Ashurst

"First Nations voices need to be in rooms where decisions are made - our voices deserve to be platformed and prioritised"

Trent Wallace, Head of First Nations Strategy, is a Wongaibon person, raised on Darkinjung country, now residing in Meanjin (Brisbane).

Be in the room.

The Ashurst First Nations Legal Internship is a two-week paid program that reflects Ashurst's commitment to building a legal profession where First Nations voices are heard, respected, and empowered. Designed to place First Nations law students at the heart of a leading international commercial law firm, this is not a passive observational experience - you will work alongside practising lawyers on real matters, build lasting professional relationships, and develop skills that carry forward into your legal career.

Program Details

• Duration: Monday, 20 July 2026 to Friday, 31 July 2026
• Locations: Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney offices

What to Expect

• Substantive Legal Work. You will be assigned to a practice group and contribute to real legal tasks and client matters, giving you direct insight into how commercial law operates in practice.
• Learning and Development. The program includes structured professional development sessions covering legal skills, commercial awareness, and navigating a career in law.
• Dedicated Mentorship. Each intern is paired with both a buddy and a supervising lawyer who will provide guidance, feedback, and support throughout the two weeks.
• Community. You will connect with First Nations colleagues, alumni, and firm leaders who are committed to building a profession that reflects the communities it serves.

Eligibility

This internship is open to all First Nations students completing a law degree and are a measure reflecting Ashurst's commitments to First Nations students and are designed to meet the relevant exemptions under applicable state and Commonwealth anti-discrimination legislation.

Application Information

Applications are open now. To apply, visit ashurst.com/students and select First Nations Legal Internship.

Please submit your application, CV, and academic transcript by 11:59pm AEST on Sunday, 24 May 2026.

For questions, contact Nicole Slaney at nicole.slaney@ashurst.com.