CAREERS GUIDE 2018
Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 1
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2 | Careers Guide 2018
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Contents
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
4 Editor’s Note/ President’s Welcome
Editor: Michael Graziano
6 Job Seeking: Where to begin 8 Useful Tips for Job Seeking
Designer: Nathan Li
Contributors: Mitchell Bazzana,
Rhiannon Bell, Adam Lewis, Louis Parfait, Jessica Tasso, Peter
Section I: Voluntary Work and Work Experience 10 Professional and Community Engagement 13 Interview with Rhiannon Bell 14 Community Legal Centres 15 Interview with Adam Lewis 16 Government 17 Non-Government Organisations 18 Centre for Environmental Law – Macquarie University Section II: Admission and Practice 20 Eligibility, Academics and Practical Legal Training 21 Requirements to Become a Solicitor 22 Requirements to Become a Barrister
Thompson and Maria Toma.
Special Thanks to: Kush Sood and Daniel Lim for their time, effort and counsel in the production of this Guide.
Disclaimer
This Guide is not designed to be
exhaustive. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of the Editor, nor
Macquarie University, and are in
no way associated with Macquarie University. Best efforts have been
made to ensure that all information in this guide is correct as of 30 August
2018, but such information is subject
to change without notice. The content
Section III: Public Interest Careers and Graduate Opportunities 24 Justice and Social Justice 26 Interview with Louis Parfait 27 Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions 28 Interview with Peter Thompson 29 International Law and International Relations 30 Independent Government Entities and the Courts 31 Regulators 32 Government, Policy and Intelligence Section IV: Private Law Careers and Graduate Opportunities 35 Commercial, Family and Immigration Law 36 Interview with Mitchell Bazzana 37 Interview with Jessica Tasso 38 Additional Careers with Private Entities 40 Interview with Eleni Sideridis 41 Interview with Maria Toma
Macquarie University Law Society
is merely informative and should not
be relied upon as professional advice. This publication is distributed free of charge, with the understanding that
the authors, Editor and any persons related to this publication are not
responsible for the results of their actions or omissions on the basis
of any information provided within this publication. The user of this
guide, therefore, acknowledges that he or she will take responsibility for
his or her actions and will under no
circumstances hold the Editor, authors or Macquarie University Law Society
responsible for any damage resulting
to the user or anyone else from use of this publication.
MULS encourages those applying for any position to obtain
confirmation of all information from the employer in question.
Careers Guide 2018 | 3
Editor’s Note The law is one of the most demanding,
stressful, yet rewarding professions out
there. If a law degree hasn’t been enough to
scare you away then there is a good chance you will enjoy taking it up as a career. This
guide is designed to be a resource for all law
students from first to final year and beyond to help navigate the daunting task of looking for a job. It’s no secret that the legal job market
is oversaturated with qualified candidates. It may be very tempting to apply everywhere and accept the first offer that comes in. It may also be tempting to focus solely on
commercial practice because ‘that’s what
with this guide is to give you the confidence to resist the temptations. I want to give you
a headstart in preparing yourself for the best career for you - whatever that may be.
While you’re reading this guide, keep an
open mind. If something sounds interesting, use the links provided to do some further
digging - you may discover opportunities you never would have imagined otherwise.
Michael Graziano | Executive Officer (Editor) Macquarie University Law Society
everyone else seems to be doing’. My aim
President’s Welcome On behalf of MULS, it is my pleasure to present the 2018 Careers Guide. I thank our Editor,
Michael Graziano and the entire Publications Team for their hard work in compiling this
important document, which we all hope will
assist you in exploring new opportunities and
possible career paths available to you by virtue of holding a law degree.
A law degree from Macquarie provides a wide range of career possibilities.
Macquarie Law graduates have ventured into all corners of the professional
landscape; whether that be commercial
law, government, community, academia,
in-house or policy - the possibilities remain endless. We hope that this guide will
introduce you to even more opportunities
which you will find interesting and help to
broaden your horizons. Whether you are in
your first year or your last, I encourage you
to read this guide, think big, and explore all avenues that your degree has to offer.
I thank our sponsors and all those who have voluntarily contributed toward this year’s 4 | Careers Guide 2018
edition of the Careers Guide. It is through
their involvement that we are able to provide such a comprehensive and high-quality
publication for all Macquarie Law students – whether they be past, present or future.
If you would like to ask questions relating to the contents of this guide or would like
to learn more about MULS career-oriented initiatives, please feel welcome to contact the MULS Career Engagement team. Our Director (Careers) Kush Sood, Corporate Careers Officers Anneliese Cooper and
Jessica Lau, and Public Interest Careers
Officer Jazmine Reid are all able to assist
with queries and you will find their contact details on the MULS website.
From all of us on the MULS Executive, we
wish you all the best with the remainder of
this semester and hope you enjoy reading this Guide.
Leon Warren | President
Macquarie University Law Society
Macquarie University Law Society
Activate your career. Practical Legal Training programs that better activate your career. Leading, and in tune with your profession, The College of Law offers the largest range of flexible programs, all purpose-driven to ensure you have the best start to your career. • Just 5 days face-to-face attendance • Study full-time, part-time, online or on-campus • Emphasis on task-based learning • More than 15 start dates in Sydney in 2018
Con Pana
Lawyer, Federal Government of Australia Graduate of the Practical Legal Training program
Learn more at collaw.edu.au/PLT or call 1300 856 111
Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 5
Job Seeking: Where to Begin
With an increasingly high number of law
All these services aim to maximise Macquarie
has become ever more difficult to locate a
dream career.
students graduating from universities, it
job within the legal profession. However, although there has been a surge of
3) College of Law
field, it is still possible to successfully find
the opportunity to connect with employers
competition in job seeking within the legal and pursue your dream career. There is a vast range of resources at your disposal,
which will help you maximise your ability to
turn your aspirations into reality. Here are a few great places to start: 1) University Email
The College of Law provides students with within the legal field, particularly in fulfilling the Work Experience component of the
Practising Legal Certificate. For this reason,
the College of Law is a valuable medium for
students to use in the search to discover both paid and unpaid opportunities.
The university email is an invaluable source
4) Beyond Law
opportunities. You will be notified of various
search platform, which will be able to provide
that provides you with a wide range of job opportunities that may otherwise be hard to come by. These are often sent by the
Macquarie Law Department Administrator, Debbie Loo.
2) Macquarie University Career Hub
We also encourage you to employ the
services of Macquarie University Career Hub,
Beyond Law is a highly publicised legal job
a vast array of job opportunities. It caters for all areas of law including, but not limited to, the following opportunities: volunteer and
non-profit, international opportunities, law
reform and social justice, in-house counsel,
government and regulatory bodies, as well as boutique and corporate law firms.
which is offered to all current Macquarie
5) Survive Law
students with great job opportunities,
which provides university students with the
University students. In addition to providing Macquarie University Career Hub offers a range of additional resources to students including: •
Career focused workshops;
•
Industry specific presentations; and
• •
6 | Careers Guide 2018
University students’ ability to attain their
Educational programs;
Access to a range of resources through CareerWise as well as at MUSE.
Survive Law is a dynamic online community opportunity to engage with other law students in Australia. You will be able to discover
valuable tips and tricks to navigate through
the difficult terrain in obtaining your desired law career. A range of career opportunities
are also published by Survive Law throughout the year.
Macquarie University Law Society
6) Seek, Graduate Careers Australia,
Graduate Opportunities, LegalVitae and GradConnection
These are all valuable job search tools that attempt to provide prospective employers and employees with a platform that
addresses their personal needs. They are
able to provide a diverse range of businesses with the opportunity to advertise any vacant positions that they have available. These
often include large businesses that operate on a global scale. 7) Ethical Jobs
If you are searching for a job platform that promotes businesses which undertake
activities in an ethical manner, then this is
the right platform for you! Through the use of Ethical Jobs, you will be able to locate
a career within the legal industry aimed at
improving areas of the legal industry which lack proper representation.
8) Community Legal Centre (CLC)
Community Legal Centres (CLC) consist of independent community organisations that provide disadvantaged members of the
Australian community with equitable and
accessible legal services. If you would like to
be a part of CLCs, they provide students with volunteering opportunities to make a positive difference in your local community.
See page 14 of this Guide for more information on CLCs.
Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 7
Job Seeking: Useful Tips 1. Set your goals
the role and organisation you are applying
proactive in your approach to job seeking.
business does on a day-to-day basis as
take time to consider what you are passionate
allow you to link your personal goals and
you want to pursue this crucial step, you
by the business.
that will help you achieve this. These could
5. Use LinkedIn to your advantage
your GPA or tailoring your electives towards
which should be utilised by all Macquarie
joining particular societies or expanding your
be exposed to a number of opportunities
It is extremely important that you are
to. Research and understand what each
For this reason, it is highly advised that you
well as their vision and core values. This will
about. Once you realise what type of career
achievements with the core values expressed
must then develop a set of achievable goals include academic goals such as improving
LinkedIn is an extremely versatile platform
a specific field, or networking goals such as
University students. As a user, you will
professional network.
that will only improve your prospects
2. Start early
legal industry. While it shares very similar
market is highly competitive. The best
such as Facebook, it also provides the
overcome this huge obstacle is by getting
minded individuals within the legal industry.
place you in a much better position than
invaluable in the corporate environment. In
in attempting to obtain a job within the
The job market, especially the legal job
characteristics to traditional social media
possible way to ensure that you can
advantage of connecting with other like-
experience as early as possible. This will
This network of business connections will be
other student job seekers.
addition to networking advantages, LinkedIn
3. Networking
their personal brand, gather feedback from a
only within the university environment, but also
prospective employers.
be achieved through an active involvement
6. Confidence and perseverance
other networking events held by MULS, Young
increasingly competitive over time, and it is
a consistent involvement in these activities, will
secure a job within the industry. As most
will be invaluable for both present and future
will face a lot of rejection before receiving
It is never too early to begin networking, not
allows an individual to create and market
range of professionals, and gain exposure to
within the corporate environment. This may in MULS Competitions, social events, and
8 | Careers Guide 2018
The legal job market is becoming
Lawyers NSW, or external law firms. Through
becoming extremely difficult to locate and
help you develop a professional network that
active job seekers can tell you, it is likely you
job seeking prospects.
a single offer. However, it is important that
4. Customise your cover letter
your personal abilities. This will ensure that
unique individual who will add value to their
any demoralising events that may attempt
recommended that you attempt to customise
should also remember that a law degree is a
unique set of characteristics will benefit
skills that are transferable to other industries.
you persevere and maintain confidence in
Employers are always searching for a
you maximise your probability of overcoming
organisation. With this in mind, it is highly
to quash this confidence. Further, students
your cover letter to demonstrate how your
valuable tool which provides graduates with
Macquarie University Law Society
1 Voluntary Work and Work Experience Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 9
Professional and Community Engagement
Macquarie University’s Professional and
Community Engagement (PACE) program provides students with an opportunity to
undertake practical work experience in a field related to their degree. While certain PACE units may be completed overseas, PACE
units are a compulsory part of both LLB and JD programs at Macquarie.
To be eligible for a PACE unit, students
will generally need to have completed 48
LAW or LAWS credit points. All units involve an application process and waivers are
required to enable successful applicants to enrol on eStudent.
The Macquarie Law School offers the following units (with the following unit descriptions):
and feedback. Please note that applications to undertake LAWS300 in Session 2 will
close at the end of Week 5 in Session 1. The
process for enrolling in LAWS300 is to submit a request for an on-line application form by lodging an online enquiry via ask.mq.edu.
au or emailing arts.pace@mq.edu.au. If your application is approved you will be advised
to submit an application for Special Approval to finalise your enrolment in the unit. Please note that the Special Approval Permission
Waiver is the last stage in the process, so you do not need to submit this until advised.
LAWS452: International Participation and Community Engagement
This unit involves participation in an
international internship, normally as part of
the Macquarie University PACE International LAWS300: Social Innovation, Governance
program operated in conjunction with
Students will interact directly with policy
Participation in an international placement
and Professional Leadership
Australian Volunteers International (AVI).
makers from Participation and Community
will provide students with an opportunity for
Engagement (PACE) partner organisations drawn from a range of sectors including
government, civil society and the private
sector. Mentors from partner organisations
will work with students on real world research projects that will feed into and support the innovation and reform work of the partner
organisation. Mentors will also discuss with students the highlights and challenges
of working in policy development and the
leadership role that their organisation plays in working for progress and policy reform.
Students will work in professionally oriented teams to meet the research needs of the partner organisation and will present the results of their research to their partner
organisation and their peers for consideration
10 | Careers Guide 2018
field-based practical legal experience in a
global context. On either a four (S1, S2) or
eight (S3) week program, interns will travel
overseas to participate in internships. Interns will work within a range of organisations
that provide legal advice, education and
services, and contribute to public debate
about legal standards, policies and reform.
During their internship students will engage in needs-based projects, assist with legal research, legal policy drafting and legal reform reviews, prepare case briefings,
undertake international and local comparative law analysis, assist with communication and education about legal issues or community
advice, as well as provide general paralegal assistance. Each intern will focus on a
Macquarie University Law Society
project under the direction of the partner organisation, decided in consultation
between the intern, partner, and academic
convenor, whilst also being involved in daily
operations of the partner organisation. Interns will be matched to partner organisations
during the recruitment process based on their skills and interests, and the partner project requirements.
organisations will work with students on
real world research projects that will feed into and support the law reform work of
the partner organisation. Mentors will also discuss with students the highlights and
challenges of working in legal practice and
policy development, and the leadership role of their organisation in working for progress
in areas such as legal governance and social justice. Students will work in professionally
LAWS478: Macquarie Social Justice Clinic
oriented teams to meet the research needs
the Macquarie Social Justice Clinic, a new
the results of their research to their partner
Students will undertake a placement at
university-run legal clinic housed on campus at Macquarie Law School. Students will work under the close supervision of solicitor-
teachers on real world social justice cases, undertaking a range of activities including
legal research and writing, client interviewing, and legal and non-legal advocacy. Students work face-to-face with their solicitor-teacher for one day a week in the clinic on campus. They are also expected to undertake an
additional 6-8 hours of independent work per week outside this setting. Online modules will provide students with the knowledge
and skills required to participate in a clinical
legal environment (e.g. ethical and reflective
practice, research skills) and introduce them
to social justice issues and aspects of public interest law.
of the partner organisation and will present
organisation and their peers for consideration and feedback. Applications to undertake
LAWS499 in Session 2 will close at the end of Week 5 in Session 1. The process for
enrolling in LAWS499 is to submit a request
for an on-line application form by lodging an
online enquiry via ask.mq.edu.au or emailing arts.pace@mq.edu.au. If your application is approved you will be advised to submit an application for Special Approval to finalise your enrolment in the unit. The Special
Approval Permission Waiver is the last stage
in the process, so you do not need to submit this until advised.
LAWS538: Access to Justice Placement Program
This unit involves attendance at clinical
placements and internships. They include: LAWS499: Legal Governance and
1. Public Interest Advocacy Centre –
Professional Leadership
students learn the strategies and issues
practitioners and policy makers from
and explore strategies to achieve legal
Students will interact directly with legal Participation and Community Engagement (PACE) partner organisations drawn from
the legal profession, government, industry and civil society. Mentors from partner
Macquarie University Law Society
in advocating for the public interest,
change. The program involves time at
PIAC, and with the pro bono section of a law firm and a law-related agency.
2. Western Sydney Community Legal
Careers Guide 2018 | 11
Centre – students participate in
community legal centre practice, study and reflect on access to justice issues, the operation of law in society, and the roles lawyers play. (weekly s1 and 2)
3. WSCLC Family Law Placement –
students learn about family relationships law and practice in a community legal centre setting.
4. Aboriginal Legal Service – students
undertake a paralegal placement at
an Aboriginal Legal Service office in
regional NSW. Entry to this unit is by
application. Opportunities are advertised by the convenor by email in November for the session 1 following year, and in May for session 2. Placement
opportunities at other organisations may
arise during the year, and are advertised via email by the convenor.
LAWS551: Professional and Community Engagement
This unit provides the opportunity for
students to engage with the legal profession and community through participation in a
variety of workplace experiences including, but not limited to, law firms, legal centres,
community-based legal organisations and
services, government agencies and not-for-
profit organisations. The experience may be via clerkship, volunteer work, or internship,
LAWS899: Professional and Community Engagement
This unit will fulfil the professional and
community engagement (PACE) criteria for JD students through student involvement
in new and existing, local and international
partnerships between Macquarie University and the legal profession and community through participation in a variety of
workplace experiences including law firms, legal centres, community-based legal
organisations and services, government
agencies and not-for-profit organisations.
There will be a variety of ways that students will be able to engage with the real world application of legal skills and principles
developed in earlier units of study either
through internships, clerkships and voluntary or paid legally related employment. In line
with the university's PACE initiatives, the unit aims to provide students with a broad social perspective, critical thinking skills and the
technical competence that employers value. Students are advised to confirm their
eligibility with reference to the Macquarie Handbook.
Students should note that other
placements may arise and will be advertised via email.
and may be undertaken on a weekly or block basis. Students source their own placement,
and nominate it for approval by the convenor. Applications for the unit are advertised by the convenor via email.
12 | Careers Guide 2018
Macquarie University Law Society
Interview What did the unit LAWS478 involve?
on Nauru and Manus Island. Being able
Social Justice Clinic on campus one day
were in the detention centres via Whatsapp
Project with their workload. The National
experiencing. This has certainly informed my
This unit involved working in the Macquarie
to directly talk with asylum seekers who
per week, assisting the National Justice
gave me a unique insight into what they are
Justice Project is a small not-for-profit legal
views on immigration policy in Australia.
justice-focused litigation. I worked on a
What did you most enjoy about LAWS478?
Law Clerk
support the development of the Copwatch
a valuable contribution to the experiences of
Mallesons
an interlocutory decision in the Federal
didn’t feel like I was just there to photocopy
Student]
Government from removing mobile phones
we did collectively consume vast quantities
service that specialises in strategic social
I enjoyed being a part of a team that makes
Rhiannon Bell
range of matters, conducted research to
King & Wood
app, and even watched a judge hand down
marginalised members of the community. I
[Former: LAWS478
Court of Australia restraining the Australian
documents or get coffee for the team (though
from all immigration detainees.
of tea and coffee!). The work I was doing was
What skills did you develop by participating
worthwhile and had a purpose.
in LAWS478?
