Monash University Handbook 2012 Postgraduate - Units

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

Synopsis

This unit provides theoretical and practical insights into the workings of risk management through the analysis of situations and scenarios. It provides hands on experience in the identification of risk issues for practical implementation of risk management policy within a corporate setting and provides response tactics in a qualitative and/or quantitative approach. The unit will utilise current and emerging issues from a variety of sources that will emphasise, build and confirm knowledge by practical application of principles learnt during the course.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop analytical and diagnostic skills and in particular enhance an ability to analyse and resolve problems of practical importance and analyse situations and scenarios by reference to emerging issues in risk management and articulate a response in an effective manner
2. gain experience in the identification of risk issues for practical implementation of risk management policy within a corporate setting and decide on response tactics ranging from qualitative to quantitative as appropriate
3. identify risk issues of a topical nature and be able to articulate to risk situations and justify responses to various issues in terms of risk analysis
4. emphasise the relationship of risk factors and scenarios to risk practitioners by examination of identified issues
5. demonstrate analytical and written skills through various assignments designed to emphasise the practical application of knowledge of risk factors and scenarios.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Michael Dempsey

Prerequisites

AFF9020

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

Synopsis

The management of risk is a multi-dimensional activity that entails a range of disciplines and thought processes to ensure that resilience is created and maintained within the firm. There needs to be an understanding by business students of the range of activities and events that can be exposed by the application of risk management techniques and processes. This unit includes detailed analysis of a series of case studies drawn from real life events that encompass the holistic nature of risk within a firm and/or society. If appropriate, they may be presented and discussed by an industry practitioner. The unit is designed to bring all facets of the specialisation together.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop analytical and diagnostic skills and in particular enhance an ability to analyse and resolve problems of practical importance
2. analyse situations and scenarios by reference to case studies relating to risk management and articulate a response in an effective manner
3. gain experience in a controlled environment in skills needed for practical implementation of risk management policy within a corporate setting
4. decide on response tactics ranging from qualitative to quantitative as appropriate
5. categorise degrees of risk and respond to risk situations, justify responses to various set situations using the matrix approach and emphasise the relationship of risk factors and scenarios to risk practitioners and various guest speakers
6. work in an individual and/or team environment and develop the ability to project and defend a point of view in a constructive manner
7. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFF5021.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 60%
Examination: 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Michael Dempsey

Prerequisites

AFF9020

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

Synopsis

This unit is designed to develop the concept of risk transfer, or the insurance purchase decision, as an outcome of risk management decision-making. It discusses the concept and application of insurance and the principals underlying the insurance purchase, with emphasis on the relationship to the risk management process.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. demonstrate an understanding of the risk transfer decision-making process and explain the concept of risk within an insurance framework
2. outline the principles of risk allocation in non-insurance contracts
3. explain the structure of the insurance industry and the functions of an insurance company
4. outline the core concepts underlying the main insurance industry sectors of life, accident, health, property and liability
5. discuss and comment on the implications of the growing convergence of the broader financial services industry
6. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFF5031.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Michael Dempsey

Prerequisites

AFF9020

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

Synopsis

Topics covered include: financial asset analysis, valuation in global economies; volatility of asset prices; financial exposures; measuring risk and awareness of the tools available for management of such risks including futures, forwards, options and swaps.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop a recognition and understanding of the investment environment and its impact on asset valuation
2. develop analytical skills related to the valuation of various investments
3. develop skills to critically evaluate various investment strategies
4. develop skills relating to dealing with financial risk
5. develop a critical perspective of such investment management
6. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFF5040.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr John Vaz

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must have passed AFF9350 or be enrolled in the Master of Applied Finance or a major in finance before undertaking this unit

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

Quota applies

This unit has an enrolment quota of 50 students in Summer semester A 2012.

Synopsis

Topics include history of international banking; international financial system and its major players; regulations and interaction with public policy; world debt; foreign exchange markets; lending and investment criteria; the Australian international banking sector.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop skills in understanding of the role of international banking within the international financial, derivatives and regulatory markets
2. develop an international banking perspective by contrasting different banking and finance systems in other countries
3. develop an ability to work in a team by completing a group report that requires a written synthesis of the contributions of team members and presentation of the report in the class
4. develop oral presentation skills by participation in discussions during tutorials
5. develop academic skills by preparing an individual assignment based on empirical studies that requires research using the web and print reference materials
6. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFF5050.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination: 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Piyadasa Edirisuriya

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

The nature of entrepreneurship and strategic policies in exploiting new venture opportunities. The processes of starting up and developing new ventures in small and large organisations; examining the role of effective marketing research for new ventures and products; appropriate managerial and marketing strategies; devising business plans and their implementation; financing the venture; and the management of material, human and financial resources in successful enterprises.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. explain the realities and challenges faced by entrepreneurs
2. develop an awareness of the problems involved in starting up and managing new ventures either in existing organisations or as a new enterprise
3. develop skills in analysis, problem-solving and decision making.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

A study of current and emerging issues in strategic management accounting and the development of management accounting systems. Topics include marketing and management accounting, activity based management, environmental costs, and the impact of innovation and change on management accounting.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify and discuss contemporary issues in Strategic Management Accounting
2. demonstrate an understanding of fundamental issues in business strategy and an appreciation of strategy development and management in the survival and success of a business
3. discuss the problems and possibilities in making management accounting more strategically relevant to various functions of a business organisation
4. explain current and emerging management accounting issues relating to the design and implementation of strategic, marketing, production, quality and other management models in modern firms
5. demonstrate how management accounting may become more strategically relevant and 'add value' to a business.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Paul Collier

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

Topics include microeconomic events and the lending environment; economic policies; statistical techniques in economic and financial forecasting; lending and balance sheet structuring; predicting corporate failure and strategies to avoid corporate failure.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. acquire the specialist knowledge and skills required to predict corporate failure
2. apply statistical techniques used in financial forecasting
3. critically evaluate underlying theories, concepts, assumptions, limitations and arguments in customer credit and risk analysis
4. discuss the impact of microeconomic events on the lending environment
5. develop a set of academic skills which include the ability to compose appropriate written communications, to utilize library resources, to search the web and to prepare submissions on time.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

ETX2171

Prohibitions

AFF4081

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

Synopsis

Reporting requirements according to Corporations Law and approved accounting standards, existing reporting practices and the quality of published financial reports. Properties and roles of financial statements; key aspects of decisions based on financial statements and environmental features for decision making.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. acquire knowledge of relevant GAAP, including International Accounting Standards, ASX Listing Rules and provisions of the Corporations Act (2001) to understand how financial reporting and disclosure affects the analysis of financial statements
2. develop skills in analysing contentious financial reporting and disclosure issues
3. develop skills in the analysis of financial statements for decision making
4. develop oral presentation skills by participating in the presentation of case studies
5. develop an ability to work in a team by setting minor and major projects that requires written synthesis of the contributions of team members.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

AFF4013

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

Synopsis

An advanced study of the interface between modern managerial accounting and the business functions of strategic planning, marketing, manufacturing and human resource management. Topics covered include concepts and issues in strategy, quality, ethics, advertising and promotion, pricing, distribution and productivity.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. describe the conventions and doctrines of management accounting that may be strategically applied to an entity
2. evaluate emerging issues in strategic management accounting
3. critically evaluate the influence of strategy, marketing and shareholder value on management accounting and the role of management accounting in designing and implementing management control and performance measurement systems to support business strategy, marketing decisions and shareholder value
4. assess control management systems with due consideration to ethical, cultural and personnel issues
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills to individual and/or group activities dealing with advanced strategic management accounting and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFF5100.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 45%
Examination: 55%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Robert Cornick

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

The focus of this unit is on the process of business valuation. Topics include capital markets issues, evaluation of industry profitability, accounting analysis including evaluation of earnings management techniques, preparation of pro-forma statements, forecasting, bankruptcy analysis, and business valuation techniques.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. compare and contrast approaches to business valuation
2. apply economic, industry and business analysis in the valuation process
3. evaluate an entity's accounting information and perform fundamental and financial analysis using a contemporary approach
4. apply prospective analysis including forecasting and valuation to a merger and acquisition case
5. develop capabilities to work effectively in a group; and/or demonstrate effective individual research skills to produce a professional quality business document to solve a valuation problem; and/or deliver a professional quality presentation; and/or develop oral communication skills and demonstrate independent thinking through contributions to class discussions; and demonstrate in individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of an comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by this unit.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination: 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Mukesh Garg

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

AFF5090

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

Synopsis

The extent to which accounting theories provide a basis for determining the content of external financial reports and resolving accounting controversies. The subject will provide students with the opportunity to further develop skills of analysis, evaluation and synthesis in the areas of financial accounting and reporting and in the process create an awareness of some current developments in accounting regulation.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. acquire advanced knowledge and skills in understanding research articles
2. synthesise academic literature related to financial reporting issues like voluntary disclosure and earnings management
3. appraise and apply a methodology relating to capital markets research in accounting
4. develop capabilities to work effectively in a group; and/or demonstrate effective individual research skills to produce a professional quality business document that reports on the findings of an empirical research project; and/or deliver a professional quality presentation; and/or develop oral communication skills and demonstrate independent thinking through contributions to class discussions; and demonstrate in individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of an comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by this unit.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 60%
Examination: 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Jacqueline Birt

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

Under supervision, students are expected to undertake and report on an original research topic that addresses a contemporary and/or a significant issue in the field of accounting, banking and finance, insurance or risk management. Students must find a suitable supervisor, have selected an appropriate area of research and have obtained the approval of their course director before undertaking in this unit.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop an ability to work independently by selecting a research project that requires a critical review of the literature and derivation of appropriate hypotheses
2. acquire knowledge of devising appropriate procedures for the testing of the hypotheses, showing regard to both theoretical and practical problems of conducting scientific research
3. develop the ability to conduct a planned study and manage any problems arising from the research design and data collection
4. develop a high level of analytical, written and communication skills.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Madhu Veeraraghavan

Contact hours

48 hours per week of private research and consultation with the appointed supervisor

Prerequisites

AFX4000 and AFX4010

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

Synopsis

In examining a range of concepts about the nature of competition, competitive advantage and competitive strategy; the unit is intended to provide a theoretical framework for the study of specific, current issues in competitive advantage which form the basis of the second subject in this area, AFF5401 (Issues in competitive advantage II).

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. understand the role of competitive advantage and how this relates to the development of an organisation's strategic positioning and strategy
2. recognise the need for concern with the concepts of competitive advantage in an increasingly challenging and changing business environment
3. identify the many areas of the market and firm's activities from which a competitive advantage may originate
4. appreciate that in a dynamic business environment, the factors which confer a positive advantage may change quickly
5. examine a range of current issues which are seen as relevant to winning and maintaining a competitive advantage.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 60%
Examination: 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Paul Collier

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

Synopsis

Topics include an introduction to the financial markets; the theoretical foundation of capital structure; the Australian debt and equity markets; international debt and equity markets; the Australian and US legal provisions relative to capital markets; securitisation; credit ratings.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. critically analyse the structure of global financial markets
2. evaluate the impact of international securities and tax law on international financial markets
3. evaluate academic papers in terms of the application of finance theories to the international financial markets
4. demonstrate effective interpersonal communication skills and develop a team-orientated approach to work effectively as a team member to produce a professional quality business document solving financial market-related problems
5. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of global financial markets, their products and appropriateness for the investor.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination: 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Banita Bissoondoyal-Bheenick

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0504, 2619, 3189, 3818, 3850 or 4412 to undertake this unit

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

Synopsis

Topics include objectives, role, and functions of corporate treasury; its structure, ethics, policies; banking interface; treasury performance evaluation; links to corporate strategy; physical and derivative financial markets and instruments; short term and long term financial planning and forecasting; working capital management and forecasting; evaluation, management and business risks of investment opportunities; dividend policy; funding alternatives; financial risk assessment and management including interest rate risk; foreign exchange risk, credit risk and credit ratings; international financial markets and issues, treasury management systems, and recent trends in treasury management.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. describe the objectives, role and functions of corporate treasury management; its structure, ethics and policies; its interface with bank systems; the capital markets and physical and derivative instruments that it deals in, including international markets and international trade; recent trends in treasury management; and the major elements of managing the treasury function itself, including treasury management systems and treasury performance evaluation
2. explain the link between corporate strategy and treasury operations, and develop a basic corporate strategy linked to a long term financial plan and forecast
3. complete financial analyses of a firm, including developing a short term financial plan and forecast, and recommending improvements in the management of liquidity and working capital; evaluating investment opportunities including business risks and project management risks; determining the capital structure of a firm and making financing decisions in the light of this structure; and determining an appropriate dividend policy for a firm in the context of its investment opportunities
4. describe the management principles for managing and hedging liquidity risk, interest rate risk, foreign exchange risk, and credit risk (including the use of credit ratings)
5. develop capabilities to work effectively in a group; demonstrate effective research skills to produce a professional quality business documents; develop written / oral communication skills and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFF5250.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Gangodawila Perera

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0504, 2619, 3189, 3818, 3850 or 4412 to undertake this unit

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

Quota applies

Enrolment restriction quota of 132 students in Semester 1 and 2, 2012.

