High Court of Australia facts for kids

The High Court of Australia is the most important court in Australia. It started in 1903. This court has seven judges, who are called "Justices." Their main job is to hear "appeals." An appeal happens when someone disagrees with a decision made by another court and wants the High Court to look at it again.

What the High Court Does

The High Court has two main roles. First, it is the highest court for appeals in Australia. This means if you lose a case in a lower court, you can ask the High Court to review it. Second, it makes sure that laws passed by the Australian Parliament follow the Australian Constitution. The Constitution is like a rulebook for how Australia is governed.

Hearing Appeals

When someone appeals to the High Court, they are asking for a new look at their case. The High Court decides if the lower court made a mistake. It does not usually hear new evidence. Instead, it reviews the legal arguments and decisions from the earlier trial.

Interpreting the Constitution

The High Court is the only court that can explain what the Australian Constitution means. If there is a disagreement about a law, the High Court decides if that law fits with the Constitution. This is very important because it affects how Australia is run.

History of the High Court

The High Court was created soon after Australia became a nation. This happened in 1901. The first judges were appointed in 1903. They started working to make sure Australia's laws were fair and followed the Constitution.

Early Days and Judges

The first Chief Justice was Sir Samuel Griffith. He helped write the Australian Constitution. Other important early judges included Andrew Inglis Clark. He also played a big part in shaping the court's role.

Where the Court Has Been

For many years, the High Court did not have its own building. It used courtrooms in different cities. In 1980, a special building was opened for the High Court in Canberra. This building is now its permanent home.

Judges of the High Court

The judges of the High Court are called Justices. There are seven Justices, including the Chief Justice. They are chosen by the Australian government. Once appointed, they can serve until they are 70 years old.

The Role of a Justice

Being a Justice on the High Court is a very important job. They must be fair and independent. They make decisions that affect all Australians. Their decisions help shape the laws and future of the country.

Why the High Court Matters

The High Court is essential for Australia's legal system. It makes sure that laws are applied correctly. It also protects the rights of Australians. By interpreting the Constitution, it helps keep the government accountable.

Images for kids

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  Sir Samuel Griffith, first Chief Justice of Australia

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  Andrew Inglis Clark, prominent contributor to the clauses about the High Court in the Constitution of Australia.

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  The annexe to the Criminal Court in Darlinghurst, the court's home in Sydney.

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  John Latham, as Deputy Prime Minister prior to appointment.

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  Owen Dixon

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  Garfield Barwick

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  Anthony Mason

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  Murray Gleeson

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  Robert French

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  Susan Kiefel in 2011

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  The first bench of the High Court: Barton, Griffith and O'Connor seated, with court officials in the background. Photo taken at the first sitting of the court on 6 October 1903.

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  The No. 1 Courtroom, used for all cases that require a full bench of seven justices

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  High Court building

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  Entry hall