Sylvia was admitted in 1991 having graduated from Monash University with a B.A. / L.L.B. 

As a barrister she practises in all areas of family law.

She has also worked at Monash University as a Senior Lecturer (Practice) teaching the Family Law Assistance Program. She is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. (FHEA) She is currently teaching in the Masters of Applied Law (Family Law) at the College of Law. 

In addition she has completed a Vocational Diploma in Family Dispute Resolution at Relationships Australia. She has also undertaken the Victorian Bar Mediation Course.