Stephanie Brown – Head of Abuse Law at Slater and Gordon and Victim-Survivor Advocate
Stephanie Brown, based in Queensland, leads Slater and Gordon’s national Abuse Law practice. Since joining the firm in 2021, she has played a key role in advancing victim-survivor advocacy and was recognised for her excellence in the 2025 Doyle’s Guide. Stephanie is also a member of the Queensland Law Society, Women on Boards, and serves on a committee within the Australian Lawyers Alliance.
How did you start down this career path?
I was raised by a single mother, and from a young age I witnessed the importance of both security and access to justice. Watching my mum navigate the legal process on her own made a lasting impression, and it showed me how complex and intimidating the legal system can be for those without support.
That experience planted the seed for my career. I wanted to help create fairer systems, ensure people are heard, and make justice something that feels accessible rather than out of reach.
What inspires you in your role/industry? Why?
What inspires me changes over time, depending on who I’m helping. Right now, I’m deeply inspired by the incredible work my team does for survivors of childhood abuse.
Every day, I see the real and meaningful difference we make in people’s lives, and I’m committed to helping our clients find justice, healing, and dignity after what they’ve been through. It’s easy to feel passionate about supporting such a deserving group of people and the dedicated team who walk alongside them.
What's your approach to customer service that separates you from the rest?
My approach to customer service is pretty simple. It’s not about ego, it’s about people. I take the time to really get to know the person behind the matter: who they are, what’s important to them, and what they need from us.
When you genuinely understand someone and what they care about, you can tailor your support to make a real difference. That human connection, built on empathy and respect, is what sets great service apart.
How do you innovate and stay ahead of industry trends?
I’m a big believer in curiosity as a superpower. I make time to read, learn, and connect with others who think differently, both inside and outside the industry. I also love testing new ideas in small, practical ways before scaling them up. Innovation doesn’t always mean reinventing the wheel. Often, it’s just finding a smarter, more human way to keep it turning.
What is the toughest challenge you've faced in your role? How did you overcome it?
One of the toughest challenges I’ve faced in my role has been balancing the emotional weight of the work with the need to lead with clarity and optimism. Working with survivors of childhood abuse means being confronted daily with stories of deep trauma and at the same time, guiding a team of individuals who are also navigating that emotional toll.
I’ve learned to overcome these challenges by focusing on purpose and perspective, remembering why we do this work, and the real impact it has on the people we support. I’ve also made it a priority to build a supportive culture where we can talk openly, check in on each other, and celebrate the wins – no matter how small. That combination of empathy, teamwork, and purpose is what helps me, and my team, stay grounded and strong.
What are some of your goals for the next 5 years?
Over the next 5 years, I want to keep growing as a leader who empowers others and creates opportunities for my team and the people around me.
Another focus is on improving the lives of victim-survivors of childhood abuse by making the claims process less traumatic and more humane. I plan to keep advocating for systemic change through meaningful engagement with government and key stakeholders.
Above all, I want to lead with purpose by driving positive, values-based change while continuing to learn, mentor, and maintain a sense of balance and curiosity along the way.
About Slater and Gordon Lawyers
Slater and Gordon was founded in Australia in 1935. The company has grown from quite humble beginnings servicing the needs of unions and working people. The firm have built a powerful reputation throughout their history as a law firm that fights to achieve the best outcomes for their clients, while reducing the stress they go through to obtain their compensation.
From the many landmark legal cases they have won to the introduction of innovations such as No Win - No Fee, Slater and Gordon have been determined to ensure that more Australians are able to access affordable legal services, no matter where they are.