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Statutory Interpretation

Legislation can be difficult to interpret. Partly this arises from the length and complexity of many Acts

Overview

Legislation can be difficult to interpret. Partly this arises from the length and complexity of many Acts. The steady annual increase in the total volume of legislation adds to the difficulty. Often the general principles stated in legislation have to be applied in situations that could not be foreseen at the time the legislation was drafted. In that sense, the meaning given to legislation is a product not only of its text but also of the principles of interpretation that are applied to the text.

The success and validity of government programs often hinge on the correct interpretation of legislation, so it’s vitally important for government officers to understand the way legislation is structured and the principles of statutory interpretation.

This is also a shift occurring in the basic common law rules, with the High Court now refining the focus of how statutory interpretation should be undertaken.

This workshop examines the key principles of interpreting legislation and highlights the hidden traps which often await the unsuspecting bureaucrat seeking to apply both legislation and associated statutory instruments.
 

Who should attend?

Government officers of all levels who interpret and apply legislation.

What we will cover

  • Sources of statutory interpretation principles as found in the relevant Interpretation legislation and case law
  • Fundamental common law rules
  • The role of explanatory notes, second reading speeches and other extrinsic material
  • Grammatical aids
  • The interpretation of repealing Acts, amending Acts and Acts incorporating other statutes
  • The role of legal assumptions
  • Syntactical assumptions
  • Practical examples and recent High Court case law.

What you will learn

You’ll walk away with:
  • An understanding of the fundamental principles of statutory interpretation
  • The ability to apply an objective and structured approach to interpreting legislation
  • An understanding of when to seek legal advice.
 

Event Details

Date: 18 October

Time: 8.45am for 9.00am - 4.45pm

Venue:
Clayton Utz Brisbane

Cost: Inc GST
$1,617 per person
$1,454 per person if booking two weeks before the workshop
$1,375 per person if in a group of three or more

Further information:

Phone: 1800 882 110
Email [email protected]

To Register:

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What our clients say

Statutory Interpretation workshop

Both presenters were engaging and moved through the topics at a good pace. The scenario work-through was very good.

Great content, excellent pace and structure to keep attendees engaged. Knowledgeable and interesting presenters.

Has given me a better understanding of how to use the Interpretation Act; I deal with new and amended legislation processes and will now understand more about the content of the legislation and be able to value add to the process.

One of the best legal workshop facilitators I've ever experienced. Looking forward to further sessions on other topics.

 

Support when you need it most

As a participant of our program you'll have comfort in knowing that you can depend on us for ongoing support. Whether it be two weeks or two years after the workshop, you can call us at any time for a short, no-cost consultation.

Recommended CPD point allocation: 7 points  (excluding WA).
If this particular educational activity is relevant to your immediate or long term needs in relation to your professional development and practice of the law, then you should claim one CPD unit for each hour of attendance, refreshment breaks not included. Please contact your Professional Body for your state.