The resource was designed to provide a "quick reference on everyday legal queries"
The Fitzroy Legal Service has released the 46th edition of The Law Handbook for free as an online resource.
“The handbook was designed to empower people with a practical and trusted guide to the law, a purpose it continues to serve for the legal sector and the wider community. We are pleased to offer this year's 46th edition in formats that cater to people's legal needs and budgets, whether it's a printed hard copy for their office or the free, easily accessible online version for quick reference on everyday legal queries”, Fitzroy Legal Service CEO Hamish McLachlan said.
This year’s handbook is over 1,200 pages long and touches on topics like tenancy, consumer protection, anti-discrimination, family violence, environmental law, and employment law. It also contains information on emerging legal concerns, legislative changes, and practical guidance on the court process and on obtaining legal assistance.
First published in 1977, The Law Handbook is a widely used resource on Victorian law, available in both print and online formats. It is updated annually by more than 80 volunteer legal experts to ensure the information reflects the latest legal developments.
The 2024 edition spans more than 1,200 pages and covers over 90 legal topics, including tenancy, consumer protection, anti-discrimination, family violence, environmental law, and employment law. It also provides guidance on recent changes to the law, court processes, and seeking legal assistance.
The Fitzroy Legal Service confirmed that it received support from the Victorian government on putting together the handbook, which editor Erin O’Dwyer described as “a year-long project”.
“As the last printed hard copy legal handbook of its kind in Australia, it's crucial that we not only maintain it but also share it as widely as possible for maximum community benefit”, O’Dwyer said.
