Sydney Clerkship Programme

The Firm

HFW is a sector focused global law firm with a focus on construction, shipping, aerospace, commodities, corporate & commercial and insurance. We have over 700 lawyers working across Australia, Asia, Europe, Middle East and the Americas. With a progressive approach to our roles in commercial business, thinking creatively and pragmatically to support our clients, we are dynamic, entrepreneurial and leaders in our specialist areas.

In Australia, we have 4 offices in Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Brisbane and around 220 team members.

Our seasonal clerkship program offers you a taste of life working at a sector-based international law firm and is a first step for students aspiring to secure a Graduate position.

Each year, we welcome a select group of seasonal clerks to work alongside our specialist lawyers on a wide range of client matters across our core sectors. You’ll gain real-world experience, develop practical legal skills, and build valuable professional relationships.

During the clerkship program, you will be placed in two of our major sector groups, predominantly corporate & commercial or construction, supported by a supervising associate and a buddy. You'll be involved in meaningful work with great insights into our sector groups and exposure to our clients. 

Get ready to dive in:

• Conducting legal research and analysis
• Completing document review tasks
• Drafting legal documents and memos
• Assisting with file and document management
• Building professional relationships
• Gaining insights into legal practice and firm operations

What are we looking for?

We’re seeking motivated penultimate-year law students* who are eager to take the next step in their legal careers and have a genuine interest in a sector-focused approach. Ideal candidates will demonstrate strong communication and analytical skills, a willingness to learn and grow, excellent organisational abilities, and the capacity to work both collaboratively and independently.

*final year students welcome to apply

What makes our clerkship experience rewarding:

• Working closely with our Partners and Associates on real matters
• Gaining hands-on experience across both local and international matters
• Being part of a supportive and inclusive team culture
• Accessing professional development and training opportunities
• Join our fun and engaging social events

The application process is simple!

Apply with your CV, transcript and cover letter outlining why you're interested in joining HFW and what makes you unique - including your hobbies, interests, and extracurricular activities. 

If you have any questions, please reach out to Ghemma Beet, HR administrator - ***********@hfw.com. Please do not send your application via email.

We look forward to learning more about you and helping you take the first step in your legal career.