New and intending practitioners

Admission to the legal profession

To be eligible for a practising certificate to practise law in Victoria, a person must first be admitted to the legal profession under the Legal Profession Act 2004 (Vic) (“the Act”) or a corresponding law interstate. Such a person is termed an ‘Australian lawyer’.

Admission in Victoria is to the Supreme Court of Victoria.

The Legal Services Board does not have any involvement in admissions. The Council of Legal Education determines the qualifications and training required for admission to the legal profession in Victoria. The Board of Examiners considers applications for admission in Victoria and makes recommendations to the Supreme Court in relation to whether a person is eligible and fit and proper to be admitted.

If you are interested in seeking admission to the Supreme Court of Victoria, or to view a copy of the Admission Rules, please contact the Board of Examiners.

Applying for a practising certificate

Subject to a small number of limited exceptions admission to the legal profession does not entitle you to engage in legal practice. You must also hold a current practising certificate. See further information about applying for a practising certificate.

New Zealand practitioners

New Zealand qualified lawyers must be admitted to the legal profession under the Legal Profession Act 2004 (Vic) or a corresponding law interstate before practising in Victoria. Under the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Act 1997 (Cth), admission in New Zealand entitles you to be admitted to practice in an Australian jurisdiction.

Once you have been admitted in Australia, you must comply with the ongoing Victorian registration and regulatory requirements, which includes maintaining a Victorian practising certificate. If you are engaging in legal practice in Victoria you must also comply with Victorian conduct rules and other regulatory requirements.

Applicants should apply to the Board of Examiners for admission to practise in Victoria

Applicants should also apply to the Law Institute of Victoria for a Victorian practising certificate