Her story

Mala is the Principal Lawyer and Office Leader at Maurice Blackburn Lawyers in the Sunshine Coast. With over a decade of legal experience, Mala now specialises in personal injury law. Read more below about what being a leader in the legal industry means to Mala.

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

I lead a large team of talented personal injury lawyers and legal assistants who are passionate about fighting for the rights of everyday Australians. My role is rewarding and diverse and requires skills in business development, finance, leadership and mentoring. I have created an inclusive, supportive, and flexible work environment and am passionate about supporting women to stay and advance in the legal profession.

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

Inclusion, opportunity, essential.

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

Perseverance, accountability and leadership.

What was your main driver to enter the legal industry?

I received a scholarship for academic achievement and chose to study law as I developed an early love of the law in legal studies at high school. I began working in personal injury law early on in my career and quickly developed a passion for helping others navigate the legal system and achieve compensation which they would have not achieved on their own.