Law and Surf in Oz!

Each year, thousands of young Britons make the move Down Under in persuit of work or leisure- or both. If you are thinking about practising law in Australia and you feel you are ready to leave the grey skies of Blighty behind, Gaynor Tracey, a UK lawyer with Australian law firm Gilbert and Tobin, offers an insight into what its been like for her so far...

 Could you tell us a bit about your background and training in the UK?

I practice corporate law focusing on M&A.  I graduated from Sheffield Hallam University in 1997 with LLB (Hons), and gained a Diploma in Law from the University of Sheffield in 1998. I trained at a boutique / niche corporate firm in London and subsequently moved to a mid-size pan-European firm in London prior to moving to Sydney.

 What made you move to Australia!?

I moved to Australia primarily for a change in lifestyle and for a new experience. In particular the chance to pursue more outdoor activities appealed, along with the better weather!  Sydney is a fabulous city and living here appealed.  You have all the same cultural opportunities as in London but with great water views and the sun.

 How are you finding life and work down under?

Life and work in Australia is great.  The hours are not hugely different to those in London but the weather and lifestyle are certainly better.  The attitude to working hard here is better, it feels as though hard work and long hours are not expected, and when necessary, are appreciated.
 

How has your work/life balance changed since moving?

As mentioned above, the work life balance is not that varied from home, but it is the ability to pursue different interests and activities outside of work that makes a difference. Sydney is a great city to live in and there is so much on its doorstep to explore and experience.  It is also fantastic having a whole new continent to explore. An hour in a plane and you can be in the more European feeling Melbourne or surfing at Byron Bay.

 What has been you most memorable day working as a lawyer?

One of the most memorable days would have to be visiting a new client in the music industry and visiting their offices – very different to the usual office environment.

And your most challenging?

A day recently that involved juggling four different matters each of which was trying to complete.  Of course this is exacerbated when you add having to get across a whole new Corporations Act.  It would have to be one of the toughest days of my legal career (not to mention stressful!).

Any regrets? Anything that you miss from back home?

I have no regrets about moving to Sydney. There are certain things that I miss from home, which are mainly friends and family and the Sunday papers. On the upside they all get to holiday here and visit me.

 What does your typical day look like and what was it like before your move?

My typical day looks much like it would when I was in London, except that I probably start work earlier. However, the atmosphere at Gilbert + Tobin is more collegiate and more friendly and I have the ability to pursue activities when I finish work that I might not have in London.

 What do you think are the main benefits of moving to an Australian law firm?

The main benefits are that you get to live in Australia!  Work is of a high standard (comparable to London) and it is challenging adapting to a new legal system.

 What made you sure Gilbert and Tobin?

I chose Gilbert + Tobin because of the type and quality of work they carry out, their standing in the Sydney legal marketplace and the type of clients that they act for. Also, the people that I spoke to throughout the interview process were great and really won me over. Gilbert + Tobin is definitely the firm in Sydney that has high standards but still allows you to practice in your own style.

 There are, obviously, a large number of law firms operating in the Australia. What skills or areas of expertise should a lawyer, ideally, be proficient in should they be considering leaving the grey skies behind?

The skills or areas of expertise do not differ to London. They same skills are required in the legal profession wherever one practices.  The only real difference is that the style of negotiation is definitely more friendly here and calls often end with “Thanks mate!”.

 Is there a good support system set up for those wishing to make the move? Are there any specific packages or incentives designed for potential candidates?

The support systems for those wishing to make the move are really helpful. There is someone who deals with the immigration process for you, and prior to your arrival you speak to the relocation specialists who also help on your arrival to find suitable accommodation. There is also the element of self discovery and picking things up as you go along.

 How often do you get to visit friends and family back at home?

Since I have only been here for 8 months I have not taken the opportunity to visit friends and family back home. I will no doubt do this some time in the future but at the moment I am happy exploring Australia for holidays.

 How often do you get to travel with your job and do you feel you have had any extra opportunities or privileges awarded to you which wouldn’t necessarily have been readily or quickly available if you practiced back at home?

I have travelled to Melbourne with my job but since I have only been here a short time I have not experienced all the opportunities that will no doubt fall in my path as my career at Gilbert + Tobin progresses.

Finally, what is your ‘More’ to Law ( hobbies and interests)

My interests include surfing and diving and moving to Sydney has obviously provided me with the opportunity to pursue these activities more extensively than I would have had I been living and working in London. I am also a keen Latin ballroom dancer, which I am continuing here in Sydney.

 For more information on Gilbert and Tobin visit: www.gtlaw.com.au