Louise Cooney

Louise works with all families to navigate the legal issues arising from the commencement of a new relationship, through to the resolution of disputes following separation. Her practice balances technical precision and detailed knowledge with a pragmatic and empathetic approach to achieving each client’s individual goals.

Since her admission to practice in 2012, Louise has worked exclusively in the area of family law, in both Melbourne and Sydney. She holds a Masters of Law from the University of Sydney, where her studies focused on Family Law and Equity. She publishes and presents on topics relevant to her practice in Australia and internationally.

She has particular interest in cross-border family law disputes, including forum issues and international asset protection. She is highly skilled in financial matters, including acting for individuals and companies, including as third parties in contested litigation. Her experience spans multiple commercial sectors and varied structuring from sole traders and startups to complex trusts.

She brings a calm and practical approach to negotiating appropriate care arrangements in the best interests of children post-separation and has been recognised by Doyle’s Guide in the Leading Parenting & Children’s Matters Lawyers – Victoria in 2025 and 2026.

Louise is a member of the Law Institute of Victoria, Victorian Women’s Lawyers, and the Family Law Section of the Law Council of Australia.

• Cross-border family law disputes, including forum issues and international asset protection
• Financial matters, acting for individuals and companies, including as third parties in contested litigation
• Complex structuring across commercial sectors: sole traders, startups, complex trusts
• Post-separation parenting arrangements in the best interests of children
• Family creation and surrogacy

• 2013 Master of Laws, University of Sydney (focus: Family Law and Equity)
• 2009 Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Laws, University of Melbourne
• 2010 Bachelor of Arts (Hons), University of New South Wales

• 2026 Doyle’s Guide: Leading Parenting & Children’s Matters Lawyers, Victoria
• 2025 Doyle’s Guide: Leading Parenting & Children’s Matters Lawyers, Victoria

• Law Institute of Victoria
• Victorian Women Lawyers
• Family Law Section, Law Council of Australia