Melanie Vairawanathan is the Founder and Principal Lawyer of Melmark Law and a multi award winning family lawyer known for achieving exceptional outcomes in matters that most people would rather avoid entirely.

She holds a Master of Laws with a specialisation in Family Law and is admitted to practise in Victoria. She is also one of a select number of qualified Collaborative Family Lawyers in Melbourne, which means she will always try to resolve disputes calmly, commercially and with as little conflict as possible. But when litigation becomes necessary, she is very comfortable switching gears.

Melanie practises almost exclusively in family law, including complex parenting disputes, high conflict property matters and family violence proceedings. In other words, the kinds of matters where emotions are high, stakes are significant and things can go sideways very quickly.

Known for her direct approach, strategic thinking and ability to cut through the noise, Melanie is often sought out for matters involving significant complexity, urgency or conflict. She is not afraid to have difficult conversations, make tough decisions or tell clients what they need to hear rather than what they want to hear.

Her work has been recognised through numerous industry awards and national publications, including being named Australian Law Awards Sole Practitioner of the Year. According to her team, the real challenge now is finding somewhere to put the awards!

Beyond legal practice, Melanie has built a reputation as a modern and influential voice in family law. She is regularly featured across television, radio, podcasts and national publications speaking on family law, family violence and access to justice. She combines a trauma informed approach with clear, strategic advice and a deep understanding of the realities her clients face.

As a mother and a business owner, Melanie understands that family law is never just legal. It is personal, emotional and often life changing.

Her role is to guide clients through it with clarity, strength and a strategy that actually works, while making sure things do not completely unravel along the way.

Landi is a trusted part of the Melmark Law team, known for the way she supports clients through what are often really difficult and emotional situations. She brings a clear, steady approach to her work, helping clients feel understood while also keeping their matter moving in the right direction.

She holds a Juris Doctor from Monash University and a Bachelor of Criminal Justice with Distinction. Landi combines strong legal knowledge with a practical, solutions focused mindset, so clients not only feel supported, but also know there is a clear strategy behind every step.

Landi genuinely cares about achieving fair and meaningful outcomes. She has a natural ability to connect with people, balancing empathy with confident advocacy so clients feel both reassured and well represented.

Her work has been recognised within the profession, including being named a Finalist in the Lawyers Weekly 30 Under 30 Awards and an Emerging Leader Finalist in the Connecting Lawyer Mums Inspire Awards.

At Melmark Law, Landi is known for her calm presence and attention to detail. She approaches each matter with care and precision, while making sure every client feels heard and supported throughout the process.

Outside of work, Landi enjoys exploring Melbourne’s food and wine scene, staying active, and unwinding with a good podcast or a beautifully made film.

Xara graduated from Monash University with a distinction average, completing a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of Arts, majoring in International Studies and Gender Studies. Her undergraduate research into police duties of care for third-party victims of family violence reflects her strong passion for justice and making real-world change where it matters most.

With four years’ experience as a family law legal assistant, Xara discovered her passion for family law unexpectedly and has since developed a deep commitment to supporting clients through some of the most challenging times in their lives. She’s driven to make meaningful, lasting differences as she steps into her role as a new lawyer.

When she’s not in the office, you’ll find Xara reading, doing aerial fitness, or spending time with her dog. She’s a big believer in a healthy lifestyle and work-life balance ensuring she brings her best to every part of life.