Synopsis

This unit will combine classroom teaching and direct observance experience of the money markets covering background to the money markets, participants, interest rate and exchange rate determination, instruments traded in the money and currency markets, strategies and money and currency market trading operations. The simulated treasury dealing room will be used extensively in this course.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. analyse dealing practices and conventions in the foreign exchange market and cash market
2. co-ordinate the front office and back office functions of a simulated bank's treasury dealing room
3. account and settle transactions completed in the simulated treasury dealing room
4. develop dealing strategies in the treasury dealing room
5. analyse and manage positions taken in the treasury dealing room.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Kevin Tant

Contact hours

4 hours per week

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course , 0504, 2619, 3189, 3818, 3850 or 4412 to undertake this unit

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

Synopsis

This unit focuses on funds management styles and philosophies; approaches to implementing investment strategies for funds design and decision making; practical allocation of assets across and within different markets (industries); market sector volatilities and risk management; and performance measurement. Current academic research and trends in the industry are also considered from local and global funds management perspectives.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. demonstrate knowledge of the global funds management industry, its management philosophies, strategies and styles
2. compare and contrast approaches to funds design and decision making in terms of fund allocation, portfolio optimisation and portfolio monitoring, along with current trends in the funds management industry
3. develop skills of summarising, critically analysing and assessing, ranking, reporting and, presenting the current performance of funds managers
4. develop the capability to work effectively in a group and demonstrate effective research and problem solving skills to produce quality investment portfolio analysis
5. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the rudiments of fund management both in theory and in practice as detailed in the unit.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Daniel Chai

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0504, 2619, 3189, 3818, 3850 or 4412 to undertake this unit

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

Quota applies

Enrolment restriction quota of 50 students in Summer semester B 2013.

Synopsis

Topics include managing interest rate risk; foreign exchange risk; liquidity risk and the cash flow cycle; credit risk; capital risk; debt and investment risk and managing the risk of derivative products.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop critical skills in understanding, analysing and applying concepts and models such as VAR Model, RAROC Model, Z-score etc. which provide assistance for managing bank's assets and liability risks
2. develop an understanding of the application of regulatory measures taken by Reserve bank of Australia , APRA and BIS for improvement of risk management in the banking industry
3. explain the link between theory and real world situation in the areas of market risk, interest rate risks, foreign exchange risks, credit risks, liquidity risks and operation risk faced by banks
4. develop writing and presentation skills by requiring the submission of group assignments relating to existing practices followed by the banks
5. develop an ability to work independently by requiring presentation of tutorials answers relating to risk management by the financial institutions
6. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFF5280.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Mohammad Ziaul Hoque

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0504, 2619, 3189, 3818, 3850 or 4412 to undertake this unit.

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

Synopsis

This unit is intended to consolidate and apply the technical learning achieved in the core units of the Master of Applied Finance, to attain real industry experiences. This will be achieved by using a selection of targeted case studies that highlight the issues likely to be encountered in industry.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop the ability to identify problems, to synthesize, analyze, and summarize quantitative and qualitative information
2. evaluate and weigh evidence, arguments and ethics
3. apply specialist skills and knowledge to global business issues and to work out solutions to practitioner issues
4. develop capabilities to work effectively in a group
5. demonstrate effective individual research skills to produce professional quality business documents to address financial issues.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr John Vaz

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

AFF5040

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

Synopsis

This unit develops knowledge and improves skills in credit risk modelling by using market information to predict defaulted firms. The topics discussed will provide an understanding of their relative merits, the issues involved in their implementation and their use in the pricing and risk management of credit risk. This unit assists practitioners and students alike to understand better the use of credit risk models and moves them away from the proverbial Black Box scenario.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop credit risk modelling using Altman and Ohlson models
2. develop an understanding of credit risk modelling approaches
3. analyse the Merton structural model and implications for credit analysis
4. analyse the term structure of credit spreads and probabilities of default
5. analyse implications of alternative ways to model recovery
6. develop correlations between default rates and recovery
7. develop copula based approach to modelling default dependence
8. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills to individual and / or group activities dealing with credit risk modelling and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFF5380.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Jean Fenech

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

AFF9140

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

Synopsis

This unit provides advanced skills in financial planning, construction of a plan, and review of the plan. Coverage includes: preparation of various financial planning documents including the Financial Services Guide, Privacy Statement and Statement of Advice; aspects of the client relationship; gathering data and identifying goals, objectives and financial issues; assessing strategies, preparing recommendations, and writing the Statement of Advice; implementing the plan; reviewing, updating and maintaining the plan.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. define the legislative framework pertaining to the financial services sector and how it applies in practice in financial planning
2. develop skills in analysis and problem solving that are critical in the preparation of financial plans and related documents
3. develop skills in effectively managing and communicating with clients

4. develop skills in the use of best practice financial planning software such as VisiPlan.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Madhu Veeraraghavan

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

AFF9130

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

Synopsis

This unit builds on the theoretical framework presented in the prerequisite subject AFF5200 (Issues in competitive advantage I) to examine leading business issues relating to competitive advantage.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. gain an insight into the business environment through an evaluation of real life organisational case studies
2. recognise the need for continuous search for the issues and elements of the business mix upon which competitive success depends
3. appreciate in a real life context, the range of issues that are currently evident in a business, the frequency of change and the associated level of uncertainty, understand how these issues and uncertainty might be addressed to develop and maintain a competitive edge
4. identify, in a dynamic business environment, the issues that relate to competitive positioning in the industries and markets in which an organisation operates
5. use a case study methodology for developing and implementing competitive strategies.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 60%
Examination: 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Paul Collier

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

AFF5200

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

Quota applies

This unit has an enrolment quota of 40.

Synopsis

This unit examines the concept of mergers and acquisitions from two perspectives - the relevant areas of finance and the basic taxation, accounting and legal issues. The aim is to provide students with a practical understanding of this major corporate strategy.
The finance issues will involve an examination of basic theory and empirical findings associated with mergers and acquisitions, the valuation of firms under a range of techniques, the structuring of bids from a financing perspective and defensive strategies.
The taxation, accounting and legal issues include a review of the taxation effects from the position of both the bidder and the target's shareholders, the legal responsibilities of the Board and senior management of both target and bidder companies, the role of the Takeover Panel in relation to both defensive and negotiating strategies, the use of independent experts, the application of the Trade Practices Act and the effect of the accounting asset impairment tests,

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. Define the purposes and scope of mergers and acquisitions in terms of the legal and economic consequences
2. Evaluate the impact of mergers and acquisitions on the participating parties
3. Describe the differences between mergers, hostile acquisitions and private equity involvement
4. Communicate clearly and in an organised manner the findings from both case studies and academic studies on the issues raised in the preceding goals.
5. Critically analyse the strategies and financial worth of a nominated M & A corporate example
6. Apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills to individual and/or group activities dealing with mergers and acquisitions and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered in AFF5580.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Madhu Veeraraghavan

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

Student must be enrolled in 3818, 4412, 3850 or by permission of the Chief Examiner

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

Synopsis

This unit provides an introduction to the business and economic perspectives of climate change mitigation and a detailed look at how an emissions trading scheme would affect businesses and other stakeholders in an operational sense.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. acquire a broad understanding of:
1. climate change arising from greenhouse gases emissions
2. its overall long term economic impact
3. international initiatives under the Kyoto protocol and
4. Australian policy options for climate change mitigation
2. acquire a working knowledge of three different emissions trading schemes, namely the European ETS, North American Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiatives (RGGI) Scheme and the Australian Government's proposed emissions trading scheme deferred till 2015.
3. analyse the supply and demand side aspects of key economic sectors namely the stationary energy sources, transport and agriculture to explain how they affect greenhouse gas emissions
4. develop an understanding of the inter-connectedness between the energy market, the Renewable Energy Target Scheme (RET) and carbon pricing signals in promoting investment in low-emission technologies.
5. develop an ability to assess the likely impact of carbon pricing on businesses (both liable parties and others), communities and individuals, and the Government.
6. develop a set of academic skills which include the ability to:
1. work independently and in groups from diverse cultural and social backgrounds
2. monitor developments in this rapidly evolving field utilising relevant sources such as web sites, media, journals, textbooks, major reports and review papers from governments, regulatory and other institutions, and
3. formulate and present (verbally and in writing) defensible views and strategies from the perspectives of businesses affected by a possible emissions trading scheme.
7. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFF9012.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Madhu Veereraghavan

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

This unit is designed to introduce the concept of risk as a business philosophy and to introduce students to the Australian Risk Management Standard, AS/NZS/ISO31000:2009. It will look at the evolution of risk, the requirements for risk management, the risk management process and steps, and the application of risk management.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. demonstrate an understanding of the scope, application and definition of risk
2. explain the risk management requirements needed of a business entity of the 21st century
3. compare and contrast the risk management process with existing approaches to governance, compliance and control
4. link the risk approach to effective business control, by reference to AS/NZS/ISO31000:2009
5. understand the steps and the logic of the sequence
6. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFF9020.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Michael Dempsey

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

NIL

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

Quota applies

Enrolment restriction quota of 50 students in Summer B 2012.

Synopsis

This unit provides an introduction to financial planning. Coverage includes: the legislative and economic environment; the role of financial service advisers; licensing and disclosure; investment strategies, products, and related taxation implications, with particular reference to securities and managed investments; social security; superannuation, pensions and other retirement issues; estate planning; and the financial planning process. This unit meets Australian Securities and Investments Commission registration requirements for Tier 1 in respect of: specific knowledge in financial planning, securities, managed investments and superannuation; and generic knowledge.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. describe financial planning activities and legal compliance requirements for financial planners
2. develop specialist skills required for interaction with financial planning clients; this will recognise an ethical dimension to the giving of financial planning advice
3. demonstrate knowledge of the Australian and global investment environments, together with specialist knowledge in the areas of superannuation, financial planning, securities and managed investments
4. evaluate clients' financial objectives and prepare appropriate financial plans
5. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the nature of financial planning and its design for individual clients.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Madhu Veeraraghavan

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

AFC3440, AFF3111

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

Synopsis

Topics include the credit risk assessment process; accounting fundamentals; reading financial statements (including ratio analysis); using budgeted financial statements (including breakeven analysis, what-if analysis and variance analysis); creative accounting; technical accounting update; business structures; current issues in insolvency and loan security.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop an understanding of the basic principles governing bank lending
2. develop an understanding of the framework within which bank lending decisions are made
3. develop an understanding of the analysis of financial statement of a company
4. develop analytical skills with regard to the management of credit risk and its measurement techniques
5. develop an understanding of new bank lending product development and its marketing.
6. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFF9140.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Jean Fenech

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

This unit examines how options and futures can be used for hedging risk in the process of risk management. Several aspects of risk management are examined, including the reasons why investors indulge in this activity, how value is created via risk management, and the firm-wide approach to risk management (given that any firm is exposed to a wide variety of risks). Once the importance of risk management has been established, emphasis turns to the use of derivatives (futures and options) to manage risk. To understand how they are used to manage risk, the unit also considers the characteristics and pricing of these instruments, including some exotic versions.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. examine the financial risk management function and its evolution in the corporate world
2. understand the characteristics of futures and options markets and be able to apply these instruments so as to hedge the risk exposure of the firm
3. design appropriate risk management strategies using options and futures for hedging and speculation
4. demonstrate effective research skills to produce a professional quality business report recommending a solution to a risk management problem
5. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of derivative instruments in financial markets, both the mechanism of their operation and their application in hedging risk exposures.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Andrew Sanford

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

Only students enrolled in one of the following courses may undertake this unit:
0028, 0396, 0503, 0504, 0790, 0826, 1445, 1499, 2098, 2619, 3174, 3176, 3177, 3179, 3189, 3822, 3843, 3844 or 3848.

Prohibitions

AFF5290, AFF3751

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

Synopsis

Topics include the international financial system; the European monetary system; Euromarkets; trade finance and trade facilitation agencies; international bank management issues; global banking issues; country risk analysis.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. illustrate characteristics of international banking and analyse the decision of domestic banks to expand internationally
2. explain the role of international financial markets and the instruments used in these markets
3. appraise foreign exchange and the application of relevant hedging techniques
4. analyse current international banking and finance issues
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills to individual and / or group activities dealing with international banking and finance and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFF9160.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Kym Brown

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

Topics include review of foundations of finance; financial mathematics and pricing of financial instruments; valuation and the management of long term investment and financial leverage; and theory of capital structure and dividend policy.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. understand the foundations of finance and be able to apply pricing models to the valuation of equity and debt instruments in global markets
2. evaluate investment proposals using capital budgeting techniques
3. formulate capital structure and dividend policies consistent with entities' objectives
4. develop capabilities to work effectively in a group and/or demonstrate effective individual research skills to produce professional quality business documents to solve problems related to current issues in financial management
5. demonstrate in individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by this unit.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Zoltan Murgulov

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in one of the following courses to undertake this unit: 0028, 0396, 0503, 0504, 1445, 1499, 2098, 2619, 3174, 3176, 3177, 3179, 3189, 3822, 3844 or 3848.

