Celebrating 25 Years of the WMD Law Scholarship at the University of Wollongong

Starting a career in law is not easy. It takes years of study, hard work, and the right opportunities. That is why the WMD Law Work Integrated Learning Scholarship matters.

Since 2001, WMD Law has partnered with the University of Wollongong (UOW) to help law students gain real experience, financial support, and a clear pathway into the profession.

In 2026, that marks 25 years of supporting future lawyers.

A Scholarship Built on Real Opportunity

This scholarship was created to solve a simple problem.

Many law students have the talent to succeed, but they need practical experience and support to get started.

Each year, one student receives:

  • Financial support during their studies
  • Up to 12 weeks of hands-on experience inside WMD Law
  • Mentorship from experienced lawyers

Students don’t just learn about law. They experience what it is like to work inside a real law firm. They also gain exposure across multiple areas of law, working within teams and building a broader understanding of legal practice.

Learn more about eligibility, application steps and full scholarship details here: WMD Law Work Integrated Learning Scholarship (UOW Listing).

25 Years of Partnership with UOW

When the scholarship launched in 2001, WMD Law became the first law firm to provide sponsorship to students at UOW.

Over more than 25 years, the firm has:

  • Invested hundreds of thousands of dollars into student support
  • Helped students transition from university into legal careers
  • Built a long-standing relationship with the UOW Faculty of Business and Law

Many members of the WMD Law team began their studies at UOW and have progressed through the firm into long-term careers.

This connection continues to strengthen the pathway between university and professional practice.

Why WMD Law Supports the Scholarship

For WMD Law, this program is about investing in the future of the legal profession.

“The scholarship is a way for us to invest in the future of the profession. Supporting students early in their careers isn’t just about giving them an opportunity, it’s about helping them build the confidence, skills and practical experience they need to succeed in a real legal environment,” said Kevin Dwyer, Principal, WMD Law.

The scholarship allows WMD Law to identify talented students early, support their development, and build long-term relationships with future lawyers.

A Place to Build a Legal Career

WMD Law is a multi-disciplinary firm that specialises across key areas of law, including family, commercial, property, criminal, and estate law.

Students gain exposure to how teams operate across these areas, helping them understand the day-to-day reality of legal practice.

This environment provides a strong foundation for building a legal career after university.

Career Pathways from UOW to WMD Law

The scholarship is one pathway into the firm, but it is not the only one.

WMD Law has a strong track record of supporting students and graduates as they build their careers.

Examples include:

  • Kevin Dwyer – Principal at WMD Law and UOW law graduate
  • Lisa O’Leary – Director at WMD Law and UOW law graduate
  • Anika Fleet – Director at WMD Law who began her career as a law student and has built her career across commercial law, litigation and estate matters
  • Matthew Wesley – UOW law graduate (Legal Internship Program), now working in the Property and Leasing Division

Many graduates have built long-term careers within the firm, progressing into senior roles over time.

These examples show how the partnership creates real career opportunities beyond university.

How to Apply

The WMD Law Work Integrated Learning Scholarship is open to UOW law students in their second-last year of study.

Applications:

  • Open in July
  • Close in September
  • Awarded in September / October

To view full details and apply, visit: WMD Law Work Integrated Learning Scholarship (UOW Listing)

Looking Ahead

After 25 years, the goal remains the same: give students real opportunities and help them build successful legal careers.

The WMD Law Work Integrated Learning Scholarship continues to connect:

  • WMD Law
  • University of Wollongong
  • Future lawyers

And it will continue to do so for years to come.