This is Allens

My 18 year-old self would be totally shocked to know I would become a tax lawyer – I started university doing anthropology, linguistics and French (as well as law) and had hoped I would work for an organisation like the United Nations. I discovered a passion for tax law through taking elective subjects in my final couple of years at university. Tax intersects with a range of broader economic issues and is full of stories and fascinating case law – I loved that.

Tax is challenging because it requires not just a knowledge of tax law, but also an understanding of the legal characterisation and treatment of transactions. I like untangling that complexity. Being able to navigate the tax consequences of your actions is important, but easy to get wrong. Parliament spends about one-third of its time debating tax, which makes it a fast-moving area of the law that is constantly adjusting to the needs of society.

One of the best things about being a lawyer is using my skills to give back to the community. Over the years, I've volunteered at community legal centres, assisting people in accessing resources and understanding their rights. I currently sit on the board of Knowmore, a community legal centre that supports victims of child abuse.

My idea of a great day at work is when there's an intricate problem at hand and I can apply myself to working through it from a range of different angles along with my team. I love coming to work at Allens with incredibly talented, smart and considerate people.