Opportunities in the Social Justice Sector
This page aims to provide an overview of various opportunities available in the social justice sector. It is managed by the Justice Careers team of LRSJ.
The page lists internships, graduate programs and voluntary opportunities with local, regional and international organizations, as well as other useful information about getting involved in different areas of the social justice sector.
If you would like to contribute to this effort, please contact LRSJ on lrsj@anu.edu.au to help upkeep the page to share the possibilities and opportunities available in the law reform and social justice sector.
Domestic Opportunities
This section provides information regarding opportunities with various federal and state-based organisations. It lists opportunities with national agencies, community legal centers, international organisations, opportunities with and for Indigenous Australians and national volunteering opportunities.
National Agencies
The organisation | The Office of the Commonwealth Ombudsman is an independent and neutral complaint handling and investigation service open to all people engaged in dealing with problems with Australian Government agencies. |
Opportunity | The Ombudsman does not offer internships or graduate positions but its role as a negotiator, mediator and intermediary means that dispute resolution roles with the Ombudsman are well suited to law graduates. The Ombudsman maintains a temporary employment register for short term available roles in any of their capital city offices. Recruitment for the ACT Ombudsman’s office is managed through the Commonwealth Ombudsman’s office. |
Who | Graduates |
Paid or voluntary | Paid |
When to apply | Send your application by email to human.resources@ombudsman.gov.au. Applications will be kept for a period of 12 months from date of receipt. |
Website |
The organisation | The Australian Pro Bono Centre is the national body aimed at facilitating and encouraging the development, expansion and co-ordination of pro bono services, as well as offering practical assistance for pro bono service providers (and potential providers). Pro bono means “for the public good”. Law students who get involved in pro bono provide a community service by assisting in providing services to improve access to justice for disadvantaged people who can’t otherwise afford to pay for legal assistance, or assisting non-profit organisations that work on behalf of those people, and doing it without getting any kind of fee, reward or academic credit. |
Opportunity | Internships |
Who | Students and graduates |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary and paid |
When to apply | Check the website and related links to more careers hubs for further information |
Website | https://www.probonocentre.org.au/about-the-centre/staff/positions-available/ |
The organisation | Pro Bono Australia is a social enterprise that shares news, careers and resources to help purpose-driven people and organisations grow their impact. Their mission is simple: to activate good intentions. |
Opportunity | Pro Bono Australia advertises job and volunteering opportunities |
Who | Anyone |
Paid or voluntary | Both |
When to apply | Check the jobs page for up to date information |
Website |
The organisation | The Fair Work Ombudsman is an independent statutory office that aims to promote harmonious, productive and cooperative workplace relations; ensures Australian workplaces comply with Australian fair work practices, rights and obligations and monitors certain visa arrangements. |
Opportunity | Various job opportunities |
Who | Graduates |
Paid or voluntary | Paid |
When to apply | Check the careers page |
Website |
The organisation | The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman Limited (TIO) is a not-for-profit company that provides a free and independent dispute resolution service for small business and residential consumers who have an unresolved complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. |
Opportunity | You can view current opportunities or submit an expression of interest for our next available vacancies. |
Who | Graduates |
Paid or voluntary | Paid |
When to apply | Check the careers page |
Website |
The organisation | The Department of Social Services manages the Australian Government’s social policy agenda, aiming to improve the wellbeing of individuals and families in Australian communities. |
Opportunity | Graduate program |
Who | Graduates |
Paid or voluntary | Paid |
When to apply | Check the careers page (March of each year prior to intake) |
Website |
Community Legal Centres
The organisation | Community Legal Centres Australia is the national peak body for the community legal sector, in particular community legal centres across Australia. They are an independent, non-profit organisation established to support the community legal sector and ensure provision of free and accessible legal and related services to everyday people, including people experiencing discrimination and disadvantage. |
Opportunity | Legal jobs in community legal centres around Australia |
Who | Graduates |
Paid or voluntary | Paid |
When to apply | Check the website regularly for up to date information on job offerings available |
Website |
The organisation | The Aboriginal Legal Service provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with legal advice on criminal law, family law, care and protection law and tenancy law. It also conducts policy and law reform work in these areas, and in the ACT provides community justice programs for those exiting correctional centres and re- entering the community. |
Opportunity | Volunteers assist the service in research, law reform, human resources, campaigns, communications and IT. As part of an ANU elective, students are placed within the organisation to assist with tasks as they arise. Students are also required to write a research essay and reflective piece on their experience as part of the ANU course requirements. |
