In 2025, the Australian legal landscape underwent significant transformations, reflecting both the stability and adaptability of the law. These changes, affecting various sectors from digital platforms to international relations, highlight the dynamic nature of legal frameworks in addressing contemporary challenges.
Digital Workers Gain New Protections
For digital platform workers, 2025 marked a pivotal year. Prior to February 26, drivers and riders for services like Uber, UberEATS, DiDi, and DoorDash faced sudden account deactivations without recourse. This precarious situation has now changed. Workers active for at least six months can file an “unfair deactivation” claim with the Fair Work Commission, which can mandate reinstatement or compensation.
This development provides a crucial safety net, reducing the fear of arbitrary deactivation and setting boundaries on platform powers. While not a panacea, it represents a significant step towards greater job security for gig economy workers.
Pets and Family Law: A New Perspective
June 2025 saw a landmark amendment to the Family Law Act concerning the treatment of pets during separations. Previously categorized as property, pets are now subject to more nuanced considerations. Courts must evaluate factors such as acquisition, care, and emotional attachment when determining custody.
This shift acknowledges the emotional significance of pets and aims to ensure their welfare post-separation. However, shared custody remains outside the court’s purview, though parties can agree on such arrangements independently.
Addressing the Sovereign Citizen Phenomenon
The rise of “pseudolaw” and the sovereign citizen movement, which gained notoriety during the COVID-19 pandemic, faced a legal reckoning in 2025. The tragic Porepunkah police shootings, allegedly involving a sovereign citizen, underscored the potential dangers of this ideology.
In the civil sphere, the Federal Court dismissed former sports star Warren Tredrea’s pseudolegal claims against a debt, labeling them “incomprehensible and legally meaningless.” This judicial stance aims to curb the spread of pseudo-legal arguments, though the movement’s persistence remains a societal concern.
Australia Recognizes Palestine
On September 21, 2025, Australia made a historic decision to formally recognize the State of Palestine. This move aligns with international law criteria for statehood, enhancing Palestine’s diplomatic standing and supporting its right to self-determination.
Australia’s recognition, announced at the United Nations General Assembly, marks a significant shift in its foreign policy, joining other Western nations in supporting a two-state solution. This decision underscores the evolving nature of international relations and Australia’s role within it.
Stricter Environmental Penalties
Environmental protection took center stage with reforms to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, effective November 28. The act now imposes harsher penalties for violations, calculated based on the financial benefits or detriments avoided by offenders.
Corporations face fines up to three times the benefit gained, 10% of annual turnover, or $16.5 million, whichever is higher. For individuals, the maximum penalty is $1.65 million.
These stringent measures aim to deter environmental violations, emphasizing the financial risks of non-compliance for both corporations and individuals.
Social Media Restrictions for Under-16s
The Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024, effective December 10, 2025, introduces a ban on social media accounts for those under 16. Platforms must verify user ages or face fines up to $49.5 million.
While intended to protect minors from harmful content, the law has sparked debate. Critics argue it may infringe on constitutional freedoms and fail to address underlying issues like bullying. A legal challenge is already underway, reflecting the contentious nature of this regulation.
These legal changes in Australia not only respond to immediate societal needs but also set the stage for future legal discourse and reform. As the nation navigates these transformations, the implications for individuals, businesses, and international relations will continue to unfold.
