ELLIS Program
ELLIS (Experiential Learning for Law International Students) program is a project-based extra-curricular program designed specifically for international students at Melbourne Law School. The program aims to provide opportunities for international students to enhance employability skills and build industry connections through gaining practical experience in Australia.
How it works
ELLIS aims to provide opportunities for international students to enhance employability skills and build industry connections through gaining practical experience in Australia.
Project teams comprise five international Juris Doctor and Melbourne Law Masters students. Teams undertake an off-site project and are supported by a designated MLS mentor and a client representative. The project culminates in a written report and a boardroom presentation to the client’s leadership team.
Application process
To be eligible for ELLIS program, you must:
- Be a currently enrolled JD* or MLM international student.
- Be physically available in Melbourne throughout the duration of the program (June - July).
- Able to commit a minimum of 10 - 15 hours per week on the project.
- Able to attend the mandatory orientation workshop in June at Melbourne Law School.
* JD international students will need to have completed at least 100 credit points at time of applications.
To apply, students must follow the steps below:
- Complete an online application form
- Provide a statement of interest, a copy of the most recent CV and academic transcript
- Attend an interview if being shortlisted
2026 Key dates
- End of March
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Applications are now open apply here.
- 24 April
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Online applications close
- 22 May
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Successful applicants notified
- 26 June
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ELLIS orientation and networking event with clients and mentors
- 29 June - 17 July
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Project execution by student teams
- 20 - 24 July
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Boardroom presentation by student teams
2025 ELLIS Program
Over 40 international JD and MLM students from 10 countries took part in ELLIS program, working on real-world projects provided by 9 incredible industry partners: ANL Container Line, Arup, BlueScope, Coles Group, CSL, Culture Amp, IG Group Australia, MSC Group, Trajan Scientific and Medical.
Past projects
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In 2024, 40 international students from 11 countries successfully delivered eight law-related projects offered by:
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- A comparative study considering the compliance, privacy and confidentiality requirements in relation to the use, transfer or exchange of patient medical records, personal information or human tissue in Australia and internationally (Europe, Canada and the USA) for the patient's benefit, medical research or use as therapeutic goods.
- A comparative Study of the legal framework of Strategic Maritime Fleets in the United States, China, and the United Kingdom & the path forward for Australia.
- A comparative study on current and proposed or pending regulation of artificial intelligence (“AI”) in the key jurisdictions within the company's global footprint.
- Analysis of recent actions and guidance from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) on the implementation and effectiveness of product design and distribution obligations (DDO) as required under Part 7.8A of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).
- Assisting in the development of a pilot program to test an innovative coaching/mentoring model that aims to increase access to justice.
- Compare the process of acquiring real estate in China and Australia, including stakeholders, laws, taxes, disclosure requirements, and protections for purchasers.
- Conduct research and present findings of the main challenges adversely impacting how in-house legal teams work, and how they are trying to overcome them.
- Research report that provides unique cross-cultural perspectives on how people newly arrived in Australia search for tenancy legal help online, and practical recommendations to ensure legal support is accessible to them online.
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- Analysis of impact of Financial Services Royal Commission Report
- A comparative study on international shipping related competition regimes
- Blockchain Technology in Commercial Practice in Australia
- Innovation in Law Firms
- The Impact of AI in the Boardroom
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- Best Practice for Collaboration Between International Offices
- Corporate Health Plan for Law Firms
- Recommendations for improvement to the Product Design & Distribution Framework
- Review of Independent Living Units Agreements
Earn Melbourne Plus Accreditation
Melbourne Plus is a University of Melbourne program and is your opportunity to be recognised for your participation in co-curricular activities!
It is all about rewarding the knowledge, skills and behaviours you develop when participating in these activities.
On completion of the project, ELLIS participants will be able to reflect on their growth in Innovation and receive a digital credential to share with their networks.
Testimonial
"The ELLIS program has truly been a game-changer for me and my fellow international students. The chance to work on genuine projects in collaboration with Australian companies has granted us invaluable insights into the inner workings of the professional world. This firsthand experience has not only broadened our perspectives but has also allowed us to apply and extend the knowledge and skills we acquired throughout our Master of Law program. Engaging in ELLIS was akin to a stepping stone, a vital bridge that connected the theoretical teachings of the classroom to the dynamic challenges of the real world. The program facilitated the seamless integration of academic learning with practical application, fostering an environment where we could translate theories into actionable strategies. It was immensely satisfying to witness the transformation of abstract concepts into concrete solutions for the challenges faced by the participating companies. As team leader, ELLIS program equipped me with valuable lessons in project management, from orchestrating teamwork to cultivating effective communication channels. While the journey was undoubtedly challenging, it was also incredibly rewarding, leaving me better prepared to tackle similar responsibilities in my future academic and professional pursuits." Iona Rombot, Indonesia, Melbourne Law Masters student