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Melanie Vairawanathan is the Founder and Principal Lawyer of Melmark Law and a multi award winning family lawyer known for her sharp advocacy, strategic thinking, and relentless commitment to her clients. Melanie holds a Master of Laws (Applied Law) with a specialisation in family law and is admitted to practice in Victoria. She is a member of the Law Institute of Victoria, the Family Law Section of the Law Council of Australia, Victorian Women Lawyers, and the Australian Association of Collaborative Professionals, and keeps herself closely across developments in family law and legal practice. As one of a small number of qualified collaborative family lawyers in Melbourne, Melanie is a strong advocate for resolving disputes through negotiation and alternative dispute resolution. That said, when a matter needs to be fought in court, she does not shy away from the contest. Melanie is strategic, prepared, and known for pushing hard when it matters. Melanie practises almost exclusively in family law, including complex parenting disputes, property settlements, family violence matters, wills and estate planning, and collaborative law. She regularly acts in high conflict and high pressure matters and has built a reputation for cutting through noise, focusing on what actually matters, and getting things done. She is widely regarded as a thought leader in modern and trauma informed family law practice and is regularly featured in legal media, podcasts, and professional discussions. Melanie brings a practical mindset to the law, balancing technical precision with real world judgement and a clear understanding that family law is never just legal, it is deeply personal. Outside of work, Melanie is known for her energy, drive, and refusal to slow down. She works long hours when required, is fiercely protective of her clients’ interests, and is unapologetic about wanting strong outcomes.
Founder and Principal Lawyer
Melmark Law
Jul 2022 - Present • 4 years 4 months
Family Lawyer
Lennon Mazzeo Lawyers
May 2016 - Jun 2022 • 6 years 1 month
Lawyer
Rowson Brasse & Co
Dec 2014 - May 2016 • 1 year 5 months
Master of Laws (Applied Law) majoring in Family Law
The College of Law Australia
2016 - 2019
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice, Law
Leo Cussen Centre for Law
2012 - 2013
Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Law
Monash University
2008 - 2012
Last checked: 14 May 2026 • Checked with Victorian Legal Services