Prohibitions

AFF9730, AFG9070, AFX9540

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

Synopsis

Topics include development of money and financial markets and financial flows analysis; intermediation; economic role of the different financial institutions; determination of interest rates and yield curve analysis in financial markets; exchange rates and money supply; sources of short-term, medium-term and long-term finance; sources of overseas borrowing; an introduction to interest rate and exchange rate management; performance of the financial system.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. compare and contrast specific types of financial institutions, instruments and markets in order to explain the distinctions between their operations, usage and regulation
2. critically evaluate the assumptions and conventional wisdom relating to the term structure of interest rates and foreign exchange rates
3. develop academic skills by accessing electronic data sources and hard copy references to evaluate a case study assignment
4. develop an ability to work in a team by requiring syndicates to submit written solutions to assigned case studies, and thereby demonstrate effective interpersonal communication skills and develop a team orientated approach to work effectively as a team member to produce a professional quality business document solving financial-institution related issues.
5. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the components and functioning of capital markets in an open economy as exemplified by the unit.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Michael Skully

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in one of the following courses to undertake this unit:
0028, 0396, 0503, 0504, 0790, 0826, 1445, 1499, 1822, 2098, 2619, 3174, 3176, 3177, 3179, 3189, 3822, 3843, 3844 or 3848.

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

Synopsis

Topics include investment markets and investment strategies; measuring investment return and risk; capital asset pricing model; arbitrage pricing theory; taxation; shares and share analysis; valuation; financial futures markets; real estate; portfolio management; asset allocation; monitoring.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. evaluate financial market information to measure investment risk and return, and be able to incorporate such evaluation in fundamental and technical analysis in the asset valuation process
2. assess portfolio management performance
3. understand the relevance of behavioural finance, including an awareness of financial history as it relates to behavioural finance
4. demonstrate effective interpersonal communication skills and develop a team orientated approach to work effectively as a team member to produce a professional quality business document solving portfolio investment objectives
5. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the components of an investment portfolio and their optimal combination as discussed throughout the unit.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Zoltan Murgulov (First Semester)
Dr Imon Palit (Second Semester)

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in one of the following courses to undertake this unit: 0028, 0396, 0503, 0504, 0790, 0826, 1445, 1499, 1679, 1822, 2098, 2619, 3174, 3176, 3177, 3179, 3189, 3822, 3843, 3844 or 3848.

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

Synopsis

This unit centres on both a conceptual and practical approach to International Accounting Issues with emphasis on international standard setting and compliance as viewed by regulators and private sector preparers of accounts. Students gain a practical understanding of these issues in an international context through the overseas visitation program which forms an integral part of this unit.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop an understanding the history of accounting standard setting in various countries and the international convergence of accounting standards
2. develop a practical understanding and appreciation of cultural differences within the area of international accounting through an overseas visitation program
3. develop a set of academic skills which include the ability to work independently, evaluate academic papers in terms of the application of theories to understand and explain differences in financial reporting, search the web and to submit assignments on time
4. develop excellent oral and written communication skills to be able to analyse case studies and to lead/participate in groups from diverse cultural and social backgrounds.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Jacqueline Birt

Contact hours

Four 3-hour seminars and up to twelve 2 hour-formal visits to professional bodies and companies during the international component of the programs over approximately 4 weeks.

Prerequisites

Permission required

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

Synopsis

Topics include working capital management, capital budgeting and funding decisions (capital structure and cost of capital) incorporating the identification of foreign exchange risks and their management as well as their financial reporting implications.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify motives and evaluate strategies for foreign direct investment
2. understand the impact of and strategies to manage risks associated with international business
3. acquire a sound knowledge of issues surrounding the financing of international business
4. develop oral presentation skills in communicating complexities surrounding international business
5. develop an ability to work independently, lead and participate in teams from diverse cultural and social backgrounds by producing a presentation relating to an international business issue
6. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFF9730.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Michael Dempsey

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course 2098 to undertake this unit

Prohibitions

AFF9160, AFF9250

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

Synopsis

Topics include the evaluation of risk; financing tools; retention and transfer; insurance; non insurance; pre and post loss funding; retention and self insurance decisions; insurance and reinsurance principles and practices for the corporate buyer; deductible selection models; management and administration of losses and insurance claims; institutional factors, accounting factors, including taxation and government incentives; captive insurance companies; international considerations; financial transfer by contract.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop critical skills in understanding, analysing and applying concepts and models relating to risk management by the treasury of an organisation
2. develop an understanding of optimum capital structure, maximisation of firm value and investment risk management faced by the treasury
3. explain the link between theory of derivative products, insurance products and credit derivatives such as securitization and the real world situation
4. develop writing and presentation skills by requiring the submission of group assignments relating to existing practices followed by the banks
5. develop the ability to work independently by requiring presentation of tutorials answers relating to risk management by the financial institutions
6. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFF9770.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Mohammad Ziaul Hoque

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

Scientific method and emergence of accounting theory. General descriptive theories. General prescriptive theories. Not-for-profit, conceptual framework and neo-empirical research. Business ethics.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. examine the historical and theoretical background which produced contemporary accounting concepts
2. critically review conventional accounting practice
3. consider alternative accounting models that have been proposed as a basis for developing systems for collecting and reporting economic information for decision-making
4. study the regulation of financial accounting and the development of international accounting as they relate to the conceptual framework
5. understand basic ethics principles and the application of these principles in the field of business
6. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills to individual and/or group activities dealing with accounting theory and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task, the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFG9040.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Keryn Chalmers

Prerequisites

AFG9073

Prohibitions

AFX5631, AFX9560

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

Synopsis

Overview of auditing, the auditor's legal liabilities, audit process and evidence, the concepts of materiality and risks, study and evaluation of internal control, IT auditing, audit sampling techniques, the test of transactions cycles and the verification of account balances, auditors reports, and internal and operational auditing.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. explain the role, limitations and demand for audits in society and develop skills in determining the auditor's professional, ethical and legal obligations
2. explain the auditor's role in corporate governance
3. develop an understanding of the assurance framework and develop skills in the application of the key evidence gathering procedures used by auditors when planning, assessing the risks of material misstatements and carrying out audit procedures to determine their audit opinion
4. develop skills in determining the type and format of reports provided by auditors
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills to individual and/or group activities dealing with auditing and assurance and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task, the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFG9041.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Keryn Chalmers

Prerequisites

AFG9073

Prohibitions

AFX5621, AFX9570

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

Synopsis

Issues include goals and functions of financial policy, corporate risk, uncertainty, capital structure policies, required rates of return, capital budgeting and long term investment decisions, evaluation of investments and dividend policy, financing, debt and equity, overseas and small business financing, statement analysis and prediction of corporate failure, working capital management, mergers and acquisitions.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. demonstrate an understanding of the goal, functions and decision making rules as a financial manager
2. apply mathematical models for risk and return trade-off, for the valuation of securities and for the determination of the cost of capitals
3. understand the main approaches to the capital structure and dividend decisions
4. obtain the basic knowledge of hybrids and derivatives
5. develop and present the knowledge for takeover and acquisition.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Sisira Colombage

Prerequisites

Students must have passed AFG9071 before undertaking this unit.

Prohibitions

AFX9540, AFX9641

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

Synopsis

Basic financial functions, development and basis of financial reports, analysis of financial reports, capital investment appraisals, cost behaviour, budgeting technique and implications for management, capital structure and sources of finance.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. demonstrate an understanding of the goal functions and decision making rules as a financial manager
2. apply mathematical models for risk and return trade-off, for the valuation of securities and for the determination of the cost of capital
3. develop skills in financial statement analysis, capital budgeting techniques and working capital management methods
4. demonstrate business planning budgets, cost behaviour and cost-volume-profit analysis
5. appraise the main approaches to the capital structure and financing decisions
6. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFG9070.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Sisira Colombage

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

Synopsis

The accounting process required to prepare financial reports and the elements of these reports including assets, liabilities, equity, revenue and expenses. Students learn to classify economic transactions into appropriate accounts and calculate ratios for analysis.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. analyse and discuss the role of accounting in business and its theoretical framework
2. develop skills in the analysis of accounting transactions and events, recording entries in both manual and computer based ledger systems, and in the production of balance sheets statements of changes in owners equity, income statements and cash flows
3. apply an analytical approach to problem-solving both in the preparation of financial statements and in their use to assist in decision-making
4. analyse financial statements for profitability and risk
5. demonstrate competence in business communications through oral and written assessments.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Abdel Halabi

Prohibitions

AFX9500

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

Synopsis

Topics include concepts of cost, basic product costing systems, cost allocation and activity-based costing, cost behaviour and breakeven analysis, relevant costs for decision making, budgeting management, capital budgeting techniques, and organisation control and transfer pricing. Discussions are expanded to some current management accounting issues, such as methods to stay competitive, compensation plans, and Management Accounting Control System design in changing environment.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. describe cost behaviour under different assumptions
2. compare and analyse techniques designed to provide relevant and timely information to managers for resource management and allocation, as well as for performance measurement and control decisions
3. apply and evaluate conventional and contemporary cost and performance management techniques
4. apply conventional and contemporary performance measurement and control techniques to enable managers to measure and enhance organisational performance
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills to individual and/or group activities dealing with management accounting and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFG9072.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Andrew West

Prerequisites

AFG9071

Prohibitions

AFX5611, AFX9550

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

Synopsis

Issues include the influences on the nature and objectives of corporate financial accounting, profit determination and distribution, the reorganisation of share capital, the balance sheet and income and cash flow statements, tax effect accounting, accounting for the acquisition, revaluation and impairment of assets, accounting for consolidations, including inter-company transactions and outside equity interests.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop a thorough knowledge of the content of the reports of publicly listed companies and be able to prepare such reports and regulations of the various regulatory bodies
2. develop an understanding of the nature of the inter corporate reporting, its principles and concepts in respect of public companies and one or more fully and/or partly owned subsidiary companies
3. demonstrate competence in business communications through written assessment in this unit
4. develop an ability to work independently and to participate in group discussions with participants from diverse backgrounds.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Robyn Dyt

Prerequisites

AFG9071

Prohibitions

AFX4601, AFX9530

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

Synopsis

Prudential supervision, capital adequacy and moral hazard, measuring returns and risks in banking, credit, interest rate and liquidity risk management.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop a theoretical framework of a financial firm and industry
2. analyse the behaviour of banks and other financial institutions
3. understand the regulatory framework governing the behaviour of financial institutions
4. be able to predict how banks and other financial institutions will respond to regulatory and other changes in the economy.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

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

Synopsis

Introduction to a broad range of research methodology and testing procedures used in accounting and finance. The primary focus is on the undertaking of research. The unit comprises an analysis of the science of research, an examination of the key elements of research in accounting and finance, data issues, ethical issues, hypothesis development, causal models, the use of parametric and non-parametric statistical tests, survey-based research and general research methodology.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. explain the major steps in the development of a research project in accounting or finance
2. illustrate the key strengths and weaknesses in accounting and finance research designs and methods
3. apply qualitative and quantitative data analysis techniques and interpret the output
4. critically evaluate empirical research in accounting and finance
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and/or group activities dealing with research methods and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX4000.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination: 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Philip Gray

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0181 or 0171 or 4416 to undertake this unit

Prohibitions

AFC4100

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

Synopsis

Students will prepare a research proposal in an area of accounting and/or finance. Students will, with the assistance of a research mentor, select a research topic and prepare a proposal consisting of a literature review, theory and hypothesis development, an outline of the research methods to be applied and the data requirements

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. prepare a research proposal in accounting or finance
2. write a literature review related to a selected topic in accounting or finance
3. develop testable hypotheses
4. identify the appropriate method and identify data requirements to test the hypotheses
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and/or group activities dealing with a research proposal.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Philip Gray

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0171 or 0181 or 4416 to undertake this unit.

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

Synopsis

Students should learn how to conduct a literature review; develop both research questions and hypotheses; formulate a research decision; gather and analyse data using appropriate procedures; write up research; and draw appropriate conclusions.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. implement a research proposal
2. recognise practical problems of conducting scientific research and propose solutions
3. write a comprehensive research paper
4. develop the ability to conduct and manage a planned study
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and/or group activities dealing with a research project.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr David Smith

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0181 or 0171 or 4416 to undertake this unit.

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

Synopsis

Students conduct a critical review of the literature relevant to their study; derive appropriate hypotheses for testing; devise an empirical test of the hypotheses showing regard to practical problems of conducting research, ethical considerations, and principles of scientific method; conduct a planned study and manage any problems arising in the date collection; select and conduct an appropriate analysis of the data; and write a report on the project, showing due regard to relevant stylistic conventions.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. implement a research proposal
2. recognise practical problems of conducting scientific research and propose solutions
3. complete a research dissertation
4. develop the ability to conduct and manage a planned study
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and/or group activities dealing with a research dissertation.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr David Smith

Contact hours

24 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must have passed AFX4000 and AFX4010 before undertaking this unit.

