Melissa Schilling

Melissa Schilling is a highly regarded partner at Power & Bennett, having joined the firm in 2012 after completing her Bachelor of Laws at Charles Darwin University. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Journalism from Monash University and completed the Acting Course at the National Theatre Drama School in 1989. Melissa was admitted as a solicitor in 2013 following the completion of her Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice at the ANU. In 2016, she made history as the first woman to become a partner at Power & Bennett. Her practice is focused on Family Law, Criminal Law, and Civil Litigation. Melissa’s extensive legal career includes roles such as Clerk of the Magistrates Court of Victoria, Personal Assistant to the Chief Magistrate of Victoria, Judge’s Associate at the County Court of Victoria, and Court Officer at both the Supreme Court of Victoria and the Family Court of Australia. Beyond her legal career, Melissa has contributed as a presenter and producer at ABC Local Radio in Horsham. With a background that includes living in Adelaide, Melbourne, and the UK, coupled with raising four children on a Wimmera broadacre farm, Melissa has a profound understanding of the challenges facing rural families and communities. Her diverse experiences have equipped her with a unique perspective and a deep commitment to her clients.