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My next move: What to consider when looking to return to Aussie market

Australian qualified lawyers who want to return to the Australian market after working in a foreign firm, must consider their strengths gained overseas. We ask Randstad Legal consultant, Sian…

user iconLawyers Weekly 14 October 2011 Careers
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Australian qualified lawyers who want to return to the Australian market after working in a foreign firm, must consider their strengths gained overseas. We ask Randstad Legal consultant, Sian Harwood, what prospects to consider.

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The current legal market in Sydney is quite tight. However, there are definitely prospects for lawyers looking to return to Australia having spent time working overseas.

Top-tier and international firms value overseas experience, particularly if it is gained at a Magic Circle or leading UK firm.

Even in the current market, there are still a significant number of top and mid-tier firms looking for strong corporate candidates, particularly those with good M&A experience. This is an area which is still quite candidate-short locally, thereby providing opportunities for returning Australian lawyers.

The transactional nature of this type of work also means that skills are highly transferrable. Lawyers who have worked in larger UK firms will have been exposed to high-quality and high-value transactions, placing them in a strong position when competing with other candidates who may not have worked on such high-value matters.

Returning Australian lawyers are viewed favourably for their experience working in a foreign market as well as their local experience. Although they may have been out of the Australian market for several years, they have the local experience foreign lawyers do not, and firms regard the combination highly.

To maximise opportunities, candidates need to be flexible with their salary expectations and the post-qualification level they are employed with. Provided they consider these factors, they should be able to secure suitable roles upon their return.

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