Commonwealth Government Essentials
We are pleased to invite law graduates and junior lawyers to participate in the Maddocks Government Lawyer Essentials Program for 2025.

Our program has been developed specifically for law graduates and junior lawyers delivering legal services in the Australian Government context.
Through a series of practical, expert-led webinars, this program provides foundational skills and insights into the Commonwealth legal framework, supporting the growth and development of junior government lawyers.
The program is eligible for CPD points and sessions will be held virtually via Zoom.
Session 1 | Australian Government 101
This session was hosted in April 2025. Watch it here.
Presented by Chris Reid, Special Counsel and Amy Chase, Senior Associate
This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the key legal aspects of the Australian governmental system, covering fundamental principles, structures, and processes that constitute Australia's governance framework.
Session 2 | Mastering the Art of Writing Legal Advices
This session was hosted in June 2025. Watch it here.
Presented by Mark Woodberry, Senior Associate and Avi Kohli, Associate
This presentation offers invaluable insights and practical tips for lawyers seeking to enhance their ability to provide high-quality legal advice.
Session 3 | Defensible Procurement
This session was hosted in August 2025. Watch it here.
Presented by Patrick Collins, Special Counsel and Bridget Sullivan, Senior Associate
Procurement within the Australian Government is a highly scrutinised area, often subject to complaints and legal challenge. This session provides an overview of the legal frameworks, obligations of public officials, and available remedies, supported by case studies of best practice.
Session 4 | Contract drafting 101
This session was hosted in October 2025. Watch it here.
Presented by Nick Topfer, Special Counsel
The key issues covered in this session will include strategies for drafting to effectively manage risk, the importance of using plain English to ensure clarity and enforceability, and practical tips using precedents.
Session 5 | Litigation 101 - Tuesday 11 November
This session was hosted in October 2025. Watch it here.
Presented by Jacqui Watt, Consultant, Silje Andersen-Cooke, Associate and Nicholas Philp, Graduate
This session will cover litigation in the Australian Government context including the Legal Services Directions 2017, Model Litigant Obligation, key elements of the litigation process including issues reporting, settling claims, general steps, case management, production of documents, evidence.
If you have any questions regarding the program please contact Melissa Eaton below.
Our speakers
Keep up to date with our legal insights and events
Sign upRecent articles
NSW Government Law Essentials 2026
The series offers practical, expert-led training on core legal skills and the NSW Government legal framework
Commonwealth Government Essentials 2026
Foundation training for graduates and new to Commonwealth government lawyers.
The complete guide for best-in-class prosecutions: Training for in-house prosecutors
This 2026 program is designed to help in-house prosecutors run effective, compliant, and best-practice prosecutions.
NSW Government Law Essentials
Designed for NSW Government junior lawyers or those new to delivering legal services in the NSW Government context.
Special Counsel
Canberra