Who | Students or ANU law students who have completed at least five 1000 level courses for completion of the elective |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so there is no need to wait for an official recruitment drive to apply. See the website below for more information. If applying for the ANU elective, applications must be submitted when the College of Law advertises the opportunity, generally during the semester prior to the elective commencing. |
Website | https://www.alsnswact.org.au/volunteer https://law.anu.edu.au/current-students/professional-experience/clinical-courses |
The organisation | As part of an ANU elective, students are placed within the organisation to perform administrative and paralegal tasks, and are also required to write a research essay and reflective piece on their experience as part of the ANU course requirements. Internship programs are available in the |
Opportunity | Internship – One of the most rewarding experiences of learning through practical work experience in a public interest work place. |
Who | ANU law students who have completed at least five 1000 level courses |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | Apply for these ANU courses when the ANU College of Law advertises these opportunities, usually during the semester prior to the actual semester this would take place in. |
Website | https://law.anu.edu.au/current-students/professional-experience/clinical-courses https://law.anu.edu.au/current-students/professional-experience/law-internship-course |
The organisation | Canberra Community Law is a legal service offering help to those who are socioeconomically disadvantaged. They specialise in housing law, social security law, street law (helping homeless populations), and race and disability discrimination law matters. |
Opportunity | There are a number of ways students can get involved with Canberra Community Law. Canberra Community Law Administration Internship Opportunity: Interns undertake administrative tasks for the centre (answering phone calls, making referrals, completing client intake, recording information on the data management system and other administrative tasks). Students are required to commit at least one day a week (9 am to 1 pm, or 1pm to 5 pm) for 6 months. Night Time Legal Advice Service The Night Time Legal Advice Service runs from 6 pm – 8 pm on Tuesday nights. Volunteer students and solicitors help to take client instruction and provide advice and undertake legal research. Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice The centre’s Street Law clinic hosts limited GDLP placements. |
Who | Third or fourth year law students. |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | Keep an eye out for when applications open. In 2020, applications opened in January. See the website below. |
Website | https://www.canberracommunitylaw.org.au/jobvolunteer-opportunities.html |
The organisation | Legal Aid ACT helps socioeconomically disadvantaged people in the ACT with their legal problems. The centre specialises in criminal law, family law and some civil law matters. |
Opportunity | There are volunteer and paralegal positions available. Volunteers and paralegals assist the centre with administrative tasks such as handling phones and organising documents and also substantial tasks such as legal research and drafting of documents and correspondence. |
Who | Law students |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary or Paid |
When to apply | Volunteer / workshop placement applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Paralegal positions are considered on a rolling basis, so there is no need to wait for a formal recruitment drive before submitting an application to their temporary employment register. See the website below for more information about how to apply. |
Website | https://www.legalaidact.org.au/about-us/working-at-legal-aid/temporary-employment-register |
The organisation | The Youth Law Centre is an organisation within Legal Aid ACT. It is a free legal service dedicated to young people aged 12–25. |
Opportunity | Students can get involved as paralegals for the Youth Law Centre. Paralegals are sourced from students who have completed the Youth Law Clinic, an ANU elective course which runs during Semesters 1 and 2 |
Who | Students who have completed 8 LLB / JD courses |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | Keep a look out for when ANU advertises applications to take the ANU elective |
Website | https://law.anu.edu.au/current-students/professional-experience/clinical-courses |
The organisation | The Women’s Legal Centre provides legal advice and representation in family, employment, discrimination and victims of crime law. The Centre also provides information and referrals in all other areas of law. |
Opportunity | Volunteers start by undertaking assorted administrative work and may progress to undertaking legal research and assistance for solicitors. |
Who | Students |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | The Centre accepts volunteers on a rolling basis, so there is no need to wait for a recruitment announcement before submitting an application. |
Website | http://womenslegalact.org/support-us/volunteer/volunteer-students/ |
The organisation | The ANU Clinical Course elective offers several placements to regional, rural and remote areas. The Kimberley Aboriginal Justice Clinic gives students the opportunity to work at the KCLS hot-desk to provide paralegal support and research assistance to the Service located in Western Australia. The Indigenous Perspectives electives allows students to take part and learn more about Indigenous issues and justice. |
Opportunity | Paralegal |
Who | ANU students who have completed five 1000 level courses. |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | Apply for these ANU courses when the ANU College of Law advertises these opportunities, usually during the semester prior to the actual semester this would take place in. |
