Australia's Federal Courts: Their Origins, Structures and Jurisdiction

Abstract:     
The primary aim of this Paper is to explain for a North American audience the origin, structure, and jurisdictions of Australia's network of federal courts. Together with the companion papers from America and Canada, the goal of this Paper is to set the scene for a more detailed examination of the federal judicial systems in the three countries. Readers will be able to draw out for themselves the similarities and differences between the various regimes. Nevertheless, in trying to capture the essence of the Australian system, mention will be made on occasion of how the Australian approach varies from that taken by the two federations with whom we share so much of our cultural and legal heritage.

Keywords: federal courts, federal judicial system, Australia, Canada, America

JEL Classifications: K1, K3

Accepted Paper Series