First Nations
Internship Program
Are you a First Nations law student or recent graduate – or keen to hone your skills in campaigning or communications?
Interested in nature and environmental justice and the power of public interest litigation and legal advocacy campaigns?
We'd love you to join us for a paid internship at EJA.
What you'll learn
How to use the law
To empower communities, safeguard our climate, protect nature and support First Nations people fighting for Country and Culture.
Tell compelling stories
Develop messaging and communications skills to tell stories that motivate people to take campaign action and engage with the issues we face.
Strategic campaigning
Learn how integrated legal campaigns are developed to advocate for good laws and forward-thinking policies
What you'll do
You will work with environmental lawyers and campaigners across two of the following areas of EJA’s work:
- Nature – Using the law to protect and regenerate ecosystems on the brink of collapse
- Climate justice – Public interest litigation and legal actions to put justice at the heart of climate action
- Justice – using the law to return rights to Traditional Owners to care for Country.
Key details
We are initially offering two internships for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander law students and recent graduates, or for First Nations people looking to gain experience in advocacy communications and campaigning.
You can express a preference for the two areas of work you want to be involved in, and will be assigned your own project to complete in each area that is suitable to your preferences and skills.
Timing
We offer internships of 10-15 days.
We can be flexible to suit your needs. You might prefer to have a calendar of non-regular days to make up the 10-15 day internship to fit around your other commitments (though weekdays only – we don't work on weekends!). We can also vary the duration of internships, and try to start whenever it suits you.
Talk to us about what you need and how we can best support you.
Ideally, we start two interns at the same time, at least for the training and while you get to know us.
Stipend
Interns will be paid a stipend of $200 per day, and additional accommodation funding may be available for applicants who need to travel a long distance to take up the position.
Applicant requirements
Applicants usually have an interest in the environment, are studying or have recently completed a law degree, and completion of administrative law is an advantage (but not essential). Campaign-focused applicants might also be interested in environmental justice communications and advocacy (you don’t need to be a student!).
If this sounds like something you would be interested in, please get in touch with us – see details below.
How to apply
There is no deadline for applications, we will consider them as they come in, so please lodge an expression of interest as soon as you can.
Scroll down to fill in the application form.
Meet some past volunteers
What inspired you to apply for an internship program at Environmental Justice Australia?
My decision to apply for the First Nations Internship at Environmental Justice Australia was driven by my passion for legal advocacy and my desire to support Indigenous communities in their fight for environmental rights. Through my legal studies and work in pro bono cases, I have witnessed the systemic challenges First Nations people face in accessing justice. This role offered a meaningful opportunity to contribute to legal strategies that promote Indigenous-led environmental governance.
What has been your favourite thing about the role?
My favourite aspect of the role has been the breadth of legal matters I’ve engaged with. During my time at EJA, working across the Climate and Justice teams provided invaluable exposure to diverse and complex legal issues. However, what truly defined my experience was the people – their depth of knowledge, generosity, and willingness to share insights and mentorship made my time at EJA both enriching and inspiring.
What does environmental justice mean to you?
To me, environmental justice means ensuring all communities can access a healthy environment and influence decisions affecting their land, air, and water.
What inspired you to apply to volunteer with Environmental Justice Australia?
I am deeply inspired by EJA’s work and am keen to pursue a career in this area of law when I graduate. I believe aligning your passion with your profession is crucial, and I admire how EJA advocates passionately for climate justice. Their work is both crucial and impactful.
What has been your favourite thing about the role?
Our country is the greatest teacher, and my favourite lesson from country is the power of connectivity. The team at EJA is both inspiring and supportive, and I’m incredibly grateful to have connected with others who are passionate and dedicated to doing such honourable and vital work in this space.
What does environmental justice mean to you?
Environmental justice means rebuilding balance by restoring power to those who have been disenfranchised. It’s about safeguarding rights and voices to those marginalised in our community. I believe in law reform and stronger protections for all living things, while at the same time, taking responsibility for the harm we’ve caused to country.
Register your interest
If you're interested in EJA's First Nations internship program, please fill out this form and we'll be in touch.
Questions?
Call Ling or Mandy on 03 8341 3100 (option 1 for general enquiries).
