How do I become a judge
Get qualified to work as a judge with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Judge.
Common questions
While there are no clear salary figures for Australian judges at this time, you can expect a six-figure salary that is much higher than a solicitor or barrister.
Courses.com.au Team
There are currently 650 appointed judges around Australia. There are no clear figures on the growth or expansion of this occupation.
Courses.com.au Team
In Australia, judges are appointed by federal and state governments. They are qualified lawyers who have extensive experience practicing as a barrister or solicitor. Sometimes law academics are appointed as judges, but this is rare. If you aspire to become a judge, you will need to obtain a Bachelor of Laws and then practice as a solicitor or barrister for at least 8-10 years. At the same time, your personal and professional reputation must be impeccable. To increase your chances of being appointed as a judge, consider a Master of Laws (LLM) and other specialist masters to extend your knowledge in specific areas of the law.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
How to start a career in Legal Services
17th June 2021
Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers
10th November 2023Judge careers
Judges are experienced legal professionals who preside over civil and criminal proceedings in Australian courts of law. Depending on their professional experience and specialist law qualifications, they may be appointed to local or district courts, civil and administrative tribunals, family courts, supreme or high courts.
As a judge you could be conducting a trial, evaluating the evidence and arguments presented by a barrister in court, researching previous court decision on cases relevant to the one being heard, sentencing an offender, determining custody arrangements, or giving legal instructions to a jury.
