TONIGHT: AACL seminar on implied freedom of political communication

08/09/2015

The Australian Association of Constitutional Law invites members of the bar to a seminar titled "The Second Limb of Lange: the Continuing Uncertainties with the Implied Freedom of Political Communication". It will be presented by Associate Professor James Stellios (Australian National University and St James Hall Chambers) tonight between 5.30-7.00pm in the Federal Court, Queens Square.

Commentators: Jeremy Kirk SC (Wentworth Chambers); Kristen Walker QC (Owen Dixon West Chambers); Chairperson: Michael Sexton SC (Solicitor General for New South Wales)

Over the last few years, the High Court has handed down a number of decisions on the implied freedom of political communication. This paper will consider four areas of continuing uncertainty with the application of the second limb of the Lange test: (i) the interpretive method adopted for revealing the legislative purpose; (ii) the methodology for identifying whether an end is legitimate; (iii) the structure of the test to be applied in determining whether the law is reasonably appropriate and adapted to a legitimate end; and (iv) the approach to take where burdens arise from an exercise of statutory discretion.

The event is open to members. Membership of AACL is $70 per annum. Among other benefits, it confers the right to attend AACL events (4-5 seminars per year). Membership applications are accepted at the door. Learn more about the AACL and it's program of events here.