Administrative Law: A Very Short Introduction

Very Short Introductions: Brilliant, Sharp, Inspiring

Administrative law is focused on the control of decision-making in government and the public sector. People are affected by it in a wide variety of contexts, including immigration, social welfare, public health, housing, planning, licensing, taxation, and policing. Administrative law sets standards that government and public sector bodies must follow. It also provides a range of avenues for challenging their decisions, such as complaining to an ombudsman, appealing to a tribunal, or applying to a court for judicial review.

This Very Short Introduction is a clear and concise guide to administrative law that explains its key features in an accessible and practical way for students, journalists, government officials, and everyday readers. From internal review and freedom of information, to public inquiries and anti-corruption controls, the book gives readers a broad overview of the subject. Drawing on material from diverse legal systems, such as the UK, Australia, Canada, the USA, India, and Hong Kong, this Very Short Introduction is relevant to all the major common law jurisdictions.

ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

Author: Stephen Thomson
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Published: 02/26/2026
Pages: 160
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.30lbs
Size: 6.50h x 4.20w x 0.40d
ISBN13: 9780198882176
ISBN10: 0198882173
BISAC Categories:
- Law | Administrative Law & Regulatory Practice
- Law | Government | General
- Political Science | Public Affairs & Administration

About the Author
Stephen Thomson, Associate Professor, The Australian National University

Stephen Thomson is an Associate Professor at The Australian National University, where he is also the General Editor of the Federal Law Review. His work has been widely used by courts, government bodies, and the media.