Gilbert + Tobin

My clerkship experience at Gilbert + Tobin (‘G+T’) was nothing short of transformative. From the moment I stepped into the firm, I was welcomed into a culture driven by respect and inclusion, entrepreneurism, integrity and active citizenship. The people at G+T are not only highly skilled professionals but also approachable and supportive mentors.

One of the standout aspects of my clerkship was the opportunity to work across multiple practice areas. I clerked in Banking + Projects (Real Estate) and Competition, Consumer + Market Regulation teams, each offering a unique perspective on the legal landscape. This rotation system allowed me to gain a comprehensive understanding of different legal fields and helped me identify my areas of interest. The inductions and training allowed me to feel prepared and hit the ground running.

The selection process at G+T was rigorous but fair. It involved several stages, including an initial application, psychometric testing, and Super Saturday. Throughout this process I felt supported and encouraged to showcase my true self. I was assigned a buddy to help me through the process. The interviews were engaging and provided a platform to discuss my experiences, skills, and aspirations.

During my clerkship, I had the privilege of working closely with partners and lawyers. One memorable experience was assisting on an ACCC enforcement proceeding against Mastercard. My tasks included conducting various research assignments, drafting a board paper update, attending a meeting with counsel for the other side, and drafting speaking notes. This experience allowed me to engage deeply with the case and contribute to the team's efforts in a meaningful way.

The culture at G+T is one of its greatest strengths. The firm fosters an environment where everyone is encouraged to contribute and innovate. The flat structure and hierarchy mean that help and guidance are always available, and there is a strong emphasis on teamwork. I felt as if I had a lot of support and could get involved in real-life matters. The social side of the clerkship was equally enriching, with regular events that allowed us to bond with colleagues and build lasting relationships. We had endless coffee dates, lunch dates, and clerk sports. Fridays were especially fun with after-work drinks. We also enjoyed a clerk cruise and a weekend getaway to the Hunter Valley.

One of the most unexpected aspects of my clerkship was the level of responsibility and trust placed in clerks. We were given substantial work and treated as valuable team members from day one. This trust motivated me to perform at my best and take ownership of my tasks. Additionally, the firm’s commitment to pro bono work provided a fulfilling opportunity to give back to the community and work on meaningful projects. I got involved in various pro bono tasks, including assisting with an AI guideline for community legal centres.

I was given the opportunity to attend a client training at their on-site office. I was involved in a large telco merger, an enforcement proceeding, various property acquisitions and dispositions, research tasks, and attended meetings with counsel and various training sessions. These experiences provided a comprehensive understanding of different legal processes and allowed me to contribute meaningfully to significant projects.

For future applicants and clerks, my advice is to stay curious, be proactive, and embrace every learning opportunity. The clerkship is a time to explore, ask questions, and develop your professional identity. Start preparing early, focus on understanding the firm’s values and culture, and be genuine in your interactions. Networking events are a great opportunity to build meaningful connections, so approach them with an open mind and a genuine interest in others.

Reflecting on my time at G+T, I am grateful for the professional relationships I have built, the practical skills I have developed, and the confidence I have gained in my legal abilities.