Courses & Units
Current Issues in Environmental Law and Policy LAW195
Hobart
Introduction
This unit explores the legal and policy context in which some of Australia's most challenging environmental controversies arise. It introduces students to the broad framework for environmental regulation, decision-making and dispute resolution, using a range of topical issues and case studies. In 2021, these case studies will include the “Black Summer” bushfires, Rio Tinto’s destruction of the Juukan Gorge caves in Western Australia, protecting the Great Barrier Reef and the Adani Carmichael coal mine. Closer to home, we’ll consider fish farming in Tasmania and commercial tourism in national parks.
Using these and other issues as a lens, we will draw out common themes and challenges in environmental governance, including:
• how practical and effective the principles of ecologically sustainable development as a basis for environmental protection in Australia;
• Divisions of power between the Commonwealth and State governments and issues of regulatory fragmentation;
• the importance of public participation in environmental decision-making;
• Issues with compliance, enforcement and the overall efficacy of our laws; and
• the role of the market in environmental regulation.
Summary
| Unit name | Current Issues in Environmental Law and Policy |
|---|---|
| Unit code | LAW195 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | College of Arts, Law and Education Faculty of Law |
| Discipline | Law |
| Coordinator | Professor Janet (Jan) McDonald |
| Available as an elective? | |
| Delivered By | Delivered wholly by the provider |
Availability
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | On-Campus | Off-Campus | International International | Domestic Domestic |
Key
- On-campus
- Off-Campus
- International students
- Domestic students
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 22/2/2021 | 23/3/2021 | 12/4/2021 | 30/5/2021 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2021 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2021 will be available from the 1st October 2020. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Describe and explain understanding of the division of powers over environmental matters between local, state, and Commonwealth governments, and the role of international bodies.
- Critically reflect on the range of social, political, ethical, economic and ecological factors that influence environmental law, policy, and decision-making.
- Critique the value and application of the principles of Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) in the context of the disputes and case studies discussed in the course.
- Communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Fee Information
| Field of Education | Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 | Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 | Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 | Domestic Full Fee 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 050999 | $993.00 | $993.00 | not applicable | $2,783.00 |
- Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
- HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility3
- FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility4
1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.
If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.
Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.
Requisites
Mutual Exclusions
You cannot enrol in this unit as well as the following:
LAW639Teaching
| Assessment | Examination - take home (40%)|Test or quiz (20%)|Presentation (40%) |
|---|---|
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
Links | Booktopia textbook finder |
|---|
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.