Key facts
UNE unit code: LAW370
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 3 - Online
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
The changing nature of society‘s interpretation of a family, as well as the constantly changing nature and composition of Australian society in the last few decades, makes family law a volatile and complex subject.
In practice, it is a highly procedural area of law requiring a good knowledge of both case law and statute. It is also an area subject to vigorous policy debates.
Whether you’re interested in legal practice in general or specialist firms, this unit will equip you with a broad and highly developed knowledge of family law. Throughout, you will also develop your ability to think critically, to undertake your own research, and to find solutions to issues relating to often complex legal relationships.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 3 | 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 broad and highly-developed knowledge of key principles of family law, and the relevant legislative provisions and case law;
- demonstrate skill in locating both primary and secondary sources, and use cognitive and creative skills to exercise critical thinking and judgement in analysing the effectiveness of the current Family Law framework; the policy issues raised by family law; and consider the broad range of perspectives and values that are relevant to family law;
- identify the legal issues in a family law dispute and apply the principles of family law creatively and with initiative; and
- construct a well-argued written advice for a range of interested parties that is clear and coherent.
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 | 60% | 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. No. Words: 2000 |
| Research Essay | Yes | 40% | All offerings | 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.
Family Law in Australia
ISBN: 9780409352696
Sifris, A., Young, L., Carroll, R., Parker, A., Fernando, M. and Alexander, R., Lexis Nexis 10th ed. 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Family Law Principles
ISBN: 9780455248479
Harland, A., Cooper, D., Turnbull, C. and Rundle, L., Thomson Reuters 3rd ed. revised 2023
Text refers to: All offerings
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