The Environmental Law Clinic (‘ELC’) is one of multiple Law Clinics that form part of the Bond Legal Clinics Program. The ELC is the only Law Clinic focusing on environmental matters, providing students with a unique opportunity to practically engage with this complex and dynamic area of law, and to make a positive and lasting impact on pressing environmental issues such as climate change, biodiversity protection, First Nations culture and heritage, water and forestry management, urban planning, pollution and environmental mismanagement.
The ELC is run in partnership with the Environmental Defenders Office (‘EDO’). The EDO, the largest environmental legal centre in the Australia-Pacific region, is a non-governmental, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to protecting and defending Australia’s unique environment by providing access to justice through litigation and leading law reform advocacy.
The Environmental Law Clinic is usually offered every semester but is subject to change.
Information for students
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How do I get involved?
For more information on upcoming information sessions and the application process, please visit the Bond Legal Clinic Program page.
There are currently two volunteer positions available each trimester, subject to final approval by the EDO. More (or less) student applicants may be successful and obtain a volunteer position with the EDO, depending on the number of applicants and their respective qualifications.
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Who can apply?
Students must demonstrate the following:
- Currently enrolled at Bond University in a law degree program, either an LLB or JD;
- Completion of at least 3 semesters is preferred;
- Well-considered reasons for interest in the Clinic;
- Ability to work in a team, and communicate with colleagues;
- Ability to work autonomously and efficiently;
- Evidence of research and writing skills as well as demonstrated organisational ability;
- Ability to sustain an ongoing commitment to the Clinic for one semester;
- High level of English communication skills – written and oral;
- Completion of Administrative Law is an advantage.
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What does it entail?
Successful candidates must attend the EDO offices in Brisbane, once per week, for 10 weeks. The particular weekday is subject to agreement between student volunteers and the EDO, and not all volunteers may attend on the same day.
Generally student volunteers will be involved in:
- Preparing a wide range of legal documents and reports;
- Conducting legal research;
- Assisting legal practitioners with client engagement and advice;
- Attending court proceedings to observe and assist counsel;
- Developing legal research and communication skills, while practically seeking to improve environmental protection.
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Why volunteer?
- Gain practical work experience dealing with environmental law matters
- Obtain research experience in addressing law reform and preparing reports
- Develop skills in analysing and reviewing legislation and caselaw
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Be part of an important community service and positively impact the environment