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

In this unit, students will critically examine the law of anti-discrimination in Australia. There will be a focus on the law's theoretical underpinnings, and underlying policy concerns. The unit will deal largely, although not exclusively, with Commonwealth anti-discrimination law. The latter portion of the unit will involve an examination of anti-discrimination principles in specific contexts drawn from, amongst others: the use of genetic testing to determine people's entitlement to particular benefits (such as favourable migration status); prohibitions on religious and racial vilification; same-sex marriage; and prohibitions on the wearing of religious clothing and artefacts.

Objectives

On completion of this unit a student should have:

1. acquired a solid understanding of anti-discrimination law in Australia
2. be alert to, and have formed considered views with regard to, various issues arising as to the law's theoretical underpinnings and underlying policy concerns
3. developed an in-depth appreciation of the legal position pertaining to, and policy concerns arising in respect of, the application of anti-discrimination principles to the specific contexts considered in the latter portion of the course
4. further developed her or his legal research and writing skills as a result of undertaking the research essay which is part of the assessment in this unit.

Assessment

Research assignment (3,750 word): 50%
Take-home examination (3,750 word): 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Colin Campbell