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

Synopsis

Topics include consumption-based asset pricing models , two beta ICAPM, intertemporal asset pricing models, modelling for mutual and hedging funds, credit risk models, modelling correlated defaults, term structure of default probability, credit derivatives, credit default swaps, collateralised debt obligations, asset value models.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. apply advanced knowledge and skills in the use of Excel and Visual Basic
2. develop advanced skills in the design and implementation of efficient and robust financial models such as option pricing, portfolio and interest rate models
3. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills to individual and/or group activities dealing with advanced modelling in finance and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX4030.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Francis In

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0181 or 0171 or 4416 to undertake this unit.

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

Synopsis

The objective of this unit is to provide students with a broad introduction to the contemporary themes in research into Accounting Information Systems. The unit covers issues of research and practice in the following areas: frameworks and ontologies in information systems; decision making; process modelling; behavioural aspects concerned with the design and implementation of systems; and data management issues. Upon completion of this unit, students are expected to be able to evaluate critically the design and conduct of research, and to design their own research into issues of relevance to the accounting information systems field.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop an understanding of key philosophical issues in Accounting Information Systems research, particularly the ontological foundations of the discipline
2. articulate solutions to significant research problems using key paradigms in the Accounting Information Systems discipline
3. critique research relating to the design and use of accounting and business information systems
4. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills to individual and/or group activities dealing with issues in accounting information systems and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX4040.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 60%
Examination: 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Stephen Smith

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0181 or 0171 or 4416 to undertake this unit

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

Synopsis

This unit considers both theoretical and professional issues relevant to the various participants to the audit process. The unit provides students with an overview of the nature of assurance and regulation of the audit profession, the economics of auditing, and the behavioural dimensions of auditing. Topics also include future directions for assurance services, fraud, internal control and corporate governance issues.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. discuss research paradigms in auditing and assurance research
2. describe the range of methods of decision making in auditing
3. critically evaluate empirical research and identify major research questions in auditing and assurance including audit quality, internal control, fraud and corporate governance
4. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and/or group activities dealing with issues in auditing and assurance and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX4050.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Robyn Moroney

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0181 or 0171 or 4416 to undertake this unit

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

Synopsis

The objective of this course is to develop critical economic reasoning and understanding of important empirical regularities in corporate finance. This unit builds on introductory corporate finance studies and analyses a variety of issues by introducing a study of recent empirical literature. There is a strong focus on research with a selective and critical examination of theoretical and empirical research in corporate finance. The advanced topics covered include market efficiency and event studies, security offerings, corporate takeovers, and capital structure, dividend policy, corporate governance and financial tunnelling.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. acquire knowledge of empirical findings in corporate finance
2. develop an ability to conceptualise and analyse issues in corporate finance at a sound level of understanding and be in a position to make a significant contribution in setting firm financial policy
3. critically evaluate underlying theories, concepts, assumptions, limitations and arguments in corporate financial theory
4. develop analytical skills via understanding the intuition and logic behind recent academic research and the possible extension to the recent research
5. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX4060.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Christine Brown

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0181 or 0171 or 4416 to undertake this unit.

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

Synopsis

Topics are selected from the development of financial accounting theory, contracting theory and accounting policy choice (including debt contracts, political costs, management compensation and efficient contracting), corporate governance, behavioural research, the returns-earnings relation, the explanatory power of earnings, post-earnings announcement drift and other anomalies, information content of cash flows and accruals, earnings quality, market reaction to accounting regulation and value relevance of accounting information.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. discuss research paradigms in financial accounting
2. discuss the economic consequences of accounting regulation
3. distinguish between alternative perspectives of corporate governance and appreciate its interaction with contracting theory and financial accounting
4. critically evaluate empirical research and identify major research questions in financial accounting
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and/or group activities dealing with issues in financial accounting and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX4070.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Farshid Navissi

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0181 or 0171 or 4416 to undertake this unit

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

Synopsis

This unit draws on the academic literature to provide a study of a range of topics relating to banking and finance. It presents a basis for students intending to undertake research into banking and related finance questions. Topics covered include theory of financial intermediation, risk management, efficiency assessment, competition modelling and bank regulation.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. discuss existing theory in the field of banking and its evolution
2. critically assess the usefulness and limitations of this theory in the field of banking
3. apply this theory to relevant current policy issues
4. critically evaluate empirical research and identify major research questions in banking
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and/or group activities dealing with issues in banking and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX4080.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination: 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Tram Vu

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0181 or 0171 or 4416 to undertake this unit.

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

Synopsis

The major theoretical foundations of the management accounting discipline including the economics (agency), psychology (behavioural, etc.) and organisational (contingency) approaches are introduced. The unit shows how these disciplines have influenced the view of managers. Management accounting is presented as a professional discipline primarily concerned with influencing and facilitating decisions, and several accounting technologies are critically assessed. This unit focuses on technologies which are useful in the short and medium term including budgeting and incentive plans as well as those that take a long-term or strategic viewpoint.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. discuss research paradigms and core concepts related to organizational, economic, behavioural and sociological theories as they relate to management accounting research
2. critically evaluate recent developments in strategic thinking and implications for management accounting
3. critically evaluate empirical research to identify recent developments in management accounting practices from perspectives of both content and processes
4. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and/or group activities dealing with issues in management accounting and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX4090.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr David Smith

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0171 or 0181 or 4416 to undertake this unit.

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

Synopsis

This unit provides students with an advanced applied perspective to a broad range of research methodology and testing procedures used in accounting and finance research. Students who have completed this unit should, at an advanced level, be able to collect qualitative and quantitative data using a variety of research techniques; to apply advanced statistical techniques to the analysis of quantitative data; to design non-probability and probability samples; to deal with advanced issues in cross-sectional, panel and time series data and to conduct research ethically.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. explain advanced research methods used in accounting and finance research
2. perform advanced statistical and econometrics tests and procedures for data analysis
3. identify topical research issues, research designs and advanced methods used in accounting and finance research
4. develop critical skills of summarizing, analysing, reporting and presenting quantitative and/or qualitative data and research results
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and/or group activities dealing with advanced research methods.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Keryn Chalmers

Contact hours

Two 3-hour lectures per week for 6 weeks

Prerequisites

AFX4000

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

Synopsis

This unit will examine empirical research in asset pricing and investments. It will develop students knowledge and ability to apply empirical techniques to conduct research in asset pricing and investments.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. critically analyse research papers examining current issues in asset pricing and investments
2. critically evaluate research methodologies applicable to empirical finance research
3. demonstrate an ability to conduct research in asset pricing and investments
4. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and/or group activities dealing with issues in investment and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX4120.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination: 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Philip Gharghori

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) to undertake this unit.

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

Synopsis

Topics likely to be covered will be selected from theory and evidence on asset pricing models, capital structure, dividend policy, efficient markets, agency theory, takeovers and corporate restructuring, option pricing theory and applications, international finance and investment appraisal.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. describe current theories and models in corporate finance
2. develop and apply requisite mathematics skills
3. critically evaluate empirical research to identify recent developments in corporate finance
4. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and/or group activities dealing with corporate financial theory.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Philip Gray

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0181 or 0171 or 4416 to undertake this unit and must have passed AFX4060

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

Synopsis

Topics selected from accounting-based valuation models, financial ratio analysis from a valuation perspective, empirical research based on accounting-based valuation, fundamental analysis research, risk and financial information, empirical research into share returns and financial information, analysts earnings forecasts and analysts investment recommendations and share returns, management earnings forecasts.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. describe accounting-based valuation methods and apply these methods to listed companies
2. critically evaluate empirical research that utilises accounting-based valuation
3. critically evaluate empirical research that investigates the role of analysts as information intermediaries in securities markets
4. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and/or group activities dealing with the analysis of financial statements.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Farshid Navissi

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in course 0181 or 0171 or 4416 to undertake this unit.

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

Synopsis

This unit considers both theoretical and professional issues relevant to the various subdisciplines of accounting and finance. The unit provides students with an overview of behavioural research in each of the following areas: management accounting (MA) and accounting information systems (AIS), financial accounting (FA) and auditing (A), and finance. Students are also provided with an appreciation of some of the issues involved in the most commonly applied research methods in behavioural accounting and finance research.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. critically evaluate empirical research and identify major research questions in behavioural research in accounting and finance
2. critically evaluate recent developments in behavioural research and implications for accounting and finance researchers/practitioners
3. illustrate the key strengths and weaknesses in commonly applied research methods in behavioural research
4. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and/or group activities dealing with issues in behavioural accounting and finance and demonstrate in individual assessment tasks the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX4190.

Assessment

Within Semester Assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Ralph Kober

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in Bachelor of Commerce (Honours), Postgraduate Diploma in Economics and Commerce or equivalent.

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

Synopsis

This unit covers theoretical and practical issues relevant to forensic accounting and fraud examination. Forensic accounting is the application of investigative and analytical skills to resolve financial issues in a manner that meets standards required by courts of law. Fraud examination is the process used to resolve allegations of fraud through the accumulation of evidence, including the investigation of systems and internal controls, and the detection of fraud circumstances. The unit examines the investigative process as well as an array of tools and techniques used to investigate financial forensic issues and fraud. Topics include: methods and techniques used by forensic accountants to collect, analyse and report relevant information for supporting cases to be presented in court; the nature, prevention, detection and investigation of different types of fraud, including: financial statement fraud, fraud against the organisation, consumer fraud, and e-commerce fraud.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. examine the nature of fraud and critically evaluate and apply theories and techniques to prevent, detect and investigate different types of fraud, including financial statement fraud, fraud against organisations, consumer fraud, and fraud in e-commerce
2. demonstrate the application of knowledge and skills that forensic accountants and fraud examiners are expected to possess. These include: investigative techniques, knowledge of auditing, ethics, criminology, accounting, law, and information technology, and communication skills
3. develop an ability to work independently and to lead and participate in teams from diverse cultural and social backgrounds by completing both independent and group assessable tasks
4. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills to individual and / or group activities dealing with forensic accounting and fraud examination and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX5120.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination: 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Michael De Martinis

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in one of the following courses or seek the approval of the chief examiner before undertaking this unit: 0503, 3850, 3844, 4401, 0790, 0826 or 3843.

It is also recommended that students have passed AFX9500, GSB9004 or equivalent before undertaking this unit.

Prohibitions

AFF5120

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

Synopsis

This unit provides students with a broad introduction to the core business processes and systems that underpin organisational business activities. Topics covered include: how systems support business processes, electronic commerce and business decision making; database management concepts; methods for documenting business processes and information systems; internal controls for business processes and information systems; core business processes associated with revenue, expenditure and production transaction cycles, together with business reporting; and the role of an enterprise system.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. analyse business strategy and how business strategy influences the need for information and the design of business processes
2. prepare business process documentation
3. design and evaluate business processes
4. prepare plans to achieve a satisfactory level of internal control
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills to individual and/or group activities dealing with accounting processes and systems and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX5310.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination: 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Kristian Rotaru

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

Business analytics and their applications to financial and management decision making will be explored for a range of business situations including: investment; planning; cash flow management; capital budgeting; contract awards; and risk analysis. Analytics covered include: problem structuring; multiple criteria decision making; optimisation; simulation; and data mining. Upon completion of this unit, students are expected to competently use selected analytics, to provide management interpretation of the solutions and to formulate business analyst's recommendations. The unit utilises advanced computer modelling tools available in Microsoft Excel and other modeling software packages.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. appraise the role of business analytics in organisations, the decision making life cycle in business and financial management, model building techniques, model solving techniques, interpretation of results from business models and cutting edge business analytics tools
2. propose modelling and simulation as effective business and financial decision making procedure, evaluate the risks and benefits of interactive computer-supported business decision making
3. formulate business problem, choose theoretical framework and decide appropriate decision modelling techniques for given business management situations, assess the limitations of models and the appropriateness of modelling environments
4. integrate critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills in the assessment of individual summative tasks and/or group tasks dealing with business analytics topics covered in AFX5320.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Stephen Smith (Semester one)
Associate Professor LyFie Sugianto (Semester two)

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BUS5570, ETF9480, GCO4802

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

Synopsis

The objective of this unit is to introduce students to the business aspects of integrated enterprise systems. Enterprise systems are configurable business information systems that integrate information across multiple enterprise functions and business units, support key enterprise processes, and provide an enterprise wide view of business performance. Topics include systems and technology background, business processes and process reengineering, integration of core financial and logistics processes, enterprise wide reporting, and techniques for assessing enterprise productivity and enterprise dynamics. A well-known integrated enterprise system will be extensively used in this unit.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. discuss the characteristics of enterprise systems and evaluate their contribution to the global marketplace
2. discuss and assess the design and operation of business processes in an integrated system as they support decision making
3. critically analyse the factors that have contributed to world-wide adoption of enterprise systems and the types of benefits obtained
4. demonstrate practical skills by using a popular enterprise system and employing it to solve problems
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills to individual and/or group activities dealing with integrated systems for business enterprises and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX5330.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination: 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Carla Wilkin

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BUS5700, FIT5101

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

Synopsis

The unit is designed to impart an understanding and appreciation of the current issues underlying the International area of finance, and to develop a practical understanding of the markets and the financial techniques used within the markets. To encourage research techniques for a specialised topic within the financial markets area. To develop a practical understanding and appreciation of cultural differences within the area of international banking and finance through an overseas visitation program.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. become skilled in understanding the history and structure of International banking and financial markets
2. acquire an understanding of the theories and usage of International foreign exchange markets
3. develop a practical understanding and appreciation of cultural differences within the area of international banking and finance through an overseas visitation program
4. develop a set of academic skills which include the ability to work independently, evaluate academic papers in terms of the application of finance theories to the International financial markets, search the web and to submit assignments on time
5. develop excellent oral and written communication skills to be able to analyse case studies and to lead/participate in groups from diverse cultural and social backgrounds.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Nigel Morkel-Kingsbury

Contact hours

Four 3-hour seminars and up to twelve 2 hour-formal visits to professional bodies and companies during the international component of the programs over approximately 4 weeks.

