In 2010 she represented New Zealand at the 2010 Fédération internationale de football association U-20 Women"s World Cup, playing in two group games. McLaughlin made her senior Football Ferns debut as a substitute in a 0–6 loss to China on 10 January 2009.
McLaughlin also represented New Zealand at the 2008 Fédération internationale de football association U-20 Women"s World Cup in Chile, again playing all three group games. A 2–3 loss to Nigeria, a 4–3 win over hosts Chile, and scored New Zealand"s goal against England before England equalised late in injury time to eliminate New Zealand from the tournament.
She was a member of the New Zealand squad in the inaugural Fédération internationale de football association U-17 Women"s World Cup, playing all three group games. A 0–1 loss to Canada, a 1–2 loss to Denmark, and a 1–3 loss to Colombia.
