76064 Law and Natural Resources¹

Woodchipping, driftnet fishing, uranium mining – Australia is rich in natural resources, but their exploitation has generated a great deal of conflict. This subject aims to introduce issues of resource management and conservation, and to consider the various legal regimes that have developed as a result of them. Students are required to think critically about the basis and function of legal regulation in an area renowned for its ability to create conflict between different sectors of society.

Assessment: 20 percent seminar presentation; 80 per cent research essay (5,000 words in length)

Texts and references

Fisher, D E, Natural Resources Law in Australia, 1989

Fisher, D E, Water Law, 2000

Bates, G M, Environmental Law in Australia, 5th edn, 2002

Fitzgerald, A, Mining Agreements: Negotiated Frameworks in the Australian Mineral Sector, 2002

Footnote(s)

1. LLB students require a minimum weighted average mark (WAM) of 65 per cent to undertake this subject, calculated as SUM (credit points x mark)/total credit points. This requirement may be reviewed in future. If a student enrols with a WAM of less than 65 per cent they will be withdrawn from the subject after the last date to add subjects and consequently will not be able to enrol in an alternative subject in that semester.