What are my rights if I'm arrested in Australia?

Common question · Criminal Law · Australia · 23 October 2026

General information from Lawmateanz

If you're arrested in Australia, you generally have the right to remain silent, apart from giving your name and address in most situations.

You usually have the right to contact a lawyer and a friend or relative, and to have an interpreter if needed. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have extra protections, such as notification to an Aboriginal legal service in some states.

You can ask for a lawyer before answering questions.

Legal aid commissions and Aboriginal legal services can provide free legal advice.

Written by Lawmateanz, not by a lawyer. General information only, not legal advice about your situation. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer.

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