Course overview
The aim of this course is to give students an understanding of the principles and processes of Australian family law and to consider the historical and current social and policy issues underpinning it. Introduction to the Australian family law system; creation and dissolution of Marriage; methods of dispute resolution; the Court's obligations with respect to children; decision-making for children after parental separation; special issues in children's matters; recognition of property rights in non-marriage relationships; division of property after relationship separation; child support and partner maintenance; other financial issues.
Course learning outcomes
- Discuss and evaluate the institutional framework for the resolution of family law disputes.
- Reflect on how the courts operate in practice and how the court system affects families and those who work within it.
- Explain the law, key reform debates and policy issues on the topics covered.
- Critically analyse legal and procedural aspects of family law.
- Discuss relevant contextual material and academic literature.
- Identify issues, discuss and apply the relevant law to hypothetical family law disputes.
Fee calculator
To display course fees, please select your status and program below:
We’re updating this Fee Calculator. It currently shows fees for programs only. Please check the relevant program for full fee details.
Study Abroad student tuition fees are available here.
Only some Postgraduate Coursework programs are available as Commonwealth Supported. Please check your program for specific fee information.
The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.