Our clerkship program is your first step towards a rewarding career in commercial law. Designed for penultimate-year law students, it’s your chance to experience life at one of Australia’s leading law firms and discover why Clayton Utz is the ideal place to start your legal journey.
What to expect
As a clerk, you’ll gain hands-on experience in a full-service commercial law firm that values authenticity, collaboration, and excellence. You’ll work alongside talented professionals on real matters, contributing to high-profile transactions and cases that make a difference.
Your experience will include:
Practice area rotations: Explore two different areas of commercial law and broaden your expertise.
Challenging work: Engage in research, draft client memos, attend court and client meetings, and contribute to pro bono initiatives.
Supportive mentorship: Be guided by a Partner, coach, and buddy in each rotation, benefitting from the mentorship of both senior and junior lawyers.
Professional development: Build your skills through tailored development sessions and practical learning opportunities.
Cutting-edge technology: Gain hands-on experience with innovative tools like Harvey and Lexis+ AI, which are transforming the way we deliver legal services.
Community engagement: Give back through our Pro Bono and Community Connect programs.
Social and sporting activities: Connect with your colleagues and discover the authentic culture of Clayton Utz.
Working in a top-tier law firm is demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. You’ll be part of a team that is striving for excellence every day, and you’ll have the opportunity to work on some of the most complex and high-profile matters in the country. The skills and experience you gain here will set you apart and prepare you for a successful career in law.
Why Clayton Utz?
At Clayton Utz, we’re known for our commitment to excellence, innovation, and making a positive impact. As a clerk, you’ll be part of a firm that invests in your development and supports you to achieve your goals.
We’re proud to be recognised as one of the best places to start your legal career. In 2026, we featured in the Top 5 Graduate Employers in Law and the Top 5 Most Popular Graduate Employers in Law in the Prosple Top 100 rankings. We’re also ranked in the AAGE Top Graduate Employers 2026.
These accolades reflect our commitment to providing an exceptional experience for our clerks and graduates. Join us and take the first step towards a career that challenges, inspires, and empowers you to make a difference.
How to apply
Applications will open in June/July for the 2026/27 program. Please refer to the key dates below for the application windows in each location.
Click the link below to pre-register and be notified when we open our next round of applications
We want every candidate to have equal access and opportunities, so please contact us if you need any support or reasonable adjustments to complete your application.
Key Dates
Location
Summer: 16 November 2026 – 11 December 2026
Autumn: 26 April 2027 – 21 May 2027
Winter: 14 June 2027 – 9 July 2027
Applications open: 13 July 2026, 9am
Applications close: 7 August 2026, 5pm
3 September 2026 (for shortlisted applicants)
September 2026
7 October 2026, 9am
8 October 2026, 1pm
Summer: 23 November 2026 – 5 February 2027
Applications open: 10 June 2026, 9am
Applications close: 12 July 2026, 11:59pm
August 2026 (for shortlisted applicants)
August – September 2026
9 September 2026, 9am
10 September 2026, 1pm
Summer: 16 November 2026 – 11 December 2026
Winter: 14 June 2027 – 9 July 2027
Recruitment Dates
Applications open: 6 July 2026, 9am
Applications close: 9 August 2026, 11:59pm
2 September 2026 (for shortlisted applicants)
September 2026
15 October 2026, 10am
15 October 2026, 2pm
Summer 1: 16 November 2026 – 4 December 2026
Summer 2: 18 January 2027 – 5 February 2027
Winter: 14 June 2027 – 2 July 2027
Applications open: 22 June 2026, 9am
Applications close: 26 July 2026, 11:59pm
August 2026 (for shortlisted applicants)
August 2026
11 September 2026, 9am
11 September 2026, 1pm
Summer: 23 November 2026 – 5 February 2027
Applications open: 10 June 2026, 9am
Applications close: 12 July 2026, 11:59pm
5 & 26 August 2026 (for shortlisted applicants)
August – September 2026
9 September 2026, 9am
10 September 2026, 1pm