For decades, London has been a rite of passage for Australian and New Zealand lawyers seeking international experience, top-tier work, and a change of scenery. But in 2025, the tide is noticeably turning. A growing number of Antipodean lawyers are swapping the grey skies of London for sunnier, and increasingly promising, shores back home.
Several factors are driving this shift, from surging costs of living and Brexit aftershocks to a booming legal market in Australia and New Zealand, and a renewed desire for lifestyle balance.
The Cost of Living Crunch
London has always been expensive, but 2024-25 has pushed many young professionals to their financial limits. Inflation remains stubbornly high, rents have soared, and daily expenses continue to outpace salaries, even in traditionally lucrative legal roles.
A mid-level solicitor at a major City firm might command a solid salary of £90,000 – £110,000, but when rent, transport, and basic living expenses are accounted for, the savings potential is far lower than many expected.
Examples include the cost of a standard pour of wine has doubled in the last 12 months, and gas and electricity bills have increased by 50%.
In Sydney, a one-bedroom apartment near the beach is within reach, while in London, even with a promotion, flat-sharing into your 30s is often still the norm, a reality that’s prompting many professionals to question the value equation.
Brexit’s Lingering Effects
While Brexit is old news politically, its ripple effects are still felt strongly in professional services. Reduced access to European markets has limited some cross-border work opportunities, particularly in areas like financial services and corporate law, traditionally attractive fields for Australian and Kiwi lawyers abroad.
Some lawyers have reported feeling a shift in the City’s energy: a more cautious, less expansive atmosphere compared to the heady pre-Brexit years.
With the deals market cooling and the allure of working in London fading, the appeal of returning home is growing for many corporate lawyers.
Legal Booms at Home
At the same time, opportunities in Australia and New Zealand are still strong. Sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy, technology, and ESG (environmental, social, and governance) law are expanding rapidly, driving demand for mid- to senior-level legal talent.
According to recent recruitment data, salaries for lawyers with London experience have reached new highs in Sydney, Melbourne, and Auckland. Firms are actively courting returnees, offering flexible working arrangements, signing bonuses, and fast-tracked promotions.
Five years ago, the common advice was to head to London to build your career. Now, that international experience is in high demand as firms look to support major domestic projects.
Lifestyle Recalibration
Perhaps most compellingly, post-pandemic priorities have shifted. Many Australian and New Zealand lawyers who once craved the hustle of London life now seek better work-life balance, proximity to family, and a healthier lifestyle.
COVID prompted a widespread reassessment of priorities. While London offered excitement, it often came with exhaustion; returning home has become a way to pursue a strong legal career without the burnout.
The pull of beaches, bushwalks, and backyard barbecues, combined with thriving career prospects, has proven irresistible to many.
Is This the End of the London Dream?
Not necessarily. London remains a premier destination for lawyers seeking global experience, especially early in their careers. The international exposure, the brand-name firms, and the cultural richness still offer huge value.
But the trend is clear: for many Aussie and Kiwi lawyers, London is increasingly seen as a chapter in their story, rather than the entire book.
As the economic pendulum swings and lifestyle ambitions evolve, more are choosing to write their next chapters back where it all began, under the bright skies of Australia and New Zealand.
If you’ve been contemplating a return to New Zealand or Australia, now is the time to take the next step in your career. With a thriving legal sector and firms eager to hire, the opportunities are yours for the taking.
Why Work with Tyler Wren?
I’m based in the UK, recruiting internationally for Tyler Wren, while my team operates on the ground in both Australia and New Zealand. This means we have local insights and direct connections to ensure you secure the best possible opportunity before you return home. We provide full support throughout the process, including negotiating relocation packages, sign-on bonuses, and other benefits to make your transition as smooth as possible. Whether you’re looking for a role that aligns with your career goals or need guidance on market trends, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Ready to make your move? Contact Tyler Wren today and take the first step toward living the dream as a Lawyer in Australia.
Here at Tyler Wren, we know good people know good people. That’s why we offer a referral bonus if you refer someone to Tyler Wren, with whom we secure a new role. Click here to find out more and refer a friend: Tyler Wren Refer a Friend.
Follow us on LinkedIn Facebook Instagram
#TylerWrenLegal #TylerWrenLegalSupport #TylerWrenLawyers #TylerWren #TylerWrenCareers