BSB30320

Certificate III in Legal Services

Kick start your career in the legal profession with this entry-level qualification and get the skills you need to become a legal secretary or receptionist.

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STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane TAFE Queensland Online

WAYS TO STUDY On campus Online TAFE at School

NEXT INTAKE Start date: 13 Jan 2025 Duration: Average course duration up to 18 months View all intakes

WHAT YOU'LL PAY

Concession

$1,580

Subsidised

$2,250

Full Fee

$4,260

TAFE at School Full Fee

$4,090

Eligibility calculator

Course overview

Kick start your career in the legal profession with this qualification in business administration. This course will qualify you for entry-level business administration roles in the legal profession. Learn how to apply administrative competencies in a legal office work environment using discretion and judgement as well as provide technical advice and team support.

According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, there are likely to be around 6,000 job openings for secretaries (including legal secretaries) over the next five years. Employers are looking for qualified candidates who are reliable, trustworthy, and have sound computer skills.

In this course you will gain a broad range of administrative knowledge and practical skills for work including touch typing, drafting simple legal documents, and advanced use of word processing software. This course will also teach you about the legal profession including how to search public records, prepare documents for court, and interpret and use legal terminology. At TAFE Queensland we are dedicated to helping you achieve your career goals with our industry trained teachers supporting you every step of the way.

Successful completion of this course will qualify you to seek employment as a legal receptionist, legal secretary, or law clerk. This qualification also provides a foundation for further studies in the Diploma of Justice Studies or Diploma of Paralegal Legal Services.

What can I do?

Legal Secretary
Legal Receptionist
Law Clerk

Course outcome:

BSB30320 Certificate III in Legal Services

Experience Courts Program Opportunity

Courts Services Queensland - Experience Courts Program offers you the opportunity to be placed in a Magistrate Courthouse to experience the day-to-day operations of a busy Magistrate Court Registry. The program will help you gain invaluable insights into the Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG) and the court system. Eligibility criteria applies. Click here for more information and application form.

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 6 elective units from the list below.

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
BSBLEG314

Protect information in a legal services environment

UNIT CODE :
BSBLEG314

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to protect information in a legal services environment.
UNIT NAME
Protect information in a legal services environment

UNIT CODE
BSBLEG311

Work in a legal services environment

UNIT CODE :
BSBLEG311

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work in a legal services environment including accessing legal information, drafting documents with assistance and seeking feedback on work performance.
UNIT NAME
Work in a legal services environment

UNIT CODE
BSBTEC201

Use business software applications

UNIT CODE :
BSBTEC201

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to select and use software and organise electronic information and data.
UNIT NAME
Use business software applications

UNIT CODE
BSBXCM301

Engage in workplace communication

UNIT CODE :
BSBXCM301

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to communicate (through written, oral and nonverbal form) in the workplace within an industry.
UNIT NAME
Engage in workplace communication

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

Greater Brisbane

Greater Brisbane

UNIT CODE
BSBLEG312

Carry out search of the public record

UNIT CODE :
BSBLEG312

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to complete a search of the public record. This involves planning and conducting the search and obtaining, storing and reporting the information according to instructions. Searches may be carried out using digital databases.
UNIT NAME
Carry out search of the public record

UNIT CODE
BSBLEG421

Apply understanding of the Australian legal system

UNIT CODE :
BSBLEG421

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to apply understanding of the Australian legal system. This includes understanding and applying knowledge of the Federal system, sources of law, and the trial system for resolving disputes.
UNIT NAME
Apply understanding of the Australian legal system

UNIT CODE
BSBLEG423

Conduct simple legal research

UNIT CODE :
BSBLEG423

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work under supervision to conduct simple legal research locating relevant information and writing up a basic summary.
UNIT NAME
Conduct simple legal research

UNIT CODE
BSBLEG424

Support the drafting of complex legal documents

UNIT CODE :
BSBLEG424

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to support the drafting of complex legal documents that meet legislative and organisational requirements, including by using advanced features of relevant software packages.
UNIT NAME
Support the drafting of complex legal documents

UNIT CODE
BSBPEF301

Organise personal work priorities

UNIT CODE :
BSBPEF301

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to organise personal work schedules, to monitor and obtain feedback on work performance and to maintain required levels of competence.
UNIT NAME
Organise personal work priorities

