Key facts
UNE unit code: LSSU450
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
This unit equips you with foundational knowledge of the Australian legal system and the administration of the law.
You will gain a comprehensive overview of the Australian legal system, the Australian judicial system, common law and equity as well as case law and precedent, legislation, statutory interpretation, legal research and legal writing.
You will also explore criminal law, white collar crime, real property, personal property and intellectual property.
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
Legal Studies unit available to all students, other than Law students, subject to degree rules. Those students wishing to meet the qualification requirements of the Tax Practitioners Board should also consider enrolling in LSSU451, LSSU591, LSSU592, and LSSU593. Due to accreditation requirements [TPB and ASIC(FASEA)], students must sit an independent invigilated assessment/supervised examination.
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 knowledge of the sources of law; the legal and political institutions; the process by which case law evolves; and how the principles of statutory interpretation are applied by the judiciary;
- use cognitive and creative skills to exercise critical thinking and judgement in demonstrating the application of principles of relevant case law and legislation to particular sets of facts;
- use initiative and autonomy to demonstrate an ability to employ the skills of legal research techniques to access cases, legislation, and the secondary sources relevant to a topic or a problem question; and
- produce clear and coherent written communications that are based upon analysis, synthesis, and the application of professional judgment, as well as reflection and evaluation of the relevant law, to competently and confidently provide advice regarding a factual problem or a set topic.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assignment 1 | Yes | 15% | All offerings | Case Analysis/Research Exercise No. Words: 1500 |
| Assignment 2 | Yes | 25% | All offerings | Legal Problem Question No. Words: 2000 |
| 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 |
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.
Connecting with Law
ISBN: 9780190333782
Sanson, M. and Anthony T., Oxford University Press 5th ed. 2022
Text refers to: All offerings
Studies in Law
ISBN: 9780455246154
Gordon, D., Thomson Reuters 3rd ed. 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
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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.*
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