The University of Queensland Law Journal

Vol. 44 No. 2 (2025): The University of Queensland Law Journal
Article

Lockdown Laws: Location, Regulatory Change and the Rule of Law in Australia During the COVID-19 Pandemic

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  • Belinda Bennett,
  • James Duffy,
  • Danica Kelly
Belinda Bennett
University of Newcastle
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38127/uqlj.v44i2.13411

Published 2025-11-12

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Abstract

Lockdowns introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the lives of Australians during 2020 and 2021. In this article, we analyse the number and duration of lockdowns in Australian states and territories during this period, with the aim of developing a picture of the differing impact of lockdowns across the country. We begin by considering the importance of transparency for the rule of law. We explain our methodology and challenges for collecting the data on the lockdowns, and the implications of this complexity for the rule of law. We then analyse the lockdowns in terms of their number and duration, beginning with a national overview and then analysis by individual state and territory. We conclude with recommendations for the future of public health directions in Australia.

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