2027 Unit information is now available. View 2027 unit information
Online
Introduction
This unit examines the complex social issues associated with deprivation, diversity and discrimination based on a variety of vulnerability attributes (social determinants of health) and their relevance to policing and public safety. The challenges faced by police organisations, and other public safety organisations, in the provision of appropriate services to address the needs of vulnerable people are explored. Attention is focused on the role first-responders play on a large public health continuum, and their role as gate keepers to the criminal justice system. Focus is placed on timely, collaborative and tailored interventions between police and public health to alleviate particular social problems or to refer the case to other appropriate individuals or agencies. Restorative justice principles and youth intervention and diversionary strategies are also taught.
Summary
| Unit name | Law Enforcement and Public Health |
| Unit code | PEM206 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Health School of Paramedicine and Public Safety |
| Discipline | Policing and Emergency Management |
| Coordinator | Professor Isa Bartkowiak-Theron |
| Available as an elective? | No |
| Delivered By | |
| Level | Intermediate |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trimester | 1/11/2026 | 23/11/2026 | 23/12/2026 | 13/2/2027 |
| Police Study Period 1 | 1/1/2026 | 18/5/2026 | 19/5/2026 | 26/9/2026 |
| Police Study Period 3 | 31/5/2026 | 30/11/2026 | 1/12/2026 | 29/5/2027 |
| Police Study Period 2 | 1/3/2026 | 3/8/2026 | 4/8/2026 | 26/12/2026 |
* 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
- Explain the theory, legislation, policy, procedures and protocols for dealing with vulnerable and at risk (AR) people and juvenile offenders.
- Identify personal biases and the influence these can have for public safety.
- Document and manage information associated with the policing of vulnerable and AR people and juvenile offenders in accordance with public safety frameworks.
- Explain the nexus between law enforcement and public health.
- Apply best practice in interactions with vulnerable and AR people, juvenile offenders and external reporting agencies in accordance with public safety frameworks.
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
| Teaching Pattern | This unit is delivered fully online. Weekly - 1 hour Online Lecture; Weekly - 30 minute Discussion Forum and two Optional Drop-in sessions via Teams or Zoom. |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Vulnerability & Bias Micro Case Analysis (20%)|Interagency Scenario: Law–Public Health Nexus & Best Practice Plan (35%)|Hot Spot - Proposal Presentation (45%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
There is no printed reader or required text for this unit. Students are encouraged to reference relevant police studies literature encountered during other units. Relevant resources will be made available on MyLO by the Unit Coordinator, or the unit Reading List on the University Library website. |
|---|---|
| Recommended | As per each lecture, students will be presented with required reading as well as recommended reading on the MyLO Website, or the unit Reading List on the University Library website. |
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.