If you’ve been keeping an eye on the legal job market lately, you might have noticed something interesting: firms across the country are actively seeking experienced Property Lawyers. And not just one or two roles here and there, we’re talking a genuine surge in demand.

So, what’s driving this sudden uptick? After a few quieter years during and following COVID, it looks like Australia’s commercial property market is dusting itself off and heading straight for a rebound. And with that, law firms are scrambling to bolster their property teams to meet client demand.

Here’s what we’re seeing, and why this is such a positive sign for both the legal and property sectors.

The Quiet Before the Comeback

During the peak of the pandemic, the commercial property sector took a bit of a hit. Many businesses put the brakes on relocations, developments and new leases. Big transactions were delayed; office spaces were left empty and uncertainty hung in the air.

Naturally, this had a knock-on effect on legal hiring. Many firms put their property hiring plans on hold, with some even consolidating teams to weather the storm. But as always, the market moves in cycles, and this one is clearly swinging back in favour of activity.

What’s Happening Now?

In the last 6 to 12 months, we’ve seen a steady return of confidence in the commercial property space. Developers are getting back to work, investors are on the hunt again and major infrastructure projects are gaining momentum across states. Leasing activity is back, particularly in retail and industrial sectors, and residential development is ticking up in some regions too.

All of this translates to one thing for law firms: work. Lots of it.

Clients are back with projects, deals and transactions, and firms are under pressure to deliver. The need for experienced, confident Property Lawyers who can hit the ground running has never been more urgent.

So, What Does This Mean for Candidates?

If you’re a Property Lawyer with a few solid years under your belt, now is a brilliant time to consider your next move. Firms are offering competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements and genuine long-term progression pathways to attract (and keep) top talent.

We’re seeing opportunities across the board, from boutique practices right through to top-tier firms, and in locations that were previously quiet. Whether you’re based in a CBD or a growing metro hub, chances are there’s something exciting happening near you.

And if you’ve been sitting tight, waiting for the right time to make a change, this could be your moment.

What About Firms Looking to Hire?

For hiring managers and Partners, this is a prime window to refresh your team and bring in new talent, but be ready to move fast. The best candidates are often weighing multiple offers and want clarity, culture fit and career opportunity from the get-go.

Gone are the days when firms could post an ad and wait for the right lawyer to appear. Strategic recruitment, strong EVP and a little flexibility around PQE and background can go a long way in today’s candidate-driven market.

Looking Ahead

The current trend isn’t just a blip; it’s a sign that the market is well and truly recovering. And if momentum continues, we could be heading into another strong phase for commercial property law.

At Amicus Legal Recruitment, we’re speaking with candidates every day who are ready to take the next step, and with clients who are expanding and growing in all the right ways.

So, whether you’re a lawyer looking for a new challenge or a firm ready to scale your property team, this is the time to act.

Get in touch and let’s talk