Course overview
Advances in technology - such as artificial intelligence and machine learning - are radically altering society. To what extent, however, are legal frameworks keeping pace? This course addresses legal and security issues arising from technological developments, ranging from general principles of international law through to specific laws of war, as well as domestic regulatory issues and resilience-building capacities. Students at the end of the course will have a developed understanding of how existing legal frameworks are being exploited by State and non-State actors to achieve strategic goals and will understand the strengths and weaknesses of Australia's federalist structure in responding to them.
Course learning outcomes
- Foundations of AI and Emerging Technologies: Understand the basic principles of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies and their relevance to national security.
- Legal Analysis Skills: Develop the capacity to analyse, evaluate, and synthesize information from various sources and apply it to national security issues.
- Legal Frameworks for AI: Examine national legal frameworks regulating the use of AI and emerging technologies for national security purposes.
- International Legal Frameworks: Explore international agreements, treaties, and norms relevant to AI and emerging technology in the context of national security.
- Ethical and Policy Considerations: Analyse ethical and policy dimensions of AI and emerging technology applications in national security.
- Critical Thinking in National Security: Refine critical thinking skills to assess the implications and risks of AI and emerging technology for national security.
- Research in National Security Law: Develop advanced research skills to independently investigate legal issues in the field of national security
- Effective Communication: Demonstrate proficient communication skills for written and oral presentations on complex legal topics
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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.