Website | https://law.anu.edu.au/current-students/professional-experience/clinical-courses |
Domestic Opportunities with International Organisations
The organisation | The Federal Court has a dedicated International Programs Unit to manage the Court’s international engagement. |
Opportunity | Volunteers are required to work a minimum of two days a week for three months at the Court’s Principal Registry in Sydney and gain an understanding of judicial development projects and how the programs are implemented within the Court. |
Who | Students will be selected based on their interest in international law, judicial reform and international development, their ability to work in a team, manage time and follow procedural guidelines and demonstrated professionalism. |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | The intake period for the coming year is normally during January of that year. Students should refer to the website for specific dates. |
Website | https://www.fedcourt.gov.au/about/international-programs/volunteer-opportunities |
The organisation | Scope Global delivers inclusive international education, training and skills development in the Indo Pacific. Their office is in Adelaide and they work in partnership with clients, institutions, communities and individuals to deliver programs and services that contribute to lasting, positive change. Their regional network means they can provide on-the-ground support to program participants and stakeholders, while providing their clients with access to in-country knowledge, expertise and networks. |
Opportunity | Paid positions – check the website for up to date job positions available |
Who | Graduates |
Paid or voluntary | Paid |
When to apply | Check the website |
Website |
Local Agencies
The organisation | The Human Rights Committee runs a number of award-winning projects aimed at increasing access to justice and advancing the protection and promotion of human rights within Australia and internationally. An example being the committee’s Refugee Assistance Project, which was awarded the NSW Young Lawyer’s Patron Award for Best Community Project in both 2016 and 2017. The committee hosts networking and career events to enable young lawyers and law students to meet pre-eminent human rights lawyers and gain insights on career paths and opportunities. The Human Rights Committee take an active role in law reform and policy, commenting on legislative and policy changes that have human rights implications at the Federal and State levels. |
Opportunity | Regular meetups |
Who | Anyone |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | Visit their Facebook page or email ylgeneral@lawsociety.com.au. |
Website | https://www.lawsociety.com.au/legal-communities/NSW-young-lawyers/committees/human-rights |
The organisation | Meridian provides a variety of services to people impacted by HIV and AIDS such as case management and peer support. Meridian is Canberra’s leading LGBTIQ and HIV+ community organisation. Formerly the AIDS Action Council, Meridian was established in 1983 in response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic and has a strong and proud history of working with and representing diverse groups of people. |
Opportunity | Our vision is to build strong, connected and supportive communities that are free of new HIV transmissions, marginalisation, discrimination and stigma. |
Who | We encourage students who would like to work with Meridian to approach us with their learning requirements. |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary and paid |
When to apply | You can contact Meridian on 02 6257 2855 or by email to contact@meridianact.org.au |
Website |
The organisation | The CLC is a not-for-profit government-funded community legal centre established as a program of Care Inc in 2003. The CLC was previously known as the Consumer Credit Legal Service which began in 1995. The CLC provides free legal advice and representation in the areas of consumer credit (mortgages, credit cards and personal loans), debt recovery, banking, bankruptcy, insurance, simple contracts, and general fair trading and consumer protection. |
Opportunity | Volunteering for us is a great way for law students to build practical legal skills whilst making a real difference in the community. assist with our phone advice and casework services, as well as perform general administrative duties. |
Who | Law students |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | Email clc.admin@carefcs.org with your CV and a cover letter and they will be in touch if a role becomes available. |
Website |
The organisation | ACAT is an independent body that hears and determines a range of cases in the ACT. ACAT hears a range of disputes including civil disputes, such as disputes about a contract, debt, goods, trespass, nuisance and the Australian Consumer Law; discrimination claims; injury or death resulting from motor accidents; issues with energy and water services, including complaints and hardship and tenancy disputes. |
Opportunity | Students and Interns ACAT engages with law students to provide observation and research opportunities through internships. Internships are usually for about 10 days. Internships provide exposure to practical aspects of the administration of the law and the work of ACAT. They also encourage a culture of learning within ACAT. Research Associate Each year, ACAT employs a research associate on a temporary basis for a 12 month period, usually commencing in December-January. The position is advertised at the ANU and UC. If you are a legal graduate interested in this opportunity, contact us. |
Who | Students and graduates |
Paid or voluntary | Paid and voluntary |
When to apply | If you are a law student interested in becoming an intern, contact us. |
Website | https://www.acat.act.gov.au/about-acat/working-at-acat#Students-and-interns |
