Law versus Rules

THE LAW

 There must be rules to regulate the interactions we

have with other members of society.

 Rules allow society to function properly.

 Effective rules must be recognised and accepted by

the majority of society.

 Rules create certain rights and responsibilities.

 Rules enforced by society can be called “the law”.

 The law is enforced by punishing the offender.

Reasons for Laws

 To protect the safety of people in society.

 To recognise and protect the freedoms and interests

of people in society.

 To ensure that society functions properly.

 To produce fair outcomes.

 To reflect the needs and values of society

 Features of a Law

 Authority for law to be enforced

 Consequences can be applied
 Regulation by society ie courts/tribunals
 Law must fairly balance individual rights with the
community good
 Law should be clear
 Law should be consistent and stable
 Law should apply equally to all
 Law should be capable of being enforced

Kinds of Law
 Compel – we must pay for goods at a shop
 Restrict – can only get learners when you are 16
 Prohibit – cannot hurt or kill another person

Identify an example for each of the above kinds of laws

 Examples of law changes (and proposed changes)

 Smoke free cars with kids

 Queensland’s laws for young drivers
 Federal government trial law for parents of truants
 Using a carriage service (internet) to cause offence by
posting highly offensive material (Facebook)
 Australian Consumer Law (2011) – protecting consumers
and ensuring fair trading by businesses
 Calls for banning junk food ads before 9pm
 Criminal Motorcycle Gangs
 Dangerous Prisoners (Sexual Offenders)