Department of Justice Legal Graduate Program
Program overview
The Legal Graduate Program offers law graduates the opportunity to gain practical legal experience while completing their Tasmanian Legal Practice Course.
You will work part-time as Graduate Legal Officers while undertaking the Legal Practice Course, and transition to full-time work upon completion of your Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice (GDLP) and admission to the Supreme Court of Tasmania.
This structure allows you to develop and refine your legal skills in a supportive environment while gaining exposure to a diverse range of public sector legal services and career pathways.
What to expect
The program runs for approximately 24 months over two phases. You will undertake legal research, provide advice and recommendations, and work alongside senior legal practitioners.
Phase One (January 2026 to July 2026): You will work part time (two days a week) while completing the Legal Practice Course (three days a week)
Phase Two (August 2026 to December 2027): Once you’ve completed your Tasmanian Legal Practice Course and gained admission, you’ll work full time for the Department of Justice.
On-the-job opportunities
As a participant in the Legal Graduate Program, you will be supported to undertake a variety of legal tasks and experiences that contribute to your professional growth. These opportunities are designed to help you:
- Build confidence and competence through hands-on legal work, including research, drafting and assisting with straightforward legal matters.
- Develop professional judgment by engaging with real-world legal issues and clients.
- Strengthen your understanding of government legal practice and the broader policy and legislative environment.
You are encouraged to:
- Be proactive in seeking out new tasks and learning opportunities within your placement area.
- Reflect on your experiences and identify areas where you’d like to grow.
- Discuss your goals and interests with your supervisor during regular check-ins. Take advantage of opportunities such as court observations, legal briefings, or shadowing senior legal officers, where available.
Learning and development
In addition to on-the-job experience, you will participate in a structured professional development program that includes:
- acustomised induction
- mentoring and coaching
- skills-based workshops
- networking opportunities
- presentations from senior leaders across the department.
These activities are designed to build the foundational skills and experience needed for a successful legal career in the public sector.
Ongoing performance development
You will be supported through the Department’s Ongoing Performance Development processes, which includes:
- regular check-ins with supervisors
- clear expectations and performance goals aligned with the Statement of Duties – Graduate Legal Officer
- opportunities for feedback and reflection
- support for continuous learning and development.
Your responsibilities
As a participant in the Legal Graduate Program, you are expected to:
- actively participate in both the Legal Practice Course and your placement
- engage with learning and development opportunities
- seek feedback and contribute to your own professional growth
- adhere to the Department’s values and professional standards.
How to apply
Applications are now open. You can apply for the program by visiting the job advertisement Legal Graduate Program
You’ll need to write a short form application, no more than 1-2 pages, and include a resume and the details of two referees. This is a graduate program, so don’t worry if you don’t have much job experience yet.
If you have any questions about the application process, please contact peoplestrategy@justice.tas.gov.au.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Legal Graduate Program, you must:
- Have graduated with an undergraduate or postgraduate legal degree in the last three years (not prior to December 2023) or have graduated by commencement. The qualification held must be at level 7 or above of the Australian Qualifications Framework.
- Be enrolled in the Tasmanian Legal Practice Course at the Centre for Legal Studies.
You’ll also need to undertake the following pre-employment checks if you’re a successful applicant:
- Conviction checks:
- Arson and fire setting
- Violent crimes and crimes against the person
- Sex-related offences
- Drug and alcohol related offences
- Crimes involving dishonesty
- Crimes involving deception
- Making false declarations
- Malicious damage and destruction to property
- Serious traffic offences
- Crimes against public order or relating to the Administration of Law and Justice
- Crimes against Executive or the Legislative Power
- Crimes involving Conspiracy.
- Disciplinary action in previous employment.
- Identification check.
Frequently asked questions
Who do I contact to find out more?
To find out more about the program, contact People Strategy: PeopleStrategy@justice.tas.gov.au
When will applications open?
Applications are now open. You can apply for the program by visiting the job advertisement Legal Graduate Program
Can I apply to the program if I’m studying my Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice through a different provider?
No, currently this program is only available to graduates enrolled in the Tasmanian Legal Practice Course.
What if I’m struggling to balance work and study? It’s normal to feel challenged at times. Speak with your supervisor early if you’re feeling overwhelmed - they can help adjust your workload or expectations. If needed, you can also contact the HR Employment Programs Coordinator for additional support.
Can I take leave during the program?
Yes, you can take leave in line with the Department’s standard leave policies. However, it’s important to coordinate any leave with your supervisor and avoid key program dates, such as Legal Practice Course requirements or development activities.