Parliament and the Courts: Separation of Powers

Legal Studies students from Year 10 to 12 had the opportunity to be part of the live audience for a panel discussion hosted by the Victorian Law Foundation at Parliament House. The panel discussion focused on the separation of powers between the legislative, executive and judicial branches of Victoria’s democratic system, and was broadcast live on the Parliament's website.

The panel members were Matt Fregon MP, a member of the Legislative Assembly, Robert McDonald, the Clerk of the Legislative Council, and her Honour Judge Elizabeth Brimer, a judge of the County Court and a deputy president of VCAT. Judge Brimer made a point of welcoming the Mac.Rob contingent, as she is a Mac.Rob graduate herself, and after the event she recalled fond memories of her time at the school.

Mac.Rob students sat in the chamber of the Legislative Council and asked thoughtful questions on a broad range of topics, such as the inner workings of the parliament, the significance of a controversial court case, and imagining what our society would look like without the separation of powers.

The panelists talked about the roles of their institutions, the importance of checks and balances between the branches of government, and the need for robust but respectful interaction between the branches of government to ensure good laws are made and power is not abused.

Rob Corr | Legal Studies Teacher