Working in Law

Whether it is in a major investment bank in the centre of vibrant Sydney or a boutique mid tier firm in fashionable Melbourne, across the board demand for lawyers with 2 - 10 years post qualified experience is very high.

Skills in particular demand include:

  • Banking
  • Corporate
  • Commercial
  • Financial Services
  • Information Technology
  • In-house Compliance
  • Property

What people earn and how it stacks up

All is looking positive for lawyers working in both private practice and in-house functions. Demand is highest in Sydney leading to slightly higher salary packages. In other cities, demand is consistent, particularly within private practice.

To stay competitive in a tight labour market employers are offering high base salaries, great bonuses and career advancement. There is no doubt that your salary will afford you a great lifestyle in Australia.

The below salaries range from 2 - 10 years experience.

 Private Practice Melbourne (AUD$)   Sydney (AUD$)
 2 years PQE $60 - $95,000 $60 - $96,000
 3 years PQE $65 - $100,000 $70 - $115,000
 4 years PQE $75 - $120,000 $75 - $130,000
 5 years PQE $82 - $150,000 $86 - $160,000
 5 - 10 years PQE   $90 - $230,000 $100 - $240,000  

 Commerce and Industry   Melbourne (AUD$)   Sydney (AUD$)  
 IT/Telcos $80 - $200,000 $85 - $200,000
 Retail/Distribution $80 - $200,000 $80 - $200,000
 Commercial Services $80 - $180,000 $80 - $190,000
 Manufacturing $80 - $180,000 $80 - $200,000
 Energy/Resources $80 - $200,000 $80 - $200,000
 Property/Construction $80 - $200,000 $80 - $200,000

 Banking and Financial  
 Services
 Melbourne (AUD$)   Sydney (AUD$)  
 Insurance $75 - $180,000 $75 - $185,000
 Funds Management $90 - $200,000 $90 - $220,000
 Retail Banking $80 - $190,000 $85 - $200,000
 Investment Banking $90 - $220,000 $90 - $220,000

Do you want personalised advice on what you can potentially be earning in Australia? Register now and find out.

Being there is everything!

Typically it is difficult to secure employment prior to your arrival in Australia. Once you have arrived you will find your job search to be a lot easier. Depending on how flexible you are it can take from one to four weeks to secure a role.

The best time to go

The Australian market remains consistent between March and November. The summer months between December and February tend to be considerably slower as hiring managers are away on leave.

If you are returning home from the UK, keep in mind that it is popular to come home before Christmas. Make sure you arrive in Australia before December if you are looking to get a job quickly.

Register with us now and take the next step in your career.


"Global have now placed me in a role, company and industry, that is my absolute ideal"

PJ, Working in NZ after being in UK


Tips

  • When looking for a job, keep in touch with your consultants regularly so you stay top of mind
  • Make sure your CV is written in the third person eg. no I or me
  • Research is worth its weight in gold in impressing potential employers
  • Ensure you get a bank account and tax file number when you arrive
  • Make sure your contact details are always up to date
  • Always allow an extra 20 minutes for getting to your interview - transport happens
  • Keep your CV concise, with responsibilities and skills technically focused
  • Go prepared to employer interviews with a few questions to ask
  • Bear in mind if you are moving into a new market, local experience may be desirable