Postgraduate International Placement Program

The Postgraduate International Placement Program at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) offers law students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the practical world of legal practice through a placement experience. Designed specifically for students pursuing a Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent postgraduate law qualification, the program lasts 26 weeks and is set in vibrant Sydney, giving participants firsthand exposure to the Australian legal landscape.

This placement program typically comprises closely supervised work-integrated learning in legal offices, firms, or community legal centres, allowing students to engage directly with Australian clients, case files, and processes. Throughout the 26-week program, participants earn credit through assigned units of study relevant to their law degree, contributing to their overall portfolio of credit points required for completion. Placement experiences are structured in line with the expectations for postgraduate law students and may include reflective assessments and formal feedback, but do not substitute the full qualification level of the JD.

Students gain advanced professional skills such as legal research, drafting, client counselling, and advocacy in the Australian context. This experiential learning focus helps students apply theoretical knowledge to real legal problems while developing cross-cultural competence and networks. The program is well-suited to international and domestic postgraduate law students seeking a competitive edge and practical experience within the Australian legal system.

UNSW’s strong industry and research links support participants with access to leading legal professionals and a robust legal network in Sydney. International students benefit from work rights of 48 hours per fortnight while studying and may be eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-completion (check the university’s official page for up-to-date visa guidance), further enabling post-study work opportunities in Australia’s legal sector.

• Paralegal roles in law firms and in-house legal teams
• Legal research assistant positions in government or academia
• Policy roles in not-for-profit and advocacy organisations
• Legal consulting within Australian businesses
• Pathway to graduate solicitor employment after full JD completion

Australian graduates are sought in legal services, corporate compliance, government, and community law centres, particularly in Sydney and other metropolitan hubs.