AI and Technology: Legal and Security Issues

Postgraduate | 2026

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Area/Catalogue
LAWS 5007
Course ID icon
Course ID
204051
Level of study
Level of study
Postgraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course level icon
Course level
5
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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.
Yes
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
Yes
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
Yes
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Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

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

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A