Brett McGrath Featured in LSJ’s 50 Years of the Family Law Act

Celebrating 50 Years of the Family Law Act — and Brett McGrath’s Insightful Contribution

As the Family Law Act marks its 50-year milestone, the Law Society Journal sat down with leaders in the field to reflect on how far Australia’s family law system has come — and where it’s headed next. Among those invited to share their experience was Brett McGrath, Partner at Marsdens Law Group and Head of our Family Dispute Resolution Department.

We’re incredibly proud to see Brett’s voice featured in this national conversation. His interview highlights not only his depth of expertise, but also his steady, forward-thinking approach to helping families navigate some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

Read the Full LSJ Article Here

Wisdom from the Frontline: Brett’s Reflections

In the article, Brett offers clear-eyed insight into how dramatically the family law landscape has evolved. With over a decade of experience in family law, he’s witnessed firsthand the rapid transformation of the courts, the profession, and the needs of families.

A few standout points from Brett’s contribution include:

Change is the Only Constant

Brett notes just how swiftly the system has shifted — from major case law developments to procedural reforms. Since beginning his family law career in 2012, he’s watched the practice adapt again and again, with each change refining the way families are supported through separation and dispute resolution.

A Stronger Focus on Family Violence

He highlights an essential evolution: the growing recognition of family and domestic violence within the system. Today’s courts are far more attuned to risk, trauma, and safety — an area Brett has championed within our own Family Dispute Resolution practice.

Online Hearings and Greater Accessibility

Reflecting on the shift to digital hearings, Brett describes the change as “revolutionary for access to justice,” particularly for regional and remote families. What began as a COVID-era necessity has become one of the most significant improvements to court accessibility in decades.

Dispute Resolution First

Brett also emphasises the profession’s “gear shift” toward early dispute resolution — a philosophy that sits at the core of Marsdens’ family law approach. By prioritising early mediation and collaborative solutions, families often resolve matters more quickly, more cost-effectively, and with far less emotional strain.

About Brett McGrath

Brett is a Partner at Marsdens Law Group and the head of our Family Dispute Resolution Department. He is widely respected for his practical wisdom, strategic thinking, and compassionate approach to helping families work through conflict with dignity and clarity.

His practice is defined by:

Deep expertise in family law, mediation, and complex parenting/financial disputes
A strong commitment to safety, particularly in matters involving domestic and family violence
A solutions-focused mindset, helping clients reach outcomes that minimise conflict
Leadership within the profession, demonstrated through his contributions to legal education, mentoring, and — now — the Law Society Journal’s 50-year reflection on the Family Law Act

We’re grateful to have Brett leading our FDR team and proud to see his voice shaping conversations about the future of family law.