What was the most difficult part about
during this placement. Firstly, there was a
I’d say that the hardest part was reading
There were three key skills that I developed
LAWS478?
considerable amount of research that we
through some of the experiences of asylum
I had completed many research assignments
chronology from some documents obtained
was a little different because at times, there
support a coronial inquest for someone
question. Developing my legal research skills
Reading through what this person went
subsequent employment.
time, I appreciated having the support of my
Secondly, I improved my ability to interview
my supervisor ‘look, I think I need to work on
needed to conduct for various projects. Whilst
seekers. I was asked to piece together a
during my degree, this real-life application
through Freedom of Information law to
was no clear-cut answer to the research
who passed away on one of the islands.
has been a particularly important asset in my
through was incredibly depressing. At this team around me and being able to say to
clients when I needed to assist asylum
something else for a while’.
required for their protection visa applications.
Would you recommend this unit to other
seekers in completing the paperwork
While I had competed in the Client Interview competition previously, this provided the
students? Why?
Absolutely. I would recommend this unit to
additional challenge of overcoming language
the kind of student who wants to gain a better
I often had to try to explain complicated
legal system. Most law students come from
over-simplifying it too much. I also had to
which may isolate them from how the legal
assist with.
This is a truly authentic opportunity to learn
Finally, participating in this unit really taught
to develop informed opinions to be able to
barriers. When I interviewed these clients,
understanding of how others experience the
concepts in terms that made sense, without
some incredibly privileged backgrounds,
recognise what we needed a translator to
system can entrench disadvantage for others.
me how to understand the current situation
Macquarie University Law Society
about the world around us, and hopefully, agitate for change.
Careers Guide 2018 | 13
Community Legal Centres Community Legal Centres (CLCs)
are independent, community-based
organisations that provide equitable and
accessible legal services to disadvantaged or marginalised people. Whilst CLCs will
typically employ some full-time or part-time staff, they also rely on the contributions of student volunteers.
CLC work may include: • • • • •
Providing information;
Referring clients to appropriate services or bodies;
Legal casework and advocacy;
Community legal education; and
Advancing law reform and public policy discourse.
CLCs often specialise in providing support
for target areas or certain groups in society. Examples of such CLCs include: •
Refugee Advice and Casework Service
•
Environmental Defender’s Office –
•
•
• • •
14 | Careers Guide 2018
(RACS) – immigration law
environment, planning and development law
Women’s Legal Services – family, discrimination and criminal law (supporting women)
These are only a sample of the broader
migration and criminal law (supporting
CLCs can be found by visiting the National
Financial Rights Legal Centre – credit,
website.
HIV/AIDs Legal Centre – discrimination,
collection of CLCs. Information regarding
those with HIV/AIDs)
Association of Community Legal Centres
debt, banking and insurance law
Aboriginal Legal Centre – wide ranging
Students who are interested in getting
Redfern Legal Centre – wide ranging
directly.
(supporting indigenous Australians)
involved are encouraged to contact CLCs
Macquarie University Law Society
Interview What did your role as Legal Student Volunteer
turn a 5-minute call into 30. RACS works
(RACS) involve?
never used a service like this meant I was
tasks. Primarily, student volunteers work
Ultimately, I am glad I was placed in this
enquiries. Besides this, student volunteers
directly to increasing my communication
at the Refugee Advice & Casework Service
with a variety of interpreter services, having
My time at RACS involved a variety of
presented with a steep learning curve.
on the front end to assist with initial client
situation. It was something which went
complete a variety of administrative and
skills and respect for the work RACS does.
Front End Volunteer
and maintaining client documents, all the
What was the most rewarding part of the job?
Casework Service
direct assistance to the lawyers at RACS.
happiness the clients showed. Although I
myself orally communicating written advice
satisfaction from the level of appreciation
tasks for clients from their interviews with the
We often received gifts and would hear
Adam Lewis
legal tasks. This could range from filing
Refugee Advice &
way through to in-depth legal research and
(RACS)
During my short period at RACS, I found
was there for a short period, I found great
to clients as well as completing transcribing
the clients had for the volunteers at RACS.
Department of Immigration.
stories of appreciation from clients we
What skills did you develop at RACS?
were so thankful for the volunteers who help
my ability to communicate concisely and
any delays in applications as they always
Easily the level of appreciation and the
represented. Clients I spoke to on the phone
Looking back, the key skill I developed was
them, I found they never had an issue with
effectively to clients. A lot of my experience
understood we did our best.
by the end of my time at RACS I had a
What advice would you give to other students
involved communicating over the phone,
much more confident presence. Aside from this, RACS also helped develop my legal
looking to volunteer at RACS?
RACS was a great experience. Not only
research skills. Working in a collaborative
was I able to assist refugees seeking help,
succinct and detailed information regarded
other universities. For anybody looking to
client’s situations.
found on the RACS website. My best advice
What was the most challenging part of
exposure as possible. As somebody who did
The biggest challenge I found was the
wish I volunteered earlier as it provides such
Going in it was not even on my radar as
will end up leaving with skills you can take
environment, we were able to provide
I was able to meet some great people from
the background and history of different
get involved, the application process can be is to get involved early to gain as much legal
volunteering at RACS?
it in the later stages of their degree, I only
language barrier I encountered with clients.
a great foundation into the legal industry. You
a possible issue. I found I encountered it
into any client facing role in the future.
much more than expected, often it could
Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 15
Government Australian Law Reform Commission
The Judicial Commission of New South
(ALRC) allows students in their penultimate or
The Judicial Commission of New South Wales
The Australian Law Reform Commission
final year to work as voluntary interns. Interns have the option of working one day per week during session one or two, or in a three-week block over the summer break during January and February.
ALRC internships are an excellent opportunity for students who are interested in a career in policy or law reform to contribute to an
ALRC inquiry and improve their writing and researching skills in the process.
For more information, visit the ALRC website.
Wales
recruits research trainees via advertisements placed at universities.
Research trainees work in the Research Division of the Commission, which is
responsible for the legal content of the Judicial Information Research System
(“JIRS”), a sophisticated online judicial support system developed by the
Commission. JIRS provides an array of information relating to the criminal law,
including the widely regarded Criminal Trial Courts Bench Book, the Sentencing Bench Book and sentencing statistics, as well as
New South Wales Law Reform Commission
The New South Wales Law Reform
Commission (NSWLRC) performs a similar role to the ALRC, albeit with a focus on
case summaries and recent law items that focus on topical cases and legislation.
For more information, visit the Commission’s website.
the law in New South Wales. The NSWLRC
offers internships during the winter vacation
(between session 1 and 2). Interns work on a full-time basis for a minimum of four weeks.
Interns work the Law Reform and Sentencing Council Secretariat, ideally on a full-time
basis for at least four weeks, in July and/or August. The internship is a paid position. An internship at the Secretariat provides an opportunity to work closely with Law
Reform Commissioners, Sentencing Council
members and Secretariat staff and contribute directly to the development of proposals for law reform. Depending on the reference this
could mean undertaking research, contributing to drafting consultation documents, assisting with consultation processes, or helping draft
reports. The Commission and Council credit the contribution of interns in their published papers. For more information, visit the NSWLRC website. 16 | Careers Guide 2018
Macquarie University Law Society
Non-Government Organisations Salvos Legal
Toongabbie Legal Centre
enterprise law firm owned by the Salvation
a community based legal centre that
Salvos Legal is a not-for-profit, social
Army. Salvos Legal deals in corporate, commercial, property, not-for-profit,
intellectual property and technology law.
All profits made by Salvos Legal are used to fund ‘Salvos Legal Humanitarian’, an
associated entity that operates free legal
services to assist disadvantaged people. For more information, visit the Salvos Legal
website.
Justice Action
The Toongabbie Legal Centre (TLC) is provides legal advice to vulnerable and
disadvantaged members of the community. The TLC does not receive any on-going
government funding and relies on members of the legal profession and law students volunteering. Law reform discourse and
community legal education seminars are also activities undertaken at the TLC.
For more information, visit the Toongabbie
Legal Centre website.
Justice Action is an independent advocacy
Amnesty International
authority. The group focuses on those in
on raising awareness about human rights
service that assists victims of abuse of
the criminal justice system and the health
system. Volunteers may be involved in policy
development, initiating campaigns to expose
systemic abuses and assisting prisoners with mental health issues who are before the courts. For more information, visit the Justice Action website.
The Aurora Project
The Aurora Project was established in
response to a report into the professional development of lawyers at Native Title
Bodies. The work of the Project is aimed at expanding indigenous education and
fostering an understanding of other matters
general affecting Indigenous Australians. The
Amnesty International is an NGO that focuses and campaigning against human rights
abuses. As their name suggests, Amnesty
International is concerned with issues from around the globe.
For more information, visit the Amnesty
website.
Greenpeace
Greenpeace is an independent organisation that uses non-violent direct action to raise awareness about environmental issues.