Prerequisites

Permission required

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

Synopsis

The unit develops an understanding of planning; financing; investing and financial management aspects of new businesses. In addition, it introduces the participant to statutory reporting issues prescribed by regulators. New ventures have special financial characteristics requiring a different approach to financing. Managers need to understand the real enterprise value that is being created so as to provide the intended returns for the resources and risk involved. This unit will address the knowledge and basic skills required by leaders for the financial management of a science and technology business to support strategic management goals.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. evaluate and apply financial planning skills involved in making investment decisions including the use of tools such as Excel
2. understand the financial theories and processes involved in finance decisions and options
3. develop an understanding of the key entrepreneurial finance issues. This includes valuation of science and technology oriented start-ups and related financing processes and options
4. evaluate and discuss the interpretation of financial reports
5. compare and contrast the financial management processes necessary to efficiently and effectively manage a science and technology business without stifling innovation
6. demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX9004.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr John Vaz

Contact hours

Two 3-hour classes per week 36 hours; or in block-mode, 36 hours of classes during the semester

Prerequisites

GSB9004

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

Synopsis

This unit provides students with an introduction to accounting and an understanding of the preparation, presentation and interpretation of financial statements. In particular, emphasis is placed on accounting processes, practices and policies that enable the financial performance and financial position of an entity, as displayed by the balance sheet, income statement and statement of cash flows, to be measured, analysed and interpreted.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. analyse and record accounting transactions and events, and produce financial statements consistent with the accounting conceptual framework and accounting standards
2. appraise the relative merits of accrual and cash accounting
3. prepare special journals as they relate to cash and the periodic and perpetual inventory recording systems
4. critically evaluate an entity's financial position and performance and
5. demonstrate effective individual technical skills to construct accounting records and financial statements for a unique business; and demonstrate in individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by the unit.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Dean Hanlon

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course: 0790, 0826, 4402 or 3843

Prohibitions

AFF9500, AFG9071

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

Synopsis

Introduction to the use of spread sheets; basic mathematics; descriptive statistics; elementary probability; discrete probability distributions; continuous probability distributions; hypothesis testing; forecasting and time series; regression and correlation.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. acquire an appropriate vocabulary and understanding of basic mathematical terminology
2. understand the use of statistics and quantitative methods, and interpret data to be more effective in business planning, forecasting and management
3. apply and integrate skills and knowledge acquired via the use of models, formulae, and examples drawn from various applications in Finance and Accounting
4. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and / or group activities dealing with quantitative methods and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX9510.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Inyeob Ji

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

An overview of the Australian financial reporting and regulatory framework for reporting entities, including an analysis of the relevant significant accounting standards, benchmarking against the conceptual framework, professional reporting requirements and stock exchange requirements. Financial reporting for corporate groups (including the impact of control, joint control and significant influence) and selected issues in financial reporting are also explored and benchmarked against the conceptual framework.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. describe and compare the regulatory requirements, domestic and international, associated with the preparation of general purpose financial statement for companies
2. apply and critique the accounting rules for entities' investments in other entities, and apply these rules to prepare consolidated financial statements
3. analyse a number of measurement and financial reporting issues and their possible resolution, including: accounting for income tax, post-acquisition accounting for assets, and business combinations
4. develop capabilities to work effectively in a group to produce professional quality research reports; effective individual technical skills to construct consolidated financial statements; and demonstrate in individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by the unit.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Wei Lu

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

AFX9500

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course: 0748, 0790, 0826, 4402 or 3843 before undertaking this unit.

Prohibitions

AFF9601, AFX4601

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

Synopsis

This unit covers corporate finance concepts and theories at an introductory level. Students will be expected to be able to master basic calculations involving share and bond valuations, NPV and IRR, company cost of capital, etc. and to use them in determining whether investment projects should proceed as well as the value of companies. They will also expected to be able to interpret the results and to discuss basic issues and theories appropriate to an introductory level unit.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. explain the foundations of finance
2. apply pricing models to the valuation of equity and debt instruments in global markets
3. evaluate investment proposals using capital budgeting techniques
4. formulate capital structure and dividend policies consistent with firms' objectives
5. demonstrate effective individual technical skills to construct accounting records and financial statements for a unique business; and demonstrate in individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by the unit.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination: 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Maria Strydom

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

AFX9510 is recommended

Prohibitions

AFF9250, AFF9641, AFG9044, AFX9641

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

Synopsis

This unit aims to develop a student's understanding of the concepts and techniques of management accounting, and his/her skills in the use of management accounting techniques to communicate decision-useful information to management. The unit content includes costing terminology, cost classification, cost accumulation and recording systems, job and process costing, activity-based costing, cost-volume-profit analysis, information for decision making, pricing and product mix decisions, budgets and budgetary control, standard costing and variance analysis, traditional measures of performance, contemporary approaches to measuring and managing performance. Seminars are used to guide participants towards proficiency in management and cost accounting principles and techniques.

Outcomes

Our graduates will:

1. apply management accounting principles and techniques to service and manufacturing industry cases
2. compare, contrast and demonstrate various costing models
3. design budgets and explain the behavioural aspects of different budgeting styles
4. examine cost-volume-profit analyses, divisional performance evaluation measures and;
5. develop capabilities to work effectively in a group; and/or demonstrate effective individual research skills to solve management accounting problems and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX9550.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 20%
Examination: 80%

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Anna Stamatelatos

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

AFX9500

Prohibitions

AFF9611, AFG9072, AFX5611

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

Synopsis

This unit is one of the final core units in the Master of Professional Accounting, and builds on knowledge and skills gained in earlier units in financial accounting. One of its primary purposes is to introduce students to theories currently being used to assist in understanding the role of financial accounting and reporting in the decision making process of both preparers and users of information. These theories include positive accounting theory, capital markets and systems theories. It also addresses how regulation might influence the production of accounting information.

The unit addresses a number of contemporary accounting topics, from both a practical and theoretical perspective. These include intangible assets, social and environmental reporting, financial instruments and foreign currency transactions.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. apply a range of theories of accounting to explain financial accounting and reporting practices and appreciate the judgments, estimations and assumptions influencing accounting numbers
2. critically assess and appreciate changing influences in standard setting; the compliance regime in capital markets and impacts of regulatory requirements on financial reporting practices
3. assess the role of financial accounting in sustainable development and corporate social and environmental performance reporting
4. analyse a range of financial reporting issues, including intangible assets, financial instruments and foreign currency transactions, from both a practical and theoretical perspective; and demonstrate effective individual research skills to produce professional quality business documents to solve financial accounting problems; and demonstrate in individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by this unit.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination: 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Janto Haman (Semester one)
Dr Michaela Rankin (Semester two)

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

AFX9500

Co-requisites

AFX9530

Prohibitions

AFF9631, AFG9040, AFX5631

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

Synopsis

Topics include nature and objectives of auditing; auditing standards; audit reporting; audit expectation gap and legal liability; professional ethics and quality control; audit evidence; audit planning, strategic business risk analysis, materiality, analytical review procedures and audit risk model; study and evaluation of internal control and model; assessing control risk CIS audit techniques, test of transactions and tests of balances, completing the audit and post audit responsibilities; internal auditing and performance auditing, other assurance services and current issues in auditing.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. explain the role, limitations and demand for audits in modern corporate society including the auditor's professional, ethical and legal obligations
2. explain the auditor's role in corporate governance with particular emphasis on the detection and reporting of fraud and error
3. develop an understanding of the assurance framework and the key evidence gathering procedures used by auditors when planning, assessing the risks of material misstatements, carrying out substantive tests and analytical procedures, completing the audit, and forming an audit opinion
4. develop an ability to work independently and to lead and participate in teams from diverse cultural and social backgrounds by setting both independent and group assessable tasks
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills to individual and / or group activities dealing with auditing and assurance and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX9570.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 35%
Examination: 65%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Michael De Martinis

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

AFX9530

Prohibitions

AFG9041, AFX5621

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

Synopsis

The objective of this unit is two-fold. Initially the unit focuses on effective design and auditing of spreadsheet models, types and uses of models, and the benefits and limitations of models for use as decision support tools; various models are developed using an industry standard spreadsheet. Methods such as exploring data variations within financial models, optimisation models, probabilistic and forecasting models are covered; and emphasis placed on hypothesis testing, descriptive statistics, frequency and probability distributions, and simple linear regression and correlation. Having provided practical information analysis tools, the unit proceeds to the theoretical analysis of accounting information and the role technology plays in gathering, storing and managing accounting information. The unit provides an introduction to accounting information systems; business processes; enterprise systems; and internal controls.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. demonstrate a working facility with spreadsheet software by formulating well formed computer-based financial models suitable for use by management and decision makers
2. analyse data produced by models via statistical and quantitative analysis to arrive at rational optimal decision outcomes in business planning, forecasting and management
3. examine the role of integrated accounting information systems in analysing and providing decision support to financial activities of a company
4. analyse the issues involved in the use of computerised accounting information systems and financial models
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills to individual and / or group activities dealing with accounting information and systems modelling and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by AFX9580.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Red Ceglowski

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

AFX9500

Prohibitions

AFX9520, AFX9521 and GCO8019

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

Synopsis

This unit provides an introduction to terminology, concepts and techniques used in accounting and finance. Important areas to be discussed include understanding financial statements, basic analysis of financial statements, working capital management, the framework of capital budgeting, and time value of money. International issues in accounting will also be examined. The emphasis will be on decision making and value creation in a global environment.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop an understanding of the nature and roles of accounting and finance in managing in a global environment
2. explore the process of value management in a global world
3. develop competencies and computational skills required to prepare and evaluate the strategies and tactics associated with value creation
4. develop an appreciation for the relevance of theory and its linkage with practice
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills to individual and/or group activities dealing with principles of accounting and finance and demonstrate in an individual summative assessment task the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered in the unit.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination: 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Robert Terpstra

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

This unit is used by the Faculty to enrol students undertaking outbound exchange studies at a host institution. Students will not be able to enrol in this unit via WES. The faculty will manage the enrolment of students undertaking an outbound exchange program to ensure fees and credit are processed accurately.

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

Synopsis

This unit is used by the Faculty to enrol students undertaking outbound exchange studies at a host institution. Students will not be able to enrol in this unit via WES. The faculty will manage the enrolment of students undertaking an outbound exchange program to ensure fees and credit are processed accurately.

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

Synopsis

This unit is used by the Faculty to enrol students undertaking outbound exchange studies at a host institution. Students will not be able to enrol in this unit via WES. The faculty will manage the enrolment of students undertaking an outbound exchange program to ensure fees and credit are processed accurately.

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

Synopsis

This unit is used by the Faculty to enrol students undertaking outbound exchange studies at a host institution. Students will not be able to enrol in this unit via WES. The faculty will manage the enrolment of students undertaking an outbound exchange program to ensure fees and credit are processed accurately.

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

Synopsis

This unit is used by the Faculty to enrol students undertaking outbound exchange studies at a host institution. Students will not be able to enrol in this unit via WES. The faculty will manage the enrolment of students undertaking an outbound exchange program to ensure fees and credit are processed accurately.

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

Synopsis

This unit is used by the Faculty to enrol students undertaking outbound exchange studies at a host institution. Students will not be able to enrol in this unit via WES. The faculty will manage the enrolment of students undertaking an outbound exchange program to ensure fees and credit are processed accurately.

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

Synopsis

This unit is used by the Faculty to enrol students undertaking outbound exchange studies at a host institution. Students will not be able to enrol in this unit via WES. The faculty will manage the enrolment of students undertaking an outbound exchange program to ensure fees and credit are processed accurately.

