What we look for

Here at Herbert Smith Freehills, we understand that there is no single pathway to becoming a commercial lawyer. We look beyond your academic record and your technical aptitude.

We’re looking for those who display an eagerness to learn, a good attitude, are able to work collaboratively in teams and have a genuine interest in the law. We value that everyone brings themselves and their unique different perspectives, but we work together and with our clients to tackle really complex legal problems.

Whatever your background may be, if you’re a law student with intellectual agility, personal impact, a relentless drive to do great work and a passion for commercial law, then we’d love to have you here at Herbert Smith Freehills.

Apply now

What we offer

Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
The opportunity to be a part of a leading international law firm
We’re leaders in inclusion with eight diversity networks
Three 6-month rotations in the practice areas of your choice

Key dates and deadlines

Take a look at the key application dates and deadlines for each city.

Please note: An application should only be submitted to the office where you intend to start your career as a graduate. Multiple applications will not be considered. We welcome applications for our Australian clerkship program from international penultimate year law students, provided that you have unrestricted legal working rights to work in Australia when you commence in your clerkship (including students on Student Visas).

Brisbane

APPROXIMATE NUMBER OF POSITIONS

25-30

CLERKSHIP PROGRAMS

1 Summer & 1 Winter

APPLICATIONS FOR ALL 2023/24 PROGRAMS OPEN

17 July 2023

APPLICATIONS FOR ALL 2023/24 PROGRAMS CLOSE

 11 August 2023

CLERKSHIP OFFERS MADE

11 October 2023

Melbourne

APPROXIMATE NUMBER OF POSITIONS

40 - 55

CLERKSHIP PROGRAMS

1 Summer & 1 Winter

APPLICATIONS FOR ALL 2023/24 PROGRAMS OPEN

3 July 2023

APPLICATIONS FOR ALL 2023/24 PROGRAMS CLOSE

13 August 2023

CLERKSHIP OFFERS MADE

From 10am 18 October 2023

Perth

APPROXIMATE NUMBER OF POSITIONS

30 - 35

CLERKSHIP PROGRAMS

1 Summer & 1 Winter

APPLICATIONS FOR ALL 2023/24 PROGRAMS OPEN

26 June 2023

APPLICATIONS FOR ALL 2023/24 PROGRAMS CLOSE

30 July 2023

OFFERS MADE

15 September 2023

Sydney

APPROXIMATE NUMBER OF POSITIONS

30 - 35

CLERKSHIP PROGRAMS

1 Summer

APPLICATIONS FOR ALL 2023/24 PROGRAMS OPEN

5 June 2023

APPLICATIONS FOR ALL 2023/24 PROGRAMS CLOSE

9 July 2023

OFFERS MADE

13 September 2023

How to apply

Step one

ONLINE APPLICATION

You’ll need to upload the following:

  • A brief cover letter outlining your interests and suitability for a position  at the firm
  • A current CV outlining work experience, extracurricular activities,  academic and non-academic achievements
  • A recent copy of your academic transcript.

As part of the online application, we’ll also ask you to answer a few short questions about your interest in Herbert Smith Freehills and commercial law generally.

Herbert Smith Freehills is proud to use the Rare Contextual Recruitment System (CRS). The CRS allows us to understand each applicant’s achievements in the context that they have been gained. We understand that not every candidate’s achievements look the same on paper – and we want to recruit the best people, from every background.

Step two

THE INTERVIEW PROCESS

ONLINE ASSESSMENT

If you are invited to a first round interview, we will also ask you to complete our online psychometric assessment beforehand.

There are no right or wrong answers to these questions; your responses simply provide insight into where your likely strengths lie. It’s best to answer as quickly and honestly as you can.

It is important that you choose the answer which matches how you usually like to work.

 

Step three

ATTEND AN INTERVIEW

While we try to make the interview as relaxed as possible, it is a chance to show us your professional side, so pay attention to all those tips you’ve read about being punctual and presenting in a professional manner. Beyond that, be yourself and try to let us see you at your best.

The interview is intended to be a two-way process and provides an opportunity for you to see what it would be like to work with us, as well as for us to get to know you.

Remember, we want to give you a chance to tell us all about yourself and why you think Herbert Smith Freehills is the right place for you.

 

Recruitment contacts

JAMES KEANE
Graduate Recruitment Manager
T  +61 2 9322 4313
[email protected]

 

Brisbane

ZAKARY NASH
Graduate Recruitment Consultant
T  +61 7 3258 6374
[email protected]

Perth

KASHMIRRA THEVAR
Graduate Recruitment Consultant
T  T +61 8 9211 7545
[email protected]

 

 
 
 
 

 

Melbourne

HONG LE
Graduate Recruitment Consultant
T  +61 3 9288 1937
[email protected]

Sydney

RACHEL KOK
Graduate Recruitment Consultant
T  +61 2 9225 5054
[email protected] 

Apply online

We’re looking for those who see things differently.

The kind of people who bring new ideas and create innovative opportunities for our clients. Share your unique perspective with us.