LAWS6020
10 units
6000 level
Course handbook
Description
This course provides advanced and integrated knowledge of the legal framework relating to protection and use of the natural environment. This framework has arisen from government policy formulation and the emergence of community values concerning the preservation, development and use of the natural environment. Special attention will be given to the understanding of key pieces of environmental assessment and approval legislation at NSW and Commonwealth level and the role of common law principles that seek to regulate degradation, protection and use of the natural environment. The course will draw on relevant interdisciplinary material to complement legal analysis of environmental problems. Students will also learn about the domestic implementation of international obligations in the Australian context. Students will have opportunities to engage with topical and emerging issues in environmental law and policy at various points in the course.
Availability2024 Course Timetables
Newcastle City Precinct
- Semester 1 - 2024
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate advanced and critical understanding of the role of environmental law in regulating the degradation, protection and use of the natural and built environment in Australia.
2. Apply specialised knowledge of key pieces of environmental assessment and approval legislation at NSW and Commonwealth level.
3. Analyse critically reflect and evaluate the socio-political context of environmental law and policy in the Australian context.
4. Apply specialised knowledge to critically evaluate key elements of the major international legal regimes (eg climate change, ozone depletion).
5. Demonstrate autonomy and expert judgment in carrying out research of specialised legal and policy issues relating to environmental regulation.
6. Prepare and present cogent arguments orally and/or in writing for legal and related professional audiences.
Content
The topics in this course include:
- Introduction to Environmental Law and Policy;
- Introduction to International Environmental Law;
- The Commonwealth Environmental Assessment and Approval Process;
- The NSW Environmental Assessment and Approval Process;
- Climate change and environmental law;
- Select topics in NSW and Australian environmental law (eg biodiversity conservation, coastal management);
- Contemporary Issues in Environmental Law and Policy.
Requisite
If you have successfully completed LAWS5010 you cannot enrol in this course.
Assumed knowledge
For B Laws ( Hons)/Diploma of Legal Practice, JD, JD/GDLP and MEL candidates with prior formal study in Law; prior completion of foundational studies in law (including Legal System and Method, Torts, Criminal Law and/or Contracts, or other equivalent courses).
Assessment items
Participation: Compulsory Attendance Requirement
Written Assignment: Problem Solving Task
Written Assignment: Research Essay
Written Assignment: Current Issues Synopses
Quiz: Online Quiz
Contact hours
Semester 1 - 2024 - Newcastle City Precinct
Online Activity-1
- Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1
Course outline
- LAWS6020 - Semester 1, 2024 (Ncle) (PDF, 295.3 KB)
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.