Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

The areas examined will include some or all of the following:

1. Recent developments in property division including the assessment of contributions, the impact of bankruptcy reforms and procedures relating to third parties.
2. Reforms in the area of parenting and child support.
3. The legal implications of changes in family forms (including same-sex parenting).
4. The prognosis for primary dispute resolution and the need for private ordering in family law.

Objectives

This unit will require students to identify and analyse contemporary problems in family law and policy and understand how such problems have been resolved in Australia and some overseas jurisdictions. Students completing the unit will acquire a detailed knowledge of recent Australian developments in case law and legislation and current law reform proposals. They will also obtain an understanding of the theoretical and policy background to contemporary family law issues.

Assessment

Research assignment (6,750 words): 90%
Class participation: 10%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Richard Ingleby

Contact hours

One 2-hour seminar per week