The 2026 Australian
Legal Navigation Report
89%of Australians have experienced a legal issue. Most still struggle to navigate the system.
Legal problems are part of everyday life. They can start with a workplace dispute, separation, buying or selling property, or dealing with an insurance claim. But for many Australians, knowing where to begin is the hardest part.
Around 2.6 million Australians have experienced a legal issue without recognising it at the time. Even when people do realise they need help, many feel overwhelmed by the process, uncertain about costs, or unsure who to trust.
For law firms and organisations supporting Australian's legal needs, understanding these behaviours is key to improving access to legal services and meeting changing consumer expectations.
Inside the report
Why Australians avoid getting legal help, and the barriers that matter more than cost
How people search for legal support, and what influences their decision to engage a lawyer
What happens when consumers try to navigate legal issues on their own 
How expectations of legal services are changing, and what people want today
Understanding how Australians navigate legal issues is critical for the future of legal services.
Discover how Australians recognise, navigate, and resolve legal issues. Learn what prevents them from seeking professional help and where legal service providers can better support evolving consumer needs.