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Work on complex, high-stakes matters from day one and develop expertise alongside Australia's leading insurance lawyers.
Join Kennedys' growing Australian practice, part of our global insurance law network. With offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane, you'll be connected to international expertise and opportunities worldwide.
Our Australia Graduate Program allows you to develop relevant experience and skills that will set you up in your career as a solicitor. During the twelve month program, you will have the opportunity to complete three rotations in our core practice areas. Practice areas available for rotation vary by office and include insurance specialisations (professional indemnity, financial lines, D&O, defamation), liability (personal injury, property damage, casualty, marine), healthcare (medical negligence), and commercial (employment, cyber, commercial litigation).
We offer a wide variety of training throughout your graduate program, including the opportunity to attend in-house and external seminars, whilst having access to a large array of online skills and technical learning via our learning management system. You will work closely with specialist lawyers to develop a range of technical and soft skills.
You'll be fully supported through a dedicated buddy, partner supervision, and senior lawyer mentorship in each rotation.
Graduates will complete the Practical Legal Training (PLT) course through The College of Law during the program before applying for admission to be a qualified lawyer in the relevant state. This will be funded by the firm and study leave is provided.
Upon successful completion of the program, graduates transition to an Associate position with a permanent contract, continuing their career development with Kennedys.
What kind of work will I be involved in?
You will play a key role in supporting Partners and senior lawyers on their active files, and will be encouraged to get involved in a wide range of tasks including:
- Legal Research
- Preparation of chronologies
- Assistance with preparation and drafting of legal documents such as court forms and pleadings
- Preparation of first draft advice under supervision and direction
- Attendance at meetings – taking notes and summarising key information
- Preparation of draft correspondence to parties to the proceedings and the court
- Reviewing medical records and expert evidence
- Assistance with trial preparation
- Attendance at mediations and settlement conferences
- Co-authoring articles with senior lawyers for publication
How to apply?
Application dates for 2027 Program:
- Sydney: Applications open Monday 23rd February to Sunday 5th April 2026
- Melbourne: TBC
- Perth (non-rotational program): TBC
To apply, you'll need to submit your resume, university transcript, and responses to three short answer questions. Please note that a cover letter is not required.
If you have any questions regarding graduate opportunities in Australia you are welcome to contact us.