The organisation | Prisoners Aid offers support to prisoners and their families in the ACT. Their key principles are based on natural justice and rehabilitation for detainees to reduce the risk of further offending. Their twin objectives are to: ensure a ‘fair go’ for all those involved directly and indirectly in the prison system, including the families of detainees; and to enhance prospects for the rehabilitation of detainees and their reintegration into society. |
Opportunity | Internship and volunteering roles are available. Volunteers work at the Court office or the AMC visitor’s office in a range of different ways. The assistance given to Prisoners Aid by volunteers increases the services that they are able to offer their clients. |
Who | Anyone (Prisoners Aid ask for a minimum voluntary commitment of 3 months in order for them to adequately train new volunteers) |
Paid or voluntary | Both |
When to apply | For an application form, call or visit our Prisoners Aid’s office at the AMC or ACT Magistrates Court or email us: info@paact.org.au |
Website |
Indigenous Australians
The organisation | The Aurora internships focus on Indigenous issues including native title, land rights, policy development, research and social justice. The program looks for applicants with backgrounds in law, health and social welfare and social science, a strong academic record, interest in native title and the Indigenous sector, strong cultural awareness and good interpersonal and communication skills. |
Opportunity | There are various internship intakes throughout the year for four to six weeks and the Summer 2020/21 |
Who | Funded internships via scholarships are available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and graduates across a variety of disciplines, and to non-Indigenous students in law, social and health sciences. Interns can be seconded to various organisations, including the National Native Title Tribunal. |
Paid or voluntary | The internships are full-time and unpaid |
When to apply | Applications are between Monday 10 August and Friday 28 August. |
Website |
The organisation | The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) is an agency committed to implementing the Government’s policies and programs to improve the lives of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The NIAA works to influence policy across the entire Australian Government. We liaise closely with State and Territory governments, Indigenous peak bodies, stakeholders and service providers to ensure that Indigenous programs and services are delivering for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as intended. |
Opportunity | Various opportunities are advertised for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander university students applying as ‘cadets’ to different government agencies. Recruitment for these opportunities is available at State and Federal government level and the recruitment websites for various departments and agencies should be consulted, including the Federal Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations Graduate Program, Department of Justice Koori Employment Strategy in Victoria and the Australian Securities and Investment Commission. |
Who | Students |
Paid or voluntary | Paid |
When to apply | Check the website and contact the Agency to find more current information |
Website | https://www.niaa.gov.au/indigenous-affairs/employment/indigenous-cadetship-support |
National Volunteering opportunities
The organisation | Australian Volunteers is an Australian Government initiative that contributes to Australia’s Aid Policy, the UN Sustainable Development Goals and to connect Australians to the Indo-Pacific region. |
Opportunity | There are volunteering assignments in various overseas locations for people to apply to and there is also a talent pool for your details to be added to Australian Volunteers’ database to assist their recruiters to find the right candidate for future assignments. |
Who | Anyone |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | Check their website for regular updates on available assignments |
Website |
The organisation | GoVolunteer is an initiative of Volunteering Australia that aims to match people who are interested in volunteering with appropriate volunteering opportunities. The website uses a national database of volunteering opportunities which are listed by volunteering involving organisations, Volunteer Resource Centres and State Volunteer Centres. |
Opportunity | The website publishes thousands of volunteering opportunities from all around Australia, covering numerous types of volunteering such as event volunteering; student volunteering; corporate volunteering; environmental volunteering and volunteering in an emergency. The website also publishes volunteering organisations to engage with. The search feature identifies keywords such as ‘legal’ work to find more specific volunteering opportunities. |
Who | Anyone |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | Anytime |
Website |
The organisation | Previously known as Indigenous Community Volunteers, Community First Development is a First Nations community development and research organisation promoting skills, talents, recognition and cultural strength of First Nations people, and facilitating activities where they lead positive changes for their communities. |
Opportunity | Volunteers are invited by communities to live and work alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to achieve community goals. Every project, no matter what the objective, is determined and led by the community. |
Who | Anyone |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | To obtain application form, email volunteer@communityfirstdevelopment.org.au |
Website |
Opportunities with International Organisations
This section provides information regarding internship, volunteer and graduate opportunities offered both around Australia and overseas with various international organisations.
