Applications
When do applications open for the Graduate Development Program (GDP) each year?
Normally our Graduate applications open in July/August. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled on our Careers Page here: Dentons – Graduates in Australia and our social media for updates.
Do I need a certain degree to apply?
Yes, you must have completed a Bachelor of Laws or Juris Doctor LLB. We do not hire from a certain list or type of university and encourage applications no matter where you are studying within the relevant state of Australia.
Do you require a minimum WAM/GPA?
We generally look for a strong performance of grades but consider every application we receive in context and holistically. If you feel you can submit a strong application even if you do not meet these grades, we encourage you to apply. We also encourage you to include mitigating circumstances if relevant
What makes me eligible to apply for the GDP?
If you are ready to graduate/have graduated by the time the GDP commences.
Do you accept applications from candidates who are not eligible to work in Australia and who require sponsorship?
Due to the nature of the GDP, we are unable to accept applications from candidates who do not have the right to work in Australia and cannot offer sponsorship opportunities.
How many Grads do you take on each year?
This varies depending on each office and business needs. For our 2025 cohort we took on 26 Law Graduates nationally (Sydney – 14, Melbourne – 5, Brisbane – 5 and Adelaide – 2).
Which locations do you take on Law Graduates at Dentons Australia?
We have office locations in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. We aim to take on Law Graduates in each office each year dependent on business needs.
Can I submit more than one application to the GDP?
No, you can only apply for one state/city within our GDP at Dentons Australia.
What does the recruitment process look like?
Our Talent Acquisition team will screen and review all CVs, Cover Letters and Academic Transcripts. You must submit all three of these for your application to be considered. If successful, you will then move to the next stage of our process which may involve interview(s) and networking events with our Partners and HR team.
The GDP
When does the GDP commence?
Dentons Australia GDP commences around February/March.
How many rotations am I allowed to do?
Law Graduates will complete two rotations with potentially an option of a third rotation; you will be asked to submit these the month prior to starting with Dentons. We will try our best to accommodate your preferences, but please note these are not guaranteed and are dependent on business needs.
Are there opportunities to do a seat in your global offices or with a client?
We don’t normally offer a seat in global offices during your Graduate year, but opportunities may present themselves during your career at Dentons. Client secondments are invaluable for learning about how our clients operate and a great chance to experience at first hand a practical business context. We also offer international secondments. Please note our secondments are subject to availability, business needs, performance and eligibility.
What jurisdiction will I qualify in after the completion of the GDP?
If you have completed the GDP in e.g. Sydney, you will be eligible for admission in New South Wales.
Is there an opportunity to do pro-bono work?
Yes, each Law Graduate is required to meet a target of 35 hours pro bono work in their first year. The firm has a strong track record of community involvement, and you will be asked to take the initiative to involve yourself in pro bono work. This may be through your team’s involvement with a pro bono matter, your assistance on an internal project, or by providing pro bono legal advice through one of the clinics we support, such as the Senior Rights Service, Catherine House, Older Women’s Network. Redfern Legal Centre, Circle Green Legal Centre, Fitzroy Legal Service and Arts Law Centre of Australia.
What learning and development opportunities will I be exposed to during my Law Graduate year?
At Dentons we offer a comprehensive Graduate Development Program, that all new Law Graduates complete over their first 10 months at Dentons. This program is designed to provide our Law Graduates with the key knowledge and skills for high performance during their first year of practise.
The program will also introduce Law Graduates to each of the Business Units at Dentons and supports you to develop healthy habits that maximise performance, while maintaining your wellbeing. This program begins with a face-to-face program commencement event, followed by a series of virtual webinars and trainings.
At Dentons you will also be invited to monthly firm-wide Wellness and Legal Skills sessions. These sessions cover a wide range of topics and are delivered by different matter experts each month.
PLT
Will Dentons fund my PLT studies?
Dentons will provide education assistance for your PLT, capped at 100% of the course fees. Once you commence employment with Dentons, we can either pay this contribution direct to your training institution or, as a reimbursement through to you upon submission of your invoice and receipt. You are eligible for this reimbursement upon commencement as a Law Graduate at Dentons.
What flexible work arrangements does Dentons offer when completing the PLT courses?
Dentons provide 8 days of paid study leave to our Law Graduates, which you can use to assist with your studies for the PLT.
When should I complete my PLT by?
We recommend completing the PLT soon as possible, usually by the end of the GDP and to be admitted as a Solicitor within the relevant state by then too.
Does Dentons have a preferred PLT provider?
No, we accept most PLT providers.
Current opportunities
Do you offer ad-hoc student work experience opportunities at Dentons?
Unfortunately, we do not offer unpaid student work experience. We suggest keeping an eye out for any roles that fit with your studies on our Careers Page.
Do you offer any Paralegal opportunities for students?
There are entry roles at Dentons beyond our Early Careers opportunities, including Paralegal roles, which may be of interest if you are keen to gain substantial experience and fit the criteria for the role. Paralegal roles can vary in terms of required work experience, and some may ask for little or no prior legal experience.
Can I participate in a clerkship at Dentons?
We run a Summer and Winter clerkship program each year at our Adelaide office, which affords Law students the opportunity to work for four weeks working amongst a practice group within Dentons.