hello. we’re glad you’re
getting in touch.
Fill in form below, or simply call us on 1800 888 966
as graduates you’re ready to take the
first step in your legal career.
no doubt you have a lot of questions.
will I get hands on experience?
will I get to try different areas of law?
will I get exposure to clients?
will I have a work life balance?
our answer is yes and a whole lot more!
key graduate dates
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Victoria
Meet MK (in-person): 21 May 2026 from 5-7 pm
Meet MK (virtual): 28 May 2026 from 12:30-1:30 pm
Applications Open: 7 August 2026
Applications Close: 23 August 2026
Video Interviews: From 25 August 2026
Assessment Centre: 15 and 16 September 2026
Final Interviews: From 21 September 2026
Offers: 30 September 2026 -
Queensland
Meet MK (virtual): 28 May 2026 from 12:30-1:30 pm
Applications Open: 10 August 2026
Applications Close: 21 August 2026
Video Interviews: From 25 August 2026
Assessment Centre: 8 September 2026
Final Interviews: From 14 September 2026
Offers: 24 September 2026 -
New South Wales
Meet MK (virtual): 28 May 2026 from 12:30-1:30 pm
Applications Open: 7 September 2026
Applications Close: 24 September 2026
Video Interviews: From 29 September 2026
Assessment Centre: 13 October 2026
Final Interviews: From 19 October 2026
Offers: 26 October 2026 -
South Australia
Meet MK (virtual): 28 May 2026 from 12:30-1:30 pm
Applications Open: 7 September 2026
Applications Close: 24 September 2026
Video Interviews: From 29 September 2026
Assessment Centre: 19 October 2026
Final Interviews: 26 October 2026
Offers: 28 October 2026 -
Expression of Interest
If you are interested in our 2027 Law Graduate Program, complete an expression of interest below:
2027 Law Graduate Program Victoria – Expression of Interest Job at Macpherson Kelley
2027 Law Graduate Program Queensland – Expression of Interest Job at Macpherson Kelley
2027 Law Graduate Program NSW – Expression of Interest Job at Macpherson Kelley
2027 Law Graduate Program Adelaide – Expression of Interest Job at Macpherson Kelley
our graduate
program
We want our graduates to become strong, commercially minded lawyers. That means working closely with clients to understand the challenges they face, identifying opportunities for them and adding value to their businesses. One day you might be in a client’s factory or head office. Another you could be in court or front and centre at a mediation.
Our year-long graduate program will see you rotate every three months through a range of law practice areas. We want to give you the opportunity to see what you enjoy and where you would like to focus your career long term. This is your year so make the most of it!
We don’t expect you to know it all. In fact, your professional development is a key priority for us. You will be able to take part in our Macpherson Kelley Business School, as well as Business Bootcamps which feature practical scenarios and real world case studies. You’ll also receive mentoring and regular feedback from our senior lawyers.
What does our graduate program offer?
- An extensive induction and on-boarding program.
- Four rotations with exposure to different practice areas.
- Professional development opportunities through the MK Business School.
- A buddy and mentor to help support you throughout your graduate year.
- Regular feedback.
- Exposure to clients from day one.
- Long-term career progression.
- Opportunities to participate in fun activities – social, sporting and community focused events.
- A down to earth and flexible workplace culture.
- A healthy work life balance through our Flex+ and Wellness+ programs.
tips and tricks for applying
day in the life
Want a behind-the-scenes look into a day in the life of an MK grad? Fuelled by coffee and vibes, Bailey Breen and Amy Ridge document their day and let us in on what makes our program and culture unique.
graduate stories
Hear about Madison Schenk, Christian Potgieter, Hanna Hallet and Matt King’s grad journeys.
faqs
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Is Macpherson Kelley the right fit for me?
Our people are as diverse as the challenges they tackle, and that’s something we value deeply. But despite our differences, there are a few qualities that unite us.
We’re commercial, energetic, ambitious, entrepreneurial, and confident. We speak plainly, think pragmatically, and roll up our sleeves. At Macpherson Kelley, participation isn’t optional—there are no sidelines here. Everyone gets involved, and that’s what makes us who we are.
If that sounds like you, then you might just be a great fit.
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Does the Graduate Program vary from state to state?
Ever so slightly, though our graduate program is truly national.
Across all states, it consists of a 12-month program across a range of practice areas exposing you to a variety of difference experiences and environments.
In Victoria, we have graduates based in both our Dandenong and Melbourne offices. Our Victorian graduates complete Supervised Legal Training, allowing for practical on-the-job learning.
Our Brisbane graduates also complete Supervised Legal Training.
