Rule of Law Principles

  • What is the Rule of Law?

    Explore resources explaining the rule of law. The rule of law is built from a collection of principles that work together to limit government power and protect rights.

  • No Retrospective Laws

    Explore resources on the nature of retrospective laws, explaining why people must only be punished under laws existing at the time of their conduct.

  • Independent and Impartial Judiciary

    Explore resources on an open, independent and impartial judiciary, including the history of the NSW Supreme Court and its role in delivering fair justice.

  • The Presumption of Innocence

    Explore resources on the presumption of innocence, showing how the burden of proof protects accused people and safeguards fairness in criminal justice.

  • Government as Model Litigants

    Explore resources on model litigant obligations, outlining how government agencies must act fairly, ethically, and consistently when involved in legal proceedings.

  • Open and Free Criticism

    Explore resources on open and free criticism of law & government, showing how scrutiny of institutions strengthens accountability and supports a rule‑of‑law culture.

  • Fair and Prompt Trials

    Explore resources on fair and prompt trials, showing how timely hearings and procedural fairness protect justice and public confidence.

  • Open and Transparent Laws

    Explore resources on transparent lawmaking, highlighting how accessible, participatory processes strengthen accountability and uphold democratic principles.

  • The Separation of Powers

    Explore resources on the separation of powers, explaining how separating authority maintains checks on government power.

  • Punishment According to Law

    Explore resources on punishment according to law, outlining how clear legal rules ensure proportionate, and consistent criminal penalties.

  • Law is Known and Accessible

    Explore resources on accessible law, highlighting why clear, public, and open legal rules are essential for fairness and democratic participation.

  • Freedom of Speech

    Explore resources on freedom of speech in Australia, outlining how it supports democratic debate, accountability, the protection of individual rights, and a rule-of-law culture.

  • Equality Before the Law

    Explore resources on equality before the law, including the Lost Parcel story, showing how legal rules apply fairly to all people.

  • Access to Justice

    Explore resources on access to justice, highlighting barriers people face and the processes that ensure fair, affordable resolution of disputes.

  • Checks and Balances on Power

    Explore resources on checks and balances, explaining how oversight limits power and ensures decisions remain lawful and accountable.