VICTORIAN LAW REFORM COMMISSION (VLRC) Formal Pressures for Changing the Law

Formal Pressures to change the law One way in which parliament can respond to informal pressures for change is to refer the matter to a formal law body. This body can undertake a detailed investigation into the need for a change in the law. A formal law reform body can assess community attitudes and opinions, and report about the need for change. However, this body only makes recommendations for action. If the recommendations are accepted, parliament will change the law. E.g. Of a FORMAL LAW REFORM BODY is the VICTORIAN LAW REFORM COMMISSION (VLRC)

Victorian Law Reform Commission The Victorian Law Reform Commission (VLRC) was established in 2001 by the Victorian Law Reform Commission Act 2000 (Vic.). The VLRC is an independent, government funded body responsible for developing, monitoring and coordinating law reform activity in Victoria.

Victorian Law Reform Commission Inquiries Current ProjectsCompleted Projects Surveillance in Public PlacesDefences to Homicide GuardianshipFamily Violence PropertySexual Offences Child ProtectionAbortion Disputes between co-owners Treatment of people with intellectual disabilities Bail

Group Work You will be divided into groups of three: Create a poster of the: - ROLE, - Process, - Case file on the VRLC’s investigation into the abortion act- what issues were considered - Why did the law need to be changed - Reviewing the process - community views - Recommendations

Practice Exam Question Abortion Legislation in Victoria In August 2008 the Victorian Government introduced changes to parliament in order to legalise abortion. Under the change, abortions are regulated like any other medical procedure for women up until their 24 th week of pregnancy. After 24 weeks gestation an abortion can be obtained with the consent of two doctors if they believe it to be appropriate in the circumstances. This change followed years to debate as to whether to legalise abortion. The VLRC investigated the issue thoroughly and released its recommendations for change. Pressure groups engaged in a range of actions to voice their opinions. Thousands of people from both sides of the debate participated in demonstrations and protests. A number of petitions were circulated via the internet and on paper. The media, particularly electronic media, was used to discuss issues. Questions: 1a) Explain two reasons why a law may need to be changed, with use of examples for each. 1b) Describe the role and function of the VLRC in assessing the need for a change in the law, such as this one. 1c) Select ONE of the means used by individuals and groups to influence a change in abortion law referred to in the case study. Describe the methods and evaluate its effectiveness in influencing legislative change.