Graduate Diploma in Government Law – University of Melbourne

Graduate Diploma Commercial Law Full Time

Graduate Diploma in Government Law

at University of Melbourne · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

075330F

CRICOS provider code

00116K

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

26 weeks

Tuition (whole course)

A$30,496 total

Per year

A$60,992/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Graduate Diploma in Government Law at the University of Melbourne is designed for legal professionals and policy advisers who wish to enhance their expertise in Australian government law. This programme explores advanced aspects of public law, administrative law, and the legal principles underpinning government decision-making, as well as the relationships between various arms of government and the rights of citizens. Course content typically includes topics in constitutional law, public administration, government liability, and regulation, situated within both state and federal Australian contexts.

The programme is structured for completion over approximately 26 weeks and is delivered through a series of intensive subjects or semesters, totalling a set number of credit points consistent with graduate diploma requirements in Australia. Students can expect to engage with a range of units of study that may blend theoretical analysis with practical applications, including case study work and legal problem-solving. While the diploma itself does not include a research thesis, it may offer opportunities to participate in seminars, group work, and networks with legal professionals working in government agencies.

Graduates will develop high-level skills in analysing government processes, interpreting legislation, policy drafting, and advising on public law issues. The programme is suitable for law graduates, practising solicitors, barristers, or anyone seeking specialised knowledge relevant to public sector roles, regulatory bodies, and law reform organs. The course offers particular value to those wishing to build or advance a career in Australia's vibrant legal and public policy sectors.

International students are required to demonstrate English proficiency at a high standard suitable for law studies, with accepted tests including IELTS Academic at 7.0–7.5 or equivalent. Students should check the official programme page for detailed English requirements. While enrolled, international students have work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight and may be eligible to apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) upon completion, subject to current Australian visa regulations.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Legal adviser in government departments or regulatory agencies
Policy officer in public sector organisations
Solicitor or barrister specialising in administrative law
Consultant in law reform commissions and statutory authorities
Roles in federal, state, or local government legal services

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Graduate Diploma in Government Law at University of Melbourne?

It typically takes 26 weeks, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$30,496 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Legal adviser in government departments or regulatory agenciesPolicy officer in public sector organisationsSolicitor or barrister specialising in administrative lawConsultant in law reform commissions and statutory authoritiesRoles in federal, state, or local government legal ser...

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