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Criminology and Justice: Government Policy & Law Reform

Policy and Reform

Law Reform

Law reform is the process of reviewing, developing and changing the law to bring it into line with current conditions (i.e. removing outdated laws or introducing new laws to support the regulation of something new). 

There are a number of Law Reform Commissions throughout all jurisdictions.

Law Reform Commissions publish a variety of papers including discussion papers and reports.

These can provide excellent references to the most important academic writings on a particular subject. These publications often include a thorough analysis of the current law and an extensive examination of reform proposals.

Media Releases by portfolio - media (or press) releases provide a current sources for government policy in an ever changing political environment

Parliamentary Sources - parliament websites contain a wide variety of information including the work of parliamentary committees, Hansard (Parliamentary Debates), bills and legislation, parliamentary publications, parliamentary media releases and budget papers.

Parliamentary Committee Reports - Committees are made up of Members and assist the Parliament in its scrutiny and law-making functions by holding inquiries into complex issues. Committees can call for written submissions, hear evidence and seek advice from experts, often providing a forum for the public to be involved in issues before the Parliament. Committees report their findings and recommendations to the Parliament.

Annual Reports of Government Departments and Agencies - Annual Reports are listed on Government Agency websites usually under the publications page. The reports will provide a summary of the operations and performance of the Department os Agency for the year including activities and expenditure. This will give a clear indication of how the Government implemented it’s policy priorities in practice for the year 

Major Political Parties - Political party policies won't provide official Government Policy in practice, but will reflect the position of the government on many policies. This gives an indication of the party's platform.