Key facts
UNE unit code: HSSW413
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
In an era of rapid global change, the interplay between international agreements for human rights and key Australian state and federal laws is complex and often contradictory.
In this unit, you will explore contemporary human rights and social justice issues and the areas of the law impacting them, and gain insights into the contribution of key activists and activities central in the field.
As social work practice often exists at the nexus of this interface, we examine these concepts from varied professional practice perspectives, particularly in relation to vulnerable populations, social justice, ethical and organisational requirements.
You will have opportunities to extend your transferrable skills in research, critical thinking, reasoning and writing. The unit also helps you to develop a well-rounded understanding of how national and international charters, conventions and legislation inform legal processes in Australia.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| 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:
- critically examine international and national human rights charters, conventions and legislation;
- develop and demonstrate a foundational knowledge of state and federal laws and legal issues relevant to vulnerable populations;
- identify and appraise human rights issues in specified professional practice contexts and utilise a practical knowledge of areas of the law;
- apply skills in research, comprehension, reasoning and writing regarding human rights, social justice and legal doctrine; and
- consider and apply ethical and organisational requirements of social work practice from both a legal and social justice perspective in relation to vulnerable groups.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online Quiz | Yes | 20% | All offerings | 10 question multiple choice online quiz (open for 7 days) that provides an opportunity for students to reflect on their foundation understanding of key terms and concepts relevant to human rights, Australian legislation and the justice / legal system in a context of social work practice. |
| Written Assignment 1 | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Prepare a letter for a solicitor, who is representing your client and identify the psychosocial impacts relevant to their criminogenic behaviours. No. Words: 1000 |
| Written Assignment 2 | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Critical analysis of a human rights issue within the community using a photovoice methodology. No. Words: 2000 |
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.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Integrating Human Service Law, Ethics and Practice
ISBN: 9780190302726
Kennedy, R., Richards, J. and Leiman, T., Oxford University Press 4th ed. 2016
Text refers to: All offerings
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Human Rights and Social Work: Towards Rights-Based Practice
ISBN: 9781107693876
Ife, J., Cambridge University Press 3rd ed. 2012
Text refers to: All offerings
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