Embarking on a legal career in local, state, or federal government can be an exciting move. There are many pathways for development, a broad range of practice areas, and often a healthy work-life balance. These roles are highly rewarding, and highly competitive.
Deborah Battisson, Executive Director for the College of Law in the Australian Capital Territory, works closely with a range of Commonwealth government departments and agencies running cohort-specific PLT programs for their graduates each year. Deborah has a number of updates to share on the government department job application process and also about the services the College provides for those keen to move into the public sector.
We also spoke to two national careers strategists at the College of Law, Ruth Beran and Susan Pincus – and Rochelle Rothfield from Rothfield Legal Recruitment – about what it takes to gain a position in government (at any career stage) and how to forge a successful career once you’re there.
The draw of government
Want to help create policies that govern our society? Dive deep into the area of law you’re passionate about? Or do you want access to a breadth of career opportunities? Then according to our experts, a legal career in government could be for you.
“There’s a lot of meaty work in government. From criminal law to environmental and property law to Native Title and human rights – the scope is exciting,” Susan explains. “If being in a courtroom is your wheelhouse, you can do litigation and a range of roles within that. Or you can take on an advisory position and help draft new legislation.”
And on a day-to-day basis, life in government looks a little different to law firms.
“You can expect to work fewer hours, particularly at a junior level,” Ruth says. “You’re not staying at the office until 10pm – and if you do, you get time in lieu. Plus, it’s not just about the money you’re bringing into the firm. There’s a sense you’re working towards the common good.”
Are you the right fit for a government role?
It takes a certain kind of lawyer to thrive within the public sector Ruth explains.
“To stand out from the crowd, you need creativity, strategic thinking, and a collaborative approach.”
Government departments – particularly at the state and federal level – are much larger than law firms. It can take a while to learn who your stakeholders are and how the system works. But if you’re adept at building strong internal networks, you’ll keep up with changes.
“You also need to adopt an impartial mindset,” Ruth says. “Ideally, public servants should be able to give advice without fear or favour.”
And as for your legal expertise? Like in the private sector, your specialist knowledge is deeply valuable.
“If you can demonstrate your interest in a particular area of law – either through your professional or volunteer work – that’s appealing to government departments,” Ruth says. “It can, and should, translate into your new role.”
But with a rigorous application process and so many candidates, how can you land a spot in your dream department?
How to land your first government role
Local, state or federal government websites will advertise certain job openings, so keep job alerts on to ensure you don’t miss out. It is also worthwhile adopting an open-minded strategy, while you may not start in your ideal position there is always room to move once you are in.
“Not all roles are advertised so networking can be useful. And for early career lawyers, try joining your Young Lawyers group to grow your network of government lawyers,” Ruth advises. “Don’t be afraid to do an informational interview with new contacts. Start by asking about their career – what they love and what keeps them up at night.
“Asking for advice, rather than a job, can lead to things you wouldn’t expect.”
For practising lawyers looking to move from the private to public sector, the College of Law offers two postgraduate programs tailored to the unique requirements of a government role and the public service environment. These include a Graduate Diploma in Applied Law and Master of Laws (Applied law) majoring in Government and Public Sector Law.
For law graduates, Deborah recommends the new APS centralised recruitment pathway introduced in 2023. This graduate pathway includes a range of streams, as well as a specific legal stream.
There are currently 21 government agencies participating in this recruitment pathway, the available positions of which you can view here. In good news, prospective graduates can apply once to be considered for graduate roles across a range of agencies instead of having to apply separately with each agency.
“These programs are highly competitive and only occur at certain times of the year. So, stay on top of dates,” Susan suggests.
The College works closely with government partners at a commonwealth level as well as in many states and territories around the country, delivering bespoke courses with an emphasis on government and the public service.
“Regarding our local ACT lecturers and mentors with government experience, PLT students can leverage these relationships and gain insights into securing government roles,” Deborah explains.
Nailing that government application
Once you’ve discovered a career opportunity, it’s time to apply and if you have ever applied, or considered applying, for a government role you will be aware the application process is not an easy one. According to Ruth even the most seasoned lawyers can be surprised by how tough it is, including psychometric testing and a practice exercises.
“As well as the usual things: key selection criteria, a learning agility test, and a panel interview,” Susan says.
So preparation is vital to your success.
“Look at the capability frameworks online and tailor your application accordingly. Get in touch with the key contact advertised and ask thoughtful questions. Along the way, reach out to your network and your mentor for advice,” Susan says. “And mock interviews never hurt!”
Start early, do your research, and be sure your application demonstrates your value.
Moving up and sideways
Whether you’re a junior lawyer looking to kickstart your career in government, or a senior lawyer hoping to transition, government offers plenty of room for growth.
“Governments, like private practice, are hierarchical. If you can demonstrate your knowledge and interpersonal skills, you can move steadily up into leadership positions,” Ruth says.
“Unlike private practice, which is typically a team of three to 10 lawyers, there are far more opportunities to move up – and sideways – in government,” Rochelle adds.
That’s the unique drawcard of government: variety. No matter if you’re in local, state, or federal, you have the opportunity to explore multiple practice areas – and uncover your legal passion.
A bright horizon inside government – or outside
Once upon a time, lawyers working in government tended to stay there throughout their entire careers. But today that isn’t the case.
“I’m seeing a lot more lawyers move from government to private practice – and vice versa,” Rochelle shares. “Government has great mentoring systems and plenty of professional development – which means lawyers are well equipped to transition between sectors.”
But Susan cautions against becoming complacent within your department, good government lawyers, she says, remain engaged with the legal profession.
“Be mindful to remain flexible and curious about areas of law outside your department. Find a mentor, keep networking and talking to people outside of government while you’re there. That way, big law firms and other organisations will want to snatch you up when – and if – you’re ready.”
Ready to take the plunge into the public sector – and craft a convincing application? Hear from lawyers who have made the transition through our College Connect program. Or talk to your College of Law PLT mentor about government opportunities.
For practitioners looking to broaden their horizons refer to our Graduate Diploma in Applied Law and Master of Laws (Applied law) majoring in Government and Public Sector Law.
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