Tyler Wren’s 2025 Legal Salary & Benefits Guide is now live and packed with data from hundreds of legal professionals across New Zealand and Australia. Whether you’re a hiring manager benchmarking salaries or a lawyer planning your next career move, these insights will help guide your decision-making.
Steady Growth in Remuneration
Legal salaries across both private practice and in-house roles have seen consistent upward movement. While not explosive, this steady increase reflects a market that values retention, experience, and specialised skillsets.
Tyler Wren’s 2025 Legal Salary & Benefits Guide confirms that In New Zealand, junior lawyers (1–2 PQE) are now commonly earning between $75,000 and $90,000 in Auckland, with mid-level lawyers reaching up to $130,000. Christchurch is also showing positive salary progression, although Auckland remains the highest-paying market.
In Australia, Sydney and Melbourne continue to lead, but regional hubs like Brisbane and Perth are catching up, particularly for candidates with experience in litigation, construction, or insurance.
Bonuses Are Back – But With a Catch
Over 60% of respondents reported receiving a bonus in the last 12 months, with structures typically tied to billables or firm performance. However, more firms are placing emphasis on team contribution and business development activity when calculating incentive payments. Candidates are wise to ask for transparency in how bonuses are awarded.
Flexible Working Is Here to Stay
Tyler Wren’s 2025 Legal Salary & Benefits Guide states the hybrid working model has become a baseline expectation rather than a perk. Over 90% of survey participants noted they work from home at least one day a week, with some enjoying full flexibility. Firms that offer genuine work-life balance are increasingly viewed as employers of choice, especially by top-tier talent who now prioritise lifestyle alongside career development.
Counteroffers: A Growing Risk to Retention
Tyler Wren’s 2025 Legal Salary & Benefits Guide confirms what many hiring managers already know: counteroffers are on the rise. Over 40% of candidates who accepted new roles had first received a counteroffer from their existing firm. The takeaway? If you’re hiring, move quickly and ensure your offer speaks to both financial and professional motivators.
Retention and Attraction: What Lawyers Want
When asked what would encourage them to stay, lawyers highlighted:
- Transparent promotion pathways
- Genuine mentorship
- Opportunities to work on complex, career-defining matters
Salary is only part of the equation. Culture, progression, and leadership visibility remain critical drivers.
Key Takeaway for 2025
In a talent-tight legal market, being proactive matters. Candidates should stay informed on their market value and seek environments that match their long-term goals. Employers, on the other hand, must think beyond pay to retain high-performing teams.
Download the 2025 Legal Salary & Benefits Guide
Access your copy here: https://tylerwren.co.nz/salary-guide
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