Our Graduates

Sophy Woodward
PDLP graduate 2004
Legal Officer, ASIC

Sophy Woodward is currently employed by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), and finds her role both challenging and immensely rewarding. ASIC, which is popularly referred to as the ‘Corporate Watchdog’ enforces and regulates company and financial services laws to protect consumers, investors and creditors.

Sophy graduated with a Bachelor of Arts/Laws from Monash University in 2002, after which she followed her dream of traveling and embarked on an 18 month working holiday to London. On her return to Australia, Sophy began the PDLP in June 2004, and was admitted to practise as a Barrister, Solicitor and Officer of the Supreme Court of Victoria in March 2005.

Sophy’s advice to students considering the PDLP:

“For me, the decision to do the PDLP course, rather than more conventional options such as Leo Cussen or articles, was an easy one. The PDLP had two intakes per year and the length of the course was much less than the time required to complete Leo Cussen or a year of articles. This meant that six months after completing the course, I was eligible for admission to practice. The PDLP also offers prospective students Commonwealth Supported Places (formerly HECS) as opposed to the solely upfront fee places offered by Leo Cussen.

I believe that the PDLP equipped me well for the challenges of a career in legal practice. I developed sound skills in communicating confidently, writing professionally and applying legal concepts to factual situations. The conceptual, analytical and advisory skills I gained continue to be reflected in my day-to-day work. I would recommend the PDLP to anyone seeking a means of admission to practice that thoroughly prepares you for the everyday pressures of working life.”