International Organisations
The organisation | The UNICEF Australia Young Ambassador Program provides young people aged 15-24 with a platform to speak up for children’s rights. Recruited from across Australia, they are trained in leadership, media & communications, government advocacy, and engaging with children and young people. The program aims to build their capacity to advocate for children’s rights at a local, national and international level, so they can speak up for a fair Australia that protects and supports every child. |
Opportunity | Ambassador, Advocate |
Who | Ages 15-24 years |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | Check the page regularly for more information. You can also sign up to the mailing list (https://www.unicef.org.au/subscribe) and follow their social media to be notified when applications open. |
Website | https://www.unicef.org.au/our-work/unicef-in-australia/young-ambassadors |
The organisation | Save the Children is an organisation committed to campaigning on a number of issues that are affecting children all around the world as well as in Australia. They uphold, promote and protect children’s rights at events, in the media and in parliament. |
Opportunity | There are various opportunities as volunteers, advocates, fundraisers and youth ambassadors in this organisation. Opportunities span from volunteering at events or their various op shops around Australia to fundraising and tabling issues relevant to youth in parliament, writing articles for mainstream media about the community’s concerns, and speaking at conferences and summits. |
Who | Anyone above 18 years |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary, Paid positions also available |
When to apply | Check the website for more details |
Website | https://www.savethechildren.org.au/get-involved Youth Ambassadors program |
The organisation | The United Nations (UN) is the world’s leading peace keeping body. With agencies and branches in numerous focus areas and offices all around the world, the UN offers various internships and positions across its global offices. |
Opportunity | All positions within the core UN agencies and Secretariat are listed through the UN careers page and applications are processed through ‘inspira’. UN Internships range across all disciplines. Specific legal teams exist within each agency and these positions can be found by searching for legal internships. Depending on the agency for which you apply, your work as an intern may include legal aspects even where it is not specifically a legal position, such as working with treaty documents, conducting research and providing advice within these frameworks. UN Volunteers also provides a registry of volunteering positions globally across a range of disciplines. Applicants can also register as a volunteer who can then be requested when opportunities arise. The UN Young Professionals Program is a program that gives applicants from a list of eligible countries the opportunity to apply for a paid position with the UN system, subject to eligibility, education and entrance exam. It is a very competitive process but one of the few ways to enter the UN system at a professional level without needing to have prior experience. The program is designed to provide opportunities for under-represented nationalities in the UN and applicants must therefore possess an eligible nationality. |
Who | Students, Graduates Fluency in at least one UN language in addition to English fluency, is recommended. |
Paid or voluntary | UN Internships with core agencies are generally unpaid and it is necessary to source independent financial support and housing, depending on your location |
When to apply | The minimum duration of an internship is 3 months and the maximum is 6 months. All internships are on a rolling basis, so applications may be held on file for several months before a vacancy becomes available. |
Website |
The organisation | The WHO has its Headquarters in Geneva and various regional offices that respond to public health needs, regulation and crises. |
Opportunity | WHO offers various internships across a range of disciplines through its internal website. The internships generally range from 3 to 6 months. |
Who | WHO has an internal application for interns and requires students to have completed at least 3 years full-time undergraduate studies before commencing their assignment. The degree should be related in some way to the technical work of the WHO and fluency in at least one of the working languages of the office of assignment is required. |
Paid or voluntary | WHO provides a stipend to students who require support, depending on their duty station, as well as medical and accident insurance. |
When to apply | Opportunities are on a rolling basis and the WHO website should be regularly consulted. |
Website |
The organisation | The UNDP is the United Nations’ global development network. It promotes technical and investment cooperation among nations with the ultimate goal of eradicating poverty. |
Opportunity | The UNDP offers various internships in its Geneva HQ and across its regional offices. |
Who | Applicants must be enrolled in their final academic year of an undergraduate degree or equivalent, or commence the internship within one year of graduating. Proficiency in at least one and preferably two to three of the working languages of UNDP is required |
Paid or voluntary | A monthly stipend is provided to interns, varying by the duty station and depending if the applicant receives external financial support. |
When to apply | Opportunities arise on a rolling basis. |
Website | https://www.undp.org/content/undp/en/home/jobs/types-of-opportunities/internships.html |
The organisation | UNICEF is the UN agency specialising in children’s rights, but also covering a diverse array of operational and policy areas, depending on the office to which an intern is assigned. |
Opportunity | Internships cover a range of technical and policy issues and disciplines. |
Who | UNICEF applies the same recruitment criteria as all UN agencies. |
Paid or voluntary | Some internships offer a stipend of up to USD 1,500 |
When to apply | Opportunities arise on a rolling basis |
Website |
The organisation | The WFP responds to global hunger by providing resources and support to afflicted global areas. |
Opportunity | The WFP provides various internships across its regional offices. |
Who | The WFP requires applicants to have completed at least two years of undergraduate studies, be currently enrolled or graduated in the last six months. A working knowledge of English is required and other UN languages are an asset. |
