Kaia Zhu is a dedicated building and construction lawyer with a strong commercial litigation background. She regularly acts for owners, builders and developers in complex VCAT proceedings and court matters, including defect claims, overpayment disputes, and regulatory compliance issues. Kaia is valued for her practical approach—balancing technical detail with clear, commercially sensible advice.
Known for her collaborative mindset and meticulous preparation, Kaia works closely with barristers, expert consultants, and clients to ensure every case is strategically positioned for the best outcome. She brings both technical skill and empathy to her practice—qualities that consistently earn positive feedback from colleagues and clients alike.
Before moving into litigation, Kaia trained and worked in top-tier international law firms in New York and Shanghai, advising on cross-border M&A and Hong Kong IPOs. This global legal background gives her a commercial sensibility and a sharp eye for risk — qualities that now inform her approach to resolving construction disputes.
Fluent in Mandarin, Kaia is able to guide Chinese-speaking clients through the Australian legal landscape, bridging cultural and language gaps with ease. Her ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly makes her a trusted adviser to a diverse client base.
Outside the office, Kaia enjoys exploring Melbourne's food scene, staying active outdoors, and connecting with friends and family around the world. Her curiosity and love for travel continue to shape her perspective, inspiring the empathy and adaptability she brings to her legal practice.
Qualifications
LLB, B.Econ, JD
Recent articles
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Why contingency fees should extend beyond class actions in Victorian civil litigation
Argument for expanding contingency fee arrangements beyond class actions to all civil litigation in Victoria, examining the benefits for clients and proper regulatory frameworks needed for implementation.
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Builders, plumbers and homeowners be aware of new legislation and 28-day time limits
Critical information about new 28-day time limits for VCAT appeals under the Building Legislation Amendment (Buyer Protection) Act for rectification orders and first resort insurance decisions effective July 2026.
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Don't contact the expert witness and why proper instruction processes matter in litigation
Guidance on maintaining proper boundaries between clients and expert witnesses in building, property and insurance litigation to protect legal privilege, independence and case success.
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Building law, duty of care and a tale of two cities comparing Melbourne and Sydney
Comparison of building law duty of care obligations between Victoria and NSW, examining how subsequent homeowners' rights to sue building professionals differ dramatically between Melbourne and Sydney.
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Licensed plumbers left behind and why plumbing insurance in Victoria needs attention too
Victoria's plumbing insurance framework gaps compared to recent domestic building insurance reforms, examining why licensed plumbers need better insurance coverage and consumer protection parity.
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New domestic building dispute regime jurisdictional concerns for the Building and Property Commission
Analysis of potential jurisdictional limitations facing the Building and Property Commission's new dispute regime when federal matters or interstate parties are involved, based on Burns v Corbett and related case law.
