Improving the law
The law is a powerful way to protect people and our environment from harm.
We believe good laws, properly used, are key to stopping the destruction and creating a world that works for all of us.
That's why EJA lawyers and specialists are focused on improving the law through shaping and strengthening our laws, and ensuring they are properly applied and enforced.
What are we doing?
Shaping & strengthening the law
We advocate for ambitious, meaningful and smart reforms when our laws are broken or not for purpose.
Applying & enforcing the law
We work tirelessly to ensure law-making and decision-making are transparent and fair, and subject to scrutiny by the courts.
We challenge illegal plans, hold governments accountable and protect people and our environment.
Increasing access to the law
We ensure people have the knowledge and tools they need to access legal pathways to challenge environmental harms and seek justice.
Our focus
SHAPING & STRENGTHENING THE LAW
National environment laws that actually protect nature
After decades of reviews, inquiries and debate, Australia finally passed major changes to its national environment laws at the end of 2025. They’re not perfect, but they’re a hard-won step forward. Now it's time to make sure these laws are implemented properly, with real protection for nature and real power for communities.
That’s why EJA’s lawyers are pushing for strong nature protections that are ambitious, meaningful and shaped by expert evidence, while helping communities have their say.
SHAPING & STRENGTHENING THE LAW
Improving the Murray Darling Basin Plan
In 2026, the Basin Plan will undergo a formal review, as required by law.
The Basin Plan review is a key moment to push for reforms that make water use more fair and sustainable. On the table is a stronger Basin Plan - one that’s guided by law and science, and puts healthy rivers and people first.
SHAPING & STRENGTHENING THE LAW
First Nations legal rights
First Nations people have cared for Country since the beginning.
We're partnering with First Nations communities to advocate for distinct cultural and environmental legal rights for First Peoples, including land rights, water rights, truth-telling and treaties.
SHAPING & STRENGTHENING THE LAW
Human rights
Australia's missing many legal protections for human rights – and we think this has to change.
That's why we advocate for human rights protections – like the right to a safe, clean, health and sustainable environment.
DEFENDING pARTICIPATION
Defending the right to protest
Australia's missing many legal protections for human rights – and we think this has to change.
That's why we advocate for human rights protections – like the right to a safe, clean, health and sustainable environment.
The law is one of the best tools we have to stop the destruction.
Let's use it together – to create a radically better world.
Some highlights
Latrobe Valley water: communities make coal company pay
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Environment law reform scorecard
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What new FOI reforms mean for transparency + the environment
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Fossil fuels and human rights: why it matters to everyone
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The tiny plastic pellets causing a big environmental problem
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Climate obligations from the world’s highest court: what the ICJ ruling means for Australia’s environment laws
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Other impact areas
Make a difference
The challenges we face are vast. The time to push for large-scale system change is now.
Our financials
We are committed to transparency, accountability and sound financial management.
We encourage you to investigate our track record.
Join us
The law is a powerful tool to disrupt the status quo and make governments and corporations accountable.
Join us and let's build a radically better world.
