Melissa Inglis

Partner

Rose Litigation Lawyers

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Her story

Melissa is a Partner at Rose Litigation Lawyers.

Without mentioning your job title, how would you describe what it is you do now (whether at home, work, in the community, etc.)?

I help people navigate complex situations and turn challenges into opportunities. Whether I’m guiding businesses through high-stakes decisions or leading my team, I focus on finding solutions that protect what matters most. At home, I balance the chaos and joys of raising three children, and in the community, I mentor and support the next generation of professionals and industry leaders. In everything I do, I aim to empower others, advocate for fairness, and create spaces where people can thrive—whether that’s in the boardroom, at home, or in their own personal journey.

What are the first three words you think of when you hear the word ‘diversity’?

When I hear the word 'diversity,' the first three words that come to mind are strength, perspective, and opportunity. Diversity brings strength through varied experiences, perspective by encouraging new ways of thinking, and opportunity by creating space for voices that may not have been heard before to contribute and lead.

What do you think it will take to develop truly diverse thinking within the legal industry?

To develop truly diverse thinking within the legal industry, it will take intentionality, representation, and open dialogue. Intentionality by going beyond surface-level diversity of meeting quotas or token cultural agendas, by actively creating environments where diverse but informed and specialised perspectives are not only welcomed but sought after. Representation is key—we need to see diversity at all levels of leadership and organisational structures. This is important so different experiences and viewpoints shape the real decision-making and the actions and output. Finally, open dialogue is essential to challenge entrenched ideas, break down biases, and create a culture where everyone feels safe and empowered to contribute their unique voice to the conversation. It’s about creating an industry that thrives on varied perspectives and recognises that inclusivity strengthens our collective ability to solve complex problems.

What was your main driver to enter the legal industry?

I still remember being a grade 7 student traveling to Canberra with my school cohort and visiting the High Court of Australia for the first time. Sitting in that courtroom, I felt a spark that would shape my future. I knew, even at that young age, that I wanted to be part of the legal profession. Now, this was well before Legally Blonde made law look glamorous and back then, it wasn’t about the titles or the prestige... it was about the idea of using knowledge and skill to make a real difference. That, and defining myself as a real argumentative tween!


Ironically, while I once pictured myself sitting on the bench, I now realise that being a judge isn’t where I belong. Instead, I find my joy at the coalface working directly with clients, helping them navigate complex disputes, and finding solutions that change their lives and businesses for the better. It’s about building relationships, solving problems, and seeing the impact firsthand.


Sometimes our childhood dreams evolve in unexpected ways. I’m proud to be exactly where I am, turning that early inspiration into a career that brings me fulfillment every day.

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