Key facts
UNE unit code: LAW164
*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
The First Peoples of Australia have a unique position in Australian society as the traditional owners and custodians of land and sea country.
This unit will introduce you to First Peoples systems of law and the interaction between these laws and the Anglo-Australian legal system as well as critically examine the impact of Anglo-Australian law and policies on First Peoples.
You will also explore the complex legal, political, social and cultural factors that contribute to current debates on legal issues of significance to First Peoples and develop skills in cultural competency to assist you to work effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.
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, subject to degree rules.
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 integrated and theoretical understanding of the legal, political, social and cultural factors that shaped the first contact histories; and the operation of the British legal system as it evolved and it's impact on Australia's First Peoples under colonisation;
- reflect upon the relationship between First Peoples and Anglo-Australian laws; the impact of Anglo-Australian law and its underlying policies on First Australians; and the effectiveness of the evolving Australian legal system in delivering justice to First Peoples;
- exercise critical thinking in identifying issues relating to the effect of Anglo-Australian law on Indigenous Australians and the relationship between First Peoples and Anglo-Australian legal systems; and generating and communicating an appropriate response to resolve these issues; and
- demonstrate an understanding of First Peoples protocols, cultural and communication factors necessary to establish effective working relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
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 - Review Essay | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Total No. Words: 1000 |
| Final Invigilated Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 60% | All offerings | No. Words: 2000 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. |
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.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Relations
ISBN: 9780190310035
Behrendt, L., Cunneen, C., Libesman, T. and Watson, N., Oxford University Press 2nd ed. 2019
Text refers to: Trimester 1 (Online)
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
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
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2026 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.
