LAWS 3049 Media Law

This is an archived copy of the 2021-2022 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit https://hbook.westernsydney.edu.au.

Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 200661

Coordinator Sarah Hook Opens in new window

Description This unit examines various aspects of the laws that regulate the media. The central content of the Unit consists of defamation, contempt, privacy and surveillance and a selection of other laws impacting upon this industry. Throughout the unit we will also explore two key themes. The first is whether, as a question of policy, current legal restrictions to media freedom appropriately balance the protection of free speech with various other interests, including protection of reputation, personal privacy and the effective administration of justice. The second theme asks whether media laws that were developed to regulate traditional mass-media organisations apply to individuals who publish their own content online, particularly via social media, and, if so, whether this application is appropriately balanced. Analysis of the application of existing media law principles to a range of new technologies will be featured throughout the unit.

School Law

Discipline Law, Not Elsewhere Classified.

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 4 10cp

Check your HECS Band contribution amount via the Fees page.

Level Undergraduate Level 3 subject

Pre-requisite(s) LAWS 2013 AND
LAWS 2008

Assessment

The following table summarises the standard assessment tasks for this subject. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated, where there is a difference your Learning Guide takes precedence.

Item Length Percent Threshold Individual/Group Task
Reflection On-going 20 N Individual
Simulation 1 hour group oral presentation 35 N Both (Individual & Group)
End-of-session Exam 48 hours 45 N Individual

Prescribed Texts

  • Sharon Rodrick et al, Australian Media Law (6th ed, Thomson Reuters, 2021)

Teaching Periods