Environmental Law

A hemisphere, blue continents on its outer surface, grass and a tree growing out of its flat top surface. A person climbs its side using a ladder, and several others sit on the grass. The background is drought-stricken cracked dirt.
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  4. Environmental Law
Macquarie Law School
Wallumattagal Campus
Macquarie University, NSW 2109 A dynamic platform promoting our future-focused vision Keep up to date with what's happening in our centre Our centre on YouTube

Harnessing the power of law to protect our planet

The Macquarie University Environmental Law Research Centre develops cross-disciplinary, holistic and intersectional solutions for governments, businesses and policy makers in Australia and beyond.

We harness the role of law to address the triple planetary crisis of environmental pollution, climate change and biodiversity loss.

Established in 1983, Macquarie University’s Environmental Law Research Centre – previously named Centre for Environmental Law (CEL) – is Australia’s oldest continuously functioning environmental law centre. Our researchers have expertise in the fields of:

  • biodiversity law
  • business and human rights
  • climate change
  • ecocide
  • environmental law
  • food systems
  • ocean governance
  • sustainable development.

Student volunteer program

We engage law students as part of our volunteer program and provide them practical experience of administration and environmental research. The program has been integral to centre’s success, with volunteers being involved in all events and projects.

Student volunteers must:

  • be a current Macquarie University law student
  • have an interest in environmental law
  • boast various specific skills that aid in the development of the centre.

If you are interested in volunteering with the centre, contact the Director, Professor Surya Deva.