Researcher continues to learn

As a research and policy officer, it is no wonder Lauren Bicknell always takes the opportunity to learn.

The newly admitted lawyer who now works at Queensland Council of Social Service (QCOSS) was admitted in Brisbane this month.


Lauren with her partner Luke Mysliwy.

Lauren has enjoyed roles at the Environmental Defenders Office, Ashurst and the Queensland Law Society, and support from former and current colleagues.

“It was really wonderful to see all of the people who came along on the day of the admission ceremony to support someone and cheer them on, and to think about those who were also tuning into the live stream online,” she said.

“Progressing through a law degree and taking those next big steps towards eligibility for admission is often only possible through the support of our families, friends, colleagues and mentors. I thought a lot about all of the people who have supported me along the way, often with words of encouragement, and sometimes even with a fairly spectacular amount of sparklers, bubbles and glitter.

“I was very grateful to be joined in person by my partner Luke and my father Geoff, as well as a few friends and former co-workers. Two of my wonderful aunts were eagerly watching online from Sydney and Canberra, and I wore one of my mother’s rings on the day which always helps me to feel close to her in big moments.”

Lauren choose her career path because she enjoys “the mental challenge of engaging with the law”.

“I also like the idea of working in a setting where I might be able to help people, or help to advocate for broader systemic change. As I continue to encounter different corners of the legal profession, I’m also constantly struck by how collegiate and supportive those within the profession often are,” she said.

“Jo-Anne Bragg very kindly moved my admission. Jo was the CEO at the Environmental Defenders Office Queensland (as it was then called, now EDO), where I held my first job in the legal sector as an office administrator and later as a legal administrator.

“I had the immense privilege of learning so many invaluable lessons from Jo, including the importance of creating and connecting with communities, and what’s possible in law and policy when you think big.

“While at the EDO I had the good fortune of working with so many passionate, values-driven people, who care deeply about nature and the importance of access to justice, many of whom have helped shape my journey in one way or another. Connecting back with those roots made a lot of sense when approaching the admission process.

“I should add, however, that I have also been very lucky to learn from a large number of amazing professionals in different settings, including at the Queensland Law Society. It was at the QLS where I was able to first gain experience in legal policy work alongside a truly remarkable group of people.”

Environmental Defenders Office General Counsel Jo Bragg said she was delighted to move Lauren’s admission.

“From her work at Environmental Defenders Office I know Lauren as creative, effective and a wonderful team member,” Jo said. “Lauren’s high ethical principles, skills and generosity make her a brilliant addition to the legal profession.”

Lauren is currently working in a research and policy role with a particular focus on youth justice.

“This work is informed by organisations operating in the community service sector, including community legal centres. Looking towards the future, I’m keen to keep advocating for ambitious, evidence-based law and policy which is in keeping with Queensland’s commitment to human rights,” she said.

Proctor looks to celebrate all newly admitted solicitors and congratulate them on this significant achievement. Please email details to proctor@qls.com.au. Ensure you include some details of your current role, along with a quality head-and-shoulders image or images from your admission sitting.