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

Synopsis

This unit is used by the Faculty to enrol students undertaking outbound exchange studies at a host institution. Students will not be able to enrol in this unit via WES. The faculty will manage the enrolment of students undertaking an outbound exchange program to ensure fees and credit are processed accurately.

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

Synopsis

This unit is used by the Faculty to enrol students undertaking outbound exchange studies at a host institution. Students will not be able to enrol in this unit via WES. The faculty will manage the enrolment of students undertaking an outbound exchange program to ensure fees and credit are processed accurately.

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

Synopsis

This unit is used by the Faculty to enrol students undertaking outbound exchange studies at a host institution. Students will not be able to enrol in this unit via WES. The faculty will manage the enrolment of students undertaking an outbound exchange program to ensure fees and credit are processed accurately.

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

Synopsis

This unit is used by the Faculty to enrol students undertaking outbound exchange studies at a host institution. Students will not be able to enrol in this unit via WES. The faculty will manage the enrolment of students undertaking an outbound exchange program to ensure fees and credit are processed accurately.

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

Synopsis

This unit is used by the Faculty to enrol students undertaking outbound exchange studies at a host institution. Students will not be able to enrol in this unit via WES. The faculty will manage the enrolment of students undertaking an outbound exchange program to ensure fees and credit are processed accurately.

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

Synopsis

This unit aims to develop students' understanding of qualitative research, with specific focus on qualitative research philosophy, qualitative research design and qualitative research methods. This unit explores topics such as: paradigmatic approaches to research; research design; negotiation of access to research sites/participants; researcher ethics; methods of qualitative data collection such as observation, interviews, focus groups and non-intrusive data collection; methods of data analysis; issues of qualitative research validity; and qualitative writing.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr David Watson

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

An in-depth introduction to quantitative research methods. This subject is one of two that together supply the research methodology skills and knowledge necessary for students to complete an independent research project at the honours level. It provides a comprehensive coverage of quantitative research methodologies. Topics include: survey studies/correlational field studies; forms of regression; analysis of variances; discriminant analysis; factor analysis; non-parametric statistics.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination (3 hours): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Mrs Jo-Ann Larkins

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

ETW2111, ETX2111, ETX2121

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

Synopsis

Under the guidance of an academic supervisor, this subject allows a student to independently gain in-depth discipline knowledge in a selected area of business and commerce as a foundation to the completion of an honours project. The student will complete a prescribed list of readings, undertake further independent literature studies, and complete other learning activities and assessments considered appropriate for the selected field of study.

Assessment

Assessment will be through a combination of assignments, examinations, and written reports appropriate to the selected area of study and associated activities.

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Alan Lawton

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

Under the guidance of an academic supervisor, this subject allows a student to independently gain in-depth discipline knowledge in a selected area of business and commerce as a foundation to the completion of an honours research project. The student will complete a prescribed list of readings, undertake further independent literature studies, and complete other learning activities and assessments considered appropriate for the selected field of study.

Assessment

Assignments, examinations and written reports appropriate to the selected area of study and associated activities

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Alan Lawton

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in course 3169 to undertake this unit

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

Synopsis

Students work under the guidance of a supervisor to plan, carry out, and report on an original research project that addresses a significant issues in business; this research project is likely to have substantial practical outcomes or implications; as well, it is hoped that students and supervisors will publish the work in an appropriate journal.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Alan Lawton

Prerequisites

BEW4000

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

Synopsis

This unit considers the quantitative research methods used in studying business, management and organisational analysis. Topics to be covered include: research design including experimental designs studies; data collection including designing data collection instruments, sampling strategies and assessing the appropriateness of archival data for a research purpose; data analysis including graphical and numerical techniques for the exploration of large data sets; communication of quantitative research; and the use of statistical software packages such as SPSS in research.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. acquire the necessary quantitative skills to conduct high quality independent research related to business administration
2. acquire a comprehensive grounding in a number of quantitative methods of data production and analysis
3. consider and evaluate data collection instruments, sampling strategies and the appropriateness of archival data for a research purpose
4. assess research design including experimental designs, observational studies, case studies, longitudinal analysis and cross-sectional analysis
5. conduct quantitative data analysis of a suitable multivariate data set through a practical research activity.

Assessment

Within sememster assessement: 100%

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

BEX5010 and students must be enrolled in course 4408 Master of Philosophy before undertaking this unit.

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

Synopsis

This unit provides students with an understanding of the issues underlying the conducting of rigorous and theoretically correct and practically relevant qualitative business related research. Students will be introduced to ways of using different research methods within qualitative research, such as case study research, interviewing, naturalistic observation and text analysis.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. acquire the necessary skills to conduct high quality independent qualitative research related to business administration
2. acquire a comprehensive grounding in a number of qualitative research methods applicable in different business environments
3. understand how to collect qualitative data using a variety of research techniques
4. design probability and non-probability samples for conducting qualitative research
5. analyse and evaluate qualitative data.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

BEX5000 and Students must be enrolled in course code 4408 Master of Philosophy before undertaking this unit.

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

Synopsis

Students will prepare a research proposal in a discipline area approved by the course coordinator. Students will, with the assistance of a research mentor, select a research topic and prepare a proposal for their MPhil thesis consisting of a literature review, theory and hypothesis development, an outline of the research methods to be applied and the data requirements.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. acquire knowledge of the planning phases of a research project including topic selection
2. prepare a literature review relating to the topic that demonstrates a breadth of reading and an analysis of the academic papers in terms of both progressive development of theories and, where existing, conflict of views
3. develop research questions and/or hypotheses for the study, which flow from the literature review
4. identify and discuss the methodology to be employed for the testing of the research questions and/or hypotheses including the data requirements, types of data collection
5. apply critical thinking, problem solving and presentation skills in individual and/or group activities dealing with research methods.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must have achieved an average mark of 70 (D) in BEX5000 and BEX5010 before undertaking this unit.

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course 4408 Master of Philosophy .

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

Synopsis

The unit focuses on advanced quantitative research methods used in studying accounting, business, finance, management, marketing, and organisational analysis. Topics to be covered include analytic techniques used for experimental, quasi-experimental, and non experimental research designs. The unit focuses on topics include multivariate techniques which deal with cross-sectional, panel, and time-series data. For example, topics include various multivariate ANOVA techniques, regression procedures, discrete choice models, factor analysis, cluster analysis, structural and simultaneous equation modelling, and time-series analysis techniques. Computer sessions will provide students with the opportunity to apply their classroom learning to various business and management cases.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

• Develop the necessary quantitative skills to conduct high quality independent research relevant to their discipline
• Develop a comprehensive grounding in a number of quantitative methods of data production and analysis
• Consider and evaluate data collection instruments, sampling strategies and the appropriateness of various types of data for research purposes
• Assess research designs including experimental design, observational studies, case studies, longitudinal analysis and cross-sectional analysis
• Conduct quantitative data analysis of a suitable multivariate data set through a practical research activity
• Develop good communication skills by presenting a defense and/or critique of different methodological positions and perspectives.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Francis In

Contact hours

36 hours per semester (split-block mode) of formal class contact.

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Doctor of Philosophy
Master of Philosophy

Prerequisites

0029 or 3194

Co-requisites

BEX6300

Prohibitions

DBA6000

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

Synopsis

The unit will provide HDR students with the requisite knowledge and skills in qualitative research methodology to enable them to design and execute a PhD research project. The unit will review and explain various qualitative research methods with the aim of critically evaluating the paradigmatic underpinnings of, for example, interpretivist, phenomenological and postmodern theories as they pertain to research design and the collection and analysis of data. Topics to be covered include data gathering techniques such as interviews, content analysis, fieldwork and observation and analysis procedures such as constant comparative analysis. The unit will also provide students with the opportunity to report findings through written and oral presentation.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

• acquire skills to design qualitative research studies
• acquire skills to conduct high quality independent qualitative research
• consider and evaluate data collection instruments, and sampling strategies for a qualitative research purpose
• assess research design across a range of qualitative research strategies
• conduct a qualitative research project and report in an appropriate discursive style.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Jan Brace-Govan

Contact hours

36 hours per semester (split-block mode) of formal class contact.

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Doctor of Philosophy
Master of Philosophy

Prerequisites

0029 or 3194

Co-requisites

BEX6300

Prohibitions

DBA6010

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

Synopsis

This unit discusses the fundamental epistemological premises on which HDR research may be developed. It explores ways of formulating research question(s) and hypotheses, and identifies assumptions and theories that are relevant in the development of a conceptual framework for research. The topics discussed will cover principles of the scientific method, key epistemological perspectives in the social sciences (e.g. positivism, interpretivism, social constructivism, hermeneutics, functionalism, critical theory) and argument analysis (e.g. avoiding fallacies in scientific reasoning, evaluating and constructing sound arguments). These discussions will clarify the theoretical and practical underpinnings of research design, inform subsequent analyses of how to select different research methods (qualitative, quantitative, mixed), and illustrate key issues associated with main argument development in a HDR thesis. Finally, the unit will examine ways of presenting a compelling theoretical and practical case for the epistemological significance of a HDR project, and examine how this approach could increase the likelihood of successful publication of research results.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

• enhance awareness of the multiple epistemological and ontological perspectives that underpin research at HDR level
• increase understanding of the principles involved in producing sound complex arguments as required in writing a HDR thesis
• consider and evaluate research papers presented in the research seminar series
• evaluate the literature, philosophical traditions, methods and problems associated with several topics
• apply knowledge of ontological, epistemological, methodological and procedural assumptions to the preparation of papers that demonstrate an advanced understanding of the assumptions, methodology, techniques and results of research.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Julie Wolfram Cox

Contact hours

36 hours per semester (split-block mode) of formal class contact.

Prerequisites

0029 or 3194

Co-requisites

BEX6100 or BEX6200

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

Synopsis

Topics include taxation of investments, application of the CGT regime to dealings with investments and investment returns including CGT assets, CGT events, calculation of net capital gains, application of the CGT regime to trusts, companies, shareholders, partnerships, and international aspects of the CGT regime.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. explain the nature and scope of the principles that govern the taxation of investment returns;
2. explain the nature and scope of the catial gains tax regime;
3. explain the process of characterisation of gains as gains on revenue, or capital account;
4. analyse a wide range of dealings with assets and investments and their taxation consequences, including the calculation of any taxation liability.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination (take-home): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Jonathan Teoh

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

BTX9651

Prohibitions

BTF4230

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

Synopsis

This unit provides a detailed analysis of the taxation of employees and contractors in Australia. Topics include: employer/employee relationship, independent contractors, PAYG collection system, payroll tax and other levies, employee deductions, fringe benefits, superannuation, share schemes and remuneration planning.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. explain the taxation implications of income received by employees and independent contractors in the workplace
2. describe the administrative aspects of the income tax system
3. explain the tax implications of superannuation and employee share schemes provided by employers
4. calculate the tax position of employees and independent contractors in the workplace who receive fringe benefits and other types of remuneration.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination (take-home): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Ken Devos

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

BTX9651

Prohibitions

BTF4240

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

Synopsis

This unit examines the operation of anti-avoidance rules such as Part IVA, dividend and trust stripping rules, capital and dividend streaming rules and taxation issues that relate to and arise from business taxation planning including the use of various business entities and managing the timing and character of receipts and payment.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. examine tax planning principles and methods including uses of alternative business structures and managing receipts and payments
2. explain the concepts and principles (both statutory and common law) employed to deal with tax avoidance
3. explain the risks associated with the potential application of the general and specific anti avoidance rules.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination (take-home): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Rick Krever

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

BTX9651 or equivalent

Prohibitions

BTF4250

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

Synopsis

This unit provides a detailed analysis of the various taxes that impact business transactions.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are:

1. understand the constitutional and tax policy principles underlying business transactions taxes in Australia
2. develop a sound knowledge of the statutory and case law as well as administrative rulings of the Australian Taxation Office and State Revenue Office that relate to these taxes, particularly the Goods and Services Tax (GST)
3. apply the relevant principles to a range of specific business transactions involving liability for GST and other indirect taxes
4. conduct relevant research of possible new developments in the law relating to GST and other indirect taxes.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination (take-home): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Anthony van der Westhuysen

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

BTX9651

Prohibitions

BTF4290, BTC4335, BTC3350

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

Synopsis

Topics include the Corporations Law scheme; the role and functions of the Australian Securities and Investments Commission; the concept of limited liability; the effect of registration; the corporate constitution; the company's relationship with outsiders; share and loan capital; regulation of public fund raising; duties of directors, officers and promoters; rights of members and minority shareholder protection; forms of corporate insolvency administrations, particularly as they affect creditors, officers and shareholders; trusts, trustees, beneficiaries and third parties.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify the important elements in the internal regulation of companies and how they may be used
2. explain the nature of trusts, they way they operate and the rights and obligations of people involved in or dealing with trusts
3. analyse hypothetical case studies and formulate a legal argument by the application of statute and case law
4. critically evaluate the effectiveness of aspects of corporate law in the context of the changing needs of the community.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination (3 hours): 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Ashraf Kazi

