Alternatively a legal dictionary, dictionary of words and phrases etc can be a good starting point. Some dictionaries will refer to relevant primary and secondary materials as well as explaining the meaning of the term. Once you know the subject, get an overview by looking at the relevant encyclopaedic entry. Legal encyclopaedias cover both common law and legislation of every Australian jurisdiction. If you know the legal area your problem falls within, another possible starting point is a looseleaf service, which will give you a more in-depth commentary, and may include other material such as legislation or case extracts also.
Text books are also a great starting point but become dated very quickly.
Having looked at an encyclopaedia, looseleaf service or text, you will probably have a fair idea of the relevant legal category, some useful terms, and references to relevant legislation, case law, and further secondary materials. You may now feel ready to jump in. If it's legislation you're jumping into, begin with an annotated act, which you will find in looseleaf services, books or possibly on the Internet. Annotated acts include the legislation itself, references to cases decided on the legislation, to other legislation on the topic and to relevant secondary materials. The looseleaf service is preferable because it is usually kept up to date with amendments.