- Home >
- Our People > Michelle van Niekerk
Expertise
Michelle van Niekerk is a Director at Hicks Oakley Chessell Williams Lawyers in Melbourne, bringing over 15 years’ experience in business management and legal leadership roles across Australia. She has led national legal teams and offices in areas including commercial litigation, debt recovery and insolvency, drawing on a background in litigation, insurance, family and property law both in South Africa and Australia.
Michelle commenced her legal career in 1999 working in commercial litigation, insurance, family and property Law.
Before her move to Australia in 2006, Michelle was the principal of Van Niekerk-De Kock Attorneys, a firm which focused primarily on property, personal injury and family law.
In 2007, after relocating from South Africa to Australia, Michelle joined the legal team of Recoveries Corporation Group during which time she completed further studies to be admitted as an Australian Lawyer.
From 2012 to 2017, Michelle was managing partner of a national law firm. During her time as managing partner, Michelle established and managed legal offices in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth, all of which specialised in debt recovery and commercial litigation as well as insolvency.
About Michelle
In her spare time, Michelle is an avid dragon boat paddler who has represented Australia at multiple World Championships and international regattas. She has proudly served as Captain of the Australian Team on three occasions. Michelle also loves to travel and often combines her passion for paddling with exploring new destinations.
Qualifications
Bachelor of Laws (BProc) – University of South Africa
Admissions
Supreme Court of Victoria
High Court of South Africa
Memberships and Committees
Law Institute of Victoria
