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How to Become a Barrister: Australian Careers in Law

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What is a Barrister?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Barrister?

A barrister pleads cases in court on behalf of clients. They are legal specialists, known as advocates. Solicitors brief them to argue cases in higher courts. They also give legal opinions and prepare court documents.

Much of a barrister’s time goes into case prep. They read statutes and case law, draft pleadings, and plan legal strategies. In court, they present arguments, question witnesses, and address the judge.

They write legal opinions and advise on hard points of law. Many barristers focus on one area, such as criminal law, family law, or business disputes. Early advice can often help clients avoid a costly trial.

The role calls for sharp thinking, clear speech, and the ability to work under stress. Candidates need a law degree, a bar exam, and a period of supervised practice called readership to qualify.

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Career snapshots For Barristers

About 8,900 barristers are employed in Australia (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2026). The profession is 89% full-time, with practitioners averaging 48 hours per week (ABS, 2025). The median age is 40 years, and 40% of the workforce is female (ABS, 2025). Future demand is rated as strong by the Australian Government (YourCareer.gov.au, 2025).

Median full-time weekly earnings are $3,495, or around $182,000 a year (Jobs and Skills Australia, May 2025). Barristers work mainly in Professional, Scientific and Technical Services and Public Administration and Safety. NSW has the highest share at 39.5%, followed by Victoria at 28.9% and Queensland at 13.0%. Experienced barristers can apply to become King’s Counsel or Senior Counsel. This is the highest level of recognition in the Australian Bar.

What will I do?

A barrister is a specialist advocate in the Australian legal system. They argue cases in civil, criminal, and industrial courts. Solicitors often brief them to handle complex matters. The work blends legal research, court appearances, and expert advice.

  • Case preparation – Barristers draft briefs and submissions, prepare documents, and gather evidence.
  • Court advocacy – They argue cases in court and present evidence to judges and juries.
  • Legal research – Barristers study case law, statutes, and precedents to build strong cases.
  • Client meetings – They meet clients to discuss the case, give advice, and plan strategy.
  • Negotiation – Barristers may seek a settlement for clients before a case reaches trial.
  • Ongoing learning – They take part in training to keep current with legal changes.
  • Teamwork – Barristers work closely with solicitors and other legal professionals.
  • Advocacy – They use clear speech and strong arguments to present cases in court.

What skills do I need?

Barristers need formal training and strong hands-on skills. They must finish a law degree and pass the Bar Exam in their state. An Australian Practising Certificate (Barrister) is also needed to practise. Most finish a Bar Readers’ Course before joining chambers.

Sharp thinking skills are key. Barristers read complex legal papers, spot key issues, and build arguments from evidence and case law. Clear speech is just as vital. They must explain complex matters to judges, juries, and clients in plain terms. The role involves long hours and tough calls, so resilience matters too.

Skills/attributes

  • Strong analytical skills
  • Clear verbal and written communication
  • Persuasive argumentation
  • Legal research skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to work under pressure
  • Strong ethical judgement
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Time management
  • Understanding of legal principles and procedures
  • Resilience and adaptability
  • Negotiation skills
  • Critical thinking
  • Public speaking
  • Teamwork and collaboration

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.