Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders at Clayton Utz
We are focused on creating opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and businesses through a range of actions that demonstrate our commitment to providing long-term, sustainable employment, training, education and business opportunities.
In 2022, we launched our First Nations Traineeship, which is an opportunity for law students who identify as First Nations to experience what it’s like to work at one of Australia’s leading law firms. The traineeship is a structured learning program that will offer support every step of the way, over 12 months, including support from a First Nations adviser, a dedicated coach and a “buddy”.
We have an ongoing engagement with CareerTrackers internship program and are also participating in Generation One's (a Minderoo Foundation initiative) Indigenous Employment Index and its Indigenous Employment Network. The Index will be an Australian first to measure and determine Indigenous employment best practice, what works, and improve the evidence base from which to drive sustainable Indigenous employment.
'Walk With Me'
"The story behind the painting reflects on how I see the best part of life’s journey, it being with whom we walk with and whom we get to share our journeys with. It inspired me to think outside the box, mapping and piecing together the prospect to achieve one’s goals and build towards a career pathway. Taking this journey with us and waking alongside us will allow the next generations to emerge within their own strengths and growth to continue on this journey.
The painting also represents teaching and respectively learning from one another, of our history, our cultural, our dreamtime stories and the land we call home, ‘Australia’.”
Nancy Long, a proud South Australian Ngarrindjeri and Kaurna, Nunga woman Artist and Wayside staff member
Alexandra Rawson-Harris, Melbourne CareerTracker Intern
"I had the opportunity to intern at Clayton Utz through CareerTrackers – a program that helps First Nations students secure internships during their studies.
My time at CU not only exposed me to many different areas of the law, it, also gave me the opportunity to develop and improve various skills that will be invaluable as I continue my studies.
As an example of the practical experience I gained: in the Major Projects and Construction team, I worked on several large-scale road projects and undertook a multitude of different tasks, which each broadened my knowledge and abilities.
As well as this on-the-job experience, I had the opportunity to network and connect with people across the firm both in a professional and social context. I’ve been constantly reminded throughout my time as an intern of the welcoming culture at Clayton Utz. I have consistently felt supported by my team, the wider firm and CareerTrackers. Everyone I have met has been eager to answer any questions I have, putting time aside to discuss my experience and what I have learnt. I am very grateful to have had this experience."
Samantha Colless, Sydney CareerTracker Intern
"The CareerTrackers internship program gave me a valuable insight into the culture of Clayton Utz, and what it would be like to work at a leading commercial law firm.
From day one, I encountered hard-working and down-to-earth people. The firm really cultivated a safe learning environment where I was encouraged to ask questions and provided with the appropriate support network and training. I also enjoyed attending the different social events and having the chance to meet other people at the firm.
As a law student, working at the firm was pivotal in my professional development because I gained practical experience - from research tasks and preparing memos and file notes, to attending client meetings - that set me up for success when applying for Clerkship Programs. Following my internship, I accepted a summer clerkship offer at Clayton Utz, which allowed me to take my experience to the next level."