CU LAB: Driverless cars - getting Australia's laws ready

More than fifty years after humans last travelled beyond low Earth orbit, NASA’s Artemis II mission has marked a defining moment in space exploration. Artemis II sent four astronauts on a ten-day journey around the Moon, testing spacecraft systems, communications and operational readiness for future lunar landings and, ultimately, missions to Mars.

The Fair Work Commission has introduced time-sensitive new rules, called the Road Transport Contractual Chain Order (RTCCO), that came into effect on 21 April 2026. They are legally binding, and breaches can attract penalties. This article explains who the order covers, what you must do, and how to protect your business from penalties.

Welcome to the first in our series of articles on the Aviation Consumer Protection Bill 2026 and its 3 related bills (ACP Bill package), a proposed reform intended to establish a new aviation consumer protection framework in Australia.

A recent decision from the NSW Court of Appeal held that Article 9 of the relevant IATA Standard Group Handling Agreement (SGHA) was not a binding arbitration agreement within the meaning of the International Arbitration Act 1974 (Cth). The decision is of importance to carriers and ground handlers operating under that wording, including in international aviation ground handling arrangements.

The High Court of Australia has handed down judgment in the much-anticipated decision of CSL Australia Pty Ltd v Tasmanian Ports Corporation Pty Ltd [2026] HCA 15 (The Goliath). It has unanimously dismissed CSL Australia Pty Ltd’s appeal. As such, under Australian law, a shipowner cannot limit its liability for wreck removal expenses under the Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims 1976.

Australia’s aviation industry is heavily regulated by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (“CASA”). CASA is responsible for aviation safety compliance, enforcement, and the investigation of alleged breaches...

In response to surging fuel prices driven by the conflict in the Middle East, the Fair Work Commission (FWC) has introduced an emergency order that applies to the entirety of the road transport...

As fuel prices soar amid global tensions and other Australian states offer free public transport, NSW Premier Chris Minns refuses to follow suit, citing concerns about revenue loss while simultaneously supporting fuel tax cuts. The NSW Greens argue that free public transport would provide immediate economic relief, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and benefit essential workers most affected by the cost-of-living crisis.

Time limits for Australian shipping claims vary by claim type, location & contract, so both must be carefully considered.

This article explores the legal basis for the rule, why it exists, and what drivers need to know to avoid falling foul of it.