The Australian Institute of Administrative Law Victorian Chapter Invites you to an Hybrid Seminar:

Through the looking glass: new rights, interpretation and drafting models

Speakers: John Basten AO KC, Tony McAvoy SC and Emrys Nekvapil SC

Chair: Natalie Plumstead

The rules of interpretation for the protection of distinct cultural rights and human rights are shifting. The uncertainty is causing a reconsideration of the limits of the rights protected by statutory dialogue models and leading to varying developments in the preservation of fundamental rights at common law. This environment poses challenges to the drafting models and conventions used to draft legislation that is clear and certain in its operation.

The panel will explore the topic by considering:

· Is there a shifting relationship between constitutional environments and judicial rights interpretation?

· What are the models required to protect human rights in legislation and deliver law making that is clear and certain in its operation?

· How are the apparent changes in the interpretative methods adopted by courts in response an expanding range of distinct cultural rights and human rights obligations impacting on legislative drafting?

Date: Thursday 12 November 2026

Venue: In Person at Australian Migration Lawyers, Level 45, 600 Bourke St Melbourne and Online

Time: 5.30 pm AEDT (5.00pm SA: 4:30pm QLD, 2.30pm WA)

Cost: Free

CPD points apply

Except in WA- WA Practitioners attending should note that this event is not covered by the AIAL WA Chapter’s QA Provider accreditation and CPD points will not be accredited by AIAL.

Contact the host of AIAL VIC Chapter: Through the looking glass: new rights, interpretation and drafting models