Your space to succeed

Supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students' access and success at UNSW Law & Justice.

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UNSW Law & Justice in Sydney CBD

We’re committed to increasing the number of Indigenous Law & Justice graduates and launching their world-changing careers.

For more than 40 years, UNSW Law & Justice have been working in partnership with Nura Gili Centre for Indigenous Programs to deliver pathway and enabling programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Through innovative, culturally appropriate, and holistic programs, you’ll find a community of students and staff that will support you to access, thrive and succeed in your program of choice at UNSW.

UNSW Law & Justice is proud to have graduated more than 140 Indigenous students and remains committed to increasing the number of law graduates in Australia.

A supportive community

Be part of a connected and nurturing student experience.

Top law school in Sydney

Ranked 12th in the world*, UNSW Law & Justice is a leader in education.

Dedicated programs and resources

We’re here to ensure your success at uni.

Supporting you throughout your studies

As a UNSW Law & Justice student, you can rely on the following dedicated support and resources that we offer to all Indigenous students

People on the ground to assist you with:

  • Administration – Law Student Services Officer

  • Academic Support – Director of Indigenous Legal Education 

  • Free prescribed law and criminology textbooks through the Paul Rodwell Textbook Access Scheme

  • One-on-one tutoring for all subjects through the Indigenous Tuition Program

  • Specialised support tutorials during first year law

  • Law exam revision classes with UNSW academics 

  • Assistance with applications for scholarships 

  • Information about finding law-related employment during your studies

  • Information about applying for Indigenous clerkships and cadetships

To find out more about the support and program available, contact UNSW Law & Justice’s Director of Indigenous Legal Education:

Jason O’Neil 
E: jason.oneil@unsw.edu.au

“The Pre-Law Program helped me to make the transition from high school to Law School incredibly smooth. Being surrounded by exceptional people, both staff and peers, I gained valuable insight into the expectations and requirements of being a UNSW Law & Justice student.”

Stephanie Gray
Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice/Law, 2020

Learn more about the range of entry and support initiatives available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at UNSW Law & Justice.

Pre-Law Program

Bachelor of Laws

Our degree-specific Pre-Law Program will prepare you for university life within an environment that provides culturally appropriate support so you can hit the ground running on day one of your degree.

  • Developed in partnership with Nura Gili, the Pre-Law Program provides a stepping stone to your dream career and an introduction to university life within an environment that provides culturally appropriate support. 

    The Pre-Law Program is an intensive residential preparatory course designed to assist you in developing the skills necessary to thrive at law school. The program includes a simulation of the UNSW Law & Justice experience, an introduction to university life and the study of law. Program content includes an introduction to the legal process, Aboriginal Legal Issues, Criminal Law, Legal Writing and Academic Skills. You’ll experience:

    • a three-week residential, intensive program to help you develop the skills and knowledge to study law at university

    • a realistic insight into studying law at university, from attending lectures and tutorials to doing readings and assessments

    • material taught in Introducing Law & Justice – the course that students take in Term 1 of their degree

    • a visit to the NSW Bar Association, where you’ll see barristers at work in court and their chambers; and where you can talk to a judge after court

    • the student life of UNSW Law & Justice by:

      • meeting current staff members

      • working and socialising with current students

      • attending any special lectures or events that are taking place 

      • discovering the Law Centres Precinct, including the Indigenous Law Centre

      • learn about legal practice at Kingsford Legal Centre (KLC), the Law School’s on-site community legal centre

      • developing mooting (legal debating) skills

Indigenous Admission Scheme

Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice

The UNSW Indigenous Admission Scheme provides an alternative pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to gain entry into a UNSW undergraduate degree program such as the Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice.

Postgraduate Indigenous Entry Scheme

Juris Doctor (JD)

This program aims to support the growth of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people entering the legal profession by providing alternative entry into the Juris Doctor (JD). Successful applicants will also have access to a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP). 

Your gateway to university

High School students

UNSW Gateway is a three-year program for students in Years 10-12 at eligible schools where you can discover what university life is like, explore degrees and access resources to help you succeed in your HSC.

Discover your community

Celebrating 100 Indigenous graduates

UNSW Law & Justice commemorated this milestone, recognising the stories of our graduates and committing to continue supporting their success.

Pursuing a passion for social justice

Bachelor of Laws student, and proud Dunghutti man, Matt Jarrett, has paved a path from Pre-Law to being the 2022 Terri Janke and Company Award recipient.

Experience uni life your way

Barkindji woman Laura Montague’s experience living on campus has immersed her in endless opportunities to get involved at UNSW Law & Justice.

*QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024