Greenpeace is also involved in the lobbying of government entities.
For more information, visit the Greenpeace
Australia Pacific website.
Project facilitates internships for students in
indigenous corporations, government bodies, community groups, and not-for-profit and
policy organisations. Internships generally
run for four weeks in the winter and summer breaks between Sessions one and two.
For more information, visit The Aurora Project website.
Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 17
Centre for Environmental Law Macquarie University In keeping with its history of involvement in
The CEL undertakes a range of projects,
has a Centre for Environmental Law (CEL).
points of interest. There is also an annual
Environmental Law, Macquarie University The aim of the CEL is to promote critical
thought in environmental law and contribute
to policy and law reform. The CEL applies the research and expertise of academic staff in areas including:
lecture held by the CEL, with Rob Stokes,
a Macquarie alumni, former NSW Planning Minister and the current NSW Minister for
Immigration, speaking at the 2016 lecture.
•
International and comparative law;
For more information, visit the CEL website.
•
Law of the sea and marine environmental
For students wishing to volunteer with the
Water law and governance;
CEL volunteering section of the website.
•
• • • • • • • •
18 | Careers Guide 2018
focused on both domestic and international
Trade and the environment; law;
Sustainable corporate governance and
CEL, more information can be found in the
financing;
Pollution and environmental regulation; Indigenous peoples;
Customary law and natural resource management;
Climate change;
Planning and local government law; and Natural and cultural heritage.
Macquarie University Law Society
2 Admission and Practice Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 19
Eligibility, Academics, and Practical Legal Training Eligibility
Under the Legal Profession Uniform Law
PLT generally consists of three components: 1. Coursework (full-time or part-time; on-
(NSW), Chapter 2, Part 2.2, an individual,
campus or distance) – which will include
admitted to the Supreme Court of New South
•
Legal research;
of office. Before an individual can do so,
•
Problem solving;
aged 18 years or over, seeking to be
training for:
Wales, must take an oath or affirmation
•
the Legal Profession Admission Board
•
certificate. A compliance certificate requires
•
•
Completion of academic qualifications,
•
and
electives in addition to core practice
must provide the Court with a compliance
Analysing facts and the law; Interview techniques and communication; Drafting advice;
the following:
•
•
Some courses allow students to select
•
Completion of practical legal training,
That the individual be a fit and proper person.
Academic Qualifications
This requirement refers to holding a law
Advocacy; and
Dispute resolution.
areas.
2. Work Experience – that must be
completed on a part-time or full-time
basis in an approved legal environment.
3. Continuing Professional Education
degree that is consistent with the Admission
– which is generally an online self-
courses are both recognised as accredited
has been learnt in the coursework
Rules. Macquarie University’s LLB and JD
assessment activity affirming what
law courses by the Legal Profession
component of the PLT.
Admission Board.
Practical Legal Training
Having completed an accredited law degree, graduates must undergo Practical Legal Training (PLT) with an approved course provider. For information on the various
courses available see the websites of the following providers: • • •
20 | Careers Guide 2018
The College of Law
Australian National University Legal Workshop
The University of Technology Sydney
Macquarie University Law Society
Requirements to Become a Solicitor
Admission as a Solicitor of the Supreme
Legal Profession Board, and will send those
To practise as a solicitor in New South Wales,
Certificate application form.
Court of New South Wales one must:
1. Apply to be admitted as a lawyer in the
individuals a kit which includes a Practising
This form needs to be completed and
Supreme Court of New South Wales,
payment sent to the Law Society Register
requirements.
Admission Certificate will need to be taken
Admission is only necessary once, and
Certificate.
applicant has already been admitted in
Practice
be required to attend the Supreme Court
to complete two years of supervised
satisfying the eligibility and suitability
by the specified date. Once admitted, the
into the Law Society to receive a Practising
this application is not required if an
another state. A successful applicant will of New South Wales and: •
• •
Take and sign the Oath of Practice; Sign the roll of Australian Lawyers;
Newly admitted solicitors are required practice and undertake a Practice
Management Course if they wish to practise as a sole solicitor.
and
Practising certificates are renewed each year
Certificate.
Professional development (CPD) are met. The
Gain an original Admission
2. Lodge an application for a Practising
Certificate in the jurisdiction in which the applicant intends to practise.
when the requirements of Continuing Legal
requirements of CPD are set out in the Legal Profession Uniform Law (NSW) s 52. A set
number of hours of professional development
must be completed each year (10 CPD units).
Once admitted, lawyers are required to
To practise in a court exercising federal
year. For New South Wales, applications
to practise in State Supreme Courts.
Admission Board.
Act 1903 (NSW) s 55B, a lawyer must enter
renew their Practising Certificate each
jurisdiction, a lawyer must be entitled
are lodged via the Legal Profession
Additionally, and pursuant to the Judiciary
Applications should be made using
Form 10 and must have two character
the Register of Practitioners held by the High Court of Australia.
references attached in Form 3A or 3B.
It is possible to practise in other Australia
Law Society usually receives a list of
recognition schemes without re-admission.
Before admission, the New South Wales
States and New Zealand through mutual
proposed lawyers to be admitted on the
Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 21
Requirements to Become a Barrister Barristers are lawyers who specialise in
court work and advocacy for clients before
courts and tribunals. Their work involves the preparation of court documents, advising
clients about litigation and, should a matter progress that far, acting for clients in
dispute resolution and litigation. Barristers work independently and are typically
briefed by solicitors prior to undertaking work on a matter.
To practise as a barrister, a person must satisfy the following requirements:
1. Be admitted as a lawyer by a State Supreme Court, and
2. Gain a pass mark of 75 in the NSW Bar Examination. Since 2016, legal ethics
and evidence law, as well as practice
and procedure exams, are tested in one exam, which: • •
Is held twice a year, in February and June, and costs $750,
Consists of two papers that run for two hours each, with a break in
between and 15 minutes reading time for each paper,
3. Hold a practising certificate with conditions attached and have
professional indemnity insurance.
4. Undertake the ‘Reading Programme’, which involves being under the
supervision of an experienced barrister for at least 12 months. Criminal and
Civil reading must be completed under such supervision, with there being a
requirement that at least ten days be completed in each of these areas.
5. The Bar Practice Course must also
be completed. The NSW Bar Practice Course is a four week long full-time
course held twice a year in Sydney, namely in May and then in August/
September. The Practice Course has a fee of $3,800.
Once the aforementioned steps have been
completed, an application to practise at the
Bar must be lodged with the Bar Association of NSW. Successful applicants must also
commence practise no later than ten months after passing the Bar exam.
Barristers are required to have Professional Note: applicants may sit the Bar Exam
Indemnity Insurance and accrue Continuing
Court, but will need to be admitted before
financial year for certificate renewal.
without being admitted to the Supreme
Professional Development (CPD) credit each
commencing practise.
22 | Careers Guide 2018
Macquarie University Law Society
3 Public Interest Careers Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 23
Justice and Social Justice Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT)
NSW Environmental Protection Authority
conducts merits review of administrative
The purpose of the NSW EPA, as the
The AAT is an independent body that
decision-making, typically decisions by
Government Ministers, departments, and agents. The AAT deals with a variety
of matters, including, but not limited to,
citizenship, bankruptcy, child support and freedom of information issues.
Employment opportunities can be found by visiting the AAT website.
To be eligible for employment, prospective
(EPA)
primary environmental regulator for NSW, is to improve waste management and
environmental performance across NSW.
The NSW EPA provides guidance about a broad range of environmental issues and publish scientific research relating to the environment, but are also involved in the
prosecution of environmental offences in the NSW Land and Environment Court.
For more information, visit the EPA website.
AAT employees must: •
Undergo a security and character check.
Legal Aid NSW
•
Undergo a medical examination (for
representation for disadvantaged persons
•
•
Hold Australian citizenship,
ongoing engagements only), and
Be eligible for re-engagement if the
applicant has received a redundancy
benefit from an Australian Public Service or Commonwealth employer.
Legal Aid NSW provides legal advice and across New South Wales. Practice areas
can include criminal law, civil law, family law, with Legal Aid NSW also being involved in
law reform and community legal education. Legal Aid NSW offers a two-year career development program, which includes
Australian Government Solicitor (AGS)
training in case management skills. New
clients in a variety of matters, including, but
areas of practice from three alternatives,
The AGS advises and represents government not limited to, administrative law, corporate and commercial law, dispute resolution,
litigation. The AGS offers a National Graduate Program that involves both policy and legal
lawyers are generally able to choose two namely criminal, civil and family law.
For more information, visit the Legal Aid
NSW website.
streams. The legal stream includes an
orientation program, rotation through one or more practice areas, placement with a
government department or agency, pro bono work, sponsorship of PLT requirements, inhouse training, and mentoring support.
For more information, visit the AGS website.
24 | Careers Guide 2018
Macquarie University Law Society
NSW Crown Solicitor’s Office
NSW Council for Civil Liberties (NSWCCL)
legal advice and services to the NSW State
rights and civil liberties organisation that
The NSW Crown Solicitor’s Office provides Government, Departments and Agencies.
Practice areas include, but are not limited
to, administrative law, child protection law,
commercial law, constitutional law, coronial
law, criminal law, employment law, native title law, property law and tort law.