Prerequisites

BTG9270

Prohibitions

BTX9541

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

Synopsis

This subject provides an introduction to Australian taxation law and practice. Topics include: Australian tax jurisdictional issues, assessable income from personal exertion, property and business, capital gains tax and fringe benefits tax, exempt income, deductions, both general and specific, accounting for trading stock, taxation of partnership, company and trust income, GST and tax avoidance and evasion.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. describe the constitutional and administrative framework in which the federal taxation system operates
2. describe fundamental tax concepts, such as the concepts of income, capital, deductible expenses, residence of the taxpayer, source of income and derivation of income
3. critically analyse the fundamental distinctions between
   1. receipts of income and capital and
   2. deductible and non deductible outgoings
4. describe the special treatment given to different types of taxpayers, such as companies, trusts, partnerships and non-residents
5. analyse (and apply) legislative provisions and court decisions relating to taxation matters.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination (open-book): 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Ashraf Kazi

Prerequisites

BTG9270

Prohibitions

BTX9651

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

Synopsis

Topics include introduction to the common law and legislation which controls the management of staff; instruction in the law affecting pre-contractual considerations for employment contracts, anti-discrimination law, selection, recruitment and termination of staff; workplace health and safety; industrial relations commissions and other legal fora, union relationships, industrial action; tortious liability of management; suspension and stand down.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. extend their knowledge and comprehension of the legal framework governing workplace relations in Australia
2. evaluate the principles underlying employment laws and assess the law's impact on the employment relationship
3. demonstrate a working knowledge of employment law issues through the application of legal principles to a range of hypothetical scenarios
4. identify and analyse current issues involving legal regulation of the workplace.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination (3 hours): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Anne O'Rourke

Prohibitions

BTX5060, BTX9060

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

Synopsis

Aspects of the legal environment that affects financial decisions, transactions and relationships. Topics covered are chosen from the laws regulating the financing implications of different forms of business organisation; financial institutions; cheques, banking and the banker-customer relationship; electronic funds transfer; other negotiable instruments; the laws regulating business finances and security; consumer credit; guarantees; bankruptcy and insolvency law, and debt recovery.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. examine the core legal principles underlying the banker customer contract
2. discuss the legal nature and uses of cheques
3. define the legal issues in taking security for a loan with reference to mortgages and company charges
4. examine key aspects of corporate and personal insolvency and its consequences
5. evaluate and apply this knowledge to real world, practical examples.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Prohibitions

BTC4320, BTC3200

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

Synopsis

An introduction to the legal environment of business. Topics selected from contract law, negligence law, partnership law and trade practices law.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. examine and describe the structure of the Australian legal system
2. identify, and examine the following topics: law of negligence, with particular emphasis on the law of negligent misstatement; relevant legislation such as the Trade Practices Act, Fair Trading Act and the Goods Act; the law of contract, with particular emphasis on the formation and contents of contracts, matters affecting the validity of a contract, and remedies for breach of contract; the law of agency and partnerships
3. develop effective problem solving skills, with particular emphasis on identifying and analysing legal issues; explaining and applying relevant legal rules, cases, legislation and principles to given factual situations
4. develop effective communication skills, with particular emphasis on the ability to articulate a sound argument
5. develop a capacity for critical thought and analysis.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination (3 hours): 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr James Roffee

Prohibitions

BTX9020, MBA9002

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

Synopsis

This unit discusses the fundamental theoretical premises that can frame legal and regulatory research. It explores ways of formulating research question(s) and hypotheses, and identifies assumptions and theories that are relevant in the development of a conceptual framework for research. The topics discussed will cover principles of legal and social scientific methods, such as relational theory, comparative law, regulatory theory, social constructivism, systems theory and critical legal theory). Stress will be placed on developing argument analysis (e.g. avoiding fallacies in reasoning, evaluating and constructing sound arguments). These discussions will clarify the theoretical and practical underpinnings of research design, inform subsequent analyses of how to select different research methods (qualitative, quantitative, mixed), and illustrate key issues associated with the main arguments development in research work. The unit will also examine ways of presenting a compelling theoretical and practical case for legal and regulatory research. Finally, students will prepare a research proposal and report.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. enhance students' awareness of the core theoretical and methodological perspectives that underpin research about law and regulation at the honours level
2. increase students' understanding of the principles involved in producing sound complex arguments as required in writing an approved research project
3. consider and evaluate material presented in the research and methodology seminar series
4. apply theoretical and methodological knowledge in the preparation of a research proposal for a research project.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Brendan Sweeney

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course BBus(Hons) (Taxation) to undertake this unit

Prohibitions

BTF4900

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

Synopsis

This unit provides students with an appreciation of best corporate governance practices from a global perspective. It considers the reasons for the interest in corporate governance and compares and contrasts the various international corporate governance systems and best practice models; roles and functions of the board of directors, board committees and the board's relationship with management are explored from both a legal and management perspective; empirical studies of the relationship between corporate governance and corporate performance, and the role and legal duties of directors in takeover and insolvency contexts. Corporate governance issues in Asia are also analysed.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. describe the theories upon which corporate governance models are based, including the legal, economics and management perspectives of these theories
2. evaluate the various international corporate governance systems and best practice models
3. define the roles and functions of the board of directors and the board's relationship with management, shareholders and other stakeholders
4. analyse the way in which corporate law, historical factors and economic institutions affect corporate governance
5. critically analyse various aspects of corporate governance best practice.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 60%
Open book examination (2 hours): 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Abe Herzberg

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

MGX5320

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

Synopsis

This unit will examine the laws of intellectual property being copyright patents, trade marks, circuit layouts and plant breeders rights from the international treaties to the national implementation of these laws in Hong Kong, China, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, European Union. The interrelation of the laws and the regions and their effects on the implementation of the remedies will also be effected.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify and analyse theories and international treaties protecting intellectual property
2. compare and contrast the intellectual property protection between the countries examined in this course
3. identify and analyse the international harmonisation of legal protection of creativity, inventions, and biological material by intellectual property laws
4. analyse, evaluate and apply the intellectual property laws to a business and industry situation
5. critically evaluate a self-selected contemporary issue in intellectual property and write a research paper on that topic.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination 50%.

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Paul Sugden

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTX9120

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

Synopsis

This unit provides an understanding of insurance law and related areas applicable to risk and insurance managers in Australia including the nature of insurance contracts, the duty of disclosure, utmost good faith, remedies and claims, intermediaries, industry regulation, tort reform and professional standards legislation with particular consideration of directors and officers liability cover.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify and explain the key legal principles affecting corporate insurance programs in Australia with particular focus upon the Insurance Contracts Act 1984 (Cth)
2. identify and explain the regulatory framework for supervision of the Australian insurance industry
3. apply the principles of insurance law to a range of current issues affecting corporate insurance programs with a particular focus upon directors and officers liability cover.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Wayne Gumley

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must have passed BTX9020 or BTX9500 or equivalent studies in business law before undertaking this unit.

Prohibitions

BTX4031

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

Synopsis

The unit aims to develop knowledge and understanding of the concept of CSR from a legal perspective. Topics include the legal and regulatory environment of corporations, the concept and definition of stakeholders, the application of CSR to specific stakeholder cohorts including employees, creditors, tort victims, consumers and the environment, and the enforceability of stakeholder claims.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify and apply the various sources of CSR legislation and regulation
2. explain the policy considerations behind CSR
3. analyse the concept of a corporate stakeholder and the theoretical justifications for their protection
4. identify and understand the legal issues concerning CSR protection of selected cohorts of stakeholders, including employees, creditors, tort victims, consumers and the environment
5. identify and analyse the legislative and practical constraints in enforcing CSR protection for corporate stakeholders.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination (3 hours): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Paula Darvas

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

Trade and investment regimes affecting enterprises operating in the Asian region. International and regional trade conventions. Business and investment laws of selected Asian nations. Topics covered include national development planning; the political context of international trade and investment; import/export regulation; foreign investment regimes, corporate governance, prudential regulation in East Asia and dispute resolution.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. define and describe the history and current operation of regional trade and investment agreements in Asia
2. describe and demonstrate an understanding of the historical, economic and political context of national legal systems in selected Asian jurisdictions (Malaysia, Indonesia, China and Hong Kong)
3. identify and describe the operation of the institutions responsible for the administration of commercial laws in selection Asian jurisdictions
4. have used accepted legal research methodology to examine in detail their choice from a number of specialised topics related to commercial law in one or more Asian jurisdictions
5. identify, analyse and propose possible resolutions to legal issues arising from the conduct of business activities in one or more selected Asian jurisdictions.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 60%
Examination (take-home): 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Kerstin Steiner

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

The unit aims to develop knowledge and skills, and an understanding of the relationship between the common law, statute law and awards and agreements. In this regard, the unit introduces students to the central tenets of the contract of employment including the formation of the contract, breach of contract and wrongful dismissal, confidentiality, restrictive covenants, employee/independent contractor issues and discrimination law.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify a wide range of legal issues affecting the employment relationship, with a particular focus on the contract of employment
2. illustrate the practical implications of employment law by identifying emerging issues in the media, the workplace and the case law
3. apply the legal principles from relevant cases to hypothetical scenarios
4. evaluate the principles underlying employment laws and assess the law's impact on the employment relationship.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination (take-home): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Christopher Arup

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTX9060, BTG9241

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

Synopsis

The unit aims to develop knowledge and skills, and an understanding of the collective aspects of the employment relationship, with a focus on the federal jurisdiction and the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth). The unit examines the development of Australian labour law and includes consideration of the constitutional framework, modern awards, the role of Fair Work Australia and other regulatory bodies, enterprise bargaining and good faith bargaining, the regulation of industrial action, and unfair dismissal protections.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify a wide range of legal concepts and issues affecting collective labour relations
2. apply the legal principles from relevant cases to hypothetical scenarios
3. assess the role and impact of the law on workplace relations
4. evaluate the competing aims and purposes of labour law.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination (take-home): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Anthony Forsyth

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTX9070

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

Synopsis

Issues included in the unit are theories and concepts concerning bargaining and dispute resolution, including alternative dispute resolution; the legal framework within which workplace bargaining and dispute resolution take place; examination of relevant case studies and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify the theoretical and conceptual underpinnings of various approaches to workplace negotiation, bargaining and dispute resolution
2. identify the various contexts in which workplace negotiation, bargaining and dispute resolution occur
3. assess the behavioural styles and other factors (eg: gender) that influence the ways that different parties engage in workplace negotiation, bargaining and dispute resolution
4. practically apply the relevant legal rules and bargaining techniques to hypothetical workplace negotiation, bargaining or dispute resolution scenarios.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Anthony Forsyth

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

MGX5080

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

Synopsis

This unit examines the laws governing not for profit organisations including corporations law, Incorporated Associations Acts, tax law, trusts and the roles of various regulators. It also explores various techniques of good governance -- going beyond legal compliance -- including board procedure, reporting, stakeholder engagement and accountability.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. have a sound understanding of the existing regulatory framework for not for profit organisations, including associations, corporate, trust and tax laws, and how this framework both differs from and overlaps with business organisations
2. have a good understanding of the role and diversity of the not for profit sector in the Australian economy
3. have an appreciation of the unique governance challenges facing directors and managers of NFP organisations given the range of stakeholders and volunteers
4. have a good understanding of the regulatory challenges for this diverse sector, including the policy elements of a regulatory environment which might be conducive to an accountable and healthy not for profit sector
5. appreciate the variety of techniques of good governance -- going beyond legal compliance -- including board procedure, reporting, stakeholder engagement and accountability.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 20%
Take home examination or Research paper: 80%

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Shelley Marshall

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

This unit provides students with an understanding of the range of regulatory responses to environmental degradation and natural resource depletion, with a particular emphasis upon the role of corporations.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify and analyse the range of regulatory responses to environmental degradation and natural resource depletion
2. identify and analyse the role of corporations under various regulatory strategies, with particular emphasis upon market based strategies.
3. identify and analyse the relative effectiveness of particular regulatory strategies using suitable corporate case studies.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 60%
Examination (2 hours): 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Wayne Gumley

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTX4100

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

Synopsis

The unit examines the principles of international law governing the legal relations between international states or other international legal persons. To this end a study will be made of the sources of international law and the relationship of international and municipal law. Specifically, the course will outline the principles relating to territory, personality, state responsibility, recognition, jurisdiction, air, space and sea law, dispute settlement and the law of treaties.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. define and describe the distinctive nature of international law and some of its basic doctrines and subject areas
2. identify the sources of international law, and explain the principles which govern the use of those sources
3. describe the structures and institutions of international law, and be able to use the vocabulary of international law
4. analyse the increasing impact of international law on Australian domestic law, as well as on the domestic legal systems of other states
5. demonstrate a capacity to conduct research on, and to critically analyse, a specific aspect of public international law

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination (take-home): 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Alice de Jonge

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

Banking Law examines aspects of the legal environment affecting the bank-customer relationship and financial decisions, including: types of accounts; consumer banking and the bank-customer relationship; negotiable instruments including cheques and bills of exchange; EFT and electronic banking; current issues in banking law; the laws regulating business finance, security and consumer credit, mortgages, company charges, personal property security, guarantees; bankruptcy, and insolvency law.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. describe and examine the key elements of the banker customer relationship, including consumer banking and responsible lending practices
2. critically analyse the main features and uses of negotiable instruments such as cheques, Bills of Exchange and letters of credit
3. examine electronic banking, EFT's and the EFT code, the use of credit cards and describe the structure of the payments system in Australia
4. define the legal issues in taking security for a loan with reference to mortgages, and personal property security
5. examine key aspects of corporate and personal insolvency and its consequences
6. evaluate key current developments within the banking system in Australia based on knowledge gained within the course, and evaluate and apply this knowledge to real world, practical examples.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination (3 hours, open-book): 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Rhett Martin

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTX4001, BTX9380

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

Synopsis

This subject examines business law in practice, imparting:

1. negotiation techniques, applying contract law
2. legal risk management techniques, applying the law of negligence, statutory consumer law protections and occupational health and safety
3. choosing the most appropriate business form and complying with requirements, applying corporations law, the law of partnerships, agency and sole traders.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. to introduce a business-focused approach to the law which allows students to develop skills in:
• assessing the legal risks faced by the business
• avoid those legal risks and
• going beyond mere legal compliance by developing sound processes
2. to develop strong practical negotiating skills so as to assist students to:
• negotiate what they need for their business
• create strong relationships
• limit liabilities
3. to introduce the idea of business entities so as to assist students in:
• choosing the most appropriate legal form
• understanding the benefits and problems with each legal form
• registering, changing forms and winding up
• developing good corporate governance.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 60%
Examination (2 hours): 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Kerstin Steiner

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in Master of Business Law or Master of Business (Science and Technology) to undertake this unit.

