Law and Justice graduate program
Start your career with purpose at the Department of Justice.
Program details
Applications for the 2026 intake will open in July 2025.
- Start date: February 2026 or earlier where the opportunity is available.
- Location: Statewide
- Length: 2 years
- Placement: This program recruits for roles in the Department of Justice only.
About this program
Launch your career with the Department of Justice through the Law and Justice graduate program. Our 2-year program includes a structured career and professional development plan, tailored to your individual goals and area of specialisation.
Whether you join as a law graduate and receive support to complete your Practical Legal Training (PLT), or you come on board with our dispute resolution team and undertake mediator training, the program is designed to be as unique as you are. It's a true 'choose your own adventure' experience.
From day 1, you will contribute to work that supports justice reform, promotes community safety, and ensures all Queenslanders can access fair and inclusive services. You will learn from experienced leaders through our mentoring program and connect with our graduate network and industry experts.
We offer extraordinary opportunities to undertake meaningful work and support our employees to continually develop and grow in a wide range of careers.
This is a permanent role with the Department of Justice. As a graduate, you will receive ongoing support to build your career within the Queensland Government.
Hear what previous graduates have to say about the program
'Working at the Department of Justice puts you in a unique position to gain insight into how the legal system works in practice and contribute to solving real issues impacting people in the community.' — Jack, Legal Officer at the Department of Justice | Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
Who we are looking for
We're looking for curious, community-minded graduates who want to build a meaningful career while making a real difference in the lives of Queenslanders.
We want to hear from you if you're motivated to work on issues that matter—like justice reform, inclusion and community safety—and you're ready to apply your knowledge in a purpose-driven environment.
We welcome applications from graduates with a bachelor, graduate certificate, or postgraduate qualification in areas such as:
- law
- justice
- criminology
- mediation
- business
- international relations
- policy
- social work
- psychology
- social science.
Program eligibility
You are eligible to apply if you:
- have a university undergraduate or postgraduate degree in a discipline listed above
- have or will have completed a bachelor's degree or higher between January 2023 and 31 January 2026
- are an Australian or New Zealand citizen, are an Australian permanent resident, or have a visa with unrestricted working rights under Australian immigration law.
Additional information for international students
You are eligible to apply if you:
- can provide evidence of your visa type, status and entitlements to work prior to starting employment with us. Right to work must be maintained through employment. For more information on right to work and visa conditions visit the Department of Home Affairs
- have obtained overseas qualification recognition if you received your degree outside of Australia.
Program remuneration and benefits
- Annual starting salary of $76,217
- A permanent Queensland Government job
- 36.25 hour working week
- 12.75% employer superannuation contribution
- 17.5% holiday bonus pay
- Access to professional development and study assistance.
How do I apply
Applications for the 2026 intake will open July 2025.
Our recruitment process
You will need to submit an online application by creating a profile and uploading your:
- application form
- cover letter
- resume.
The team will make sure you meet the eligibility requirements of the program.
Experts from your chosen field will assess your:
- experience
- knowledge
- acquired skills
- personal qualities.
Our team will call successful candidates to make an offer, complete any required pre-employment checks, and organise your appointment to the program.
Get ready to start your journey as a Law and Justice graduate—your induction will begin in February 2026.
More information about this program
Find out more about the Law and Justice graduate program.
Expression of interest for Queensland Government graduate programs
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