Can you give us a brief snapshot of your career journey from graduation to now? 

After graduating from law, I spent a few months volunteering at the NSW Environmental Defenders Office and working as a research assistant for a native title barrister. I then started the Graduate program at MinterEllison, where I stayed on as a lawyer for 2 years. Afterwards I worked at the Australian Government Solicitor (AGS) for 4 years in the Dispute Resolution practice, working mainly on native title proceedings alongside other civil claims litigation. In 2022-2023, I completed a 12 month Master of Laws at the London School of Economics and Political Science. This allowed me to study subjects relevant to my areas of interest in cultural heritage and First Nations legal issues. I am now working in Melbourne at the Victorian Department of Premier and Cabinet, as a Managing Principal Legal Adviser (First Peoples’ Law) in the Office of General Counsel. 

What’s one thing you love about the work you’re doing now? 

I love the work that I do. My role is to advise the Victorian government on native title claims, cultural heritage, and on negotiations and agreement-making with Traditional Owners under the Traditional Owner Settlement Act (Vic). This Act is Victoria's alternative to the Native Title Act (Cth), and is the only statute of its kind in Australia. It is really exciting to be working in such an interesting and important area of law. 

What’s your top tip for current law students?

Don't be afraid to follow your interests and passions, even if it is a less conventional career path. It can be difficult to know exactly what you want to do or where you will end up, but tuning into the things that inspire you will give you the motivation and drive to explore options, ask questions, make connections, and try things out.