This book is the first of its kind to provide a clearly written and comprehensive overview of public law principles, together with the principles and process of statutory interpretation. The former inform the fundamental nature of the Australian legal system; the latter is vital knowledge in a legal system in which statute law is so pervasive. This approach is consistent with the contemporary case law of the Australian High Court, emphasising that the principles of statutory interpretation reflect the constitutional relationship between the legislative, executive and judicial branches of government. More particularly, the book provides: an overview of the origins and key stages in the development of the Australian legal system; an explanation of the concepts and ideals that form the foundation of Australian public law; an introduction to the institutions, structures and powers of, and relationships between, the three branches of the Australian government; and an explanation of how, in light of key public law principles, legislation is interpreted by Australia's courts.