Key facts
UNE unit code: LLM518
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2026
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
This unit equips you with insights into the public aspects of International Law regarding control and use of the Sea.
You will examine the main theoretical, policy and legal issues regarding the world’s oceans, as well as historical aspects, sources of the law, navigation, jurisdictional development, environmental issues and the powers and responsibilities of a coastal state in its maritime jurisdictions.
You will also explore the regional development of the law of the sea in Australia, while developing your critical thinking and research skills to analyse a range of contemporary legal issues.
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 coherent understanding of the nature and scope of the law of the sea including knowledge of the legal framework for maritime activities and how it develops in order to meet new threats as well as enduring tensions and Australia's implementation of the law of the sea;
- use initiative and judgement to analyse critically, synthesise, evaluate and consolidate legal concepts, values and rules of the law of the sea to construct persuasive legal arguments, using appropriate technical language, in discussing contemporary legal issues; the law's legitimacy, coherence and integrity; and the processes that contributed to its development; and
- use cognitive and creative skills to access both domestic and international sources, employing the skills of legal research techniques, reasoning and argument, to develop and coherently communicate independent opinions on legal issues relevant to the relationship between Australian law and the international law.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Final Invigilated Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | There is a supervised exam at the end of the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. To pass this unit, you must achieve at least 50% in this task and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
| Oral Presentation | Yes | 50% | All offerings | The oral exam will be offered face-to-face or online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. |
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.
The International Law of the Sea
ISBN: 9781509958382
Rothwell, D. and Stephens, T., Hart Publishing 3rd ed. 2023
Text refers to: All offerings
Freedom of Navigation and the Law of the Sea: Warships, States and the Use of Force
ISBN: 9781138388147
Moore, C., Routledge 1st ed. 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
The Legal Order of the Oceans: Basic Documents on the Law of the Sea
ISBN: 9781841138237
Lowe, A.V. and Talmon, S.A.G. (eds), Hart Publishing 1st ed. 2009
Text refers to:
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