Our Sydney graduates complete Practical Legal Training through the College of Law. PLT is the only pathway for admission to practice in NSW.
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What do you look for in graduate applications?
We are interested in who you are and the individual strengths you can bring to Macpherson Kelley. We do not look to fill a particular mould.
Our graduates come from a diverse range of backgrounds, but they all share something in common by exemplifying our core values: talk straight, play as a team, and better each day.
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What will make my application stand out?
When we review applications, we’re interested in well-rounded individuals who exhibit:
- Demonstrated commercial awareness and client focused thinking.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- A balanced lifestyle—we want to know your interests outside of law.
- Solid academic performance, showing commitment and capability.
- Proven teamwork ability, because collaboration is integral to everything we do.
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What should my application include?
To complete your application, you will be required to answer a series of questions to assist us in getting to know you better. In addition, you will need to submit the following documents:
- Your current CV – including work experience, extracurricular activities, and both academic and non-academic achievements.
- Your most recent academic transcript.
Applications that do not include a CV or academic transcript will not be considered.
Eligibility for the Macpherson Kelley Law Graduate Program requires completion of a course of study that is recognised as an academic qualification for admission to legal practice in Australia by the relevant governing bodies.
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What other application tips can you provide?
- Read the advertisement carefully and make sure your application includes everything that’s required.
- Tell us what attracted you to Macpherson Kelley and why you are interested in working with us.
- Show us you’ve done research on the firm.
- Share your key skills, interests, extra-curricular activities and work experience.
- Check your application carefully for formatting, spelling and grammatical errors.
- Make sure you get your application in ahead of time—allow time for any technical problems.
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Any advice for video interviews/ assessment centre/interviews?
Our goal is to get to know the real you—so relax, be yourself, and enjoy the opportunity to meet our team and learn more about Macpherson Kelley. This is your chance to decide if we’re the right fit for you too!
Be ready and willing to get involved and try new things! Think of our values and how you could demonstrate them during this process.
How to prepare for the assessment centre and interview:
- Read up on recent news about our firm, our clients, competitors, and the industries we work in.
- Practice interview responses with friends or family to build confidence.
- Review your application to refresh your memory on what you’ve shared with us.
- Be punctual.
- Be honest and try to relax. We’re looking for potential, not perfection.
- Engage confidently. Make eye contact, avoid fidgeting, and show enthusiasm.
- Emphasise your strengths and potential, not your shortcomings.
- Prepare a few thoughtful questions that genuinely matter to you.
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Does MK hire international students for graduate roles?
International students who are permanent residents or hold a valid work Visa are welcome to apply for our graduate program.
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We`re proud to be recognised by @prosple.au as one of Australia`s Top 10 law graduate employers for 2026. 🎓
This recognition reflects something we`ve always believed: graduates learn best when they`re trusted to get involved.
That means real client exposure from the outset, support from experienced mentors, opportunities to explore different practice areas, and the freedom to ask questions, challenge yourself and shape your own career path.
We believe graduates shouldn`t have to choose between great work and a great workplace. That`s why we invest in meaningful development opportunities alongside flexible ways of working, strong support networks and a culture where people genuinely enjoy coming to work.
Think MK could be the right fit for you? Learn more about our graduate program at the link in our bio.
#MKGradProgram2027 #LawGraduates #LegalCareers
With the new financial year underway, we are pleased to announce our national promotions for July 2026. 🎉
Congratulations to all our lawyers, including Dirk Heinz, promoted to Principal Lawyer in PLN; Justin Bellino and Amy Clarke to Special Counsel in Property; Christina Zhang to Senior Associate in Planning & Environment; and to our new Associates: Jasmine Bates, Hamish Glaspole, Isobel Graham, Emily Huynh, Angela Ipara and Anthony Tran.
These promotions recognise the outstanding performance and contribution of our people across the firm. Many of this year’s promoted cohort began their careers at MK as graduates, reflecting the continued strength of our national graduate program.
Please join us in congratulating our team. 👏
#NationalPromotions #MacphersonKelley #GoodThinking
Ever wondered what life as an MK grad actually looks like? 👀
Spend the day with our Sydney grads, Patrick Anastasiou, Sofia Pauley and Jackson Brown-Beresford, as they take you behind the scenes at MK. From catching up with mentors to hands-on client work and even getting the opportunity to go to court, get a glimpse into the real experience our grads have every day.
Want to learn more? Head to our website to explore the grad program and see where your career could start. 💻
#LawGraduates #MKGradProgram2027 #DayInTheLife
Last week, our team attended the 2026 ARITA National Conference on the sunny Gold Coast. ☀️
The conference provided valuable insights into the latest trends, challenges and opportunities across the restructuring, insolvency and turnaround sector, along with the chance to connect with industry peers from across Australia.
