Media Law and Ethics

Undergraduate | 2026

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area/catalogue icon
Area/Catalogue
COMM 2013
Course ID icon
Course ID
205732
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course level icon
Course level
2
Study abroad and student exchange icon
Inbound study abroad and exchange
Inbound study abroad and exchange
The fee you pay will depend on the number and type of courses you study.
No
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
No
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
No
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Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

This course will develop students' knowledge and understanding of the Australian legal system and the ethical imperatives in professional media practice. This course covers the laws and ethical precepts and codes relevant to the diverse, varied and evolving professional practices of journalism and media and communications. Through a program of study, students develop an understanding of the laws affecting publication and broadcasting in Australia. They also analyse ethical considerations in normative practice, and professional practitioner, corporate and social responsibility and accountability.

Course learning outcomes

  • Describe the major laws affecting media, journalists and media professional practice in Australia
  • Critically reflect on a range of contemporary media ethical issues
  • Explain the tensions between market forces and media professionals' legal and ethical responsibilities
  • Explain key regulatory and self-regulatory mechanisms and laws which govern media professionals

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A