A life of curiosity and a legacy in law
Michael Pearce SC was a late starter to tertiary study. After completing secondary school, he began an Arts degree at the University of Melbourne before deciding to defer and see more of the world.
He travelled to the United Kingdom, where he taught French and English at a primary school, then returned to Germany, where he had previously spent time as an exchange student.
“I am a great believer in misspending some of your youth,” he says.
Originally, Michael had intended to pursue a career in journalism. But while living in the UK he watched one of Australia’s defining political moments unfold from afar – the 1975 constitutional crisis. Following the events closely, he decided to change direction and pursue law instead.
Michael Pearce SC, supporting students through scholarships and a gift in his Will.
Upon returning to Australia, Michael completed his Bachelor of Arts and then began a Bachelor of Laws. This time, he found university a far more enjoyable experience, graduating in 1981.
Studying after time abroad reinforced for Michael the value of curiosity, independence and a broad education – experiences that would shape both his career and his desire to give back.
Drawing on his own journey, Michael now supports scholarships at Melbourne Law School through regular gifts, helping students from disadvantaged backgrounds pursue legal study. Passionate about widening access to legal education, he has also ensured this commitment will endure by including a generous gift in his Will.
These beliefs continue to shape how Michael thinks about education today. In his view, strong employability comes not simply from technical training, but from curiosity, flexibility and a broad base of knowledge.
“There is no doubt that graduates require specific qualifications, but there is value in more generalised skills too.”
Michael’s own career reflects this philosophy. The vocational foundation of his legal training led to an articled clerkship at a Melbourne law firm before a secondment to Canberra in 1984, where he worked in the Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Department.
He later undertook postgraduate research in international law through the Australian National University, much of it overseas. Michael returned to Germany as a research assistant at the University of Hamburg before heading to the United States and beginning work in commercial law.
Over the decades that followed, Michael built a distinguished career across commercial, administrative and employment law, ultimately being appointed Senior Counsel.
Reflecting on his own opportunities, Michael is keen to ensure that today’s students can access the same transformative experience of higher education. When he attended university in the 1970s, tertiary study was free. Today’s students face a very different financial landscape.
Professor Michelle Foster, Dean of the Melbourne Law School, says generosity like Michael’s helps ensure legal education remains accessible to talented students from all backgrounds.
It is thanks to our gift in Will supporters that we can continue strengthening the impact and accessibility of legal education here at Melbourne Law School.
Professor Michelle Foster says, "Gifts in Wills are not only contributing meaningfully to the public good but also reflecting a shared commitment to the role of law in shaping a more just and equitable society."
Michael too is reflecting on the next generation of law professionals, as he prepares for a new chapter in his life, guided by the same philosophy that shaped his youth.
"I will be retiring soon from the Bar and also as Honorary Consul for Germany and am currently planning how to misspend my retirement."
Learn more about giving
Delve into stories of donor impact or find public lectures, gallery openings and more.
-
Impact of giving
The generosity of our donor community can be felt across industries – and will continue to improve lives for generations to come. Learn more about how our supporters are building a brighter future.
-
Ways to give
Whether you’d like to make a one-off gift or explore other meaningful options like leaving a gift in your Will, there are plenty of ways you can give to the University for a brighter future.
-
News and events
Stay connected with your passionate University community through thought-provoking public lectures, events celebrating our donor community or expert commentary on global issues.
How can we help?
FAQs and contact details
Find helpful answers to common questions and specialised contact details.
Give to education and research
Learn how you can support students and researchers.
Ways to give
Explore the varied and meaningful ways you can give towards a brighter future for all.