Australia

One of the largest countries in the world, Australia is surrounded by the Pacific, Indian and Southern oceans. Most of the population inhabits the continent’s temperate southeast region, which is also the centre of Australia’s booming and sophisticated economy.

Legal Market

Australia is home to a world-class legal industry. Gateway to Asia for many English-speaking companies, Australia offers a fascinating alternative to legal practice in the northern hemisphere. National Australian firms are of a substantial size, with top-tier firms of 700+ lawyers, often extending office networks offshore, particularly in Asia.

Australian legal experience and training are highly-regarded internationally, with all the top international firms recruiting from this market. This trend has led to an under-supply of lawyers, which has in turn led top-tier firms to welcome talented international candidates.

Remuneration

Despite receiving salaries lower than New York or London, lawyers practicing in Australia afford a very high standard of living due to the lower cost of living here.

In top-tier Sydney firms, a first year lawyer (newly qualified) can expect to earn an average of AU$ 65,000 – 75,000. In Melbourne top-tier firms, the average rate for a first year lawyer is AU$ 60,000- 65,000 (the cost of living is lower in Melbourne than in Sydney). Salaries go up in increments of around AU$ 10,000 – 15,000 per year level.

Lifestyle

Quality of life in Australia is high. Many lawyers choose to live within or close to the city, enabling them to enjoy a sophisticated urban lifestyle, with access to a multitude of diverse restaurants and cultural activities. Sports, leisure, opera, fine wine, distinguished architecture, art, history and vibrant nightlife are all available here.

On the wilder side, adventure is also readily available. Diving is a popular activity, as, of course, is surfing; both are world-class. If you’re interested in nature, Australia’s deserts and rainforests offer riches of the plant and animal world that are still being discovered today.

Visas

You will need a working visa to practice in Australia, but this is relatively simple to acquire with the support of your sponsoring firm. Firms will sponsor you for a temporary, long-term working visa (subclass 457) but many will not sponsor permanent working visas. As a “skilled migrant”, however, there are options that may be pursued to obtain residency if you wish to stay. By virtue of your qualification, your partner or spouse will often qualify for a working visa as well.

Re-qualification

While your studies and experience at home will be recognized in Australia, most firms will want you to re-qualify within a year or two of your arrival. Expect to sit a few examinations, however the Legal Professionals Admissions Board may grant full or partial exemptions, depending upon qualifications and length of experience.