Legal Foundations
What is a law?
A rule made and enforced by a government.
What is a right?
An entitlement or freedom that people have.
At what age can Australians vote in federal elections?
18 years old.
What is cyberbullying?
Bullying that occurs using technology or online platforms.
What is law reform?
Changing existing laws or creating new ones.
What is the Rule of Law?
No one is above the law. Everyone, including the government, must obey the law
What is a responsibility?
A duty or obligation that a person has.
What is the minimum age to get a driver's licence in NSW (Learner licence)?
16 years old.
What is identity theft?
Stealing someone's personal information to commit fraud.
Name one factor that can influence law reform.
Media, pressure groups, courts, parliament, or changing values.
What are customs?
Behaviours or traditions followed by a group of people.
Name one legal right Australians have.
Right to vote, right to a fair trial, freedom of religion.
What is the age of criminal responsibility in Australia?
10 years old.
What is the purpose of privacy laws?
To protect people's personal information.
What is a pressure group?
A group that tries to influence government decisions.
What is justice?
Fair and equal treatment under the law.
Which document protects many human rights around the world?
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
What does the term "doli incapax" mean?
Children aged 10–13 are presumed incapable of criminal intent unless proven otherwise.
Give one legal issue caused by artificial intelligence (AI).
Privacy concerns, misinformation, deepfakes, or job displacement.
Why do laws need to change over time?
Society's values and technology change.
Name two characteristics of an effective law.
Fair, enforceable, known, stable, or responsive.
Why do rights come with responsibilities?
Because people must respect the rights of others
Why are young offenders often dealt with differently from adults?
Because the law recognises their age and capacity for rehabilitation.
Why do laws struggle to keep up with technology?
Technology changes faster than laws can be made.
Which branch of government makes laws in Australia?
Parliament.