2026/27 Seasonal Clerkship Program - Canberra
Johnson Winter Slattery
Complex work. Real responsibility. Genuine support.
As a seasonal clerk at Johnson Winter Slattery, you will:
- Participate in an eight to ten week clerkship program
- Work on complex, high‑profile matters for leading Australian and global clients early in your career
- Be supported by hands‑on, highly ranked partners who are closely involved in matters and junior development
- Develop strong commercial judgment, not just technical legal skills, through exposure to strategic client work
- Receive mentoring and support through a structured development program
- Be part of a supportive, high-performing, and social firm culture
Who We Are
Johnson Winter Slattery (JWS) is a leading Australian law firm known for advising corporates and funds on their most complex transactions, disputes and regulatory matters. We are proudly independent, which means decisions are made here, by the people you work with, in the best interests of our clients and our lawyers.
At JWS, we build authentic, long-term relationships and have a deep understanding of our clients and their industries. Our clients say we are pragmatic, strategic, commercial and easy to work with.
Our firm is comprised of more than 500 highly talented people, including 85+ partners, across Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra, Brisbane and Perth.
We are globally connected and have strong relationships with major independent law firms around the world. Our strong international relationships mean you’ll work on cross‑border matters with leading firms across Asia, the US, UK, Europe and New Zealand – gaining global exposure without losing visibility or support.
JWS was recognised as Best Professional Services Firm and Best Australian Law Firm in the Beaton Client Choice Awards 2025 and was named a finalist in 2026 for Best Australian Law Firm and Most Trusted Firm: Law & Related Services. We were awarded as Corporate Law Firm of the Year in Best Lawyers Best Law Firms 2027. Our lawyers and practices are consistently highly ranked in Chambers & Partners, Legal 500 and Lexology Index (formerly Who's Who Legal).
We are strongly committed to social justice, responsible business and our diverse communities.
Your Career With Us
At JWS, your opportunities reflect your ability – not your title. You’ll be encouraged to think commercially, contribute meaningfully, and take ownership of your work from day one.
We are looking for clerks who combine strong academic performance with excellent communication skills, a collaborative approach, and a drive to achieve the best outcomes for clients.
Our clerkship program is open to students in their penultimate year of a relevant law degree with full Australian or New Zealand working rights (citizenship or permanent residency).
Applications must include:
- A response to the questions in the clerkship application form
- A current CV
- Latest academic transcript
Our clerkship program is offered across multiple locations in Australia, and we ask that you apply to your preferred location only.
For enquiries, please contact: Eleni Carkagis, Early Careers Manager at ***email_hidden***.
Applications close on Sunday 12 July 2026.