Rule of Law and Separation of Powers

Why do we need laws?

To prevent conflict and the infringement of rights

What is a legal system?

A framework of rules and institutions that govern a community

What does the Rule of Law state?

All people are equal before the law and that all government action will be undertaken in accordance with constitutional law

What is the feature: Supremacy of Constitutional Law

The Australian Constitution is supreme and all laws of the nation draw their authority from it

What is the feature: Equality before the Law

No one is above the law, whatever their social, economic or political position

What is the feature: Existence of Fundamental Human Rights

All institutions of government must exercise power on the assumption that individuals certain fundamental rights at all times and under all circumstances, and that laws cannot be made to remove these rights