LAWS 3049 Media Law
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
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:
- Accurately explain the principles, statutes, case law and selected policy aspects in each of the main areas of study, being defamation, contempt, privacy and prohibited publications
- Analyse the impact of new technologies on traditional concepts of media law and policy
- Demonstrate enhanced legal writing and reasoning skills, effective research strategies and an appreciation of current issues in media law
- Apply media law concepts covered in the subject to analysing and solving practical problems
- Use oral persuasion and legal reasoning skills as well as drafting skills for court documents and courtroom etiquette.
Subject Content
Defamation
Contempt of Court
Privacy
Offensive publications
Media and National Security
Regulation and Media
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
Summer A
Parramatta - Victoria Rd
Evening
Subject Contact Sarah Hook Opens in new window