Part 1 - The Australian Legal System

Research in any area of law presupposes a basic knowledge of the Australian legal system and government. Without this you will not understand your subject or be able to research efficiently; and you could make some terrible howlers! Try our quick quiz to check that your basic knowledge is adequate. Are the statements below true or false?

 

Is Australian law derived from the law of England?
Yes
 No

 

Does Australia have a federal system of government?
Yes
 No

 

Can the Commonwealth make laws on all subjects?
Yes
 No

 

If Commonwealth and State laws are inconsistent, does the Commonwealth prevail?
Yes
 No

 

Does Australia have a Bill of Rights?
Yes
 No

 

Federal laws are introduced into Parliament as Bills. Do Bills have to be passed by both Houses and receive Royal Assent to become law?
Yes
 No

 

Does the Commonwealth and each State have their own court system?
Yes
 No

Is the High Court of Australia the final court of appeal from all Australian court systems?

Yes
 No

If you answered even one question incorrectly, or if you did not understand one of the questions, please take the time to read this brief account of the Australian Legal System.

Continue to Part 2 - Sources of Law

 

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