IOLT / GUIDE

PLT workplace experience

IOLT PLT combines 100% online coursework with 20 days of supervised workplace experience. Your placement does not have to be in a traditional law firm. What matters is the legal work you do and the supervision you receive.

Legal work and study

Plan the workplace stage

The full course includes 20 days of approved supervised workplace experience. Arrange suitable duties and supervision alongside your flexible online coursework.

The 20 days must be completed during your course and in Australia, while you are physically in Australia. Work completed before the course or while you are overseas does not count.

A graduate in an ordinary blue shirt taking notes while an older solicitor explains a paper matter file at a small law office desk

Where you can complete your experience

On-site, hybrid or remote arrangements within Australia may be suitable where the work and active supervision meet IOLT’s requirements. You must remain physically in Australia while completing the workplace days. Confirm the proposed arrangement before relying on it.

  • Law firms and sole practitioners
  • Government, regulators and in-house legal teams
  • Community legal services and Legal Aid
  • Suitable court or tribunal work
  • An eligible current role, subject to approval

What work is likely to count?

Suitable work can include legal research, drafting, client correspondence, file management, evidence review and hearing preparation. You should be completing substantive legal work under active supervision.

Observation, reception and general administration alone will not normally provide enough substantive legal experience.

Who can supervise?

Ask IOLT to confirm the supervisor and arrangement before you start counting days.

  • An Australian-admitted legal practitioner
  • At least two years of post-admission experience
  • A current unrestricted practising certificate
  • Active guidance and verification of your work

Working full time? Plan the days early

Your coursework can be completed online after hours. Workplace experience still needs an approved plan, through eligible current work, agreed placement days or a block of leave.

If you need help finding a placement, ask about IOLT’s assistance. Suitable opportunities depend on availability, timing and location.

Contact Admissions

Contact Admissions with questions about the course, entry requirements or fees. Include your qualification and intended admission jurisdiction so we can assist with your enquiry.

General information only. Admission and practising requirements are set by the relevant authority. Check its current guidance for your own pathway.

Have your proposed workplace reviewed

When discussing a role with IOLT, explain the legal tasks you will perform, who will supervise them and how completed days will be recorded. Those details are more useful than the workplace name alone.

If you need a placement, include your location and availability in your enquiry. IOLT can discuss assistance, with suitable opportunities subject to availability.