Partnering Aboriginal law students and lawyers, in University and practice

Home: Welcome

ALSM is a program implemented across all three South Australian universities. The mentoring program commenced in 2004.

We have around 25 students and 45 mentors.

We introduce Aboriginal law students and legal practitioners to form a one-on-one mentoring relationship throughout tertiary study. Our core aim is to support the academic success of students and facilitate their transition to legal practice.

Our mentors equally benefit from the mentoring relationship. They have the opportunity to contribute to the future of an individual and also the legal profession. Mentors have the privilege of building professional relationships and learning from Aboriginal law students.

If you would like to get involved as a student, mentor or sponsor, please contact us here.

Home: Who We Are

WHAT WE DO

Introduction to students

By working with the Law Schools at the University of Adelaide, Flinders University and the University of South Australia we introduce the Mentoring Program to Aboriginal students who are studying law or law affiliated degrees.

Group of Aboriginal students standing in front of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags.

An Aboriginal law student with two mentors

Mentor matching

We pair students with a compatible mentor; a lawyer who is specifically selected based on your needs and interests.
A mentor can support you during your studies by providing networking opportunities, an introduction to the legal profession, work experience and general support.

Events

Attend numerous events throughout the year to meet and get to know a broader community of students, judges, lawyers, university staff and other supporters of the program. Because networking can be daunting we try to ensure that our events are friendly, comfortable and personal.

Lawyers and students standing with drinks in their hands, talking at a function

A graduating Aboriginal law student standing with two Supreme Court Judges

Opportunities and initiatives

Get involved in additional programs and initiatives including the 'Week with a Judge' program and meeting with law firms that prioritise and promote Aboriginal student clerkships and involvement.

Home: What We Do

TESTIMONIALS

Shane

"Change begins with the stories we tell ourselves. The Mentoring program matched me with many incredible practitioners, each making an investment in my development. These friends continue to walk alongside me on my journey 18 years later."

Olivia

"The most valuable part of the Mentoring Program is having someone available to talk to, someone who understands what law school and the legal profession is really like. My mentor is always available for a general chat, for advice when needed and to provide opportunities and connections within the profession."

Sophie

"The benefits of participating in the Mentoring Program included the formation of meaningful connections within the legal profession and gaining access to opportunities for growth and development. These valuable experiences provided career openings. This program provided me a foot in the door."

Emma

"The Week with a Judge was one of my favourite placements so far. His Honour’s chambers were a pleasure to be a part of, and I was able to learn a lot about the law and advocacy. The whole experience has encouraged me to pursue court work after graduation, something I was previously a little apprehensive about."

Marni naa pudni

Good that you all came!

We respect and honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on this land and commit to building a brighter future together. We acknowledge the Kaurna people as the custodians of the Adelaide region.