What's your job about?
My job as a law graduate in the Banking & Finance team is to help facilitate the creation of contractual structures that allow lenders and borrowers to exchange money. Most of my work falls under the umbrella of 'project finance', where somebody wants to build a project and needs financing for it. The job might sound straightforward, but there is so much complexity to it—I am constantly learning things. It isn't just about money needing to move between entities; we ensure that all the key terms are set out, such as ongoing obligations, what happens when a default occurs, and even small things such as how the parties should communicate with each other.
As a junior, I often help out with drafting these contracts, as well as communicating with clients to make sure everyone is on the same page. I usually have a first crack at drafting the documents, and then have a more senior lawyer look over and edit my work. In addition to this, I help out on odd bits and pieces that are requested by the clients. This could be anything from lodging mortgages to preparing presentations on areas of law they are unfamiliar with.
What's your background?
I was born and raised in Melbourne! Beginning university was a very important stage of my life – it was the first time I could really choose an area/career that I wanted to pursue. In all honesty, I originally planned to become a software engineer. However, the more experience I gained in the law, the more I felt drawn to a career in the legal industry.
I joined Allens as a paralegal in 2021, as a winter clerk in 2023, and as a law graduate in 2024. I was a winter clerk at a few different law firms; however, I felt like joining Allens was the right call. I didn't have any experience in the legal industry before joining Allens, and with no friends or family in the law, I joined the industry blind. This was my first exposure to the corporate world – my previous jobs included roles as a receptionist and janitor – so there was quite a big adjustment. I still remember having to buy 'business clothes' for my first day at Allens, since the only collared shirt I had was a size too small and from my Year 12 formal. Despite this adjustment period, I've always felt supported by my team at Allens and have made some really great friends along the way.
Could someone with a different background do your job?
Yes. Although you need a law degree to be admitted as a lawyer, I absolutely believe anyone could do my job. As long as you are keen to learn and attentively listen to feedback, you can learn everything necessary on the job. I think the assumption in the industry is (correctly) that when you graduate law school, you have some basic soft and hard skills, but you really don't know anything about practicing law. That might be a bit discouraging after five years of studying, but it means my coworkers are very understanding and constantly contribute to my professional development.
What's the coolest thing about your job?
The coolest thing about my job is seeing the projects I work on in real life. There is something surreal about passing a massive project that is impacting the lives of thousands of people and knowing that you played a small part in developing it. It is also cool that a lot of the projects my team works on are renewable projects – positively contributing towards net zero is very rewarding.
What are the limitations of your job?
It can be stressful. I think most people who are interested in commercial law understand that the work can be very intense. Further, I have had to learn a large amount of complex information in a short period, which can be stressful at times.
3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student...