encouraged, and empowered.
What can you expect?
This traineeship is so much more than just work experience—it’s a chance to grow, learn, and thrive. We have two programs to choose from, a legal specialisation for those studying law or a business pathway for those studying Finance, Business, IT, Marketing, Communications, or Human Resources. Both programs mean you’ll be part of a dynamic and professional environment, gaining real-world experience while receiving support every step of the way to help you succeed.
- Gain hands-on experience in either our legal teams or one of four key areas: Finance, IT, Clients & Markets, or People & Development.
- Access to tailored training and development programs to support your growth.
- Contribute to community initiatives through our Community Connect program, where you’ll engage in meaningful volunteering experiences.
- A chance to grow your network through social events, sports, and a range of fun and exciting activities.
Why this program is for you…
We’re committed to creating an environment where you can succeed and feel proud of who you are. Our traineeship is designed to give you meaningful experiences that help you develop your skills, build lasting relationships, and open doors for your future—all while embracing and celebrating your cultural heritage.
By joining us, you’ll not only gain practical experience, but you’ll also become part of a supportive community that values your voice, your ideas, and your unique perspective. We encourage you to apply if you:
- Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and are accepted as such by your community.
- Are either a student enrolled in a Bachelor of Laws or Juris Doctor or studying Finance, Business, IT, Marketing, Communications, or Human Resources, at an Australian university.
- Are available to work 1–3 days per week (flexible hours, and you will be paid for your work).
- Have a positive attitude, a genuine curiosity, and a willingness to learn.
How to apply
It's simple: fill out a short application highlighting your work experience and education while answering a few questions.
We want every candidate to have equal access and opportunities, so please contact us if you need any support or reasonable adjustments to complete your application.
The story behind the painting reflects on how I see the best part of life’s journey, it being with whom we walk with and whom we get to share our journeys with. It inspired me to think outside the box, mapping and piecing together the prospect to achieve one’s goals and build towards a career pathway. Taking this journey with us and walking alongside us will allow the next generations to emerge within their own strengths and growth to continue on this journey.
The painting also represents teaching and respectively learning from one another, of our history, our cultural, our dreamtime stories and the land we call home, ‘Australia’.
— Nancy Long , a proud South Australian Ngarrindjeri and Kaurna, Nunga woman Artist, on her work "Walk With Me".
Support when you need it
We strive to be a workplace as diverse as the work we do. We are acutely aware that First Nations people are under-represented among our employees, and we want our firm to be one of belonging, where aspiring First Nations lawyers feel supported in their ambitions.
To do that, we've been developing cultural capability across our people and practice, to build cultural safety, remove barriers, and meet the cultural needs of our people and workplace. We know we haven't gotten everything right yet, but it's a process we take seriously.
That's why the support for a First Nations Trainee at every step of the way will include a First Nations adviser, a dedicated coach, and a buddy. And because life can be unpredictable, we'll work to be flexible during your time here, so that you can keep meeting your individual family, study and financial commitments.
How to apply
It's simple: fill out a short application highlighting your work experience and education while answering a few questions.
We want every candidate to have equal access and opportunities, so please contact us if you need any support or reasonable adjustments to complete your application.