Skills in demand
Commercial Lawyers – Demand remains steady for Commercial Lawyers across all levels of experience, especially those with experience in specific industries such as oil & gas, energy or mining in WA/QLD, intellectual property in Melbourne or banking/financial services industry experience in NSW for example. This is particularly so for in-house positions as organisations are looking for their in-house legal teams to undertake more work internally so as to minimise external legal costs. On the other hand, the boutique to mid tier sector is busier than the top tier/international firms and therefore the demand for lawyers with general commercial experience - business transactions, wills, estate planning, tax, contract law- as well as property lawyers, has increased.
Insurance Lawyers – Demand is high for Insurance Lawyers, especially litigation and personal injury lawyers, in response to recent changes in personal injury legislation in Australia.
IP Lawyers – Due to the complex and technical nature of intellectual property law, there is a shortage of high quality IP lawyers. With amendments to patent laws coming into effect in mid-April 2013, it can be assumed there will be a high quantity of project based vacancies. This is more relevant to the Sydney and Melbourne markets where there tends to be a higher volume of specialist IP firms or IP teams in larger firms.
IT/Telecommunications Lawyers – Due to the regulated nature of IT & Telecommunications law, these Lawyers are in strong demand.
Commercial Litigation Lawyers – Commercial Litigation Lawyers are in demand due to an increase in contract disputes in some states. Associate to Senior Associate level is most preferable.
Property Lawyers – Boutique to mid-tier property candidates are in demand due to the effect that a recent decrease in interest rates is having a positive effect on the property market. Many firms in states such as Western Australia are reporting they are busier than they have been in over two years.