For more information, visit the NSW Crown
Solicitor’s Office website.
Office of Parliamentary Counsel
The NSWCCL is an independent human
advocates the protection of the democratic
rights and liberties of persons in Australia and its Territories. Influencing public debates and lobbying for law reforms which protect such
rights and liberties are also a part of working
at the NSWCCL. The NSWCCL also monitors the abuse of power by the government, and associated agencies.
For more information, visit the NSWCCL
website.
The Office of Parliamentary Counsel drafts Bills and Amendment Bills for introduction
The Public Defenders
publishing information about legislation.
barristers, appointed under the Public
into the Houses of Parliament, as well as
For further information, visit the Office of
Parliamentary Counsel website.
Public Defenders are independent, salaried Defenders Act 1995 (NSW), who represent clients who have been granted legal aid in
serious criminal matters. Most Public Defenders
have had at least five to ten years of experience Public Interest and Advocacy Centre
at the Bar, as well as demonstrating extensive
The PIAC is an independent, non-profit law
being appointed.
(PIAC)
and policy organisation that provides legal
assistance to vulnerable and disadvantaged
groups in society. Legal policy, discrimination
criminal law advocacy experience, prior to
For more information, visit The Public
Defenders website.
law, and human rights law are areas dealt
with by the PIAC. PIAC generally advertises
voluntary and paid positions on their website. For more information, visit the PIAC website.
Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 25
Interview What does your position as associate at the
They are highly qualified and experienced
I assist Tribunal members with hearings by
backgrounds including practising solicitors
swearing in witnesses, and keeping records
doctors and academics. They are all very
directions, interlocutory orders, consent
knowledge and wisdom. I also work with a
AAT entail?
professionals who come from a range of
liaising with parties, recording proceedings,
and barristers, judges, accountants,
of exhibits, directions and orders. I draft
approachable and willing to share their
decisions and correspondence, perform
great team of associates and registry staff.
Associate
also administrative tasks such as keeping
What was the most difficult part of working at
Appeals Tribunal
cases I most frequently work on are social
Louis Parfait
legal research, and edit decisions. There are
Administrative
files up to date and diary management. The
the AAT?
The biggest challenges of the role are time
security, migration, compensation, veterans’
management, multi-tasking and prioritising.
Insurance Scheme matters.
and certain tasks have statutory deadlines
What skills do you find to be the most
of law to get your head around as the AAT
the AAT?
of Commonwealth acts and instruments –
crucial. We deal with people from all walks of
areas of the law.
to partners at law firms and judicial officers,
What advice would you give a law student
entitlements, tax and National Disability
Sometimes the caseload can seem relentless, that simply have to be met. There is also a lot
necessary to working as an associate at
reviews decisions made under hundreds
Written and oral communication skills are
however it is great to learn about different
life, from self-represented applicants through so we need to be able to communicate appropriately to different audiences.
We must also draft and edit documents
the AAT?
Working at a court or tribunal is an excellent
ensuring a high standard of accuracy and
way to start your legal career as it gives
attention to detail are also essential.
workings of our judicial/merits review
What was the most rewarding part of working
from some great minds, and spend a lot of
Being an associate provides an opportunity
up on the basics of administrative law
professionalism. Organisational skills and
26 | Careers Guide 2018
who was thinking about applying for a role at
you an insight into the behind-the-scenes systems. You have the opportunity to learn
at the AAT?
time observing advocates in action. Brushing
to work closely with the Tribunal members.
wouldn’t hurt if you are thinking of applying!
Macquarie University Law Society
Office of the Director of Public Prosecution NSW Jurisdiction (ODPP)
Commonwealth Jurisdiction (CDPP)
body for the state of New South Wales,
service established by Parliament to
The ODPP is the independent prosecuting established under the Director of Public
Prosecutions Act 1986 (NSW). The ODPP is
responsible for prosecuting serious offences
in the Children’s Court, and the Local, District and Supreme Courts; prosecutions for all
child sexual assault cases; and represents the Crown in appeals before the District
and Supreme Courts, as well as the NSW
Criminal Court of Appeal and the High Court of Australia.
The CDPP is an independent prosecution prosecute offences against Commonwealth Law, established under the Director of Public Prosecutions Act 1983 (Cth). It
performs a similar function to the ODPP, albeit in a Federal capacity. The CDPP
has offices in Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane,
Townsville, Cairns, Darwin, Perth, Adelaide, Hobart and Melbourne.
For more information, visit the CDPP website.
The ODPP offers a graduate development
program. The program is available in offices
across Sydney and regional areas, and is run on a full-time basis for a period of up to 12 months. Their program boasts: •
paid legal experience in criminal
•
the opportunity to network with senior
•
•
prosecutions,
lawyers and Crown Prosecutors,
extensive training and feedback, flexible work practices and challenging work.
To be eligible, applicants must have
completed the coursework component of
their PLT. The ODPP will take applicants who have completed, or are in the process of
completing, the work experience component of their PLT.
For further information, visit the ODPP website.
Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 27
Interview Briefly outline what the requirements of your
communicate is essential as a Magistrate, the
As a Crown Prosecutor, I was required to conduct
is limited. Experience helps to determine how
position were as a Crown Prosecutor.
numbers of cases are high and the time available
jury criminal trials and prosecute serious criminal
much time is required for each matter and the most
offences in the name of the Director of Public Prosecutions. The role required me to present evidence on behalf of the State, argue legal issues arising in the case and persuade a jury of the guilt of an accused beyond reasonable doubt.
Peter Thompson
My role also required me to provide advice to
[Formerly: Crown
and guide charge negotiation as well as finding
Magistrate
Prosecutor - NSW ODPP]
solicitors within the DPP as to appropriate charges Bills of Indictment for matters prosecuted in superior courts. The role required me to be able to effectively communicate with victims of crime,
efficient way of explaining the judgment in simple terms, yet ensuring all of the legal requirements are met. Working as a Crown Prosecutor with a judge and jury has really helped me to distinguish those questions of law from questions of fact. That has helped considerably in making decisions about admissibility of evidence or exercising discretion about the inclusion of evidence. Prior to working for the DPP, I worked as a police prosecutor which saw me gaining invaluable experience in the Local Court on a daily basis.
including young children who had been subject to serious allegations of sexual misconduct. As a Crown Prosecutor, I was not “their Barrister” but in representing the State, the interests of the victim were a significant part of that role. The role required a level of empathy and willingness to
What was the most rewarding part of working in criminal justice?
The most rewarding part of the role, was bringing about a ‘good’ outcome. What constituted a good outcome varied from case to case but was often
engage with victims.
tied to the expectations of the victim or the police.
What skills did you find were the most necessary
a particular sentence, often it was just hearing
Generally as a Legal Practitioner, Integrity is
statements and other ways to empower victims are
Sometimes it was a conviction, sometimes it was
working at the NSW ODPP?
an accused ‘admit their guilt’. Victim impact
the cornerstone of your professional life. It is
often very cathartic for victims and help them on
essential for a Crown Prosecutor. Integrity and your reputation take a lifetime to build, but a
their road to recovery. I found helping people like that very rewarding.
moment to destroy. As an advocate, of course the ability to communicate and persuade is critical. Communication takes different forms; dealing with Judicial Officers, fellow practitioners, colleagues within the Office, court staff, victims and witnesses all require different levels and modes of interaction. Sound knowledge of Criminal Law, the Law of Evidence, Advocacy are an essential requirement. Each of those specialties are developed over time with practice and experience. Advocacy involves practical skills in leading evidence from
What was the most difficult part of working in criminal justice?
Inconsistent decisions between Judicial Officers and decisions which impacted upon alleged victims of crime in a detrimental way. It is a job in which there is lots of emotion. So at times you deal with people that have significant relief and elation and at other times you deal with people who are being re-traumatised by the whole experience of court and sometimes the court outcome.
your own witnesses, the ability to cross-examine, and persuading both Judicial Officers and juries. Listening is an under-rated but significant component of advocacy.
What advice would you give a law student who was thinking about following a similar career path? Find what you enjoy – and gain as much
experience as you can. Use the opportunities
How has your experience as a DPP Solicitor and
that present themselves. That doesn’t just mean
role as a Magistrate?
unpaid or low paid work, sometimes it means just
has contributed significantly not only to my
yourself on the good advocates – learn from the
Crown Prosecutor prepared you for your current
taking whatever work you can, sometimes it means
I think my experience throughout my career
watching court proceedings – observe and model
appointment to the Bench, but also to the way
mistakes of others.
that I perform my role. The need to effectively
28 | Careers Guide 2018
Macquarie University Law Society
International Law and International Relations Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Department of Immigration and Border
DFAT is concerned with Australia’s
The DIBP is responsible for managing
(DFAT)
security and prosperity, as well as the
wellbeing of Australian citizens overseas. It provides foreign, development and
trade policy advice to the government,
and ensures that Australia’s interests are
effectively coordinated, in both a regional and global sense.
Protection (DIBP)
migration, refugee issues and Australia’s
humanitarian policy, as well as contributing to border management and breaches of
Australia’s migration law. The Department
also supports migrants and refugees settling
into the Australian community, and promotes multicultural values.
