Brendan Avallone
Senior Associate
Minter Ellison Lawyers
Master of Laws (2007)
Why did you choose to undertake a graduate degree in Law?
Having worked in the law for a few years, I decided it was time to deepen my knowledge of those areas I practise in, and also learn about a few new areas.
Why did you choose the Melbourne Law School?
I completed my undergraduate studies (in Commerce and Law) at the University of Melbourne. I was aware that the Melbourne Law School is a well-resourced faculty, with dedicated and high-quality teaching staff. It is also conveniently located.
Describe your career pathway - what is your current role and how did you get to where you are?
While studying for a double degree in the 1990s, I took a year off study to work in finance full time. This experience taught me that law was (for me) infinitely more interesting. I was attracted to workplace relations law because it plays such a big part in people's day to day lives, and it provides a fascinating intersection between law, economics, social policy and human interest.
After graduating from law I completed my articles of clerkship with Minter Ellison Lawyers. Apart from taking 12 months' leave to work as an Associate to a Presidential Member of the Australian Industrial Relations Commission, and a few secondments to government agencies, I have been with Minter Ellison practising in workplace relations and employment law ever since my articles.
Describe your experience of studying in the Melbourne Law Masters. What were the highlights?
I especially enjoyed the opportunity for group discussions about difficult legal issues, as well as policy issues (not just what is the law, but what should it be?). I found classes to be stimulating and the lecturers were almost invariably experts in their field, as well as sound teachers. I also enjoyed the challenge of dealing with practical problem-based questions as well as policy-based essay questions.
Now that you have finished your degree, what do you plan to do?
I practise in workplace relations and employment law with Minter Ellison and I intend to keep doing so. This area is constantly developing, with a dynamic all of its own. It is important to keep abreast of changes as and when they occur.
The knowledge that I have gained through my LLM has made me a better lawyer, and better able to serve in the field of workplace relations and employment law.