By Wendy Yang -
Legal Aid NSW and the UNSW Law & Justice have jointly formed a new internship opportunity aimed at fostering interest in regional legal practice among aspiring solicitors.
Six three-week internship opportunities in Broken Hill, Dubbo and Wagga Wagga will be offered to students to provide them with an opportunity to build practical real-world experience while assisting regional communities.
Steven Wright, Associate Director at Legal Aid NSW, said the program students a chance to experience what it is like to work as a solicitor in a regional community.
He also said, “[t]his is a rare opportunity for students to upskill and learn from Legal Aid NSW while enjoying the benefits of life in regional NSW and the diverse and complex casework in the regions.”
Wright emphasised the benefits of the opportunity as students will gain practical experience across a diverse range of legal matters, work closely with experienced legal practitioners and witness firsthand the crucial role Legal Aid plays in serving local communities.
He adds that the internship will provide a unique insight or perspective into the opportunities and challenges of regional legal practice and the hope is that the experience will encourage more people to work in the regions.
Professor Andrew Lynch, Dean at UNSW Law & Justice said the internship is consistent with the faculty’s commitment to help students prepare for “meaningful and impactful legal careers”.
He acknowledged that the partnership with Legal Aid NSW will provide students a “unique opportunity” to hone their practical legal skills while also contributing to greater access to justice in the regions.
“Students will gain invaluable firsthand experience working alongside dedicated practitioners, deepen their understanding of the legal needs of regional communities and explore the rewarding career opportunities available outside metropolitan centres,” said Lynch.
The internship is open to LLB and JD students in their penultimate or final year in 2027. Placements will span three weeks commencing on 18 January.
UNSW Law & Justice will provide each student with $4000 to assist with their living expenses for the duration of the placement however students are responsible for arranging their own travel and accommodation.
Applications will open on Monday 21 September 2026 with an in-person information session to be held on Thursday 24 September at 1pm in the UNSW Law Building.