The DFAT graduate program involves
The DIBP has a ten-month graduate program,
consists of rotational work placements and
of their portfolio, including:
a two-year development period, which
formal training modules. There are two
streams in the DFAT graduate program: policy and management.
The policy stream is best suited, as the name
which exposes graduates to different aspects •
Settlement and citizenship,
•
Case management and care
•
suggests, to applicants who are interested
•
working in areas relating to disarmaments,
•
trade, free trade agreements, international
•
in policy development and are considering counter-terrorism, human rights, international finance or human resources.
The management stream involves working in areas such as financial services and management, corporate planning and
• • •
Multicultural affairs,
arrangements for people in immigration detention,
International engagement and border management,
Interpreting and applying legislation, Refugee and humanitarian issues, Technology services,
Financial services, and
Human resource management.
For more information, visit the DIBP website.
auditing. This stream is suited to those who
are interested in the management of DFAT’s human and financial resources
For more information, visit the DFAT website.
Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 29
Independent Government Entities and the Courts Judicial Commission of NSW
Judge’s Associate/Tipstaff
independent statutory body established
personal assistant and researcher for a
The Judicial Commission of NSW is an
under the Judicial Officers Act 1986 (NSW).
The Commission helps to improve the quality of judicial decision-making by providing
education and training programs for judicial officers tasked with conducting trials and
sentencing offenders. The Commission is
responsible for the content of the Judicial
Information Research System (JIRS), which is a judicial support system. JIRS contains
a wide variety of information relating to the criminal law, including bench books, case
An associate, or tipstaff, works as a
judge, performing tasks such as listing cases and liaising with members of
the legal profession. The role will vary
depending on the jurisdiction, court and
judge. These roles usually last for one to two years, with some judges preferring
to hire recent graduates, or candidates
with a couple of years of legal experience, depending on the judge in question.
For guidance on applying for an Associate
summaries and recent law items, which focus
position, please consult the Australian Law
criminal procedure and evidence, among
Guide by visiting their website.
on topical cases and legislation, as well as
Students’ Association’s Judge’s Associate
other matters. The Commission does not
have a regular graduate program, and hires based on demand,
For more information, visit the Judicial Commission of NSW website. Magistrates and Judges
Magistrates and Judges are appointed by the Governor of NSW, typically following advice
provided by the NSW Attorney-General. Such appointments are usually based upon the
experience of the applicant or nominee as a barrister or solicitor. Given the wealth of
experience required before such a position
can be attained, it would not be appropriate
for this Guide, directed at students or recent graduates, to elaborate any further.
30 | Careers Guide 2018
Macquarie University Law Society
Regulators
Australian Prudential Regulatory Authority
Australian Communications and Media
The APRA regulates the Australian financial
The AMCA is responsible for the
(APRA)
industry, more specifically banks, credit unions, building societies, insurance
providers, and superannuation funds. It
monitors the financial position and outlook of institutions, assesses risks in financial
institutions, licences new institutions, and
protects investors by enforcing the relevant
Authority (AMCA)
regulation of broadcasting, the
internet, radio communications and
telecommunications. This regulator does
not have a regular graduate program, and hires based on demand.
For more information, visit the AMCA website.
laws and regulations.
For more information, visit the APRA website.
NSW Ombudsman
The NSW Ombudsman is an independent and impartial watchdog that scrutinises
Australian Competition and Consumer
public sector and private agencies and
The ACCC promotes competition and
responsibilities to the community. There
Commission (ACCC)
their staff, to ensure that they fulfil their
fair trade in Australian markets to protect
is also an educative element of the work
consumers and businesses. The graduate
program offered by the ACCC involves three 14-week rotations.
For more information, visit the ACCC website.
done by the NSW Ombudsman, as this
regulator informs agencies and their staff of their responsibilities.
For more information, visit the NSW
Ombudsman website.
Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)
The ASIC is Australia’s corporate, markets
and financial services regulator, responsible
for upholding Australia’s economic reputation and wellbeing by ensuring that Australia’s
financial markets are fair, transparent, and are supported by confident and informed
investors. A 12-month graduate program is offered by the ASIC.
For more information, visit the ASIC website.
Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 31
Government, Policy and Intelligence NSW Department of Justice
The legal practice stream is open to LLB or
court, legal and supervision services to the
•
The NSW Department of Justice delivers
JD graduates, and involves:
Working with the Australian Government
NSW community. The NSW Department
Solicitor on issues such as defence,
number of NSW Ministers, including the NSW
well as initiatives geared toward major
immigration and border protection, as
of Justice is a broad entity that supports a
Attorney-General. The NSW Department of Justice offers a summer clerkship, which
•
gives students the opportunity to: •
• • •
• •
Four rotations across two or three
practice groups, a client placement and a pro bono placement.
Prepare briefs for the NSW Attorney-
General and other Ministers supported
economic, regulatory and social reforms.
by the Department,
The AGP also offers summer internships,
Formulate government policy,
in Canberra. Applications for summer
involving criminal and civil law policy, as
interns being placed into areas such as:
Be involved in law reform, and
•
Conduct legal research,
which run between November and February
Be involved in a range of projects
internships close in early October, with
well as legislative development,
•
Civil and criminal law,
Liaise with stakeholders as needed.
•
International law,
For more information, visit the NSW
Department of Justice website.
• • • •
Attorney-General’s Department (AGD) The AGD is responsible for providing
support to the Australian Government in order to maintain law, justice, national
security, emergency management, and
• •
Information and security, Emergency management response, National security,
Law enforcement and coordination, Family law,
Legal assistance, and
Corporate functions, including
information technology, human resources and finance.
national disaster relief. The AGD offers
NOTE, the summer internship program is
program. There are two streams for the
accept any applicants in 2018. For more
summer internships and a graduate
currently under review and thus did not
graduate program, namely “policy and
information, visit the AGD’s careers website.
program” and “legal practice”.
The policy and program stream is open to
graduates from all disciplines, and involves: •
Providing legal and policy advice on
issues relating to civil law, human rights, international law, and national security issues, such as countering violent
extremism, as well as international crime, •
people smuggling and extradition.
Three rotations across various areas of the AGD, with ongoing career development opportunities.
32 | Careers Guide 2018
Macquarie University Law Society
Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
has a year-long graduate problem that
The Department of PMC provides policy
intelligence service. ASIS look for candidates
the areas of economic and industrial policy,
analysis, as well as technical expertise and
policy and strategic policy. This Department
program is generally open to students who
and implements government decisions,
have graduated within two years of applying.
(PMC)
gives graduates a broad overview of the
advice to the Prime Minister and Cabinet in
who are experienced in research and
social policy, national security, international
corporate exposure. The ASIS graduate
assists in developing policies, coordinates
are in their final year, as well as those who
provides administrative support, and
facilitates intergovernmental relations and
communications between state and territory
For more information, visit the ASIS
Ombudsman website.
governments. The Department of PMC offers a graduate program that runs over two
Australian Taxation Office (ATO)
of the Department.
revenue collection agency, and is
years, including rotations through key areas
For more information, visit the PMC website.
The ATO is the Australian Government’s responsible for managing the nation’s
taxation, excise and superannuation systems.
The ATO offers a 12-month graduate program Australian Security Intelligence
that involves two work rotations and a client-
ASIO is an intelligence agency which
skills development and to assist graduates in
Organisation (ASIO)
content component, in order to facilitate
investigates threats to Australia’s national
identifying where they would like to settle.
security and provides security advice to governments and businesses, as
For more information, visit the ATO website.
well as dealing in counter-terrorism,
counter-espionage and collecting foreign
NSW Treasury
preventing and addressing:
primary economic and financial adviser. It
intelligence. Their work also contributes to
The Treasury is the NSW Government’s
•
Serious threats to Australia’s territorial
works with government agencies in health,
•
Sabotage,
Its role includes preparing the NSW State
Promotion of communal violence,
State Government’s fiscal and economic
and
financial risk.
• • • •
integrity
education, transport, policing, and housing.
Politically-motivated violence,
Budget, developing and implementing the
Attacks on Australia’s defence system,
policies, and assessing economic and
Acts of foreign interference.
For more information, visit the ASIO website.
For more information, visit the NSW
Ombudsman website.
Australian Secret Intelligence Service
Australian Defence Force (ADF)
ASIS is responsible for obtaining and
to become Legal Officers in their respective
capabilities, intentions and activities of
Air Force, Army and Navy.
(ASIS)
distributing secret intelligence about the individuals or organisations outside of
Australia that may affect Australia’s interest
The ADF offers the opportunity for graduates branches of the defence force, including the
For more information, visit the ADF website.
and the wellbeing of our citizens. ASIS
Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 33
4 Private Law Careers 34 | Careers Guide 2018
Macquarie University Law Society
Commercial, Family and Immigration Law Commercial Law
Immigration Law
draw their graduates from their summer
to enter, and remain, in Australia. Hence, the
While most of the large commercial law firms clerkship programs, some firms also offer graduate entry programs including: •
Brown Wright Stein
•
HWL Ebsworth
• • • • • • •
Hall and Wilcox Jones Day
King & Wood Mallesons Mills Oakley PwC
Sparke Helmore
Squire Patton Boggs
For more information about commercial law
or clerkship programs, please see the MULS
Immigration law relates to the rights of people laws surrounding visas and administrative
decision making are of particular relevance
to this area of law. Students seeking to work in immigration law may consider becoming a migration agent, and representing the
interests of individuals seeking methods
of travelling to, or remaining in Australia.
