Frequently asked questions

This page answers some commonly-asked questions regarding the Internship Program and the recruitment process.​

​Eligibility

I am not in my final year of study, can I still apply?​

Due to the high level of interest in our program, we can only accept applications from students in their penultimate or final years of their degree.

I am enrolled in a Juris Doctor degree course, can I apply?

Yes. The program is intended for students undertaking their first law degree, whatever it is called.

I am an international student, can I still apply?

Yes. We accept applications from international students. However, students who are successful would be required to provide evidence of their VISA and ensure there are no restrictions to being able to work the required hours.

Applying for an internship

Is there a word limit for the statement addressing the requirements for the role?​

Your statement addressing the requirements should be two pages.

Do I need to include certified transcripts with my application?

No. We are happy to accept unofficial transcripts.

Should I include letters of recommendation with my application?

No. We will not look at letters of recommendation but may ask to contact referees later in the process.

The program

How many interns will you employ?

The number of interns we take for each program will vary. We generally aim to offer 1-4 positions each year.

Is this a paid internship?

Yes. This is a paid casual internship. We do not offer any unpaid opportunities.

Can I count the internship towards my PLT?

No. The Secretariat cannot offer practical work experience required for professional admission as a solicitor or barrister, such as is required by students at the College of Law.

How long does the Internship Program run for?

The Internship Program runs flexibly, commencing from May to August, to align with University breaks. We generally expect each intern to be available for twenty days (either full-time or for at least two days a week part-time). 

Please advise your availability in your application. We are happy to negotiate a different commencement date and/or part-time arrangements with any successful applicants.

Will the Internship Program also be held over the summer?

No. The Secretariat does not offer a summer internship program. The Department of Communities and Justice runs a Summer Clerkship Program. Check the Clerkship webpage or the DCJ careers website for more information.

The NSW Government runs a graduate program, which can include working for the Secretariat. Please visit this webpage for details.​

Where are the internships located?

Our office is located in Parramatta, right next to the train station. We have hybrid working arrangements of 1-2 days in the office and the rest working from home. We can offer flexible working arrangements but prefer that interns work in the office at least one day per week.

Does the Secretariat provide a stipend to help cover housing and transport costs?

No. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide any financial assistance to cover costs associated with the internship.​

I am really interested in the Internship Program, but I also have other commitments throughout the course of the program, is there some flexibility with working arrangements?

Absolutely. Although our preference is for you to maximise your internship experience and work full-time, we understand that you may have exams, intensive courses, part-time jobs, or clerkships. We are happy to discuss and accommodate your commitments, where possible.​ 

Could an internship lead to further employment?

An internship does not guarantee future employment with the Secretariat or with the Department of Communities and Justice. However, the internship does allow you to engage with the organisational culture, establish networks, and build industry specific skills. These benefits will assist you if you decide to apply for any jobs with the NSW Department of Communities and Justice in future.  ​

What will I be working on?​

Interns will perform legal research and writing tasks related to the current projects of the NSW Law Reform Commission and NSW Sentencing Council.

The recruitment process

I just submitted my application, what happens next?

After the closing date, all applications will be reviewed and applicants selected for interview. We will be in touch with you, by email, to let you know the outcome of your application. 

How many interviews will I have to attend?

If you are selected for interview, there is just the one interview that will go for about 30 minutes.

Do you have any more information about the interview?

If you are selected for an interview, you will be asked to provide a sample of previous written work of no more than 1500 words.

A minimum of two panel members will conduct the interview. 15 minutes before the interview, you will be provided with the interview questions that the panel will ask you. You can use that time to review the questions and make notes, which you can use in the interview. 

I still have some questions I would like answered

No problem, send us an email to lrc-intern@dcj.nsw.gov.au and we will get back to you as quickly as we can.​