Key facts
UNE unit code: MM553
*You are viewing the 2025 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information

In the modern workplace, employment relationships are constantly evolving. Studying this unit will provide you with an overview of employment relations in Australia in an era of rapid change.
You will hone your understanding of the competing and complimentary objectives of stakeholders in the Australian employment relationship and consider how various theories explain conflict in the context of employment relations.
Exploring the historical and contemporary roles of the state, unions and management in employment relations, you will examine how these actors’ interactions along with legislation influences the employment relationship.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
Teaching period | Mode/location |
---|---|
Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)

Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of the competing and complimentary objectives of stakeholders in the Australian employment relationship and critically reflect on how their actions are influenced by legislation;
- use a range of advanced cognitive, research and communication skills to identify, evaluate and synthesise relevant information drawn from a range of sources in order to demonstrate expert judgement and analytical skills in solving complex problems and developing arguments associated with Australian employment relations;
- work independently and/or collaboratively to plan and execute tasks to enhance professional knowledge and skills in the area of Australian employment relations; and
- demonstrate the ability to recognise, reflect on, and respond appropriately to a range of ethical, cultural or social issues influencing the Australian employment relationship.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Invigilated Exam | Yes | 15% | All offerings | Invigilated Exam No. Words: 1500 |
Invigilated Final Examination | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Invigilated Examination Students must obtain at least 50% in the exam (and at least 50% overall) to receive a pass or better in the unit. No Words: 2000 (equivalent) |
Online Participation | No | 5% | All offerings | Students are required to actively contribute to forum discussions or live Zoom meetings in at least 5 of the 11 teaching weeks. Exceptions will be permitted where good reasons can be provided, in agreement with the Unit Coordinator. |
Report | Yes | 40% | All offerings | No. Words: 2500 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
A five-star experience
Five Stars,
19 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 19 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience
Good Universities Guide 2007-2025Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity
Good Universities Guide 2025Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-time Employment
Good Universities Guide 2025 (Undergraduate)
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Register your interest and we'll keep you updated
Why study with us?

I'm grateful to UNE for the opportunities studying has given me, but above all, for making me realise I could actually do it, and giving me a sense of accomplishment.
What happens next?
Got any questions about a course you would like to study? Don’t hesitate to contact us, our Future Student team is standing by to help.
2025 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.