Migration agents may, among other jobs,
work in boutique law practices that specialise in migration law or work for Community Legal Centres. Alternatively, the Department of
Immigration and Border Protection is also an employer that is of relevance to this
discussion, albeit working from a different
2018 Clerkship Guide.
perspective from the aforementioned entities.
Key Dates
government in immigration matters, via their
The below dates reflect the 2018 timeline
for graduate programs that are associated
Commercial law firms may also represent the administrative law practice areas.
with the NSW Law Society. These are usually
For more information, the following links may
•
5 March: Applications open
•
•
7 May: Interview commence
similar to the dates adopted the following year. • • •
15 April: Applications close at 5pm 8 June: Offers made
be of assistance:
•
The Department of Immigration and Border Protection
Abacus Visa Immigration Lawyers
18 June: Offers must be accepted or decline by 5pm
Family Law
Family law is an area of practice that deals with divorces, and the associated custody
disputes and asset division that comes with such arrangements. Adoptions and other
related legal matters may also be handled by family lawyers. Family lawyers may operate out of boutique or suburban law practices,
or be involved in larger commercial law firms such as Mills Oakley. Lawyers who work at Community Legal Centres or similar non-
profit entities, are also typically confronted with matters relating to family law.
Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 35
Interview What does your position as a grad at
something as important as where you want to
Ashurst involve?
start your legal career.
up of three six month rotations and I am
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
advises corporate clients, banks and other
law in my opinion is the interesting and
loan funding on the most favourable
that we do. No two days are ever the same
objectives. As a graduate, my work in the
complex problem solving for matters which
loan agreements, drafting security and
economy more broadly.
opinions, managing conditions precedent
What is the most challenging part of your job?
external clients. The graduate program also
including myself, is the highly demanding
programs, exposure to pro-bono matters and
competitive market for legal services in
The Ashurst graduate program is made
currently in the Global Loans team. My team
The most rewarding part of commercial
financial institutions on obtaining or providing
intellectually stimulating nature of the work
Mitchell Bazzana
terms to help them achieve their business
and even as a graduate you are involved in
Ashurst
team involves, but is not limited to, reviewing
can change the shape of the law and the
Graduate
corporate authorisation documents and legal and communications with both internal and
The biggest challenge, for many people
involves a raft of training and development
nature of the work. Given the extremely
opportunities for secondment.
Australia and the complex and time-sensitive
Why did you decide to join Ashurst?
work on, the demands of the job on your time
out for me. Firstly, the fact it is a top tier
of what makes the job so rewarding but can
the areas of law that interest me. Secondly,
haven’t worked in commercial law before.
inclusive culture, which stood out when
where you feel comfortable and supported
Finally, that Ashurst offers a well-structured
of its employees.
development programs.
What advice would you give to students who
nature of the matters commercial law firms
There was a variety of reasons Ashurst stood
and mental capacity are high. This is part
international law firm which ranks highly in
also be a bit of shock to the system if you
that Ashurst has a truly collaborative and
This is why it is so important to find a firm
speaking to people who work at the firm.
and that puts an emphasis on the wellbeing
graduate program with first class training and
What factors should law students consider when choosing between large commercial
36 | Careers Guide 2018
are considering pursuing a career path in commercial law?
Think about what areas of law interest you,
law firms?
and whether a commercial law firm (and if
should think about the areas of law that
pursue those areas of interest. Make sure you
reputation in those areas), the scope of the
firm, their cultures and people before making
international) and the core values of the firm.
Speak to as many people as possible who
Ultimately for me it came down to my gut
levels and in different firms to get a better
and values of the firm. I believe you should
do and what it really entails. Finally, go with
rumours, and should 'go with your gut' on
whether it feels right.
In deciding which firm is best for you, you
so which type of firm) is the best place to
interest you (and each firm’s practice and
take the time to do your research on each
firm (particularly whether the firm is national or
a decision about where you want to work.
work in the industry with different experience
instinct about my cultural fit with the people
understanding of the type of work that they
not pick a firm based purely on statistics or
your gut, deep down you will usually know
Macquarie University Law Society
Interview What does being an associate at Pigdon
What have you found most rewarding about
As an associate at Pigdon Norgate, I
The most rewarding aspect is working
Norgate entail?
communicate and meet with clients on a
daily basis, regularly attend Court with clients both alone and with Counsel, draft court
documents such as orders and affidavits, as well as settlement documents such as Jessica Tasso
consent orders, financial agreements and
Pigton Norgate
child support agreements and deed of
Associate
other types of agreements such as binding releases under the Succession Act. It also
means drafting correspondence and detailed advices to clients, as well as reviewing
financial material to determine the value and nature of the assets held by the parties.
Why did you decide to pursue a career in family law?
Family law is relatable and it’s also
challenging. Everyone knows someone who has been through a relationship breakdown and experienced the difficulties involved in that. More particularly however, I decided
to pursue a career in family law because it
meant dealing with people on a daily basis
and assisting them directly to navigate their way out of their difficult situation.
working in family law?
with people directly and knowing that your
preparation and expertise has resulted in the best possible outcome for your client.
What qualities do you think someone needs to work in family law?
I think as lawyers, we all have similar qualities and I don’t think there are any different ones that someone requires to work in family law. We all have to be motivated, empathetic,
reliable and act in the best interests of our client.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in family law?
Go for it and start applying! Family law is a really small practice area and the jobs are limited. When I was applying for graduate
roles, I only applied for family law roles and
it took a bit of time. If working in family law is something that you really want to do, don’t
give up and go for something else because
you feel the pressure to lock yourself into full time employment straight out of uni. Another great option that I would recommend would
be applying to be an Associate of the Family What do you consider to be the most
Court or Federal Circuit Court. Being an
Working in family law is particularly difficult
to experience litigation, and gain exposure
challenging aspects of working in family law?
associate provides you with the opportunity
because it involves assisting people
to a wide variety of matters. It’s also a great
through difficult periods of their lives. As
a result, you are working with clients who
are understandably highly emotional and
stepping stone in gaining a graduate position (and I hear the hours are great).
often quite difficult. We are assisting clients
navigate divorces, property settlement, post
separation parenting arrangements, financial agreements and child support disputes.
Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 37
Additional Careers with Private Entities In-House Counsel
Companies that deal in such matters include:
corporations have their own dedicated legal
Young; KPMG; McKinsey & Company; and
Most commercial companies and larger
Boston Consulting Group; Deloitte; Ernst &
department. The in-house team provides
PriceWaterhouseCoopers.
management of corporate risks, ensures
Personal Injury
instigates change where new legislation
law firms have jettisoned their personal
legal provides an opportunity to work closely
mainly attended to by Australian firms. Firms
While some larger companies hire lawyers
•
Maurice Blackburn
lawyers work across a broad range of areas
•
Slater & Gordon
traditional been hard to come by, this sector
•
continues to do so. Some companies, such
Legal Publishing
graduate programs for law graduates.
liaising with professionals and academics,
Corporate Advisory, Consultancy and
conducting market research, and updating
Although this area is not strictly legal,
For experience in this area, Macquarie
advantageous given the omnipresence of
(LAWS533), and MULS encourages
advisors, analysts and consultants provide
The Brief. Many of the NSW Young
variety of transactions occurring within
newsletters, such as the Criminal Law
legal advice to the entity, assists in the compliance with the legislation, and
As larger, typically transnational commercial
may affect business operations. In-house
injury practice areas, this area of the law is
with professional in various disciplines.
specialising in personal injury law include:
to work in a specific area, many in-house
•
of law. While places in in-house teams have
•
Shine Lawyers
Gerard Malouf and Partners Stacks Goudkamp
has rapidly expanded in recent year and as Woolworths and Westpac even have
proof-reading material for publication,
Finance
online databases with legislative changes.
having a legal background is somewhat
University offers a Law Journals subject
the law in the business world. Corporate
interested students to get involved in
advice to commercial entities on a wide
Lawyers committees also have their own
the entity in question. For instance, such consultants may provide advice on:
Committee’s Amicus.
•
investment banking,
Publishing companies are often looking for
•
debt recovery,
be advertised on the following websites:
• • • • • • • •
38 | Careers Guide 2018
Work in legal publishing may include
management,
casual or part-time editors. Work will typically
accounting and taxation,
•
corporate renewal and strategy,
•
LexisNexis
Thomson Reuters
cost and supply chain management,
•
mergers and acquisitions,
Large commercial law firms also typically
private equity.
where staff may be required to perform
growth strategy,
performance improvement, and
CCH
have ‘Knowledge Management’ departments,
Macquarie University Law Society
research and edit newsletters. These
newsletters update precedents within
practice groups and provide information on general developments in the law.
