The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is a critical participant in the administration of justice within Western Australia, providing an independent and effective criminal prosecution service and confiscation practice. Applications for ODPP Vacation Clerkships in Summer 2025/2026 and Winter 2026 are invited from persons who will graduate with a law degree in 2025 or who will be eligible to graduate with a law degree in 2026. With approximately 16 full time vacation clerkships available to law students each year at the ODPP, we are looking for professional and enthusiastic individuals who would like to join the office over a two-week period to undertake these popular clerkships. Offering a wealth of knowledge, the ODPP will be offering these clerkships over the summer period November 2025 and January 2026 and in the winter period in June and July 2026. These clerkships will provide you with a great insight into criminal law and the inner workings of the ODPP. During the clerkship, you will have a variety of learning opportunities that may include: Assisting counsel with preparing for court appearances Drafting court documents Conducting integral legal research Attending a variety of different criminal proceedings including a jury trial (where possible) Attending internal development sessions as available Clerkships are unpaid however offer a unique and insightful learning experience. Due to the inherent nature of working in criminal law, staff at the ODPP can be exposed to confronting and at times distressing material. While efforts will be made to minimise exposure to such material during the course of your vacation clerkship, you are encouraged to consider your own personal circumstances before submitting this application. Want to know more? You are encouraged to contact Renee Methorst (08) 6266 34or email dpp.wa.gov.au to find out more about the role and the ODPP (not to be contacted for Job Application Packages or assistance with lodging your application). Ready to apply? Applications should comprise the following: A completed online application form. A covering letter of no more than one (1) A4 page telling us why you are interested in a vacation clerkship at the ODPP, and your interest in criminal law, and advocacy. A current academic transcript. A current and comprehensive resume. A completed Clerkship Dates Preference Form (attached) Please ensure you have plenty of time to submit your application to allow for unanticipated problems, as late and proforma applications will not be accepted. If you are experiencing difficulties accessing the Job Application Package or lodging your application, please contact the team at dpp.wa.gov.au . If you have any access needs that may require adjustments to the application process, including alternative methods of submission/communication, please contact us at dpp.wa.gov.au or call (08) 9425 3. ABOUT US For further information about the ODPP, please refer to the attached Job Application Package and the ODPP website: www.dpp.wa.gov.au. The ODPP is an equal opportunity employer. We recognise the value that people of diverse backgrounds bring to the workforce. We are committed to improving employment opportunities and outcomes through the recruitment, development and retention of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young people, people with disability, women, people of diverse sexualities and genders and people from culturally diverse backgrounds. We encourage applicants to visit the Jobs and Skills WA website or call 13 64 64 for assistance with preparing your application, finding employment and career progression. Criminal Record, Employment and Integrity Screening Given the nature of the work of the ODPP, all appointments to ODPP positions will be subject to formal criminal records screening and employment screenings and any other clearances deemed to be required including psychological assessments as part of our commitment to the mental health and wellbeing of our workforce. Work health and safety (WHS) The ODPP is committed to meeting the requirements under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act 2020 by having proactive strategies aimed at enhancing the health and wellbeing of our people. We look forward to receiving your application. Closing Date: 1 August 2025 at 4:00pm (WST)
