Key facts
UNE unit code: GEPL528
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 3 - Online
- Yes
- Yes
- No
- 6
Unit information

In this unit, you will learn about relevant planning theories and their application to planning practice. You will better understand the rationale underpinning the decision-making framework in which planners operate.
The unit brings together theoretical, jurisdictional, design and communication aspects of planning in applied settings. Your learning will be facilitated through group discussion, unit readings, assessment tasks and online media. You will also have the opportunity to attend a non-mandatory intensive school to further consolidate your knowledge.
Enhance your knowledge of planning and engage further with the theories and processes in this field.
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
| Start | Finish | Duration | Attendance | Offerings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TBA | TBA | 3 days | Non-Mandatory Intensive School | Trimester 3, Online | Non-mandatory intensive school to be held at UNE Sydney campus if sufficient students commit by the date specified by the unit coordinator. The intensive school will consider planning theories in practice. |
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 integrated understanding of the social, cultural, ethical, economic and legal issues relating to planning practice and development control;
- critically analyse, reflect on and synthesise solutions on contemporary planning practice principles and theoretical frameworks;
- use autonomy and professional judgement to effectively communicate the relationship between theory and practice in the field of planning and development control to specialist and non-specialist audiences;
- identify and apply the regulatory framework and decision-making process within which planners operate to implement a range of skills applicable to planning practice in the area of development control; and
- model specialist analysis, research, evaluation and communication skills in framing recommendations relating to planning practice that contribute to life-long application in a professional career.
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 | 40% | All offerings | Theories in Planning No. Words: 2500 |
| Assignment 2 | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Planning Implementation No. Words: 3000 |
| Online Assessment | Yes | 10% | All offerings | Discussion Board and tutorial participation and engagement No. Words: 500 |
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: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Planning Theory
ISBN: 9780230380028
Allmendinger, P., Palgrave MacMillan 3rd ed. 2017
Text refers to: All offerings
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