Course overview
This course examines selected issues in employment law. It provides a thematic overview of a range of contemporary topics pertinent to the legal regulation of work relationships from an Australian perspective, adopting comparative approaches where relevant. It deals with a range of pressing issues facing governments, employers and workers in an industrial, social and political context. Potential topics may include: the role of courts and parliament in regulating employment; the contractual model of employment; freedom of expression, social media and the work/life boundary; the right to disconnect; digital platform work and the gig economy; labour and migration; reproductive leave; and future projections for change to Australia's employment law. While LAW 3517 Law of Work is not a prerequisite, students who have not undertaken that course will be expected to undertake preliminary study (for which material will be supplied) on some of the general concepts covered in that course.
Course learning outcomes
- Analyse and apply, in a principled manner, the principles of selected issues in employment law, both in Australia and in selected other countries.
- Undertake legal research at an intermediate to advanced level, and evaluate and apply a range of legal sources to resolve contemporary employment law problems.
- Structure and sustain persuasive written arguments for a legal audience. Communicate effectively individually and as part of a team.
- Interact with peers in an ethical manner, appropriate to an academic environment. Exercise professional judgement in completion of in-class activities and assessments.
- Reflect on the different approaches taken in other countries with respect to selected employment issues and engage in informed debate as to the efficacy of the current state of Australian employment law.
- Analyse and critically evaluate the purpose and effect of Australian employment law.