Nikola McWilliam, the principal lawyer at McGrath Legal, has been a dynamic force in the legal landscape since her admission to practice in Victoria in 1999. With a robust career spanning Melbourne, Sydney, London, and the Gold Coast, Nikola has established a reputable presence in media, entertainment, and communications law. Her early career saw pivotal roles with the BBC and Channel 4 Television in London, where she honed her skills in legal and business affairs, managing agreements for broadcasting and media productions. Upon returning to Australia, she brought her extensive experience to roles such as Head of Legal and Business Affairs at Flying Bark Productions and senior legal positions at Beyond International and Network Ten’s Eye Corp Media. Her expertise was further recognised when she became General Counsel for WPP AUNZ, Australia’s largest listed communications company, where she navigated complex corporate legalities and compliance issues. In 2008, Nikola founded McGrath Legal, a firm dedicated to serving the media and entertainment industry with finesse. With specialties in entertainment, communications, intellectual property, employment, and corporate law, the firm has catered to a diverse client base, including production companies, media outlets, and technology firms. Nikola's leadership has facilitated the growth of McGrath Legal, aligning with notable industry shifts, including its relocation to the Gold Coast in 2016. Nikola's achievements extend beyond her practice; she holds a retainer with Screen Queensland and is an active member of various professional organisations. Her academic credentials, a Law degree and a Commerce degree from Deakin University, are complemented by a Certificate in Governance Practice and Administration. Balancing her professional and personal life, Nikola is also the mother of four, finding joy and challenge in both her roles as a lawyer and parent.
Director
Gold Coast Film Festival
May 2021 - Present • 5 years 6 months
Director
Brisbane International Film Festival (BIFF)
May 2021 - Present • 5 years 6 months
Principal Lawyer
McGrath Legal
Sep 2008 - Present • 18 years 2 months
General Counsel
WPP AUNZ
Oct 2007 - Sep 2008 • 11 months
Senior Legal Counsel
EYE Corp Media
Nov 2006 - Oct 2007 • 11 months
Senior Legal Counsel
Beyond Productions
Oct 2005 - Oct 2006 • 1 year
Head of Legal & Business Affairs
Flying Bark Productions
Jul 2003 - Sep 2005 • 2 years 2 months
Legal & Business Affairs Executive
Channel 4
May 2001 - Jun 2003 • 2 years 1 month
Legal Counsel
BBC
Mar 2000 - Mar 2001 • 1 year
Articled Clerk
Browne & Co Solicitors and Consultants
Mar 1999 - Feb 2000 • 11 months
LLB BCom, Law/Commerce
Deakin University
1994 - 1998
Grade: VCE
Morongo Girls College, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
1985 - 1992
Last checked: 17 Apr 2026 • Checked with Victorian Legal Services Board
