1. Formal Law Reform Bodies

2. Victorian Law Reform Commission (VLRC)
The Victorian Law Reform Commission is an independent, government-funded organisation that develops, reviews and recommends reform of Victoria's state laws.
The Commission has a charter to consult with the community and advise the Attorney-General on how to improve and update Victorian laws
Formal law reform body – independent government organisation
Investigates areas of law in which the government feels there is a need for reform
The attorney-general provides the VLRC with terms of reference, asking it to investigate and make recommendations for changes in a particular law
Has the power to recommend minor changes to laws without a reference from the attorney-general
Makes recommendations that do not have to be accepted by parliament
Examples of current VLRC inquiries: jury empanelment and crimes (mental impairment)
Victorian Law Reform Commission (VLRC)

3. Who is the Attorney General?
The principal legal officer who represents the Crown or a state in legal proceedings and gives legal advice to the government.
Christian Porter MP since 20 December 2017

4. Role of the VLRC Generally, the role of the VLRC is to:
examine, report and make recommendations to the Attorney-General on any proposal or matter relating to law reform in Victoria that is referred to the commission by the Attorney-General
examine, report and make recommendations to the Attorney-General on any matter that the commission believes raises relatively minor legal issues that are of general community concern
present to the Attorney-General a proposal or matter relating to law reform in Victoria.
The VLRC also has a role in providing educational programs in relation to law reform and possible changes in the law. The commission may also supply information to parliament and parliamentary committees.
Role of the VLRC

7. Evaluation: VLRC

8. The Role of the Victorian Law Reform Commission
Discuss an area of law that has been investigated by the VLRC. Explain the methods they use to assess the need for change in the law. Comment on what, if any changes in the law have taken place as a result of the VLRC investigation. Evaluate the overall effectiveness of the VLRC in influencing Parliament to change the law. Use examples to illustrate your answer.