History 

A RICH PAST LEADING TO A BRIGHT FUTURE

A firm’s long history is relevant inasmuch as it promotes confidence and develops trust. The lessons of the past have helped shape our future direction. Our continued growth builds assurance. At McKean Park while we are proud of our traditional values, our focus is very firmly on the future. That stated, very few law firms in Australia can claim 145 years of continuous operation and few others have part of their original name still in use. Coincidentally, our Associate firm in Sydney - Pigott Stinson, was also established in 1863.

James McKean, who was born in Belfast and came to Australia in 1853 and established the firm in 1863. He was appointed a member of the first Mining Court and later elevated to the positions of President of Lands & Works and Commissioner of Crown Lands and Survey, and later became Minister for Lands in the Victorian Colonial Government.

Harry McKean joined his father's firm in 1898. In 1939 he formed a partnership with Les Park giving rise to McKean & Park. The family tradition continued with Les' sons Richard and Geoff joining the firm in 1966 and 1968 respectively. Both brothers recently retired as partners however Geoff Park remains with the firm as a Consultant.

Highlights – McKean Park Important Dates

• 1863: James McKean began his first practice at 42 Collins Street, Melbourne
• 1870: McKean & Wilson founded
• 1875: McKean, Wilson & Leonard founded
• 1878: McKean & Leonard established - 11 Collins Street West, Melbourne
• 1898: McKean & McKean - Harry McKean (son of James) admitted
• 1939: McKean & Park founded - formed partnership with Les Park
• 1959: McKean, Park & Cooper - Don Cooper admitted to partnership
• 1982: Firm merged with Pitcher & Butt
• 1990: Firm acquired F.W. Cox & Son
• 1997: Firm acquired part of Godfrey Stewart's property section
• 2003: Celebration of our 140-year anniversary. The firm committed to contributing 140 Acts of Kindness for the year. This initiative was aimed at giving something back to our community
• 2008: On our 145th anniversary, the firm moved to new premises at 575 Bourke Street, Melbourne.