UNIT CODE
BSBWRT311

Write simple documents

UNIT CODE :
BSBWRT311

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to plan, draft and finalise a simple document.
UNIT NAME
Write simple documents

Online

Online

UNIT CODE
BSBLEG423

Conduct simple legal research

UNIT CODE :
BSBLEG423

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work under supervision to conduct simple legal research locating relevant information and writing up a basic summary.
UNIT NAME
Conduct simple legal research

UNIT CODE
BSBLEG424

Support the drafting of complex legal documents

UNIT CODE :
BSBLEG424

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to support the drafting of complex legal documents that meet legislative and organisational requirements, including by using advanced features of relevant software packages.
UNIT NAME
Support the drafting of complex legal documents

UNIT CODE
BSBLEG312

Carry out search of the public record

UNIT CODE :
BSBLEG312

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to complete a search of the public record. This involves planning and conducting the search and obtaining, storing and reporting the information according to instructions. Searches may be carried out using digital databases.
UNIT NAME
Carry out search of the public record

UNIT CODE
BSBWRT311

Write simple documents

UNIT CODE :
BSBWRT311

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to plan, draft and finalise a simple document.
UNIT NAME
Write simple documents

UNIT CODE
BSBPEF301

Organise personal work priorities

UNIT CODE :
BSBPEF301

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to organise personal work schedules, to monitor and obtain feedback on work performance and to maintain required levels of competence.
UNIT NAME
Organise personal work priorities

UNIT CODE
BSBLEG421

Apply understanding of the Australian legal system

UNIT CODE :
BSBLEG421

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to apply understanding of the Australian legal system. This includes understanding and applying knowledge of the Federal system, sources of law, and the trial system for resolving disputes.
UNIT NAME
Apply understanding of the Australian legal system

Note: For some courses, not all electives are available at all campuses.

Ways to study

Choose your study location

On campus with some online

You’ll primarily learn face to face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces such as a classroom or simulated workplace environment. Some of your training may also take place via video or Zoom. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank	On campus with some online	28 Jan 2025	6 months	Full time 2 days per week plus 1 half day online	Concession: $1,580 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $2,250 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $4,260 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
South Bank On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 28 Jan 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 6 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 2 days per week plus 1 half day online The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $1,580 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $2,250 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $4,260 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). Yes Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
South Bank	On campus with some online	14 Jul 2025	6 months	Full time 2 days per week plus 1 half day online	Concession: $1,580 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $2,250 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $4,260 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
South Bank On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 14 Jul 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 6 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 2 days per week plus 1 half day online The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $1,580 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $2,250 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $4,260 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). Yes Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Choose your study location

Online self-directed

All of your study will be done online and you can work through your studies at your own pace. You can access your learning materials 24/7 through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Online self-directed	13 Jan 2025	Average course duration up to 18 months	Part time up to 2 units per intake. 12 weeks per intake	Concession: $1,580 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $2,250 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $4,260 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Online self-directed Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 100% On Campus Time 0% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 13 Jan 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Average course duration up to 18 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Part time up to 2 units per intake. 12 weeks per intake The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $1,580 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $2,250 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $4,260 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Self-paced Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Choose your study location

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank	On Campus	03 Feb 2025	4 terms	Part time 1 day per week	TAFE at School Full Fee: $4,090 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. More Apply
South Bank On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 03 Feb 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 4 terms The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Part time 1 day per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY TAFE at School Full Fee: $4,090 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
South Bank	On Campus	14 Jul 2025	4 terms	Part time 1 day per week	TAFE at School Full Fee: $4,090 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. More Apply
South Bank On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 14 Jul 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 4 terms The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Part time 1 day per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY TAFE at School Full Fee: $4,090 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Studying on campus is a great way to enjoy the benefits of face-to-face education in a way that is far removed from a typical school. No matter which campus you choose, you know that you will be learning in an adult environment where you will be respected and nurtured. Attend a campus to learn face-to-face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces; such as a classroom, workshop, laboratory or simulated environments, or interact with teachers using real-time video or web conference tools. Learn more

Courses delivered on campus may have a combination of online and classroom based learning. Students are expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements.

You will be able to access your learning materials 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from the first day of your study period for the relevant units of competency. You must be enrolled to access your learning materials.

