Fiona Dernikovic

Fiona Dernikovic is the Managing Director and Principal Solicitor at Fioro Legal, bringing over 17 years of comprehensive legal experience. As a senior lawyer and Notary Public, Fiona has carved a distinguished career in commercial disputes, corporate law, property and leasing, financial services, superannuation, and wills, estate planning, and probate. Before founding Fioro Legal, she honed her expertise for over a decade at the global firm Herbert Smith Freehills. During her tenure there, she provided invaluable advice to major organisations such as Westpac, Suncorp, QBE, Tabcorp, GPT Group, DP World Australia, and AusNet Electricity on diverse commercial matters. Fiona is well-versed in representing clients in commercial disputes and litigation, as well as guiding them through regulatory investigations and mediations. In 2018, she played a pivotal role in assisting Westpac with its response to the Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry. Her advisory capabilities extend to regulatory compliance, including modern slavery, whistleblowing, AML/CTF, and privacy frameworks. With experience as the Executive Manager to the Chief Risk Officer of BT Financial Group, Fiona brings a strong commercial acumen to her practice. Her profound understanding of financial services and superannuation feeds into her work with individuals and families on wills, estate planning, and probate matters. Her academic prowess was recognised at Macquarie University, where she graduated with Honours in Law and received several prestigious awards, including the Dean's Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement. Admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW in 2007, Fiona also holds a Graduate Certificate in Applied Law, specialising in Wills and Estates. Fiona's dedication to the legal profession and her exceptional client service have earned her finalist positions for Businessperson of the Year at the Northern Districts Local Business Awards in both 2022 and 2023. Her career is marked by a strong commitment to legal excellence and strategic client outcomes.