Administrative Law Vs Constitutional Law – What Sets Them Apart

February 6, 2025    Civillawyers
Administrative Law Vs Constitutional Law – What Sets Them Apart

The Australian legal framework has a complete system of governmental and legal laws. The differentiation between Administrative Law vs. Constitutional Law is important as it can help individuals understand the framework of legal rights. Both operate and serve as necessary facets of public law but under different functions and in separate domains.

People seeking legal help in this sector might need Administrative Law Lawyers Perth to understand matters relating to administrative or constitutional law. This blog will help you understand the contrasts between these two crucial legal topics and how one can fight such cases with proficient legal assistance.

Difference between Administrative Law vs. constitutional Law –

Administrative law and constitutional law are two essential branches of public law that manage the functioning of a state and its associations. Here’s what differentiates these two concepts.

1. Definition and Scope

Administrative law –

It’s the area of law that governs the activities of administrative agencies and public officials to ensure that decisions by the government are bounded by legal standards and are not oppressive or arbitrary. The general categories of administrative law usually include licensing, regulation, public services, and administrative tribunals.

Constitutional law –

The law concerning the constitutional structure and doctrine under which a country is governed by its constitution is referred to as constitutional law. Australian constitutional law also governs the domain separation between federal and state governments, individual rights, and the function of constitutional bodies.

Administrative Law vs. Constitutional Law –

While administrative law deals with government action, constitutional law defines the fundamental framework of government functions.

2. Source of Authority

Administrative Law –

The source of authority in administrative law is the legislative bodies. Some administrative tribunals and agencies operate according to these statutes and regulations while implementing and enforcing policies.

Constitutional Law –

Its authority lies in the Australian Constitution, being the supreme law in the country. All the laws should be according to the constitution.

Key Difference –

Administrative law is based on legislative statutes, whereas constitutional law is grounded in the Constitution itself.

3. Purpose and Function

Administrative Law –

This area of law aims to make government decisions legal, reasonable, and fair. It guards the citizens against arbitrary or unfair administrative action by providing channels for review and Administrative Appeal decisions.

Constitutional law –

This law deals with the states and government associated with their powers, functioning, and limitations. This area defines the framework within which governance is exercised based on the separation of powers, the rule of law, and fundamental rights protection from the state.

Difference –

Administrative law concerns accountability in government decision-making. Constitutional law outlines and restricts governmental powers.

4. Jurisdiction and Applicability

Types of Administrative law deal with specific cases involving government agencies, public officials, and the carrying out of statutory duties. This includes appeals of visa denials or disputes on regulatory compliance issues.

Constitutional Law –

This area addresses more general issues shaping the form and functioning of government, such as disagreements over federal-state powers, constitutional amendments, or the validity of legislation.

Key Divergence –

Administrative law focuses on individual disputes with governmental decisions, while constitutional law covers broader governance issues.

5. Courts and Tribunals

Administrative Law –

Most disputes are decided by administrative tribunals such as the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) or one of the State’s entities. Higher courts, including the Federal Court or High Court, are likely to intervene in cases that raise questions about this law.

Constitutional Law –

Most cases fall under the domain of the High Court of Australia, which has exclusive powers to deal with controversies according to the laws stated in the constitution.

Important Difference –

Administrative law frequently involves tribunals and subordinate courts, while constitutional law is mainly associated with the High Court.

Conclusion

While summarizing, It is important to understand the differences between administrative law and constitutional law in the context of the issues being raised in court. Administrative law is concerned with the lawfulness and justice of government action.

In contrast, Constitutional law produces the architecture of governance and the base rights that a person is entitled to. It does not matter whether it is an administrative case or a constitutional case; either way, a well-versed administrative lawyer Perth can undoubtedly take such counsel to its best. Such awareness helps individuals or organisations to better protect their rights under the Australian legal system.

REQUEST A QUOTE NOW! Complete the form below for a fast response


  • As a business owner, doing business on credit is the need of the hour. But the pile of bad debts has started affecting the way I do business, so I seek the professional services of Debt recovery lawyers in Perth. After searching online, I got in touch with civil lawyers Perth WA. After talking to their debt recovery lawyer, I am satisfied with my case and want to deliver my Thanks to civil lawyers to help in managing my case in such a professional way. Highly recommended.
    Steven Jonas
  • Civil Lawyers Perth WA handled my loan case in a professional and caring manner. Before a few years when I was searching on Google for the civil lawyers near me and that time I found civil lawyers in Perth. They helped me a lot in my case. They know all the laws of the land very well. I would love to say you guys are best. Thank you Civil Lawyers Perth
    Pema Dema
  • Civil lawyers Perth WA was very supportive and helpful in handling my case. I was looking for contract drafting lawyer who could help me in the drafting of the contract legally. So, I google civil lawyers near me and found the best team of civil lawyers in Perth. Thank you so much for designing and drafting my contract so smartly and nicely. Highly recommend it to everyone.
    Hazel Green
Civil Lawyers Perth WA Have Been Helping You Take Control of Your Outcome.
Copyright © Civil Lawyers Perth.
All Rights Reserved
Enquire Now
Call Us Now