Paid or voluntary | A stipend connected to the specific duty station is provided to interns, up to USD 1000 per month. |
When to apply | Opportunities arise on a rolling basis |
Website |
The organisation | WIPO regulates global intellectual property, including the provision and protection of patents, trademarks and copyright. Its HQ is in Geneva. |
Opportunity | Interns at WIPO are generally recruited to headquarters in Switzerland on a rolling basis of three to six months’ duration. WIPO offers internships in Law and IP Law, as well as other areas relevant to their work in intellectual property. |
Who | Applicants must be in their third or fourth year of undergraduate study, or graduated within two years of the internship, or pursuing an advanced university degree without having completed coursework or a thesis. Excellent knowledge of English is required and knowledge of Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish is an asset. |
Paid or voluntary | There are two categories of intern, depending on duration and their level of studies and the stipends provided for the internships are 1,570 Swiss francs and 2,070 Swiss francs respectively. |
When to apply | Opportunities arise on a rolling basis. |
Website |
The organisation | The IMF is responsible for establishing and regulating global monetary policy, as well assisting countries experiencing economic difficulties. |
Opportunity | The IMF runs a Fund Internship Program for 50 students in Washington D.C. The internships are paid and run for 10-12 weeks between June and October each year. The internships specialise on a particular research question or current issue. |
Who | If applying to the Legal Department Internship, the applicant must apply within one to two years of completing an LLM, J.D or equivalent advanced degree in law and be below the age of 32 at the commencement of the internship. |
Paid or voluntary | Interns receive a competitive salary and a round-trip economy class ticket from their university to Washington D.C and limited medical insurance coverage. |
When to apply | Applications must be submitted well in advance of the intake dates in June and October. Students should consult the website for specific dates. |
Website | https://www.imf.org/en/About/Recruitment/working-at-the-imf/fund-internship-program |
The organisation | The ICJ is the highest international court responsible for resolving disputes between states and issuing advisory opinions on international issues. |
Opportunity | The ICJ provides limited internships of one to three months to students and young professionals, available in all departments and divisions of the Registry. The ICJ also runs a Young Professionals Programme similar to that of the UN. |
Who | Applicants require legal knowledge. In addition to a CV, copy of academic record and a cover letter, a writing sample by the applicant is recommended to be submitted. Applicants should have a working knowledge of both English and French. |
Paid or voluntary | The internships are unpaid and all associated costs must be borne by the applicant. |
When to apply | Opportunities arise on a rolling basis. |
Website |
The organisation | The ICC is the highest international authority for prosecuting war crimes, crimes against humanity, the crime of genocide and aggression against individuals. |
Opportunity | The ICC offers approximately 200 internships each year for final year students and graduates for three to six months. |
Who | A good record of academic performance is required, however experience is not. If an applicant has more than three years of professional experience, they may be eligible for a Visiting Professional placement. Proficiency in at least one of English and French is required and knowledge of the other is desirable, and knowledge of any other official languages of the Court is an asset. |
Paid or voluntary | Some eligible applicants may receive a monthly stipend and coverage of travel expenses, however this is subject to strict criteria. |
When to apply | Students should consult the website for specific intake and application dates. |
Website |
Fields of Law
This section provides information of numerous organisations in particular fields of law. The organisations have varying opportunities available from volunteering to paid positions. Check their websites to find out more information about how you can get involved.
Opportunities with National Agencies
Organisation | Opportunities | Website |
Human Rights Watch | Human Rights Watch offers full-time staff positions and interns in its New York headquarters and globally. Positions are very competitive, and requirements depend on the position and its location. Internships are generally unpaid, subject to individual circumstances. | |
Amnesty International | Amnesty International is an NGO working across a variety of human rights issues, domestically and internationally. It offers volunteer and professional positions, the latter which are renumerated and advertised on a rolling basis across various sectors within the organisation. | |
International Federation for Human Rights | The International Federation of Human Rights has various internships and professional opportunities available on a rolling basis globally. Internships require English and French, depending on the location and a background in international law and human rights law. | |
International Alert | International Alert is an NGO focused on preventing conflict and building peace globally. Opportunities for employment are listed through their website. | |
Peace and Collaborative Development Network | The PCDN offers various graduate and professional positions globally across a range of disciplines and human rights issues, advertised on a rolling basis on their website. | |
Save the Children | Save the Children focuses on providing support to children and their families, including in education and youth development. The organisation offers opportunities in Australia and overseas across a range of disciplines, including humanitarian programs and indigenous issues. Positions are advertised on their website and volunteering positions can also be pursued through the organisation. |
Organisation | Opportunities | Website |
Greenpeace | Greenpeace is an NGO focusing on environmental issues and offers volunteer and intern opportunities on a rolling basis. Applicants wishing to volunteer can also sign up to be a volunteer and receive updates on current opportunities. | |
