The Australian Court System

The Australian court system has three main levels. The Supreme Court handles serious civil and criminal cases and appeals. Below it are District (or County) Courts, which deal with less serious criminal and civil cases. At the base are Local or Magistrates’ Courts, handling minor criminal offenses, small civil disputes, and preliminary hearings. The High Court of Australia is the highest court, primarily resolving constitutional issues and appeals from lower courts. This structure ensures a clear hierarchy for justice, with cases progressing upward for more complex or serious matters.