Judiciary Act 1903

The Judiciary Act 1903 regulates the structure of the Australian judicial system and confers jurisdiction on Australian federal courts. It is one of the oldest pieces of Australian federal legislation and has been amended over 70 times.

Judiciary Act 1903
Parliament of Australia
Long title An Act to make provision for the Exercise of the Judicial Power of the Commonwealth
Royal assent	25 August 1903
Commenced	25 August 1903
Status: Current legislation

Amongst other things, the Act regulates the exercise of the jurisdiction of the High Court of Australia, confers jurisdiction on the Federal Court of Australia, provides for the right of barristers and solicitors to practice in federal courts, and establishes the Australian Government Solicitor.

s 78B notices

Section 78B of the Act requires Australian courts to ensure that the parties give notice to the attorneys-general of the Commonwealth and each state before proceeding with any case involving a "matter arising under the Constitution." The Commonwealth and state governments may then intervene in the case under section 78A of the Act.

External links

• Judiciary Act 1903
• ALRC Report 92: A Review of the Judiciary Act 1903 and Related Legislation – Australian Law Reform Commission Review (July 2001)