Although an ancient branch of medicine, forensic and legal medicine (FLM) is an evolving area of medical practice. There are many similarities and differences in Australia and the UK despite both being based on the same legal principles. Several organizations have been developed to support doctors working in these fields in both countries. Initial training and continuing professional development are essential to ensure that practitioners have the core competencies and capabilities to perform the roles required and remain up to date in this rapidly changing area. This discipline of medicine needs full medical specialist recognition.