One Canadian’s Journey from Australia Law School to Legal Career

19 September 2025

Thinking about studying at an Australian law school? If you’re considering Australia, you’re not alone—and you’re not the first Canadian to trade in the snow boots for sunscreen to kickstart their legal career.

We recently caught up with Renee, a University of Toronto grad, who took that very leap. Renee is back in Canada and working as an immigration attorney. As she reflected on her journey she offers some practical insights and honest reflections for anyone considering the same path.

From surviving law school to landing their first legal job at Deloitte, here’s what Renee had to say about her journey—and why studying law in Australia was the right move.

law scales and gavel
Learn more about Australian law degrees

 

Background & Law School Experience

What inspired you to pursue a law degree?
During my undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto, I majored in political science. This aspect of my education provided numerous opportunities to engage in class debates and write extensive essays. These experiences fostered a long-term interest in the field, ultimately motivating me to pursue a law degree.

Why did you choose your law school, and how did it shape your legal career?
I selected the University of Newcastle after attending one of OzTREKK’s university fairs due to my interest in the combined Legal Practice and Juris Doctor program. I was particularly interested in completing various legal modules that would help me acquire practical legal skills and eventually qualify for admission as a Solicitor in the state of New South Wales.

Real talk: how challenging is law school (really)? 
Law school is manageable with the right approach. By diligently completing assignments, maintaining focus, and seeking clarification, when necessary, it can be less challenging than often portrayed.

 

Career Path & Professional Growth

What was your first job after law school, and how did you land it?
Upon graduating from the University of Newcastle in Australia as a law graduate and a licensed solicitor in the state of New South Wales, I started working at Deloitte Canada (Toronto, ON location). I obtained the position by applying through various employment agencies, and one agency connected me with Deloitte Canada, offering an initial temporary role as a U.S. immigration law clerk that eventually became full-time and permanent. I currently work as an immigration attorney for McInnes Cooper LLP, a major law firm based in the Atlantic provinces.

Can you describe a defining moment in your legal career?
One of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences in my legal career was assisting a client with obtaining a family violence temporary resident permit. This permit allowed the client to remain in the country and apply for an open work permit, ultimately leading to permanent residency. My practice is exclusively focused on immigration law, so it was particularly interesting to handle a case involving a sexual abuse victim within this context. Currently, I work with the Department of Justice, providing independent legal advice to victims of sexual abuse on the legal avenues available for them to remain in Canada.

 

Advice & Reflections

Do you have any advice for current law students or recent graduates looking to enter the legal field? 
My advice to law students and recent graduates is to gain practical legal experience. I completed the legal practice program along with my Juris Doctor degree at the University of Newcastle. This helped me develop entry-level legal skills and qualify for admission as a Solicitor in New South Wales. It was beneficial to handle legal work practically, as law school focuses mainly on theory.

How do you see the legal industry evolving, and what should future lawyers prepare for? 
The integration of artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly prevalent and beneficial within the legal industry. Our law firm frequently holds internal meetings to discuss the advantages of artificial intelligence. In the practice of immigration law, we use artificial intelligence to research specific legal-related inquiries and generate responses from an immigration perspective.

What’s next for you in your career, and what excites you about the future?
I am currently deliberating my career path. Having practiced as an immigration attorney for three years, I am considering whether to pursue a partnership at my current law firm or to establish my own practice.

 

Which law programs do OzTREKK Australian law schools offer?

The following Australian law schools offer either a JD and/or an undergraduate-entry LLB:

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Ready to see where an Australian law degree can take you? Reach out to OzTREKK’s Law Team at law@oztrekk.com. We’re here to help!

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