Australia Graduates

We directly recruit graduates into our Brisbane office. Our clerkship programs are the primary source of our future graduate intakes in Melbourne and Sydney; therefore, we do not typically undertake separate graduate recruitment processes in these locations.  

The Application Process
Applications for our National Graduate Program are made online, via our website. All applications should include a cover letter, CV and academic transcript. We will also ask a few questions as part of the application process.

Please review the key dates for your state:

The Interview Process
You will experience a two-stage interview process with us.

First-round interview
Your first-round interview will be with one of our partners, special counsels or senior associates who are part of our recruitment team, as well as a member of our Human Resources team.

The first interview is our opportunity to get to know you and for you to get to know us. We will expand on your application and your interest in K&L Gates.

Second-round interview
Brisbane applicants will have a second-round interview with a partner and special counsel or senior associate. This will take a similar format to your first interview but is another opportunity for you to meet people in different teams and to get to know the firm, so be sure to ask the questions you really want the answers to.

Offers
Offers for graduate positions will be made in accordance with the relevant state guidelines.

What is the duration of the graduate program?
The graduate program at K&L Gates runs for 12 months beginning in March each year.

What are my rotation dates?
All Australian graduates will complete three rotations across a 12 month program:  

• Rotation 1 - March to July
• Rotation 2 - July to November
• Rotation 3 - November to March

How are practice group rotations selected?
Rotations are selected taking into consideration your practice group areas of interest and business needs.

What training will I receive during the graduate program?
You will receive an in-depth induction to the firm as well as training on relevant internal processes and systems, followed by other sessions over the course of the graduate program. Training provided includes Practical Legal Training (delivered in-house by the College of Law), with sessions presented by partners, lawyers, external presenters, and our professional development team. These sessions have been designed to develop your legal knowledge and business skills, as well as to give you a broader insight into the various areas of law in which we practise.

Will K&L Gates cover the cost of my Practical Legal Training (PLT)?
If you are completing PLT as part of the Graduate Program, the firm will cover the fees.

Will I be supported by a mentor during my graduate program?
We truly believe that working together is better! Your supervisor and buddy will help you settle into the office and you will work closely with the partners, special counsels, senior associates and lawyers in your team. You will be provided with opportunities to build strong relationships; both within your teams and the wider firm network. We provide and encourage a collaborative environment for you to grow and develop in.

What feedback do I receive during the graduate program?
You will receive a mixture of informal, on the job feedback, as well as formal feedback through check-ins with HR. The end of rotation performance reviews will provide you with constructive feedback to assist in your learning and development.

Will I secure ongoing employment at the end of the graduate program?
The number of graduates we hire is intended to meet the projected requirements of our business. Prior to the completion of your graduate program, your performance and current business needs will be reviewed to ensure an appropriate match.