Melanie Vairawanathan

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.