A career as an academic often begins with short-term or casual positions as a tutor,
usually whilst one is competing their PhD. To move through the ranks, prospective academics will typically need teaching
Mediation
Mediation is a non-litigious form of dispute resolution. It involves the facilitation of
experience coupled with undertaking
research and producing publications.
negotiation between parties by a neutral
third party, namely a mediator. The mediator assists the parties by identifying the issues that need to be resolved, guiding them in a process of discussion, and developing problem solving methods that, hopefully, result in an agreement.
Examples of areas mediators may work in include: •
Commercial law,
•
Family law disputes,
• • •
Neighbourhood disputes, Workplace disputes, and
Planning and development disputes.
Legal Academia
If you are interested in the pursuit of
knowledge, then Academia may appeal
to you. Academia requires: the acquisition of knowledge; the critical survey of texts, cases and authors; and the constant
reappraisal of one’s own thinking. It creates opportunities to: conduct legal research,
publish texts and attend conferences where ideas may be presented and debated;
interact with colleagues, students and the media; develop a breadth and depth of legal knowledge that is not constrained by commercial or client-driven duties;
and, perhaps fundamentally, contribute to jurisprudence and the general understanding of the law.
Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 39
Interview What does your role as General Counsel
Why did you make the switch from a law firm
My role as General Counsel gives me
The variety in the work was definitely a
entail?
managerial oversight of all legal operations and affairs for 3M Australia and New
Zealand. 3M is a diverse company whose
product and service ranges are divided into 5 business groups. The lawyers in my team are Eleni Sideridis
allocated to these business groups and are
3M
that arise out of that business’s activities.
General Counsel
responsible for addressing any legal issues
The advice of in-house lawyers is often
sought for non-legal or quasi-legal strategic decisions. For example, I sit on the
Management Operating Committee for 3M
Australia and New Zealand. This committee gives broad, high-level, strategic direction and policy guidance to the company..
to in-house?
key selling point for me. Working in such a dynamic and innovative business means
that the work 3M does day-to-day, monthto-month, and year-to-year is always
different. This means that the nature of the
legal support the business needs is always different. I also enjoy not being limited to a single area of law. Within the same week I
can be dealing with matters of data privacy, competition law, contractual disputes, and advertising agreements.
What has been the best part about working in-house?
It’s hard to pick just one, but I would
need to say working side-by-side with
the business to achieve business goals. What skills do you believe are most useful to
While I had many rewarding experiences
In addition to having solid legal skills in
being directly involved in seeing a business
someone working as an in-house counsel?
working at a large commercial law firm,
the core areas relevant to the business
project go through and knowing that your
operations, business acumen is also essential. In-house lawyers need a
deep understanding of the business, its
drivers and strategy. This allows us to be proactive in giving advice that is focused on finding solutions.
work directly provides a benefit to your
business is a special kind of rewarding. What has been the worst part about working in-house?
This is a tough one – I have been in-house for 17 years with the same company and have never had a reason to leave!
40 | Careers Guide 2018
Macquarie University Law Society
Interview What does your role as a graduate in the PwC
A hunger to learn is also key. PwC employs
As a graduate, I work directly with our senior
countless learning opportunities but the
clients both independently and in conjunction
experience, seizing opportunities to learn
PwC's legal practice offer services in
resources at your disposal can give you a
Maria Toma
advisory, regulatory matters, projects
to work each and every day.
PWC
employment law. I spend a lot of time drafting
What is the most rewarding aspect of working
Graduate
legal team entail?
some of the brightest minds and offers
lawyers to deliver legal services to external
onus is on you to capitalise on that. In my
with other teams within the firm.
from the people around you and from the
a variety of areas including corporate
really strong platform to bring your best self
and infrastructure, banking, finance and
legal documents, researching, and regularly meeting with clients and colleagues to
at PwC?
The quality of the matters we work on is
discuss the status and progress of matters.
incredible. I’ve had the privilege to work on
What do you believe to be the unique benefits
a world of difference to our clients and the
traditional law firm?
rewarding and exciting to see your clients
opportunity to do something different and
you've done in the press.
lever in the market has been incredible.
What is the most challenging aspect of
some high-profile projects that have made
of working at a multidisciplinary firm over a
markets in which they operate. It is both
PwC has provided me with a genuine
happy and to read about some of the work
watch our team pull a new and competitive For each problem our client faces, we
package together the right mix of PwC
working at PwC?
Every once in a while, I have to sink my teeth
lawyers, consultants, financial advisers,
into complex and technical areas of the
an end-to-end solution in the most efficient
learning curve can be steep and I sometimes
team to deliver greater insights, industry
said that, the challenge is exhilarating and I
outcomes for our clients. For a lawyer, this
network of people that are always willing to
broader business and have early visibility of
they are.
tax specialists and engineers to help build
law that I know little about. This means the
way possible. This integration enables our
feels like I’m navigating a minefield. Having
perspective and holistic commercial
know am surrounded by an amazing support
means you can really connect with a client’s
help, regardless of their position or how busy
wider issues.
What skills have you found to be the most useful working at PwC?
What advice would you give to law students
thinking of applying to PwC or a similar firm? The best thing about PwC is that we don’t
Commercial awareness, without a doubt.
have a "type". Don't misrepresent or conceal
and constantly striving to gain knowledge
shine through. Show your personal brand and
compete in their marketplace, goes a very
with people both professionally and on a
Having an interest in the business world,
your true personality – let your individuality
about your client, their industry and how they
demonstrate that you know how to engage
long way.
genuine personal level, and this will this will speak volumes about the unique strengths that you can bring to the table.
Macquarie University Law Society
Careers Guide 2018 | 41
Complete your Practical Legal Training at Australia’s leading university * ANU Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice > Accredited > Completely online with the exception of the 4 day face-to-face Becoming a Practitioner (BAP) Course (offered in multiple locations across Australia) > Experienced, practitioner mentors > Choose your start date, mentor and when you graduate
Upcoming Sydney BAP dates > 14 January 2019 > 18 February 2019 EMAIL
slp.studentadmin@anu.edu.au PHONE
+61 2 6125 3483 WEB
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facebook.com/ANUGDLP
* QS World University Rankings 2018
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The Right PLT for You In order to practice law in Australia, all lawyers must complete Practical Legal Training (PLT). Upon completion of their PLT, graduates are awarded a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice (GDLP). The Australian National University is Australia’s leading university provider of Practical Legal Training. Not all PLT programs are created equal. It’s important that you conduct your own research into the various PLT programs, and make an informed decision on the program that is right for you. You may wish to speak with current or recent students and ask them for their thoughts on the PLT program. You may also consider the following questions: > Who will be teaching me? Are the teaching staff specialist practitioner teachers? > How will this PLT program prepare me for legal practice/ develop my professional skills?
> Eliza Drake, recent ANU GDLP graduate.
Preparation for practice and development of professional skills
Flexibility We all know how challenging it can be to juggle study, work, social and family commitments, so flexibility of a program is an important consideration when deciding which PLT is right for you. Some PLT providers ask students to select either a part-time or full-time mode of study. Others allow students to decide when they complete the various components of the program, without having to determine whether they wish to study part-time or full-time. The ANU GDLP allows students to decide when they commence their program, where they study and the pace at which they complete the program. Students are not required to nominate whether they wish to study full-time or part-time. Students simply decide when they wish to complete each component of the course, at a time that suits them. This allows students to determine the course load they wish to undertake, taking into consideration work and other commitments.
Teaching staff The teaching staff assigned to a course are critical to the quality of a student’s experience and the skills they develop. When you are considering which PLT program is right for you, consider the experience and expertise of the people who will be teaching you. It goes without saying that the
legalpractice.anu.edu.au/gdlp EMAIL
slp.studentadmin@anu.edu.au
Macquarie University Law Society
Teaching staff at the ANU GDLP only teach in their fields of expertise. Our staff are specialised current and former practitioners who guide students through what is expected of lawyers in that particular area of law, across the jurisdictions in Australia. The feedback and guidance you receive from those practitioners will be accurate, current and relevant. I enjoyed the advocacy aspects of ‘Becoming a Practitioner’. Some of the staff who taught the course were barristers who were really engaging and happy to share their professional practical tips.
> How flexible is the PLT program?
WEB
feedback you receive from a person who has specialised in a particular area of practice will be invaluable in developing your professional skills and your understanding of what real ‘life practice’ is like.
Lawyers are required to complete PLT to ensure that they have a realistic understanding of legal practice, and the skills required to conduct themselves in a professional and ethical manner. We have all heard the phrases ‘learning by doing’ and ‘practice makes perfect’. We know that repetition and practice develop one’s skills and increases confidence. The ANU GDLP program is focussed on developing your practical legal skills. The program simulates real legal practice, and in a supported environment, you will be required to complete the work of a lawyer in various areas of legal practice. The ANU GDLP is all about taking law graduates, and turning them into lawyers. Completing this program is the pathway into a legal career. That could be in government, commercial or corporate practice, in-house roles both domestically and internationally. The skills that you learn are incredibly relevant and applicable in all careers. Even if I choose not to practice, once admitted as a solicitor, the option always remains open to me. The ANU GDLP gives you practical and interpersonal skills that will always be relevant, and the option to take your career in a number of different directions. > Megan Shellie, current ANU GDLP student.
PHONE
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facebook.com/ANUGDLP
@ANUGDLP LINKEDIN
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