Australia’s legal job market is continuing to evolve in 2025, shaped by economic shifts, policy reform, and ongoing demand across key regions like NSW, VIC, and QLD. Following a subdued period in late 2024, private practice roles bounced back strongly in early 2025, and in-house legal counsel opportunities remain consistently in demand, especially in sectors undergoing regulatory transformation.
Legal support roles also saw a positive start to the year after months of volatility, underscoring renewed employer confidence. These shifts suggest a resilient sector, but also one facing increasingly complex workforce pressures. From high salary expectations to hybrid working demands, the competition for top legal talent remains intense.
The 2025 Randstad Legal Market Report highlights ongoing talent shortages across specialisations such as property, finance, and corporate law, particularly in New South Wales, where vacancy rates remain high compared to other states. Employers must respond not only with competitive packages but also with compelling reasons for candidates to join and stay, including career development opportunities, flexible work arrangements, and a strong organisational culture that supports wellbeing and growth.
Clio Lenzi, Principal Consultant at Randstad, notes that “the most successful employers are those who really understand what legal professionals value today. Candidates want purpose, progression and people-centric leadership, not just a pay rise.”
At the same time, legal professionals are re-evaluating what matters most. While strong compensation remains a driver, many are seeking roles that offer genuine career development, work-life balance, and values-aligned leadership.
For legal employers looking to navigate this evolving landscape, success will come from understanding the motivations of today’s workforce and responding with agility. And for legal professionals exploring new opportunities, now is the time to make strategic career moves.
Drawing on deep industry insight and national talent networks, our Legal Recruitment Consultants at Randstad, including Principal Consultant Clio Lenzi and Senior Consultant Sam Jacks, continues to support both employers and legal professionals in shaping smarter career paths and building stronger legal teams, whatever the market brings next.
Download the full 2025 Randstad Legal Market & Intelligence Report to see how gender diversity is playing out across regions, roles, and seniority, and what that means for your next move.
