Gavin Howe
A law degree in Australia can lead to a variety of career paths, both within and outside the legal field. While some law graduates go on to become lawyers, solicitors, or barristers, others may explore diverse options such as human resources, management consulting, journalism, or politics. The skills gained from a law degree, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, research, and communication, are highly valued by employers across industries. Additionally, the qualification provides a solid foundation for understanding Australia's complex political and legal systems, making graduates well-suited for roles in government, banking, and consulting. The flexibility of a law degree allows individuals to forge their own path and pursue their passions while benefiting from enhanced employability.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Career options | Lawyer, solicitor, barrister, paralegal, police prosecutor, journalist, politician, human resources manager, management consultant, policy analyst, legal recruiter, judge's associate, investigations manager, contracts manager, investment banker |
| Transferable skills | Critical thinking, problem-solving, research, communication, teamwork, writing, argumentation, advocacy, understanding of the political system |
| Employment prospects | 74% of Australian law school graduates obtained full-time employment within four months of graduation, higher than the national average of 69% |
| Salary | National average salary for human resources managers: $114,073 per year; Management consultants: $103,472 per year; Policy analysts: $108,243 per year; Contracts managers: $111,586 per year; Investigations managers: $130,549 per year; Investment bankers: $107,821 per year |
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What You'll Learn
Law graduates can work in journalism
Law graduates in Australia can work in journalism. Journalism is a career that many law graduates in Australia go into. Annabel Crabb, for example, studied a degree in Arts and Law at the University of Adelaide and then moved into journalism. Other well-known Australian journalists with law degrees include Waleed Aly, Andrew O’Keefe, Liz Jackson, and more.
Journalism is a good fit for law graduates because of the skills they gain from their legal studies. These include critical thinking skills, strong investigative skills, and impeccable attention to detail. Law graduates also have natural scepticism, writing skills, and knowledge of Australia's complex political and legal system, which are all useful for a career in journalism.
Law graduates can also gain relevant experience during their studies by taking advantage of internship opportunities. For example, the University of Queensland encourages and supports journalism students to find internships, and some students have interned at ABC, Brisbane Times, and more.
In addition to internships, law graduates can also benefit from the broad introduction to the legal system that their degree provides. This knowledge can be applied when reporting on legal and political issues, which are often interconnected and complex in Australia.
Overall, a law degree can provide a strong foundation for a career in journalism, and law graduates can use their skills and knowledge to succeed in this field.
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A law degree can lead to a career in politics
A law degree can be a great stepping stone to a career in politics. While it may be challenging to secure a graduate job in the legal industry, a law degree can open doors to a variety of career paths, including politics.
In July 2020, 21 Australian ministers across the two major political parties held law degrees, with 12 from the Labor Party and nine from the Liberal Party. These qualifications can serve as a valuable shield and sword in the complex world of politics, where every move is scrutinised.
Law graduates can bring a unique set of skills to the political arena. They are trained to think critically, construct compelling arguments, and challenge policies—all essential tools for navigating the political landscape. Law also teaches students to analyse issues objectively, setting aside ideological biases. This ability to see both sides of an argument is invaluable when dealing with opposing viewpoints in politics.
Additionally, law students develop strong communication skills, which are crucial for effective public relations and civil service roles. Their understanding of the legal and political systems can make them influential voices in the media, and their analytical skills can be leveraged in consultancy roles.
So, if you're considering a career in politics, a law degree can be an excellent foundation, providing you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in this competitive field.
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You can become a human resources manager
A law degree can be a great starting point for a career in human resources management. Human resources managers are in high demand in Australia, with around 95,000 employed across the country and future growth projected at 16.3%.
Human resources managers are responsible for the smooth running of people management systems, including hiring, salary determination, and contract creation. They also oversee performance management, recruitment procedures, staffing issues, occupational health and safety, budget management, and training and development programs.
To become a human resources manager, you can take a few different pathways. One option is to complete a Bachelor of Business, majoring in Human Resource Management. This degree is typically three years long and will provide you with the HR skills that are most in demand. You'll cover topics such as organisational behaviour, industrial relations, diversity and inclusion, performance management, and innovation. Some universities also offer the option to complete professional placements, internships, and study tours as part of your degree.
Another pathway is to start with a Diploma of Human Resource Management, which can be completed online in 6-8 months. This course covers practical projects, such as creating an HR strategy and developing employee relations policies. After completing the diploma, you can transition into the second year of a Bachelor of Business, majoring in Human Resource Management.
There are also shorter, more specialised courses available, such as the one offered by Monarch Institute, which covers essential HR topics like general HR functions, recruitment, performance development, and employee relations. This type of course can help you transition into entry-level HR roles, such as HR assistant or HR officer, and provide a foundation for further study.
Regardless of your chosen pathway, a career in human resources management offers a wide range of opportunities and the chance to make a significant impact within an organisation.
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Law degrees are useful for management consulting
A law degree in Australia can lead to many career paths, including the traditional routes of becoming a solicitor, barrister, or paralegal. However, law graduates can also pursue diverse careers beyond the courtroom, such as in politics, journalism, or management consulting.
The transition from law school to consulting is possible and even advantageous in some cases. Top consulting firms recruit from prestigious law schools, recognising the value of legal training. Lawyers are known for their intelligence and capability within consulting firms, though they may need to develop additional skills such as quantitative modelling.
To increase their chances of transitioning into consulting, law students and graduates should focus on gaining a commercial understanding of their work, developing analytical and quantitative skills, and networking with consultants who can provide referrals.
In summary, law degrees can be a great asset for those interested in management consulting, providing a strong skill set and a pathway into prestigious consulting firms. However, the transition requires dedication and a willingness to adapt and learn new skills.
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You can work in legal recruitment
If you have a law degree, you can work in legal recruitment. Legal recruitment consultants help legal professionals find jobs in the legal sector. They take the time to understand what is required for a role before recommending the most suitable approach for a candidate's job search. Legal recruitment consultants also help organisations find the right person to transform their business.
Legal recruitment consultants are often employed by recruitment agencies, such as Hays and Michael Page, which have deep relationships with Australia's key employers, from international legal practices to respected law firms, as well as corporate, financial, government and public sector organisations.
To become a legal recruitment consultant, you will need legal knowledge and recruitment or sales qualities. You will also need to understand the legal job market in Australia, including in-demand roles, salary expectations, and legal career opportunities in different locations, such as Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and regional Queensland.
Legal recruitment consultants can help candidates find permanent, temporary, or contract jobs in various sectors, including corporate law, commercial law, litigation, and environmental law. They can also provide valuable insights into industry trends, salary benchmarks, and career progression opportunities.
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Frequently asked questions
Traditional career paths for law graduates include working as a solicitor, barrister, paralegal, prosecutor, defence lawyer, or judge.
Non-legal career options for law graduates include human resources, management consulting, policy analysis, investment banking, and journalism.
Law graduates develop critical thinking, problem-solving, research, communication, and teamwork skills. They also gain an understanding of the political and legal systems, which can be advantageous in various sectors.
Yes, completing a Practical Legal Training (PLT) program is recommended as it enhances your employability in the legal field. Additionally, considering a double degree or postgraduate studies can provide additional disciplinary knowledge and specialist skills.
According to Graduate Careers Australia, 74% of Australian law school graduates obtain full-time employment within four months of graduation, which is higher than the national graduate employment average.
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