Graduate Development Program FAQs
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.
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.