LAW4163

Parents Children and the State 406

(LAW)

Proposed to be offered next in 2001

Professor Marcia Neave

6 credit points + Three 1-hour lectures per week + 2nd semester + Clayton

Synopsis: Examines constitutional structure for resolving disputes between parents, children and State child welfare authorities about the care, welfare and decision-making relating to children and the difficulties which arise as the result of the divided Commonwealth/State responsibility. Examines creation of parent child relationships, common law principles governing rights and responsibilities of parents, provisions of Family Law Act 1976 (Cth). Considers government support for families with children under Social Security Act 1947 (Cth), the interrelationship between child support, child maintenance and social security. Looks at State child welfare jurisdiction and jurisdiction of Children's Court.

Assessment: (a) Research assignment (3000 words) OR participation in a placement program with report (1500 words): 40% plus open book exam (2.5 hours): 60% OR (b) Open book exam (3.5 hours): 100% - All students must satisfactorily participate in a negotiation exercise.