U4 4.2.2 - The means by which individuals can influence law reform

Question 1

What are three ways an individual or group can influence law reform?

Answer 1

petitions, demonstrations and the use of courts

Question 1

What are some rules of petitions?

Answer 1

to be accepted for consideration, the petition must be prepared in a particular format, which vary between state/territory parliaments
- is addressed to the house in which it is being presented
- clearly states actions requested and reasons why
- word limit
- contains details of person/group initiating the petition

Question 2

What is a petition?

Answer 2

A formal written request to the parliament to take some action or implement law reform

Question 3

What are demonstrations?

Answer 3

A gathering of people to protest or express their common concern or dissatisfaction with an existing law as a means of influencing law reform
- can alert government for a need for change in the law
- raise awareness for legislative changes

Question 4

What are some examples of petitions?

Answer 4

logging prevention, banning live animal exports, banning plastics

Question 5

Are petitions effective?

Answer 5

the ability to influence law depends on various factors:
- number of signatures (indicates community support)
- passion and profile of the presenting member of parliament

Question 6

What are some examples of demonstrations?

Answer 6

• school strike for climate change
• January 26 (australia/invasion day)

Question 7

Are demonstrations effective?

Answer 7

Largely depends on their ability to attract media and public attention
an effective demonstration can:
- educate the public about injustices
- influence members of parliament, therefore elections
factors can make a demonstration ineffective:
- violence or inconvenience
- small amounts of people in attendance

Question 8

What are the use of courts?

Answer 8

Individuals with standing may bring change in the law by taking a matter to court, highlighting the need to change

Question 9

How does the use of courts work?

Answer 9

if parliament makes a law that is unclear or unfair, an individual may challenge the legislation through the court system in the hope a judge will interpret or clarify the meaning of the law in their favour

Question 9

What are some examples of the use of courts?

Answer 9

• Mabo
• McBain
• Trigwell

Question 10

Is the use of courts effective?

Answer 10

Depends on factors such as:
- willingness of a person to take a case to court
- cost and time
- standing