The 2024 Elite Woman urges the legal profession to cultivate a culture that prioritises well-being
Having worked at both a law firm and a union, Amanda Hioe has experienced the way legal work can take a toll on a person. Earlier this week, the Independent Education Union of Australia (NSW/ACT Branch) assistant secretary encouraged lawyers to be proactive in broadening their experience; in the second part of this interview, she talks the pressure of success and why being kind is so important.
I left a law firm to return to working for a union, where I initially began my career. Every day is exciting because I see the union as a powerful tool for improving access to justice. Hundreds of union members receive legal advice and representation regarding their industrial rights, reinforcing the critical role unions play in protecting workers. Ensuring that everyone has access to justice is something I am deeply passionate about.
The legal profession should place greater emphasis on well-being and work-life balance. The demanding nature of legal work can take a toll, and it’s important to foster a culture where well-being is prioritised. We need to be kind to one another, and most importantly to ourselves. Often, we place so much pressure on success at the expense of our health and well-being.
One of the biggest challenges is navigating the impact of technology and the rise of AI. While advancements in technology have assisted in improving efficiency, they also raise ethical concerns. The legal industry needs to strike a balance between innovation and recognising the human element.
I’m looking forward to deepening my involvement in initiatives that drive positive change, whether in legal education, mentoring, or policy work. In my role as an assistant secretary, I feel like I am in a position to use my legal skills and knowledge to educate others of their rights and also contribute towards policy work.
