Diploma of Legal Studies

Contemporary Issues in Law and Society is an undergraduate elective subject offered by the Faculty of Law. This subject is not a technical law subject, instead it explores some of the social and contemporary challenges facing today’s lawmakers. Students are asked to critically consider and evaluate the different moral, legal and ethical perspectives of the issues presented through cross-disciplinary debate to solve contemporary problems.  Topics include: the role of law as a social system; the impact of science in an era of human cloning and designer babies; freedom of expression and media regulation; public shaming and private morality on the internet; artificial intelligence, robots and driverless cars; different global approaches to  sanctions and punishment; the effect of globalisation on cultural identity; and gender issues. How do morality, law, politics, science and economics intersect and interact when we try to solve problems or secure progress in society? The plan of topics may be varied if new controversial issues emerge during the course of the semester.

This subject has been designed to assist students with the necessary skills and capabilities to contribute to success at university. These include both academic skills such as research, essay and report writing, and referencing. In addition, the subject develops students' skills and understanding relating to time management and forward planning, stress management, positive psychology, motivation, mindset and goal setting, in addition to reflective writing. 

This subject is an introductory level examination of the law regulating enterprises in Australia today. Students will develop a foundational understanding of the Australian legal system and the laws associated with starting, financing, managing, and closing an enterprise. They will also cultivate the skills and knowledge to recognise and respond appropriately to legal problems, including those involving causing harm, making and enforcing deals, dealing with consumers and competitors, and protecting IP.

This subject examines the nature and sources of law, with a primary focus on legal problem solving. Emphasis is placed on the development of the following skills: legal research and reasoning, and legal writing and drafting.

This subject examines a broad range of foundational topics, including legal history, legal theory, legal practice and procedure, and legal careers. Emphasis is placed on the development of the following skills: oral communication and advocacy, dispute resolution and collaboration, and legal ethics and professionalism.

In this subject students will be introduced to critical thinking and clear expression. They will evaluate arguments, identify assumptions, judge patterns of inference, and recognise and apply various methods of reasoning. Students will learn how to clarify and visually represent their thinking to make better decisions, evaluate and use evidence, and communicate more effectively in their writing and speaking. Using these skills, students will structure and write an academic essay and deliver an oral presentation.

The subject fosters a lifelong commitment to responsible discourse and action in all spheres of human interaction. Using applied case-based approach, students will gain the critical tools to effectively respond to the moral challenges in their personal, civic, professional and global contexts. After developing a critical vocabulary and problem-solving toolkit for addressing issues of responsibility and right action, students explore a broad range of real-world, contemporary problems. Through the consideration of these problems, students are encouraged to reflect on, develop and articulate a response to the problem, outline how they can act upon their judgement, and justify their decision making. The subject explores issues of responsible decision making in many cultural, professional and political contexts specifically in the areas of civil society, science, business, media, technology, culture and the law. Topics remain flexible to reflect the dynamic nature of questions of responsibility and right action in the 21st century.

Leading with AI equips students with the understanding, and critical capacities necessary to lead with confidence in a world shaped by AI. Students will explore foundation models, bots, and agents, and develop advanced prompt engineering skills through hands-on projects and creative exploration. More than just a technical overview, the subject empowers students to build their own AI toolkits and reflect on how AI can augment their personal agency, creativity, and decision-making. Through simulated scenarios, students will manage a “personal AI workforce,” applying AI tools to practical tasks such as communication, research, time management, and content creation. They will examine the social, ethical, and political implications of AI disruption across domains including business, education, healthcare, and media. Emphasis is placed on the role of human judgment, the limits of automation, and how AI reshapes identity, relationships, and responsibility. Future-focused assessments challenge students to critically evaluate AI developments, design ethical implementation strategies, and envision how intelligent systems could transform their chosen field. By the end of the subject, students will be equipped with practical skills, critical insight, and digital agency to not only keep pace with AI, but to lead its responsible and innovative use across industries, communities, and all areas of life and work.