LAWS5018

Media Law

10 Units 5000 Level Course

Not available in 2014

Previously offered in 2007, 2005, 2004

LAWS courses are only available to students enrolled in Bachelor of Laws (LAWS) degree programs.

Deals with selected areas of Australian media law, with some reference to other countries. Laws of defamation and contempt are discussed, as well as legal protection of privacy, access to information, regulation of the electronic media and print media regulations.

Objectives This is an optional course available to all students in the LLB course.

The course seeks to promote and develop a critical understanding and practical appreciation of Australian Media Law.

* Fundamental concepts and principles in selected areas of Australian media law.

* The processes and contexts that inform and shape the development and application of selected areas of Australian media law.

* The operation of selected areas of Australian media law.

* Comparative media law concepts, processes and policies in other jurisdictions.
Content The areas covered are as follows:

1. Constitutional Protection of Freedom of Expression in Australia
2. Constitutional Protection of Freedom of Expression in other countries (United Kingdom, United States and Canada)
3. The Law of Defamation and the Media
4. Defamation: Defences and Remedies
5. The Law of Contempt and the Media - sub judice publications
6. Contempt and the Media - criticising and reporting courts and parliaments
7. Offensive Communications - vilification, obscenity, blasphemy, national security and sedition
8. Legal protection of Privacy
9. Access to Information - freedom of information legislation, confidential information and disclosure of media sources
9. Regulation of the Electronic Media
10. Print Media Regulation
Replacing Course(s) n/a
Transition n/a
Industrial Experience 0
Assumed Knowledge LAWS1001A, LAWS1001B, LAWS1002A, LAWS1002B, LAWS2003A, LAWS2003B, LAWS3004A, LAWS3004B, LAWS3005
Modes of Delivery Internal Mode
Teaching Methods Problem Based Learning
Seminar
Assessment Items
Essays / Written Assignments Essay or Report
Presentations - Class
Contact Hours Lecture: for 3 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Compulsory Components
Requisite by Enrolment This course is only available to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Laws and associated combined degree programs.