Land Court Associates
Role of a Land Court Associate
The Land Court of Queensland is a specialist Court of record that determines high-value and complex disputes involving land valuation, mining, land access and compensation, and environmental regulation. The Court frequently deals with novel statutory interpretation issues, making it an ideal environment for those with an interest in environmental, resources, or administrative law.
An Associate works closely with a Member of the Land Court to provide personal and confidential assistance both in and out of court. Associates gain first-hand insight into judgment writing, case analysis, and decision-making.
The Land Court regularly hears cases presented by some of Queensland’s most senior barristers. You’ll observe sophisticated advocacy and complex expert evidence, deepening your understanding of how high-level legal arguments are constructed and tested. This exposure to senior decision-makers and leading advocates makes it an exceptional foundation for a career in law.
Key Responsibilities
- Conducting legal and factual research to assist with hearings and judgments;
- Liaising with court staff, the legal profession, government departments, and the public;
- Ensuring the effective and efficient conduct of the Member’s court, including custody of court files and recording orders;
- Travelling with the Member on circuit and other court business, often to regional Queensland where the subject land is located;
- Assisting with the preparation of presentation materials and attending seminars and conferences with the Member;
- Supporting the Member in hearings conducted as a Judicial Member for QCAT; and
- Performing any other duties assigned by the Member in relation to court business.
Professional Development and Opportunities
Working as an Associate at the Land Court offers a rare chance to observe high-level legal practice up close and develop practical insight into the judicial process. The Court’s small and collegial environment means you’ll work closely with the Members, registry staff, and other Associates, receiving direct mentoring and support.
Associateships are generally appointed for one year. During this year you’ll build relationships and networks across the profession, including Judicial Officers, senior barristers, and government and industry representatives.
The experience is highly regarded across the legal profession and offers an unparalleled opportunity to develop the analytical, research, and professional skills that underpin a successful legal career. Alumni have gone on to distinguished careers in government, policy, corporate law firms, and at the Bar.
You are encouraged to apply if you have completed, or are well advanced in, your law degree by the time you would commence as an Associate.
Further information
Land Court Associates’ Protocol
Land Court Associates’ Duty Statement
Part L of the Land Court Conditions and Entitlements
Applications for the position of Land Court Associate
When to apply
Applications for the position of Associate to a Member, including the President of the Land Court of Queensland for 2027 may be submitted from Monday, 3 November 2025. Applications received prior to 3 November 2025 will not be accepted.
Applications close on Friday, 8 May 2026 at 5:00pm. Late applications may be considered at the discretion of the President.
How to apply
To be considered, you will need to prepare and submit the following information to the Executive Assistant.
- A completed Land Court Associates Application :
- A completed Land Court Associates Questionnaire:
- Covering letter – a concise personal statement describing why you consider yourself suitable for the position (maximum of 1 page);
- Curriculum Vitae – including academic and other achievements, employment history, extra curricula activities and the names of two referees (maximum of 5 pages); and
- Academic Transcript.
Applications can be submitted:
By email:
EA.LandCourtPresident@courts.qld.gov.au
Note: You must submit your application as a single PDF file, no larger than 10Mb
By post:
Executive Assistant
Land Court of Queensland
GPO Box 5266
BRISBANE QLD 4000
Hand delivered applications will not be accepted.