Federal Court of Australia

Federal Court of Australia judges' associates

Application dates describe recruitment. Program dates and recorded cycle are shown separately where the employer has published them.

Date audit, 29 October 2026. Federal Court recruits through individual chambers, often 1–2 years ahead. Jackson J’s 2027 positions, for example, closed 27 March 2026. No court-wide application opening. 2027 start does not imply 2027 recruitment

Judges of the Federal Court of Australia recruit their own associates, often one to two years before the start date. Associates are employed at APS Level 5 on a non ongoing basis for about 12 months, generally from the start of the year. Applicants are generally recent law graduates and must be Australian citizens. Positions are generally not advertised on APS Jobs. Applicants apply directly to chambers with a cover letter, resume and transcript. No relocation assistance is offered.

Program type

Associateship

Location

Federal

Study stage

Graduate

Audience

General

Eligibility

Generally recent law graduates. Australian citizenship required. Character clearance.

Applications open

Applications accepted throughout the year

Applications close

Application dates not yet announced

Duration and timing

Available during 2027, subject to vacancies or placement capacity

Pay

Paid. APS Level 5

Record checked 29 October 2026. Official source ↗

Application status checked 29 October 2026; next review by 5 November 2026.