It's well known the London recruitment market suffered significantly following the global financial crisis. However, 2011 has seen some considerable improvements with new opportunities for Australian lawyers emerging, albeit gradually.

"The mood is very positive ... with the flow of work in the pipeline there's a view that this will be a much more stable year," says EA International managing director, Michael Bromley.

While opportunities for Australian lawyers have increased to some extent, competition for jobs is fierce making it more difficult for Australian lawyers to secure themselves a job.

But despite this intense competition, recruiters say Australian lawyers should start looking and making inquiries if they're intent on creating a life in London.

"It's still very competitive but if you're from a top-tier firm with strong academics and you've got at least three years of experience there will be firms that are more than likely to speak to you," Bromley says.

London firms, such as Herbert Smith, Linklaters, Allen & Overy and Slaughter & May began their Australian recruitment campaigns in early 2010, reflecting the growing demand for top international talent.

"There is demand for Australian talent, of course there always will be, but we're seeing a huge increase, especially in the larger firms opening their doors to high calibre international talent," says Hays regional director, Carolyn Dickason.

In 2011 London firms are focusing heavily on retention of staff, however there is growing demand for lawyers practising in financial services, capital markets, corporate and M&A.

The good: London experience is a good resume builder plus the salaries are generally very competitive. Australian lawyers can look forward to lots of weekend travel thanks to the proximity of London to Europe.

The bad: As everyone knows, the weather can be a little on the dreary side and it's a long flight home for a visit.

Realistic option? Yes, but most recruiters recommend Australian lawyers have between three and seven years' experience and secure a job before making a move. Also, the ability of London firms to sponsor overseas candidates was recently diminished thanks to new limits placed on visas for non-EU nationals.

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Click on the images below to discover the 2011 legal job hotspots for Australian lawyers: