Thinking of when is the best time to make the return to Australia or NZ?
Returning to the Southern Hemisphere can be a pivotal moment in the careers of Kiwi and Aussie lawyers, marking a strategic move that aligns with your professional growth and personal aspirations. The legal landscape in countries like New Zealand and Australia offers a unique blend of challenges and opportunities, different to those overseas. For lawyers who have gained valuable international experience, coming back home can mean leveraging their global perspective and expertise in a local context. It allows you to contribute significantly to the legal community, bringing in diverse perspectives and innovative approaches acquired from their time abroad. Moreover, returning at the right time in your career enables you to establish yourself as thought leaders and pioneers, shaping the future of the legal profession in your home countries.
Additionally, the timing of your return can be crucial in building a robust network and connections within the Southern Hemisphere's legal community. By re-entering the legal market at the peak of your expertise, Kiwi and Aussie lawyers can not only foster collaborations but also mentor the next generation of legal professionals. Your international exposure can provide a unique advantage, enabling you to bridge the gap between global practices and local requirements. This amalgamation of knowledge and experience can be instrumental in driving legal innovation, fostering international partnerships, and enhancing the overall legal framework in their respective countries.
The feedback that our team in NZ often receives is that the sweet spot for someone to come back from an OE is between 3 and 5 years. This is due to the fact that you will have received some excellent experience, developed more technical skills but not lost touch with networks or NZ/Aus Law. Regulation and Legislation can change relatively quickly and it is easy to become out of the loop. In addition individuals will still be remembered by their peers and clients.
In Australia, salaries for legal professionals vary, ranging from $120,000 for individuals with 3 years of post-qualification experience (PQE) at top tier firms in Sydney, increasing to $150,000 for those with 5 years of PQE. Mid-tier firms offer salaries starting at $100,000 for 3 years PQE, going up to $130,000. In New Zealand, salaries differ as well, beginning at $110,000 for 3 years PQE at top tier firms in Auckland, rising to $140,000 for 5 years PQE. Mid-tier firms in NZ offer salaries ranging from $100,000 for 3 years PQE to $130,000. Additionally, employers in both countries are adopting innovative benefits packages such as 9-day working fortnights, wellness coaches, fitness boot camps, ski passes, clothing allowances, monthly massages, extended parental leave with top-ups, childcare subsidies, second career leave options, sign-on bonuses, executive coaching, and various allowances including entertainment and parking. These initiatives are aimed at enhancing work-life balance and overall employee well-being while ensuring competitive compensation packages.
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If you are thinking about making the move back to Australia or New Zealand get in touch today to hear who is hiring and available opportunities.