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.

JWS was recognised as Best Skilled 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. We are proud of our pro bono program which focuses on supporting low income, disadvantaged and marginalised people in the Australian community and the charities that support them.

What are we looking for?

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 currently seeking a Law Graduate to join our Pro Bono Practice for a 12-month placement commencing in January 2027.

As a Pro Bono Graduate, you will:

- Work exclusively with our pro bono clients on real legal matters.
- Gain hands-on experience and broaden your legal expertise by supporting low-income individuals, disadvantaged groups, and marginalised members of the Australian community
- Have the flexibility to tailor your year to suit your interests – this includes two placements at community legal centres

We’re looking for graduates who have not only demonstrated academic excellence but also have strong communication skills, enjoy working collaboratively, and are passionate about supporting pro bono clients and delivering impactful legal support. Placements are available in our Sydney or Brisbane offices. Please note that no relocation allowance will be provided for an interstate placement.

Our Pro Bono Gap Year Program is open to recent law graduates and final-year law students who will complete their degree by December 2026,



with full Australian or New Zealand working rights (citizenship or permanent residency).

Applications must include

- A current CV
- Latest academic transcript
- A response to the following key questions in the application form:
- Why is pro bono work important to you, and how have you contributed to social justice or community initiatives?
- What key skills or strengths do you believe will help you succeed in the Pro Bono Gap Year Program? Pease provide examples of how you have demonstrated these through your studies, work, or extra-curricular activities.

If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding opportunity to take your career to the next level, then we would love to hear from you.

For enquiries, please contact: Eleni Carkagis, Early Careers Manager at [email protected].

Applications close on Sunday, 18 October 2026.

We are committed to promoting a workplace that is diverse and inclusive. We encourage the best people - regardless of race, religion, or belief if any, gender, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, or age - to fulfil their professional aspirations with us. In particular we would welcome applications from First Nations candidates.

Johnson Winter Slattery pays respect to Elders past and present of our nation’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. We honour the deep spiritual, cultural and customary connections of Traditional Owners to the Australian landscape, including Australia’s waterways, land, and sea country.

📌 2027 Pro Bono Gap Year Program - Sydney or Brisbane
🏢 Johnson Winter Slattery
📍 Sydney