Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (CRICOS course code 039593D) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Leo Cussen Institute over 24 weeks. This course is designed for law graduates who want to complete the practical legal training (PLT) required for admission to legal practice in Australia. Taught in English at Leo Cussen Institute's Melbourne campus, it includes a compulsory work component of 105 hours. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 02224A), it is available to international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500). This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, and step-by-step guidance on applying. All data is from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice is a CRICOS-registered programme at Leo Cussen Institute. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.
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| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| CRICOS course code | 039593D |
| Course name | Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice |
| Provider | Leo Cussen Institute (CRICOS 02224A) |
| Duration | 24 weeks (24 weeks) |
| Tuition (indicative) | A$15,555 |
| Non-tuition fees | A$0 |
| Estimated total | A$15,555 |
| English requirement guide | IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall |
| Work component | 3 weeks, 35 hrs/week (105 hrs total) |
| Delivery location | 15 William Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 |
Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (CRICOS course code 039593D) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Leo Cussen Institute over 24 weeks. This course belongs to the field of Society and Culture (0909 - Law) and is classified as AQF Level 8. The program equips graduates with practical legal skills including advocacy, negotiation, legal drafting, and ethics — the competencies required for admission as a lawyer in Australia. Leo Cussen Institute is a private provider registered with CRICOS (02224A) and has been delivering legal education in Victoria for over 50 years. The course is offered at their Melbourne campus at 15 William Street, Melbourne 3000. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
As a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice, students engage with the practical application of legal knowledge. The curriculum typically covers areas such as litigation, conveyancing, commercial and corporate practice, wills and estates, and professional conduct. Emphasis is placed on experiential learning through simulations, case studies, and real-world tasks. Graduates develop skills in client communication, legal research, and courtroom procedures. While specific subject details are set by Leo Cussen Institute, the course structure aligns with the requirements of the Legal Profession Uniform Law for admission to legal practice in Australia.
The course duration recorded on the CRICOS register is 24 weeks (24 weeks). Full-time study is expected, and all instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Classes are held at the Melbourne campus, and the course may involve face-to-face delivery, online components, or a blend. Check with Leo Cussen Institute for the current study mode.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$15,555, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$15,555. Note that this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living expenses in Melbourne are approximately A$500–650 per week for rent, groceries, and transport (indicative). Always confirm current fees and total costs directly with Leo Cussen Institute at www.leocussen.vic.edu.au.
General entry requirements for this Graduate Diploma level course include a completed Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or Juris Doctor from an approved institution. The English language proficiency guide is IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Specific academic and language requirements are set by Leo Cussen Institute; applicants should verify directly. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this course level — consult the provider for any preparatory offerings. All international students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa.
This course includes a compulsory work component of 3 weeks at 35 hours per week (approximately 105 total hours). This practical legal training (PLT) placement can take the form of an internship, clinical placement, or industry-based project, allowing students to apply legal skills in a real workplace environment under supervision. The placement is integral to meeting the admission requirements for legal practice in Australia.
The course is delivered at: 15 William Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 (Leo Cussen Institute). Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a major hub for legal profession. The CBD campus is accessible by public transport (trains, trams, buses). Melbourne has over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses to international students. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with average rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$450–600 per week.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Visa conditions include: maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Melbourne is home to the Supreme Court, County Court, and numerous law firms, offering excellent networking and career opportunities for aspiring legal professionals. The city has a vibrant student population (over 250,000 international students) and a rich cultural scene. Public transport is extensive, and living costs are higher than regional areas but competitive with Sydney. Consider your preference for a large urban environment versus a smaller campus location. HeadStart Academy provides guides to help you compare cities and providers.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice at Leo Cussen Institute: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Graduate Diploma), field (Law), and location (Victoria). Confirm that Leo Cussen Institute (CRICOS 02224A) is the right fit. 2. Apply directly to Leo Cussen Institute: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (if required), and any additional documents. Submit your application through the provider's admissions portal. Check application deadlines and entry requirements carefully. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Leo Cussen Institute will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa via ImmiAccount, ensuring you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and a genuine intention to study.
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