Are you a law student with a passion for social justice issues? Put your legal skills into practice and gain first-hand experience of real world employee advocacy by joining us as a Young Workers Advocate. You’ll get to assist young workers access advice, support and representation to resolve workplace issues.
You’ll be supported by our experienced solicitor. You’ll receive training and mentoring. You’ll gain insight into the work of trade unions and the world of employment law through networking opportunities with Unions and employment law firms.
We’re committed to genuine work experience and career development, so placements will need to comply with your Law School’s placement program. Talk to your Law School’s placement coordinator or contact our team at [email protected]
What will you do as an advocate?
- Interview clients and provide advice under the supervision of the Centre’s solicitors
- Draft correspondence and court documents
- Research and prepare briefs for casework and conciliation
- Prepare wage theft calculations
- Shadow solicitors in legal proceedings (where possible)
What do former advocates say about our program?
" I really enjoyed getting to see employment law in practice and learning about different court processes. This kind of practical learning has been absent from my studies so far so it has been really valuable to me.”
“I really enjoyed how the work provided to interns was varied; it helped give interns a broad and well-rounded knowledge of the tasks undertaken by employment lawyers and paralegals, in addition to the different aspects of employment law (e.g. dismissals, underpayments, apprenticeship issues etc).”
“Realising how prevalent young workers were being taken advantage of by their employers was definitely an eye opener. Conducting research and speaking directly with clients helped solidify my understanding of the area of law.”
Who are we looking for?
We are keen to hear from law students with an interest in social justice and/or workers rights. Tell us what you care about and the good you want to do with your law degree.
Our diversity is our strength. Please get in touch with us ([email protected]) if you would like to discuss any adjustments or concerns, e.g. adjusted working hours, remote supervision, assistive technology.
We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We strive to be a safe and inclusive practice.
How do I apply?
We can only offer placements to students who are obtaining university credit. Placement length varies depending on your university’s requirements.
We accept direct applications or applications through university placement programs.
If you're interested in the program, contact us at [email protected] and send your contact details, university, and a bit about your interest in YWC.
2023 placement dates
We are operating five placement periods throughout 2024:
Late Summer: January to late February, 2-3 days per week (applications closed)
Semester 1: Late February to June, 1 day per week
Winter: late June to late July, 3-4 days per week
Semester 2: Late July to November, 1 day per week
Early Summer: Late November to December, 3-4 days per week
For any questions about our placement program, please contact our team at [email protected]
For any questions about our placement program, please contact our team at [email protected]
