2027 Unit information is now available. View 2027 unit information
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Introduction
This unit explores two important aspects of policing related to investigations: custody and detention; and coronial investigation. Regarding coronial investigation, the unit provides knowledge and skills in the roles police play in assisting the coroner to determine causes of sudden death and fires through inquest hearings. Relevant legal, cultural, ethical considerations and grief management interventions are the focus of discussion in this module. Regarding custody and detention, the unit provides knowledge and skills in the use of police powers to withdraw a suspect or offender's liberty, afford their rights, provide duty of care requirements, and obtain forensic reference samples. The risks associated with detention for vulnerable people - including those concerning children, juveniles, and people from other "at risk" communities - are analysed and assessed in this module. Relevant ethical and legal considerations related to detention of vulnerable people are also the focus of discussion.
Summary
| Unit name | Custodial and Coronial Oversight and Investigation |
| Unit code | PEM104 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Health School of Paramedicine and Public Safety |
| Discipline | Policing and Emergency Management |
| Coordinator | Doctor James Dwyer |
| Available as an elective? | No |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Introductory |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
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| Online | Police Study Period 1 |
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| Online | Police Study Period 2 |
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| Online | Police Study Period 3 |
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| Online | Trimester |
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- Key:
On-campus- Off-Campus
International students- Domestic students
Note
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Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Police Study Period 3 | 31/5/2026 | 30/11/2026 | 1/12/2026 | 29/5/2027 |
| Police Study Period 1 | 1/1/2026 | 18/5/2026 | 19/5/2026 | 26/9/2026 |
| Police Study Period 2 | 1/3/2026 | 3/8/2026 | 4/8/2026 | 26/12/2026 |
| Trimester | 1/11/2026 | 23/11/2026 | 23/12/2026 | 13/2/2027 |
* 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 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Comprehend the role played by police in assisting the coroner
- Apply the legal, cultural, and ethical requirements of coronial enquiries, including grief management interventions
- Apply the legal and ethical requirements for detention, including the appropriate exercise of police powers
- Manage the risks associated with detention of vulnerable or "at risk" offenders
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 091105 | $2,174.00 | $1,020.00 | not applicable | $2,249.00 |
- 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 UniConnect 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.
Teaching
| Assessment | Reflection (20%)|Test (20%)|Invigilated Exam (30%)|Summative end of semester examination (30%) |
|---|---|
| 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. |
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The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.