Lawen Austin was a human male Republic officer during the final days of the Old Republic. Born in a family who were in the armed forces and an advocate for peace, Austin followed in their footsteps and joined the Republic Military Academy on Coruscant in 40 BBY. Upon graduating from the academy in 34 BBY, Austin joined the Darpa Sector Fleet in charge of patrolling the Darpa sector, which was part of the Galactic Republic before the Clone Wars. There, he served as an Ensign, supervising crew members and slowly gaining experience from his superior officers. Later, he was judged ready and was promoted to Lieutenant.