The organisation aims to clarify rights around technology, tenancy, and family arrangements
Australians will have the chance to better understand their everyday legal rights through a series of free webinars hosted by Legal Aid NSW during Law Week, which runs from 19-23 May.
The initiative, entitled Lunch and the Law, will include sessions on common legal concerns such as mobile phone usage, rental rights, traffic fines, parenting after separation, and buying used cars. The webinars aim to simplify legal information and help the public navigate issues that frequently affect individuals and families.
“This year we are focusing on everyday legal problems that affect many Australians,” said Emma Langton-French, solicitor in charge of community legal education at Legal Aid NSW. “We are hoping these sessions will help dispel the complexities of the law and empower people with an understanding of what their rights are.”
According to a news release, one session will examine the often-confusing laws around mobile phones, including the legality of recording others, police powers to request access to devices, and concerns about digital tracking.
“Nearly everyone has a phone but there is limited understanding among the general public about people’s legal rights when using a phone,” Langton-French said.
Another key focus is the upcoming changes to rental laws in NSW, which take effect on 19 May. The webinar will outline new provisions that make it easier for tenants to keep pets, limit unjustified rent increases, and restrict terminations of rental agreements without valid reasons.
Family law concerns will also be addressed, with an experienced practitioner discussing parenting arrangements after separation and how parenting orders are determined. Additional topics include consumer rights when purchasing used vehicles and what people should know about traffic fines.
NSW attorney-general Michael Daley described Law Week as an opportunity for the community to increase their legal awareness.
“Empowering people to understand their rights and responsibilities under the law is important to facilitate equitable access to justice,” he said.
Legal Aid NSW CEO Monique Hitter added that legal knowledge is essential in everyday life.
“From time to time, everyone experiences legal problems – so it’s vital for people to have an understanding of the law and the free legal help that is available to them,” Hitter said.
Webinars will be delivered live via Zoom and will include Auslan interpreters to ensure accessibility. Registration is available through the official Law Week website.
