The Perth legal market is currently one of the strongest markets in the world. While financial market instability characterises most other jurisdictions, this global base of mining and resources is continually growing and offering lawyers across a range of sectors enormous opportunities – both in terms of quality of work and career progression.
AREAS OF GROWTH
The energy and resources sectors in particular continue to grow, with massive ongoing investment spurred by the hunger for resources throughout Asia. This growth will only continue in the future, and expand beyond Asia with massive opportunities in Africa which the Federal Government has recognised with the announcement of a $30 million initiative to promote mining development, with much of this work driven out of Perth.
As a result of this economic growth, the demand for corporate and commercial projects lawyers with energy sector experience has never been greater, along with finance lawyers at all levels, up to partner. Furthermore, there has recently been a substantial demand for commercial litigation, insolvency and workplace relations lawyers, particularly at mid and senior associate levels, as part of a knock-on effect of market growth.
THE INTERNATIONAL INFLUENCE
Perth’s geographical proximity to Asia and the international nature of the legal work in the region has meant that the Perth market has seen continued diversification away from the national top tier options to an increasingly international make-up. Firms like Allen & Overy, Clifford Chance, Norton Rose, Squire Sanders Dempsey and Ashurst have already or are in the process of establishing their offices in Perth, offering local lawyers the opportunity to work for an international firm on Asia’s doorstep. As a result, lawyers are able to experience the best of both worlds by having the chance to work for a global firm, retain their Australian lifestyle and still receive truly international exposure on the back of the firm’s strong international networks.
This situation has led to upward pressure on salaries for lawyers at all levels, with lawyers in Perth now making the same as their counterparts in Sydney. Further, mid to senior level candidates looking for genuine progression are currently spoilt for choice, with larger numbers of top quality firms looking to fill spots in similar fields.
EA International has also seen Perth become an increasingly attractive option for off-shore lawyers as well as those on the east-coast looking for a sea change to a market with a stronger demand for their skills.
EA International is a market leader in assisting lawyers with their local and cross-jurisdictional moves and has long-term, first-class relationships with many of the leading international and top tier Australian firms. This makes us well placed to assist you with your next career move. Whether you are looking for a change of lifestyle, better quality work, opportunity for progression or simply more money we can certainly guide you through the process and ensure you end up in the role that is right for you.
Click here to find out more or contact one of our consultants on ea@ea-int.com or call +61 2 9266 2900.
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