5 Best Property Lawyers in Melbourne
Updated 22 September 2026 · How we rank law firms
Compare the 5 highest-rated property lawyers in Melbourne, ranked by Google rating across 1,215 client reviews (average 5.0 stars). Most property disputes in Melbourne are heard by VCAT, including disputes between co-owners of land under Part IV of the Property Law Act 1958 (Vic), owners corporation disputes and planning appeals. Retail lease disputes must go to the Victorian Small Business Commission before VCAT.
Best property lawyers in Melbourne
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1
Wollerman Shacklock Editor's pick
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2
Roberts Gray Lawyers
4.95score -
3
Unite Legal
4.89score -
4
Barrett + Co Legal
4.87score -
5
Aston Legal Group
4.86score -
6
Blackwood Family Lawyers
4.86score
Editor's picks are chosen by our editors and labelled; the firms below them are ordered by score. Source: Google Maps business listings for “property lawyer melbourne”, checked 22 September 2026. Ordered by a review-weighted rating. How we rank law firms
Standouts among property lawyers in Melbourne
Highest weighted score
Roberts Gray Lawyers: 5.0 stars from 297 reviews.
Most reviewed
Aston Legal Group: 354 Google reviews, rated 4.9.
Highest rated with 100+ reviews
Roberts Gray Lawyers: 5.0 stars from 297 reviews.
Where are property disputes heard in Melbourne?
VCAT hears co-ownership, owners corporation, retail and commercial lease, and planning and environment matters. The County Court's Commercial Division at 250 William Street and the Supreme Court of Victoria hear larger contract and property claims. A VCAT claim for damages in a retail lease dispute needs a certificate from the Small Business Commission under section 87 of the Retail Leases Act 2003 (Vic).
What Victoria-specific rules apply?
Victorian land is registered under the Transfer of Land Act 1958 (Vic), and the Property Law Act 1958 (Vic) sets general property rules. Part IV of the Property Law Act lets VCAT order the sale or division of co-owned land, but not for disputes arising from a marriage, domestic relationship or business partnership. Retail leases are governed by the Retail Leases Act 2003 (Vic).
How much does a property lawyer cost in Melbourne?
Fees for property lawyers in Melbourne depend on the matter, the lawyer's seniority and the fee model (hourly, fixed fee or conditional). Before any work starts, a law firm must disclose its costs in writing when they are likely to exceed the disclosure threshold. See How Much Does a Lawyer Cost in Australia? for typical ranges and fee models.
Free and low-cost legal help in Melbourne
The Victorian Small Business Commission provides low-cost mediation for retail and commercial lease disputes. See Free Legal Advice in Australia for more options.
Melbourne property lawyer FAQs
Can VCAT force the sale of co-owned property in Melbourne?
Yes. Under Part IV of the Property Law Act 1958 (Vic), VCAT can order co-owned land to be sold and the proceeds divided, or the land physically divided. Disputes arising from a marriage or domestic relationship are dealt with elsewhere.
Do I need a Small Business Commission certificate for a lease dispute?
Yes, for most claims. A VCAT application seeking damages or other relief in a retail lease dispute must attach a section 87 certificate, unless the claim is only for recovery of unpaid rent.
How much does a property lawyer cost in Melbourne?
Property lawyers in Melbourne charge fixed fees for defined tasks such as lease reviews and hourly rates for disputes, and costs vary widely. Under the Legal Profession Uniform Law, a written costs disclosure is required where costs are likely to exceed $750.
