Thinking of Moving? What Legal Secretaries Should Know About Jobs in Australia
Legal secretaries across New Zealand are eyeing up roles in Australia. And with good reason. The demand for experienced legal support is rising. Salaries are climbing. Firms are offering better benefits.
If you’ve been thinking about a change, now is a great time to explore what’s across the ditch.
Why Legal Secretaries Are in Demand in Australia
Firms in Australia, especially in Sydney, Perth and Brisbane, are seeking reliable and experienced legal secretaries. They’re seeking candidates who can manage multiple fee earners, handle document production, and keep things moving when their teams get busy.
New Zealand-trained legal secretaries are often seen as adaptable and capable. Australian firms know that Kiwis are quick to learn new systems, fit well into the culture and thrive under pressure. They also understand that much of the work has similarities to that of the NZ-based role, so the transition is relatively smooth. With relatives living just a few hours away, NZ legal secretaries find it easy to make Australia their home Our strategic partnership with an Australian legal recruitment firm is helping legal professionals across New Zealand access these roles faster.
What You Can Earn as a Legal Secretary in Australia
Legal secretary salaries in Australia typically outpace those in New Zealand. And with the exchange rate, the difference can be significant.
|
Role |
NZ Salary (NZD) |
Aus Salary (AUD) |
|
0 – 2.5 years experience |
$55–65k |
$65–80k |
|
2.5 years + experience |
$65–80k |
$80–100k |
|
Legal PA |
$80–90k+ |
$100–120k+ |
Many firms offer overtime pay, annual leave loading, and structured bonus schemes. So, you’re not just earning more, you’re also getting more value from your time off.
If you’re early in your legal career and considering a move, this guide breaks down what to expect and how to make the most of your first job across the ditch.
Things to Sort Before You Move
You won’t need a visa. New Zealand citizens can live and work in Australia without one. But there are still a few boxes to tick. You’ll need to register for a Tax File Number and Medicare once you arrive. This relocation guide covers what else you should prepare before leaving New Zealand.
Housing costs can be higher in Australian cities, especially in Sydney. However, salaries often reflect that. If you want to save money, consider living just outside the city. Transport options are reliable in most urban centres.
Moving also means adjusting to bigger firms, faster-paced environments, and new office cultures. But many legal secretaries say the challenge was worth it.
What Kind of Jobs Are Available?
The market for legal secretaries in Australia is broad. You can find roles in large commercial firms, boutique practices, and everything in between.
Here are two recent examples:
Legal Secretary – Litigation – Sydney CBD
Join a leading national firm. Support two partners. Work in a collaborative team. Salary: $90–100k AUD.
Legal PA – Corporate Law – Brisbane
Mid-tier firm with a strong internal culture. Provide high-level support across a busy commercial practice. Salary: Up to $95k AUD + bonus.
Is It the Right Time to Explore?
If your current role feels flat or underpaid, this might be the change you’ve been looking for. Australia’s market for legal support is strong — and still growing. Many firms are open to remote interviews and quick onboarding.
Curious about where a legal career could take you long-term? Here’s how Kiwi and Aussie lawyers are exploring global roles before returning home.
If you’re a legal secretary or lawyer considering a move to Australia, get in touch for a confidential conversation. I can talk you through the market, suggest next steps, and connect you with roles that match your goals.
Our latest Salary & Benefits Guides have recently been released for 2024/2025. Check them out here.
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