It was great to engage in meaningful discussions and further strengthen relationships with insolvency and restructuring professionals. 🤝
#ARITA #Insolvency #GoodThinking
Good thinking means putting our clients first—responding when it matters and delivering advice you can act on. 💬
Visit mk.com.au to learn more.
#NPS #ClientCulture #GoodThinking
What a night! Managing Principal Lawyer Cathy Russo and Principal Lawyer Belinda Sigismundi were recognised at the 2026 @lawyers_weekly Partner of the Year Awards, held in Sydney yesterday. ✨
A standout achievement for Cathy, who won "Partner of the Year" in the Banking & Finance category - a well-earned acknowledgement of her outstanding leadership, expertise and client impact.
Congratulations also to Belinda, recognised as a finalist in the Intellectual Property category.
Cathy and Belinda’s recognition reflects the strength of their practices and the impact they continue to make across the industry. We`re so proud of them! 👏
#AustralianLawAwards #LawyersWeekly #PartnerOfTheYear
We’re pleased to welcome Katrina Pagey and Lucie Marsden to Macpherson Kelley’s Brisbane office.
Katrina joins as a Principal Lawyer in our Litigation & Dispute Resolution team, bringing extensive experience across complex commercial disputes and insolvency matters. Lucie joins as Special Counsel in Wills & Estates, with more than 20 years of experience supporting individuals and families with estate planning and succession.
Their arrival adds valuable depth to our Brisbane team as we continue to strengthen our capability across key practice areas nationally.
Read the full media release on our website.
Olivia Holmes, Elizabeth Allen, James Garrett and Marissa Cedro attended the @aitdau Excellence Awards in Brisbane last night, joining learning and development professionals from across Australia to celebrate innovation and impact in the profession.
We are proud that Business Bootcamp was named a finalist in the Best Capability Building Program category, with Macpherson Kelley recognised among organisations delivering meaningful, learner‑focused initiatives.
Congratulations to all finalists recognised. 👏
#AITD #ProfessionalDevelopment #GoodThinking
Last week, our Melbourne office welcomed colleagues from across our @pacificlegalnetwork (PLN) practice for a "Talanoa", a traditional Pacific concept centred on open, inclusive and participatory dialogue. 🌸
Team members heard from Special Counsel Dirk Heinz and Senior Associate Damian Kelly, who shared insights into PLN, the work we do across the region, and the services, capabilities and expertise we bring to clients.
Did you know PLN has been operating for 25 years and spans 21 jurisdictions? It remains the only legal brand of its kind working across more than one Pacific Island country. 🌍
Interested in learning more about PLN? Reach out to Damian Kelly or visit www.pln.com.au.
Intellectual Property Principal Lawyers Paul Kirton and Belinda Sigismundi recently attended the @intaglobal 148th Annual Meeting in London, joining more than 10,000 IP professionals, business leaders and policymakers from over 100 jurisdictions.
The conference brought together global perspectives on the future of intellectual property and intangible assets, with discussions spanning AI, brand protection, cross‑border innovation and the commercialisation of IP. As the INTA’s largest annual meeting, it provided a valuable forum for thought leadership, collaboration and knowledge‑sharing across jurisdictions.
Belinda and Paul will return with practical insights to help our clients navigate complex brand protection and IP strategies in Australia and internationally.
#IntellectualProperty #INTA #GoodThinking
Last week, several of our Victorian lawyers attended the 2026 Women in Insolvency and Restructuring Victoria (WIRV) Mixer, an engaging evening that brought together industry peers for meaningful networking and discussions.
As a proud Silver Member, we value the opportunity to support initiatives that foster collaboration and strengthen relationships across the insolvency and restructuring community.
A big thank you to @wirv for hosting a highly enjoyable event and we look forward to attending more events in the future!
#WIRV #Insolvency #Restructuring
We’re proud to celebrate our 2025 cohort of graduate lawyers, who have recently been admitted to the legal profession and are beginning their careers as practising lawyers across Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales! 👏
Congratulations to Darcie Holgate-English, Cooper Zulli, Sherilyn Jespersen, Chloe Hanna, Bailey Breen, Benjamin Kellock, Charlotte Howard, Kieret Dhaliwal, Naomi Wijayasinghe, Jeff Ke and Amy Ridge on this significant achievement.
This milestone reflects their dedication and hard work in the legal industry, and we are excited to see the impact they will make at Macpherson Kelley and throughout their legal careers!
#LegalAdmission #GraduateLawyer
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