Women’s Environment and Development Organisation (WEDO) | WEDO advocates for human rights, gender equality and environmental integrity. The organisation offers a variety or professional and volunteer positions advertised on their website. | |
Environmental Defender’s Office (EDO) | Environmental Defenders Office (EDO) is the largest environmental legal centre in the Australia-Pacific, dedicated to protecting our climate, communities and shared environment by providing access to justice, running ground breaking litigation and leading law reform advocacy. There are various opportunities for office volunteers, students, graduates and involvement in international programs. The ANU offers a clinical course with the EDO, the Environmental Law Clinic, which must be applied for the semester prior to taking the course. |
Women's Rights and Minority Rights
Organisation | Opportunities | Website |
International Women’s Development Agency (Australia) | Specialising in Asia Pacific region, the IWDA accepts only female applicants to positions ranging across Program Management and Coordination, Communications and Fundraising, Research, Policy and Advocacy Advisory in the field of advocating for women’s rights. | |
UN Women (Australia) | UN Women is the dedicated UN agency to women’s rights and offers opportunities globally and through its Australian division. Positions are advertised on a rolling basis and may also be found through the UN employment website inspira.org. | |
Association for Women’s Rights in Development | AWID is an international, feminist, membership organisation committed to achieving gender equality, sustainable development and women’s human rights. Positions are offered globally across a variety of disciplines and specify the requirements per the advertised description. | |
Womankind Worldwide | Womankind Worldwide is an NGO based in London working to protect women’s rights. Professional and volunteer positions are advertised on WW’s website. | |
Centre for Reproductive Rights (CRR) | The CRR is a predominately legal advocacy NGO that uses the power of law to advance reproductive rights as fundamental human rights around the world. It advertises various legal and other professional positions globally, with various requirements of expertise and experience. | |
Plan International | Plan International works with communities globally to help children and families and offers professional and volunteering opportunities in Australia. If applicants wish to volunteer overseas, they are recommended to consult the Australian Government’s Australian Volunteers for International Development program. | |
Women for Women International | Women for Women International is an NGO based in Washington D.C., but with global opportunities. It encourages students to apply for internships in the field of women’s rights over spring, summer and autumn intakes. Internships vary and specific requirements are listed for each position. | |
Equality Now | Equality Now is a legal advocacy organisation focusing on justice for women and girls. The NGO advertises various internship and employment opportunities on a needs basis. | |
MenEngage Alliance | The MenEngage Alliance is a global alliance of NGOs and UN agencies working to engage men and boys in gender justice. Current opportunities are advertised through its website and the Alliance also accepts CVs on a roster. | |
Global Fund for Women | The Global fund for Women is a foundation promoting gender equality and human rights for women and girls. It is a global organisation, centred in the US, with opportunities across the world, depending on demand. | |
Gender at Work | Gender at Work focuses on grass-roots activism to promote women’s rights and offers virtual volunteering, internships and professional positions in the sphere of gender equality and women’s empowerment. Opportunities are advertised through its website. | |
International Centre for Research on Women | The ICRW is a global research institute designed to empower women, advance gender equality and fight poverty. ICRW offers professional positions globally, as well as opportunities to conduct research and submit research proposals. | |
International Alliance of Women | The IAW is an international NGO comprised of 41 member organisations promoting women’s human rights, equality and empowerment. It provides various opportunities for the Alliance and links to each of its member organisations. |
Organisation | Opportunities | Website |
Minority Rights Group International | Interns with Minority Rights Group International are recruited to specific projects that require a working knowledge of a particular language or specialist knowledge in MRG’s work. Internships are advertised on the website on a rolling basis. Interns must be legally eligible to work in the UK and positions are unpaid. |
Refugees
The organisation | MARSS aims to provide settlement and related services for migrants, refugees and humanitarian entrants in the ACT and the region and is largely funded by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship. |
Opportunity | MARSS relies on volunteers to ensure they can keep effectively running their wide range of programs such as their homelessness services, settlement, engagement and transition support and their numerous community development programs. |
Who | Anyone |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | Anytime – MARSS keeps a volunteer register |
Website |
The organisation | The UNHCR is the principle UN agency responding to the needs of refugees globally. |
Opportunity | The UNHCR head office in Australia is located in Canberra and provides four different internships:
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Who | Legal Protection and Outreach Solutions require applicants to be graduates or to have completed at least two years of legal undergraduate studies. External Relations favours graduates or students in communication, media studies, journalism, political science or international relations, and Records requires final year students to have undertaken records management and archival administration. |
Paid or voluntary | All internships, with the exclusion of Records and Information Management, are full-time for a minimum of three months and maximum of six months. Applicants are encouraged to obtain external financial support and may only receive a Food and Local Transportation Allowance of a maximum of USD 1,000 per month if they are not sponsored. |
When to apply | Send an email indicating your interest and the internship you would like to be considered for to aulca@unhcr.org and make sure to check the website for more details. |
Website |
IHL and Arms Control