Online self-directed study allows you to enjoy the freedom and flexibility of choosing when and where you study. Direct your own learning with all your study materials online, allowing you to manage your own workload and fit your studies around your lifestyle. Learn more

Online self-directed courses are structured into fixed intakes that have set durations of 12 weeks from the study commencement date. To ensure you can manage your study load, we recommend limiting your workload to no more than 2 units of competency per intake or the units required to complete a cluster/stage.

Online virtual classroom study allows you to enjoy the freedom of choosing where you study, with no on-campus commitments. Virtual classes are delivered online, to a scheduled timetable, allowing you to interact with fellow students and high-quality educators from the comfort of a location that best suits you. You will be expected to undertake additional self-directed study in order to complete the course requirements. Learn more

Online with on campus practical allows you to enjoy the freedom and flexibility of choosing when and where you study to complete the online component of your course followed up by a scheduled practical component on campus.

Choosing to study a TAFE at School course is a great way to get a vocational qualification while you’re still in high school. You also gain valuable credits towards your QCE, an apprenticeship, a diploma or university.
TAFE at School gives you a taste of what higher education is all about, makes you work-ready, and helps you build practical skills in an adult-learning environment. Successful completion of a TAFE at School qualification gives you direct entry into any of our diploma courses. Learn more

You must be a Year 11 or 12 student enrolled at a participating high school, in some instances Year 10 students may be considered. In addition, the duration of your TAFE at School course cannot be longer than your remaining high school studies. Speak to your high school guidance counsellor or careers advisor for more information.

Course placements are subject to availability.

QCE points: up to 8

Information is current at time of publishing, to confirm the QCE points for your course please speak to your high school guidance counsellor or careers advisor, or visit the Queensland Curriculum & Assessment Authority (QCAA) website.

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Certificate III in Legal Services (BSB30320)

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Certificate III in Legal Services

COURSE CODE: BSB30320

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help.

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more

Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

Selection criteria

A good knowledge of computer basics with a sound achievement in Year 10 Maths, and English is desirable. All age applicants are welcome.

You will be required to complete the bksb to identify any Learning Support needs.

It is recommended that you have an understanding of basic business and technology concepts, which may have been acquired through previous training, qualifications and/or work experience in a business-related field.

You will be required to access and use technology to complete the learning assessment activities and resources within this course.

Resources required

It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software is available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

Important information

This qualification contains the prerequisite units that are required to be completed to gain entry into the Diploma of Paralegal Services.

Order of Study
When studying Online self-directed it is strongly recommended students follow the order of study and enrol in no more than two units per intake or the units required to complete one cluster/stage, unless otherwise advised.

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online.

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

Learn more

Related courses

Certificate IV in Justice Studies

Take the next step with this mid-level qualification in justice studies. This course was developed in consultation with the Department of Justice and Attorney General, Australian Federal Police, Queensland Corrective Services, Brisbane City Council, and Australian Border Force to increase employability in justice related fields.

Careers

Protective Services Officer
Paralegal /Legal Administrator
Australian Border Force Officer
Private Investigator
Local/State Government Investigator
Government Administrator
Corrections Officer
Police Officer (State or Federal)
Youth Justice roles

Part Time : Average course duration up to 18 months

Next Start : 13 Jan 2025

Diploma of Justice Studies

Make a difference in your community with this diploma qualification from TAFE Queensland. This course is perfect for people pursuing a career in the crime and justice sector.

Careers

Australian Border Force Officer
Protective Services Officer
Paralegal /Legal Administrator
Court Services Officer
Corrections Officer
Police Officer (State or Federal)
Youth Justice roles
Private Investigator
Local/State Government Investigator
Government Administrator

Part Time : Average course duration up to 2 years

Next Start : 13 Jan 2025

Diploma of Paralegal Services

Redesign your career with this high-level course. Develop specialised skills and knowledge to become a paralegal.

Careers

Legal Assistant
Paralegal

Part Time : Average course duration up to 2 years

Next Start : 13 Jan 2025

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Certificate III in Legal Services

Course overview

What can I do?

Course outcome:

Experience Courts Program Opportunity

Core units

Elective units

South Bank

South Bank

South Bank

South Bank

Download Brochure

Ask a question

Certificate III in Legal Services

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

Payment plan

Upfront payment

Entry requirements

Selection criteria

Resources required

Important information

Assessment methods

Pathways

University pathways

How to apply

Direct application

Course disclaimer

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Related courses

Certificate IV in Justice Studies

Careers

Diploma of Justice Studies

Careers

Diploma of Paralegal Services

Careers