No, that’s not the law: the danger of using pseudolegal arguments against COVID-19 rules

No, that’s not the law: the danger of using pseudolegal arguments against COVID-19 rules

Don't want to take a COVID test, wear a mask or get vaccinated? It's pretty easy to find advice telling you you're legally entitled to say no. Unfortunately, this advice is very bad. The COVID-conspiracy ginger group Reignite Democracy Australia, for example, claims to have"been working with lawyers" to provide template letters"you can use in situations where your personal rights are being encroached on". These letters state it is illegal for an employer or business to ask you to get tested, wear a mask or show proof of vaccination under the Australian Constitution and the Commonwealth Biosecurity Act 2015. They suggest you cite Section 60, Subsection (2) of the Act and demand your employer provide a"human biosecurity control order". They even suggest threatening legal action using the following words: Similar advice is being spread on Facebook, Telegram and other social media channels. Other grounds cited for an employee or customer refusing to comply with COVID-related rules include the Federal Privacy Act 1988, human rights charters, anti-discrimination acts, the Nuremberg Code, statements by Australia's Fair Work Ombudsman, and even"common law". All these arguments are flawed. They are what is known as"pseudolaw" – a mixture of real and fantasy legal ideas. Relying