Get to Know Your Council Members – Manoj Fernando

In this Get to Know Your Council Members edition, we interview Manoj Fernando, an early career lawyer and newly elected member of the Law Society Council. As someone who walks the talk when it comes to supporting both his community and the profession, Manoj combines private practice with extensive pro bono work, committee involvement, and now Council service. He helped establish Tasmania’s first university-based migration law clinic and continues to volunteer across several community legal centres. His contributions have been recognised with several awards, including the 2025 Emerging Talent Award, the 2025 Early Career Lawyer Award, and the 2024 Tasmanian Attorney-General’s Award.

Can you tell us a bit about your current role and the main areas of law you practise?
I am a Senior Associate at Dobson Mitchell Allport (DMA) here in Hobart, and my main focus is migration law. It is an area that really resonates with me because it is about people, their stories, their hopes, and their futures. I also dedicate a lot of time to pro bono work and community outreach because access to justice is something I care deeply about.

What first drew you to the law?
Honestly, it was the idea of helping people navigate life-changing decisions. Law felt like the perfect mix of problem-solving and making a tangible difference. That sense of purpose still drives me every day.

What do you enjoy most about practising law?
The human side of it. Every case has a story, and being trusted to guide someone through a complex process is incredibly rewarding. You meet people who are desperate for solutions, and being able to help them find a way forward that is what makes it all worthwhile.

What motivated you to join the Law Society Council?
I wanted to give back to the profession and help shape initiatives that make a real difference, especially around pro bono work and supporting early-career lawyers. I am also passionate about encouraging people from diverse backgrounds, as well as young people, to join the profession and contribute meaningfully. The Council gives me a platform to do that.

What do you think are the biggest challenges currently facing the legal profession?
There are a few. Attracting and retaining lawyers in regional areas is a continuing issue. Wellbeing is another big one. Law can be demanding, and we need to make sure people do not burn out.

How can members best engage with or support the work of the Council?
Stay curious and speak up! Share your ideas, attend events, and do not hesitate to reach out – the Council is here to represent and support you.

What’s your top tip for early career lawyers just entering the profession?
Do not be afraid to ask questions. Curiosity is your superpower, and most people are happy to help if you show initiative.

Looking back, what advice would you give your younger self when you were starting out?
Be patient. Things take time, and every experience (particularly the tough ones) teaches you something valuable.

Are there any professional habits or mindsets you think are key to long-term success in law?
Adaptability and empathy. The law changes, clients’ needs change. Hence, I believe that being flexible and understanding goes a long way.

What do you like to do outside of work to unwind?
Other than screaming in the shower, I love cooking and gardening. Lately, I have been enjoying quiet evenings with family and friends after a busy day.

If you weren’t a lawyer, what career do you think you would have pursued?
I would probably be a cook. There is something therapeutic about creating something from scratch and sharing it with others.

Coffee or tea? Morning person or night owl?
Coffee, definitely! And I am more of a night owl (I am under the impression that mornings and I have a complicated relationship). But recently, I have picked up the habit of coming to work early so I can enjoy that relaxed hour or two to get things done.