Getting from A to B

This web site contains information on the process by which a person may apply to practise as a barrister in NSW. Which page you access depends on your current circumstances.

Interstate practice

A barrister whose principal place of practise is another Australian state or territory is entitled to practise in New South Wales by virtue of their practising certificate issued in their home jurisdiction. Learn More >>



New Zealand applicants

New Zealand practitioners may apply under the Trans Tasman Mutual Recognition Act 1997 (Cth) for admission in the Supreme Court of NSW. This Act entitles NZ legal practitioners to apply for parallel recognition of their qualifications. Once admitted as a lawyer in NSW or another Australian state or territory, please contact our certification officer regarding practise as a barrister in NSW.

Applying for a NSW barrister's practising certificate

All barristers who practise in NSW must hold a current PC issued in an Australian state or territory that entitles them to practise as a barrister.  Eligibility to apply for a NSW PC is determined largely by your principal place of practise More >>


Returning to practice at the Bar

The policy to be applied to an application for a New South Wales barrister's practising certificate received from a lawyer who has previously held a New South Wales barrister’s practising certificate but has failed to renew their certificate.More >>



Membership of the Bar Association

Holding a NSW barrister's practising certificate and being a member of the NSW Bar Association are distinctly separate. More >>




Protocol for the appointment of senior counsel

The designation as senior counsel of certain practising advocates by the
president of the Bar Association is intended to serve the public interest. View the Senior Counsel Protocol >> and the Guide to Practical Aspects of Senior Counsel Applications>