Graduate Program (Feb 2026)

Why Sparke Helmore?

As an independent Australian firm with a long history and a big heart, we have a rich story to tell. Our spirit is built on the power of relationships with our people, clients and communities.

At Sparke Helmore, you’ll be actively involved as part of a diverse, genuine and friendly team. We’ll help you harness your ambition and take your skills to new heights with exposure to outstanding clients and easy access to exceptional leaders and mentors.

Your story is yours to define. We’d like to be part of it and for you to be part of ours. 

We understand that finding the right firm to start your career can be a daunting process which is why we want to work with you to find the best solution for you.

Some graduates are passionate and committed to a career in one of our specific practice groups but others may not know where they would like to specialise at such an early stage of your career and for this reason our program will offer you the opportunity to tell us whether you would like to commence your career in a specific practice group or whether your preference is to rotate through two practice groups.

What can you expect?

At Sparke Helmore our people are our most valuable asset, so we make sure we look after them! The trust we place in our graduate lawyers will ensure that you won't get stuck doing repetitive tasks. You'll be an integral part of our team with high levels of responsibility and have genuine opportunities for career growth and development.

Working at Sparke Helmore provides a range of unique offerings for all employees. Every day our graduates are presented with countless opportunities to expand their knowledge, with access to:

• Market-leading expertise - we are a full-service national law firm who work with a loyal and exceptional client base. You will be involved in matters that will engage you, challenge you and give you unparallel opportunity to grow and deepen your expertise.
• Real legal work - from your first day, you will have the opportunity to get involved in legal work that contributes to the firm and its clients.
• Training and development - a combination of formal and on-the-job training that covers technical and soft skills.
• Mentoring and networking - we have a proud reputation for mentoring and facilitating relationship building across the firm in a way that fosters personal and career development, networking and the sharing of knowledge, experience and learning.
• Opportunities to give back - through our Pro Bono and Community Programs.

What the market says 

• Best Overall Winner: Prosple Top Workplace for Graduate & Intern for Culture in Law, 2022
• Top 10 in Industry: Prosple Top Workplace for Graduate Satisfaction, 2023
• Top 10 in Industry: Prosple Top Workplace for Career Prospects, 2023
• Top 10 in Industry: Prosple Top Workplace for Diversity, 2023
• Top 10 in Industry: Prosple Top Workplace for Hiring Process, 2023
• Top 10 in Industry: Prosple Top Workplace for Social Responsibility, 2023
• Top 10 in Industry: Prosple Top Workplace for Graduate Satisfaction, 2023
• Top 10 in Industry: Prosple Top Workplace for Offices, 2023
• 2023: The Australasian Lawyer 5-Star Employer of Choice 
• Recognised in The Best Lawyers in Australia™ 2024 for work in: Government Practice
• Finalist: Australasian Lawyer Australian Law Awards - Insurance Specialist Firm of the Year, 2023
• Lawyers Weekly Australian Law Awards - Insurance Team of the Year, 2022

About Sparke Helmore Graduates

At Sparke we recruit for 'the future' and look for people who have the potential to progress through the Firm; intelligent, personable, committed graduates who are energetic and can demonstrate their leadership qualities.

Sparke Helmore graduates are:

• "All-rounders" who engaged in extra-curricular pursuits as well as their studies (our graduates have often excelled at mooting, debating, team sports or student politics in addition to their studies)
• Team players
• Clear and concise writers
• Confident and articulate communicators
• Experienced in any of the following; summer clerkships, casual paralegal positions, voluntary legal aid experience and tip staffing

What Sparke Helmore can offer you

Our culture is one which values and celebrates diversity to better represent the communities in which we live and work. We encourage people from all backgrounds to join us - and bring their whole selves to work.

We recognise people value things differently. That's why our comprehensive benefits program is wide ranging so that everyone can find something that appeals to them. We're sure you will find something to love about what Sparke Helmore has to offer.

To find out more about what is on offer at Sparke Helmore please visit our website. Join us!

We believe the best stories are shared 

To read more about the firm and practice groups please visit our website.