Careers Guide 2018

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

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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

legalpractice.anu.edu.au/gdlp FACEBOOK

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* QS World University Rankings 2018

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Macquarie University Law Society

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

+61 2 6125 3483 FACEBOOK

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