The ODPP is committed to being a culturally aware workplace that recruits, promotes and provides support for all First Nations staff.
- First Nations Internship Program
The ODPP Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Internship Program (the Program) commenced in 2021 and provides opportunities and employment pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Law students to enable them to undertake paid employment whilst completing their Law degree.
Throughout the Program, students work alongside Crown Prosecutors, solicitors and legal support staff and gain insight into the operation of the legal and criminal justice systems in NSW.
The Program can accommodate both full time and part time study arrangements and is available across all 10 ODPP Offices. The ODPP currently has three Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Interns participating in the Program.
- First Nations Mentoring Program
The ODPP First Nations Mentoring Program (‘the Program’) commenced in 2023 and matches solicitors, barristers, and law students with experienced Crown Prosecutors. The Program provides mentees with access to the knowledge and skills of experienced practitioners, and opportunities to learn and develop as a legal professional in a confidential and safe environment.
The formal mentoring program has been established as part of the ODPP's commitment to improving employment outcomes for First Nations peoples by increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander recruitment, retention, and professional development.
This year the Program will run from May to December and has been available across all 10 ODPP Offices. The Program is overseen by a committee established by the Director and Chaired by Deputy Senior Crown Prosecutor, Philip Hogan.
Testimonials from 2023 mentees include:
‘The opportunity to benefit from the advice and support of an experienced ODPP Crown Prosecutor such as Guy Newton SC was invaluable … and has inspired me to pursue a career in prosecution.
I believe an initiative such as this is particularly beneficial for First Nations lawyers who may not have considered this possibility previously as it demonstrates that the organisation is truly welcoming and a place where we can belong. It can also break down the apprehension caused by the fear of the unknown as we are able to better understand the work of the NSW ODPP and the positive contribution we make to the community as First Nations ODDP staff.'
Zachary Wone, 2023 Mentee
…
‘I am sincerely grateful for the privilege of participating in the 2023 ODPP First Nations Legal Mentoring Program. The opportunity to be mentored by a highly accomplished Crown Prosecutor is a rare and invaluable experience. Their generosity in sharing extensive experience and insights has played a pivotal role in shaping my perspective on my legal career. I extend my sincere thanks to the ODPP and the mentors for their valuable support and guidance, which has been an asset in my professional development.’ 2023 Mentee
- First Nations Advisory Group – Apply
The ODPP is currently seeking expressions of interest for its First Nations Advisory Group. Please see the attached role-description in order to find out how to apply.