How to become a practising lawyer in Australia

To become a lawyer in Australia, it takes more than just graduating with a law degree. Read on to see how you can become a practising lawyer in four simple steps.

Step 1: Work and study hard to make sure you’re eligible for entry into law

Work hard to get a selection rank eligible for entry into law. Law requires a selection rank of 90, so you’ll need to put in those hard hours of study and persevere. You might choose politics and law as subjects for Year 11 and 12 to start preparing you for your undergraduate degree and give you a basic understanding of the Constitution, law and politics. However it isn’t a prerequisite subject, so you’re best off choosing what interests you and your goals.

We also have other non-ATAR pathways which may suit you. Check out our other pathways to see how you could possibly study law at Murdoch.

If you are an international student you will need to meet different entry requirements which can be found here.

Step 2: Get accepted and complete your law degree

Once you have been accepted into law at Murdoch you’ll study for just four years and gain loads of practical experience through our Work Integrated Learning program, SCALES law clinic , mooting competitions, international exchanges and more. If you choose to study a combined degree and complete two qualifications, in most cases it will only add one extra year to your studies. Popular combined degrees in law include:

Step 3: Complete your Practical Legal Training

Also known as your PLT or Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice, PLT is a structured training program designed to help you develop the practical, day-to-day skills you will need as an entry-level lawyer. Completion of PLT is needed to officially admit you into the law profession in Australia. Unlike at other unis, Murdoch students have the convenience of completing their PLT on campus while still studying, thanks to our partnerships with Leo Cussens and College of Law.

Step 4: Apply for admission to practice

Once you have completed your PLT you can then apply for admission into practice. This is the final step in your transition to a career as a lawyer. You’ll need to also apply for an Australian practising certificate. Find out the latest information about the admission process.

Ready to stand up and defend the rights of others? Explore Law at Murdoch.