The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has launched a call for applications for a new First Nations Legal Mentoring Program.
Director of Public Prosecutions at the ODPP, Sally Dowling said the program, open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander lawyers and law students throughout NSW, would match mentees with skilled and experienced Crown Prosecutors.
“The mentoring relationship will provide opportunities for mentees to learn and develop as legal professionals, as well as giving them a forum to explore other facets of legal practice including wellbeing, work life balance, time management, court expectations, networking, career progression and culturally specific matters,” Ms Dowling said.
She said the mentorship program, open until 24 April, was established as part of the ODPP’s commitment to improving employment outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and to becoming an employer of choice for First Nations lawyers.
“As a workplace and an organisation, we recognise and value the histories and cultures of First Nations peoples,” the Director of Public Prosecutions said.
“This program will contribute to the professional development of First Nations lawyers and bring the benefit of their skills, experience and insights to the ODPP,” she said.
“The ODPP has offices in the Sydney CBD, Parramatta, Penrith, Campbelltown, Wollongong, Newcastle, Gosford, Lismore, Dubbo and Wagga Wagga.
“Each office can accommodate mentoring relationships.”
Ms Dowling said the 2023 program would run from May to December and was open to First Nations solicitors and barristers, and students currently undertaking a Bachelor or Master of Law or Diploma in Law.
She said anyone wishing to learn more about the program and applicant eligibility should email at [email protected].
