Barrister reflects on Western Sydney University journey
It was at the recommendation of a family member, who was a barrister, that Michael Bennett studied an Introduction to Law elective in his early days of studying a Bachelor of Commerce.
The elective ignited a spark that then saw Michael enrol in a double degree, adding a Bachelor of Laws onto his studies.
A choice that led to a career as a District Court Judge’s associate during his final year of study and first year after graduation, a tax law solicitor for six years and now a barrister since 2011.
Impressively, Michael has also served as a Lieutenant in the Navy Reserves (Legal), has taught at the University of New South Wales and is a Chartered Tax Advisor with the Taxation Institute of Australia.
Michael set the tone as the eldest of four brothers, who all followed in his footsteps undertaking a Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Commerce, something he would recommend to anyone given the scope that a law degree offers.
“More than any other degree I’ve seen since graduating, a law degree has broad ranging benefits: understanding the political and legal structures we use, approaching issues in a structured and analytical way and complementing work that is otherwise not strictly legal,” said Michael.
“In terms of advantaging studies, I think the more a student can apply the learning as they go such as experience in a workplace, mooting, mock trials and so on, the more they will digest and otherwise get benefit from their studies.”
Law students at Western Sydney University have the opportunity to take part in exciting mooting competitions. They can also make use of Western Sydney University’s own purpose-built Moot Court facilities located at the Parramatta South and Campbelltown campuses, to hone their skills.
The access to real-world learning and state-of-the-art facilities was a highlight of Michael’s time at Western Sydney University, or University of Western Sydney (UWS) as it was known at the time.
“The combination of the theoretical and practical approach to teaching law, and the encouragement given to compete in extracurricular activities such as mooting and mock trials were significant benefits that kept me thoroughly satisfied during the five-year course.”
“I found the quality of the teaching and colleagues to be high. Studying was both enjoyable and, to my experience, conducted at a high level.”
“A significant benefit that was not expected is the number of lifelong friends I still have and work with to this day all from UWS.”
The University’s School of Law, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, is shaping the next generation of legal professionals by providing students with practical, hands-on experience in advocacy and legal reasoning.
ENDS
21 July 2025
Lauren Coskerie, Senior Media Officer
Photo credit: Salty Dingo
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Barrister reflects on Western Sydney University journey
It was at the recommendation of a family member, who was a barrister, that Michael Bennett studied an Introduction to Law elective in his early days of studying a Bachelor of Commerce.