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Public law library

What is the public law library?

Our library is the only specialist law library in Victoria open to the public. We have a wide range of resources in print and electronic forms, covering a variety of legal topics.

What resources do we have?

Our resources include:

  • Victorian and Commonwealth legislation
  • Australian and English law reports
  • government gazettes
  • general texts, legal commentaries and reference materials
  • journals.

Some of the subject areas include:

  • consumer credit and debt law
  • criminal law
  • equal opportunity
  • family law
  • human rights law
  • immigration
  • industrial law
  • social security law

Use the library catalogue to search the collection.

A large amount of legal and other information is freely available  through the internet. We have prepared a list of reference resources that may be useful for your research.

Can I borrow the library resources?

You may be able to borrow some library resources using the inter-library loan system.  This can be arranged through your local public library, or if you are a student, your University of TAFE library.

We do not lend copies of legislation, journals, law reports or items in our reference collection.

How can we help you?

The library staff can assist you with your legal research and information queries, using the library catalogue and other electronic resources, including the internet.

What other services do we provide?

We have areas for private study and reading. We also have computers available so you can view or search electronic legal resources. 

You can photocopy or print information for 20c per A4 page. Your copying, printing and downloading must comply with general copyright and licence restrictions. Library staff can give you further information about this.

Where is the library?

The library is on the ground floor at 350 Queen Street, Melbourne.

You can also access the library catalogue and other information online. 

When is the library open?

The library is open Monday to Friday 9.00 am to 5.00 pm. You can visit the library anytime during opening hours without an appointment.

How can you contact us?

You can contact us by:

Telephone (03) 9269 0232
Fax (03) 9269 0324
Email library@vla.vic.gov.au