Welcoming home Cambodia’s latest changemakers – Puth Monita

Coming to Australia as an Australia Awards scholar has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. As a Cambodian lawyer with five years of experience, I came to Monash University to study a Master of Laws in Technology and Innovation, deepen my legal knowledge, and gain new ideas to bring back home. I’m returning not only with a degree, but also with new skills, lifelong friendships, and a stronger sense of purpose.

 

One of the most unforgettable parts of this journey was seeing Australia’s legal system beyond the classroom. Visiting courts, including the Supreme Court of Victoria, gave me a better understanding of how the system works in practice. As a lawyer from Cambodia, it was interesting to see the similarities and differences between the two systems.

 

Beyond my studies, I had the chance to travel across Australia and experience its landscapes, cultures, and communities. Building professional networks, speaking with Australian legal professionals, working with clients, and living independently in a new country also gave me valuable insight into Australian legal and professional culture. These experiences helped me grow in confidence, communication, and adaptability.

 

My studies also gave me the chance to explore technology and innovation law through subjects like artificial intelligence, fintech regulation, intellectual property, negotiation, advanced evidence, and forensic evidence. Many of my assignments pushed me to think like a policy officer, researcher, law reform adviser, and negotiator. They strengthened my research, critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills, and deepened my belief that the law must keep evolving with technology.

 

I hope to continue my legal career while contributing to legal education, professional training, and legal reform in Cambodia. I am especially interested in sharing knowledge in technology and innovation law, AI governance, dispute resolution, negotiation, and evidence. Through legal practice, teaching, and mentoring, I hope to help strengthen Cambodia’s legal profession and support the country’s development in a more digital world.

 

Master of Laws (Technology and Innovation)

Monash University