The organisation | In addition to the International Committee of the Red Cross delegation in Fiji which covers Australia, the Australian Red Cross furthers the work of the ICRC locally through their volunteer program or delegate register. |
Opportunity | There are various jobs offered periodically on their website, otherwise volunteers are welcomed across a variety of roles. |
Who | Anyone over 18 years |
Paid or voluntary | Formal job positions are paid, whilst volunteering remains unpaid. |
When to apply | Check the website for current careers opportunities |
Website |
The organisation | The ICRC is involved in the International Humanitarian Law domain, working on IHL promotion, compliance and activities in conflict zones. |
Opportunity | It provides unpaid opportunities for students and traineeships for graduates or apprentices, and associate positions for graduates in Geneva, Switzerland. Opportunities can be in International Law and Policy, Communication and Information Management, Operations, Financial Resources and Logistics and Human Resources. |
Who | A good record of academic performance is required, as is proficiency in at least one of English and French is required and knowledge of the other is desirable. Applicants should also have some understanding of humanitarian law and the work of the ICRC. |
Paid or voluntary | Traineeships provide a salary of 3000 Swiss francs per month. |
When to apply | Students should consult the website for specific intake and application dates. |
Website |
The organisation | The NAPF is a non-profit educational organisation based in California aiming to abolition nuclear weapons. It offers paid and volunteer internships in Santa Barbara, California in the field of Peace Literacy and nuclear weapons abolition. |
Opportunity | Paid internships run over the US Summer period for 10 weeks and applications must be submitted by 1 March. A Peace and Literacy Intern assists in assessments, grant-writing and program development. |
Who | Interns must be students or recent graduates having specialised in Education, Philosophy or Computer Programming. Knowledge of Spanish is an asset. |
Paid or voluntary | Interns are paid USD 15.00 per hour and interns work full-time |
When to apply | 1 March |
Website | https://www.wagingpeace.org/about/opportunities/internships/ |
The organisation | WILPF offers Peacewomen Fellowships and Internships from four to six months in its New York City UN office in the area of Women, Peace and Security. Interns and fellows work with WILPF to monitor, research and support advocacy on Women, Peace and Security issues in the UN in New York, including attending events in the UN Security Council. |
Opportunity | Four to six month internship in New York City |
Who | Applicants should be enrolled in a graduate program or recently graduated with studies in international relations/affairs, international law, political science, public policy and administration, human rights, international development, international security, gender studies, or related field and should demonstrate a keen interest in women, peace and security and an understanding of the UN system. The ability to speak additional languages is preferred. |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | Three intake periods are offered: January-May/June, May/June – August and September to December. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for each period up until a month and a half before the internship start date. Interns work four days a week. |
Website |
The organisation | The IRMCT is responsible for prosecuting and finalising the remaining individual criminal trials which were previously within the jurisdiction of the ICTR and ICTY. |
Opportunity | The IRMCT has two branches in Arusha, United Republic of Tanzania and the Hague, the Netherlands. Interns are assigned to either the Office of the President and Chambers, the Office of the Prosecutor or the Registry at either branch. Professionals, graduates and undergraduate students in their final years have the ability to apply to the IRMCT Internship Programme. The programme is open to applicants with legal backgrounds, as well as archiving and records management, journalism, translation and interpretation and information technology. |
Who | Most internships are legal internships and preference is given to graduates with backgrounds in international criminal law, public international law, international humanitarian law, human rights law or criminal law. Applicants should be proficient in English and/or French. |
Paid or voluntary | Voluntary |
When to apply | Internships range from three to six months and applicants should apply six months before their anticipated starting date. Applications must be made directly to the preferred branch of the IRMCT with a preference as to which Organ the applicant would prefer to work in. Legal internships must provide a writing sample of up to 10 pages relevant to the work of the IRMCT. |
Website |
Organisation | Opportunities | Website |
International Campaign to Ban Landmines | The ICBL is a global civil society network dedicated to end the suffering caused by antipersonnel landmines and cluster munitions by preventing their use, production, trading and eventually ensuring the destruction of stockpiles. Vacancies are advertised through its website on a rolling basis. | |
International Peace Institute | The IPI has two main offices in Vienna, Austria and in Bahrain but is primarily headquartered in New York next to the UN. It is an international not-for-profit think tank dedicated to the prevention and resolution of conflicts between and within states by strengthening international peace and security institutions. It does so through its policy research, convening, publishing and outreach activities. It advertises professional positions and internships on a rolling basis on its website. | |
Institute for Economics and Peace | The IEP specialises in economics and its use in peace and conflict resolution. It also hires statisticians, economists, peace and conflict experts, communication specialists and thought leaders in the field of global conflict resolution. Positions are advertised on a rolling basis on its website. | |
Stockholm International Peace Research Institute | SIPRI is an independent international institute dedicated to research into conflict, armaments, arms control and disarmament that provides data, analysis and recommendations based on open source information. It is currently unable to offer internships due to COVID-19 but advertises all available positions through its website. |