Fiji is reviewing some of its oldest laws as the country looks to bring its legal system in line with changing social, economic and technological realities.

The Fiji Law Reform Commission (FLRC) is currently handling seven major law reform references, covering areas including civil court procedures, mining and quarrying, online safety, the security industry, human trafficking, agriculture and liquor regulation.

Some of the legislation being examined dates back to 1877.

Acting Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, told Parliament that updating the laws is important to ensure they continue to meet the needs of people living in Fiji today.

Among the proposed changes are reforms to State land laws, including stronger safeguards against unlawful occupation and activities.

The proposals also include environmental buffer zones and measures that could provide customary fishing rights owners with greater benefits from foreshore developments within their customary fishing areas.

Land-use legislation is also being considered for reform, while mining and quarrying laws from 1965 and 1939 are under review. Agriculture legislation, some of which dates to 1877, is also being examined.

The review extends to emerging issues such as online safety, human trafficking and regulation of the security industry.

Rules governing the High Court and Magistrates’ Court are also being assessed as part of efforts to improve the administration of justice.

The FLRC’s previous work has contributed to changes in areas including education, immigration, passports and citizenship.

Public consultations on several of the current reviews are expected to continue through August and September, giving members of the public an opportunity to contribute to laws that will affect them.

The Government says public input is essential to developing laws that protect rights, encourage development and respond to the challenges facing modern Fiji.