U4 AOS 2 Reasons for law reform

Question 1

What are 3 reasons for law reform?

Answer 1

1. Changes in beliefs, values and attitudes
2. Advances in technology
3. Greater need for protection in society

Question 2

Why does law reform need to occur for changes in beliefs?

Answer 2

Society’s beliefs and values that are commonly held are constantly changing as it becomes more progressive

e.g changes in smoking laws or marriage equality in 2017

Question 3

Why does law reform need to occur due to advances in technology?

Answer 3

To regulate and control new technology, and to protect the community. Laws need to change and constantly be updated to keep up with new technology.

For example, drone cameras posed a threat to privacy laws - 2012, 2014 and 2016 laws reformed
- no license needed for drones under 2kg (2014)

Mobile phones and driving
- impacted road safety as many accidents causes due to mobile distractions
- penalties for phone users whilst driving
- amended for tablets and smart watches

Question 4

Why does the law need to be reformed to facilitate the greater need for protection of the community?

Answer 4

Ensures individuals in different groups in the community feel protected and safe, making actions that harm others illegal

E.g due to increased violence against emergency service personnel, stricter parameters for sentencing people who have harmed them have been introduced, and they may receive custodial sentences.

e.g vaping laws implemented in 2024 to protect youth from public health issues
- 1st Jan 2024, illegal to import vapes into Australia
- March, ban on import of non-medical vapes