This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Macquarie Law School’s Juris Doctor program, which has firmly established itself as a leading program in postgraduate legal education. Starting with an inaugural cohort of 52 students, the program has since equipped hundreds of graduates with the interdisciplinary knowledge, skills and critical thinking needed to shape the future of the legal profession.

The JD was established to cater to a diverse student body, including professionals from various careers seeking to transition to law. The program prepares graduates for a wide array of career paths and fulfills the educational requirements necessary for admission as legal practitioners.

To celebrate this milestone, a new alumni-led mentoring initiative will provide a unique opportunity for final-year JD students to gain professional insight, practical guidance and a strengthened connection to the legal community.

“The last decade of the Juris Doctor program is a testament to the dedication of our staff, students and alumni community,” says Professor Lise Barry, Dean of the Macquarie Law School.

"The new mentoring program will foster meaningful connections between our alumni and emerging graduates, offering students the chance to connect with established leaders who have walked the same path they are now on."

25 mentors have signed up to the initiative, including alumni from the first JD cohort. These mentors now work across a diverse range of legal fields, from barristers and in-house counsel to government lawyers, as well as specialists in commercial, family, and environmental law. Over the next six months, they will meet regularly with their student mentees to share their expertise, provide guidance and support their transition into the profession.

Connor Loeven, Vice-President of the Macquarie University Law Society (MULS) and current JD student, reflects on the significance of the program for students.

“I am so thankful for the genuine and special connections I have built with my convenors, tutors and teachers during my time at Macquarie. Every faculty member has a strong passion and care for their students and a sincere desire to see them succeed in all aspects of their academic, professional and personal lives.

The mentorship program will build on and nurture the supportive culture between students past and present. Mentees will have unique access to a mentor that has overcome the same challenges and learned the same lessons that they may face. Both mentors and mentees will be able to gain an insight and perspective into each other's academic and professional journeys which will mutually benefit their own paths.

I am excited for all the participants that have the opportunity to be part of such a promising initiative."

By fostering collaboration between alumni and students, the program not only supports career development but also reinforces the enduring legacy of the JD at Macquarie, preparing confident and connected leaders to make an impact in the legal profession.

This year also marks 50 years of the Macquarie Law School. With a global alumni network exceeding 10,000 graduates, the Law School has grown to become one of Australia’s leading law destinations, cultivating critical thinkers who have made meaningful contributions to society. The Law School will commemorate the anniversary throughout the year.