Katherine Manby

Kath Manby is the Principal Solicitor and Founder of VM Family Law, and one of only two Accredited Family Law Specialists in the Greater Springfield region. The second Accredited Specialist is also part of the VM Family Law team, making the firm a unique centre of expertise for families seeking high-level, compassionate legal support.

With more than 20 years of experience in family law, Kath is widely recognised for her warm, client-focused approach and her deep commitment to helping families navigate separation, parenting disputes, property settlements and domestic violence matters with dignity and confidence.

Kath began her legal career in the United Kingdom before making the courageous decision to move to Australia, on her own. She continued her work across Family Law and Estate Law with Legal Aid Queensland and in private practice, gaining extensive experience in complex parenting cases, family violence matters, financial disputes and child-focused legal issues. These experiences shaped her belief that family law is not just about legal outcomes, it’s about supporting people during some of the most difficult periods of their lives.

A deeply personal turning point, the passing of her father, motivated Kath to establish VM Family Law. She envisioned a firm where clients would feel safe, understood and empowered, and where domestic violence advocacy would be woven into every part of the practice.

Today, VM Family Law is recognised as a leading family law firm in the Greater Springfield region, known for its trauma-informed approach and strong community values.

Under Kath’s leadership, VM Family Law has also become one of the few family law firms in the area recognised as a preferred supplier for Legal Aid Queensland, reinforcing its commitment to accessible, inclusive and client-centred legal services.

Kath is highly regarded in the field of domestic violence prevention. She has been a multiple-time finalist for the Dame Quentin Bryce Domestic Violence Prevention Award and is a consistent advocate for improving the legal system’s response to vulnerable families. As an Independent Children’s Lawyer, Kath represents children in complex family law proceedings, ensuring that their wellbeing and safety remain at the forefront of every decision.

She contributes to the profession through her role on the Queensland Law Society Domestic Violence Committee and as a regular presenter of specialised domestic violence training for lawyers statewide. She has also been recognised on the Doyles Guide for her excellence in parenting matters.

Beyond her legal work, Kath is an active community advocate. Through initiatives such as Dancing CEOs, she has raised more than $110,000 for the Ipswich Financial Abuse Unit, supporting women and families escaping financial abuse.

Despite her extensive accomplishments, what truly defines Kath is her empathy. Clients consistently describe her as reassuring, approachable, and deeply invested in their wellbeing. Kath understands that family law matters are emotional and overwhelming, and she works hard to provide clarity, calmness and hope during times of uncertainty.

Outside the office, Kath is a devoted mother to three young children and enjoys playing golf, enthusiastically, though she happily admits she’s far from being a pro. Her personal experiences give her a grounded, relatable perspective that shines through in her work with families.

Kath works from both VM Family Law’s Robina and Brookwater offices. She is available at the Robina office on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and at the Brookwater office on Thursdays. Appointments outside these times can be arranged by contacting our team.