2006 Handbooks

This unit covers the study of legal regulation of family relations in Australia. The study of family law will enable an analysis of the interrelationship between the state, law and society. The question of whether the state should be able to rely on law to create or maintain a particular kind of desirable society is related to the wider issue of the freedom and autonomy of individuals vis-a-vis the state. This unit is divided into five main parts: the concept of family and its historical development; the concept of marriage as a heterosexual union; dissolution of marriage; financial relationships in marriage and defacto relations, especially on their dissolution; children and their rights under family law.

ONLINE STUDY: This unit offers a unique opportunity to study law online. Distance education students can elect to take part in weekly discussions through email and listserve and the consequent assessment scheme in lieu of the on-campus session. Anyone with a computer and an email facility can elect to participate in this scheme. The emphasis is on twofold, consistent participation and therefore, every week the participants will write their own critique as well as comment on others' critiques. Those who take the online option may choose to attend the on-campus/residential session as well. It is compulsory to take part in the weekly discussions and participation will be assessed. Details of the online option will be included in the posted unit instructions.