Making the leap across the Tasman isn’t just about swapping jandals for thongs or sheep paddocks for city skylines. For many New Zealand lawyers, it is a chance to step into bigger firms, specialise in new areas of law, and enjoy a well-earned boost to their pay packet.
At Elias Recruitment, Jarrod Moyle is the go-to guide for Kiwi lawyers looking to take that step. Based in New Zealand and proudly a Kiwi himself, Jarrod understands the motivations, the challenges, and the cultural quirks that come with crossing the ditch. He also knows what Australian firms are looking for, making him the perfect bridge between candidates and clients.
“NZ lawyers usually contact me when they are in the early planning stages. I will find out when they are moving, which city they want to live in, and what type of job they are after,” says Jarrod. Timing, he says, is crucial. Employers don’t want to wait too long before a new hire starts. “Firms generally won’t wait more than two months for someone to begin, unless there are special circumstances.” That is why Jarrod often stays in touch with candidates until they’re closer to their move date, then starts making introductions. He recommends private practice roles as the best first step in Australia, while in-house positions are more competitive, with Kiwi lawyers going head-to-head with established local candidates.
So what is the big appeal of Australia? For most, Jarrod says, it comes down to opportunity. “For most, the biggest drawcard will be the pay – usually 20–25% more than at home.” Of course, it is not just about salary. “Australia has larger firms, bigger clients, and greater opportunities to specialise. If you are moving to NSW or Queensland, you’re also likely to enjoy a warmer climate.”
The good news for clients is that Kiwi experience often translates smoothly across the ditch. “Lawyers with backgrounds in commercial, M&A, competition, IP, construction, or employment law will find it an easy transition and be in demand.” Even lawyers with general practice experience (in areas like property, commercial, or wills and estates) can transfer their skills seamlessly into similar firms in Australia. Litigation roles, on the other hand, can be a little trickier due to differences in the court systems.
For Jarrod, the real reward lies in supporting people through such an exciting moment in their careers, while also helping firms access motivated, adaptable talent. “It is an exciting time in their life, and I get to be part of that journey.” Although Jarrod has only just begun building this pipeline, he has already spoken with dozens of Kiwi lawyers considering the move. Success, for him, is when both sides win: lawyers finding their feet in a new market, and firms gaining skilled professionals ready to contribute from day one. “Helping lawyers take a significant step forward in their legal career is what it is all about.”
Whether you are a lawyer weighing up the move or a firm keen to tap into this growing pool of talent, Jarrod is ready to help. “If you have a date in mind for when you are looking to move, get in touch for an initial conversation and we can start the process.
Jarrod Moyle