Meet our People

With over a decade of experience working in the social justice sector, Shabnum brings a dedication to pro bono work aimed at supporting society’s most vulnerable and marginalised individuals.

Part of Gadens’ Sustainability and Social Impact team, Shabnum specialises in administrative law and strategic litigation, with her primary focus areas including immigration and refugee law, visa cancellation, mental health, and guardianship matters. Within the area of refugee law, Shabnum is a subject matter expert in gender-based violence, offering legal representation for critical issues including child and forced marriage, domestic and family violence, sex trafficking, and LGBTQIA+ rights. Her expertise extends to providing comprehensive legal support and advocacy in these complex and sensitive areas.

Throughout her career, Shabnum has actively contributed to the legal community through both professional roles and volunteer work at various not-for-profit and community legal centres across Australia. Her unwavering dedication to ensuring legal accessibility for all underscores her belief that justice should be inclusive and accessible to everyone, regardless of their circumstances.

Within Gadens, Shabnum is a member of the firm’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Working Group, working towards fostering meaningful reconciliation with Indigenous communities. Additionally, she serves as the Co-Chair of the firm’s LGBTQIA+ working group, advocating for inclusivity and equality within the workplace and beyond.

Shabnum’s commitment to pro bono work and her contributions to the legal profession have earned her recognition, including being named a finalist in the Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year category in 2022. Her dedication to social impact extends beyond her professional endeavours, reflecting her broader commitment to effecting positive change within society.