The 2024 Elite Woman was inspired to take up law after an incident involving her mother
Her mother’s unfair dismissal from a job inspired Amanda Hioe to want to provide access to justice to those who lacked a voice.
Now assistant secretary at the Independent Education Union of Australia (NSW/ACT Branch), Hioe has since been able to help others the way she had hoped to – including in a memorable case involving workplace injury. In the first part of this interview, the 2024 Elite Woman tells us what she loves about her work, and the day she would relive again if she could.
I was drawn to law because it provides an opportunity to advocate for fairness, resolve disputes, and uphold justice has always been a strong motivator for me. When I was in high school, my mother, who spoke limited English, was unfairly dismissed from her job. Witnessing her struggle triggered my desire to ensure that people like her have a voice and access to justice.
My favourite part of the job is problem-solving—developing strategies on a complex case to reach the best outcome for those I am representing. The intellectual challenge and the opportunity to make a tangible impact are incredibly rewarding.
One of the most memorable moments was successfully advocating for a young teacher who was dismissed after suffering an injury in the workplace and never being able to recover in full. The case was particularly challenging because it had significant legal and personal stakes. Seeing the relief and gratitude when we reached resolution of her case reinforced why I chose this profession. Moments like these remind me that law is not just about technicalities—it’s about people and real lives.
In the past year, one of my proudest accomplishments has been mentoring junior lawyers and seeing them grow in confidence and capability. I am privileged to be part of their journey!
My advice to fellow lawyers is to always be proactive in expanding your knowledge and broadening your experience. It can be daunting at times, but embrace the opportunity to learn especially early on in your career. You can only grow and be better.
If I could relive one day, it would be the day I graduated from law. It was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. I felt this was an achievement which was attained against all odds. I was about to embark on a career dedicated to justice was an incredibly fulfilling moment.
