Traineeship program

Thank you for your interest in a Traineeship position at the Victorian Government Solicitor's Office.

Please see the Traineeship Recruitment Calendar for 2011 Traineeship application open dates.

The role of a Trainee with the VGSO is wonderfully diverse, constantly challenging and extremely interesting. As a trainee you will gain exposure to various facets of the legal system with rotations through all main areas of the practice; Administrative Law, Commercial and Property, Litigation and Victoria Police Centre . You will also receive training through the College of Law and Leo Cussens to successfully complete the Values, Skills and some Practice Area components of the Traineeship program.

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VGSO Traineeships

Why choose a Traineeship program at VGSO?

With the VGSO's important role in providing authoritative advice and legal services to government, our Traineeship program offers you a foundation for a rewarding career in both government and private practice. You’ll experience diverse and challenging work that is frequently topical and often has public interest overlay.

Read about completing your Traineeship at the VGSO from past VGSO Articled Clerks in the 'Our Experiences' sidebar.

Highlights of the program include:

Variety
Exposure to various facets of the legal system with rotations through all main areas of practice and opportunities for intra-government placement.
Hands on Experience
High level involvement with files as you work with senior lawyers and clients, and get exposure to fundamental government legal issues.
Challenging
If you join the VGSO, you will work on interesting, high-profile matters, with a great deal of autonomy and responsibility. Our articled clerks often comment on the high degree of client contact they obtain from day one, unlike many private law firms. You will get exposure to a broad range of practical experiences, including the opportunity to attend court and/or tribunals, draft complex advices, hone research skills and become involved in major commercial agreement
Work/Life Balance
The VGSO understands the importance of work/life balance and walks the talk.
Supportive Environment
Mentor and employee assistance programs. You can also expect to get regular feedback to assist you in the development of your skills, confidence and ability.
Continuing Education
The VGSO’s Learning & Development program is tailor-made for individual careers and allows for “learning on the job”, as well as the opportunity to take professional development courses provided in-house and by institutions such as the Law Institute of Victoria and College of Law.

Traineeship Recruitment Calendar

Applications Open: Monday, 11 January 2010
Application closing date: 5pm Friday, 12 February 2010
Arrangements for interviews commence: Monday, 15 March 2010
Interviews commence: Wednesday, 17 March 2010
2nd round interviews with VGS (if applicable): Wednesday, 31 March and Thursday, 1 April 2010
Offers are made: Monday, 12 April 2010
Traineeships commence: March 2011

All dates in relation to the recruitment of Trainees are subject to the LIV guidelines. VGSO adheres to the guidelines and will be making general offers on Monday, 12 April 2010 at 9 am.

How to apply

The VGSO is looking for Trainees who have varied interests, are motivated, show initiative and good interpersonal skills, lead balanced lives and have strong academic results in a legal qualification.

If you are interested in becoming a Trainee with the VGSO and would like to submit an application please view the recruitment calendar for submission dates. Applications can be submitted to Katherine Jeffery, Human Resources Manager at humanresources@vgso.vic.gov.au. Whilst we prefer applications to be submitted electronically, we will accept applications via post or fax.

Your application should include:

  • a cover letter that details why you want to work at the VGSO and why you think you would be suited to being a government lawyer;

  • a complete curriculum vitae, including details of your relevant work experience, sporting activities, memberships and other interests; and

  • a photocopy of your most recent academic transcript.

Please note, we are accommodating to Trainees deferring their commencement with the VGSO. This is reviewed on a case by case basis.

Who to contact

For further details about the Traineeship program please contact:

Katherine Jeffery, Human Resources Manager
Level 25, 121 Exhibition Street
Melbourne VIC 3000
tel + 61 3 8684 0444
fax + 61 3 8684 0449
email humanresources@vgso.vic.gov.au

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