International Programs - Opportunity for Unpaid Volunteers

The Federal Court is an international exemplar of judicial development and, as Australia's largest superior court, has dedicated significant resources over the years to facilitating cooperation between superior courts around the world. The Court's objective in collaborating with other jurisdictions is to promote respect for the rule of law and provide judicial development assistance, particularly in the Asia and Pacific region.

The International Programs Unit manages the Court’s international relations portfolio. The volunteer program provides an opportunity for university students to gain practical experience in judicial development projects and to meaningfully learn about the processes involved in implementing such projects within the professional environment of the Court. Volunteer roles are unpaid and require a minimum commitment of two days a week for a period of three months. Volunteers are expected to meet all their own costs.

Volunteers will be mentored by experienced International Programs staff and will have the opportunity to learn and gain skills in:

1. Researching various aspects of international judicial development and international projects;
2. Drafting briefings, training and other preparatory materials;
3. Day-to-day logistical and administrative arrangements for international projects and visits;
4. Internal and external communication relating to the functions of projects, including newsletters, proposals and reports; and
5. Collecting, analysing and reporting on project data.

Volunteers will be selected on the basis of the following attributes and skills:

1. Knowledge/interest in international law, judicial reform and/or international development;
2. Ability to work collaboratively with members of a team, as well as undertake independent learning;
3. Excellent time management skills, and the ability to prioritise and manage multiple tasks;
4. Ability to follow procedural guidelines and attention to detail for effective work performance;
5. High level oral and written communication skills; and
6. Demonstrated workplace professionalism.

The International Programs Unit are not presently seeking volunteers.