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

Synopsis

The unit aims to develop an understanding of the legal frameworks regulating marketing activities, including competition law, the regulation of marketing communication, channel strategies and the fundamentals of intellectual property principles.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify, analyse and apply laws designed to protect consumers
2. identify, analyse and apply intellectual property principles and apply these to the development, marketing and protection of products, knowledge and ideas.
3. identify, analyse and apply the laws regulating a range of competition practices.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: 50%

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTX9150

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

Synopsis

The unit will introduce students to the theories about the globalization of law. Using a series of cases studies it aims to show how global laws are adopted and reinterpreted in key domestic legal systems in Asia. The unit will also demonstrate the local constraints on the globalization of law and offer reasons why legal and regulatory systems in Asian are not necessarily converging with those in the West.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop an understanding of the historical, economic and political context of domestic legal systems in selected Asian countries (China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan)
2. acquire in depth knowledge and a critical interest in the interaction between global regulation and domestic regulation in developing countries in Asia
3. gain a greater insight into the role of global regulation in the Asia Pacific region;
4. critically apply acquired analytical legal skills to a research project of the students choice
5. develop general legal research and academic skills, and
6. develop presentation skills, both verbal and written, involving the communication of abstract ideas.

Assessment

Within Semester Assessment: 60%
Examination (take home): 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor John Gillespie

Contact hours

Intensive -block unit, 39 hours contact hours per semester.

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

Synopsis

This unit provides a detailed study of the theoretical perspectives of business law and regulation in China. Some of the specific topics of the unit include business organizations in China, company law, securities law, fund management law, contract law, copyright law, and bankruptcy law. This unit will provide students with broad policy perspectives on these topics in a nutshell and practical guidance on compliance issues concerning Chinese business law and regulation when doing business in China.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. comprehend business culture and underlying principles of business law and regulation in China
2. develop good understanding of cultural, political and social factors in shaping business regulation in China
3. acquire knowledge of specific substantive areas of Chinese business law.
4. critically analyse key issues of Chinese business law and the manner in which law regulates commercial activities in China
5. evaluate broad policy perspectives on the issues studied, informed by comparative approach in legal analysis
6. improve student research, writing and presentation skills through an extended opportunity to write and present research assignments in a chosen topic or area by the students.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination (2 hours): 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Chenxia Shi

Contact hours

DAY/EVENING: 3 hours of class contact per week.
BLOCK MODE: 39 hours of classes spread over 6 days.

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

Synopsis

A study of some of the laws regulating securities and financial markets from the policy perspective of what they are trying to achieve. The unit opens with the economic, legal and constitutional framework. Topics include the role of the market regulator; what is a 'security'; aspects of securities regulation legislation; relevant trade practices law; licensing; computerisation; internationalisation.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. define the purposes and scope of the regulation of financial markets
2. analyse the economic, legal and constitutional framework of financial services
3. critically evaluate the regulation roles of securities commissions and stock exchanges
4. evaluate the impact of competition law, computerisation and internationalisation on the financial services sectors.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination (2.5 hours): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Paul Latimer

Contact hours

One 2.5 hour session per week

Prohibitions

BTX4180

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

Synopsis

Topics include law of international trade, including rights and duties in international sales transactions; legal regimes governing contracts for carriage of goods internationally; distribution agreements; legal aspects of financing international trade; shipping documents, documentary collections and letter of credit; marine and aviation insurance; international dispute resolution.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

• define the purpose and scope of the international legal framework in which trade between nations takes place
• re able to recognise and understand the form and nature of documents used in international trade including contracts of sale, shipping documentation, invoices, insurance policies, bills of exchange, documentary collections and letters of credit
• be able to identify and understand legal issues in an international trade context
• be able to apply the laws relating to international contracts of sale, international carriage of goods and finance of international trade in a variety of situations
• be able to write a coherent piece of advice discussing the legal issues arising in an international trade dispute.

Assessment

Within semester assessment 30%
Examination (3.5 hours) 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Alice De Jonge (First semester)
Dr Jadranka Petrovic (Second semester)

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTX9190, LAW7028, LAW7209

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

Synopsis

This unit analyses current international issues impacting employment law and the challenges faced by businesses with a global workforce. With a comparative focus on Malaysia, these include expatriate employment contracts; restrictive covenants; implementation of global codes of conduct via corporate social responsibility initiatives; reorganization of business and redundancy; outsourcing; performance management and alternative dispute resolution options for workplace issues. Examples from various jurisdictions and international organizations will be used to facilitate an appreciation of the tensions between nation State dynamics and international norms.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. describe the role of international norms in employment law
2. explain expatriate contracts in employment law i.e. contracts of service & independent contractors, restraints of trade and trade secrets
3. discuss managerial prerogatives of reorganization and outsourcing
4. evaluate the consequences of disciplinary action and the role of mediation
5. discuss the role of corporate social responsibility at the workplace.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Vanitha Karean

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

BTX9190

Prohibitions

BTG9241, BTX5060 and BTX9060

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

Synopsis

This unit introduces the law of companies, and examines areas of topical interest in greater detail. Topics include: the role and functions of the Australian Securities and Investments Commission; the concepts of the company as a separate legal entity and limited liability; the corporate veil; the corporate constitution; the company's relationship with outsiders; the board of directors; duties of directors and officers; rights of members and minority shareholder protection; share capital and dividends; forms of corporate insolvency administrations: receiverships, voluntary administration and liquidations.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify the important elements in the regulation of companies and how they may be applied
2. understand the important features and characteristics of companies as a form of business organisation
3. analyse hypothetical case studies involving corporate law issues and formulate a legal argument by the application of statute and case law
4. develop critical research skills
5. critically evaluate the effectiveness of aspects of corporate law in the context of the changing needs of the community
6. develop written and verbal presentation skills

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination: (3 hours) 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Phillip Lipton

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must have passed one of the following: BTF2220, BTC2210, BTG2220, BTW2220 or BTX9541 before undertaking this unit.

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

Synopsis

This unit requires students to formulate a research topic on a business law related area of study and complete an approximately 8,000 word research project. Seminars will be conducted at which students will present progress and final reports on their research projects. The seminars will also include practical research and academic skills sessions.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. enable students to apply acquired analytical legal skills to a research project of their choice
2. acquire in depth knowledge and a critical interest in a business law area
3. demonstrate legal research and presentation skills and the ability to critically analyse legal issues have been acquired
4. develop and further build upon general legal research and academic skills
5. further build upon presentation skills, both verbal and written, involving the communication of abstract ideas.

Assessment

Research project (8,000 words): 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Rick Krever (semester 1)
Professor Paul Von Nessen (semester 2)

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

It is recommended that this unit be undertaken in the last semester of study for the Master of Business Law.

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

Synopsis

The unit aims to develop knowledge and skills relating to the legal principles which underpin contemporary human resource management issues. It includes consideration of such matters as recruitment and selection, contract of employment issues, performance appraisal, equal opportunity and anti-discrimination, termination of employment, remuneration, rewards and employee benefits, employee health and safety and related HRM issues. The unit takes a practical approach to these matters and focuses specifically on practical case studies and decisions of the Courts and Tribunals.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify a wide range of legal issues affecting the human resources practitioner
2. illustrate the practical implications of the law in the area of human resources management by identifying emerging issues in the media, the workplace and the case law
3. apply the legal principles from relevant cases to hypothetical scenarios involving human resources management issues
4. evaluate the principles underlying employment laws and assess the law's impact on the employment relationship.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination (take-home): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Carolyn Sutherland

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTX9841

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

Synopsis

Under supervision students are expected to undertake and report on an original research project that addresses a significant issue (or issues) in business law; this research proposal is likely to have substantial practical outcomes or implications; as well, it is hoped that students and supervisors will publish the work in an appropriate peer-refereed journal.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. enable students to apply acquired analytical legal skills to a research project
2. acquire in depth knowledge and a critical interest in a business law area
3. demonstrate legal research and presentation skills and the ability to critically analyse legal issues have been acquired
4. demonstrate general legal research and academic skills
5. demonstrate presentation skills, both verbal and written, involving the communication of abstract ideas.

Assessment

Major research project (12,000 - 15,000): 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Phillip Lipton

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in course 3159 to undertake this unit

Prohibitions

BTF5900

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

Synopsis

An introduction to the legal environment of business. Topics selected from contract law, negligence law, agency, partnership law and trade practices law.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. examine and describe the structure of the Australian legal system
2. identify, and examine the following topics: law of negligence, with particular emphasis on the law of negligent misstatement; relevant legislation such as the Trade Practices Act, Fair Trading Act and the Goods Act; the law of contract, with particular emphasis on the formation and contents of contracts, matters affecting the validity of a contract, and remedies for breach of contract; the law of agency and partnerships
3. develop effective problem solving skills, with particular emphasis on identifying and analysing legal issues; explaining and applying relevant legal rules, cases, legislation and principles to given factual situations
4. develop effective communication skills, with particular emphasis on the ability to articulate a sound argument
5. develop a capacity for critical thought and analysis, in particular to critically evaluate a self-selected contemporary law reform proposal or current development in business law.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr. Andrew Coleman

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTG9270, MBA9002

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

Synopsis

This unit examines business law in practice, including:

1. negotiation techniques, applying contract law
2. legal risk management techniques, applying the law of negligence, statutory consumer law protections and occupational health and safety
3. choosing the most appropriate business form and complying with requirements, applying corporations law, the law of partnerships, agency and sole traders.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. use a business-focused approach to the law to develop skills in:
• assessing the legal risks faced by the business
• avoiding those legal risks
• going beyond mere legal compliance by developing sound processes
2. develop strong practical negotiating skills to assist students to:
• negotiate what they need for their business
• create strong relationships
• limit liabilities
3. develop an understanding of business entities to be able to critically:
• determine the most appropriate legal form
• understand the benefits and problems with each legal form
• develop good corporate governance.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 60%
Examination (2 hours): 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Kerstin Steiner

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTG9270, BTX9020, MBA9002, BTX5140

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

Synopsis

The unit explores how decisions can be made in global commerce that go beyond complying with the law and integrate best practice in business ethics and corporate responsibility. This unit develops knowledge of the legal and regulatory context of global business operations and a range of skills for responsibly meeting international regulatory obligations. The unit applies the Principles of Responsible Business Management Education which aim to develop the capabilities of students to be future generators of sustainable value for business and society at large and to work for an inclusive and sustainable global economy. Relevant skills include strategies to reduce short and long term risks and enhance relationships with contractors, suppliers, shareholders, the environment and the communities businesses operate within. Based on problem-based learning, the unit focuses on risk assessment, due diligence, stakeholder engagement, negotiation techniques and alternative dispute resolution processes with particular a focus on observing environment, human rights and international trade laws.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are:

1. to examine and apply a business-focused approach to complying with global business regulation so as to facilitate skill development in:
• assessing the legal risks faced by the business in relation to international business regulation
• determining the best legal entity for conducting international business transactions
• assessing the extent of the business's responsibility for the actions of subsidiaries, suppliers and associated business entities
• employing international due diligence processes with a focus on stakeholder engagement
• resolving ethical dilemmas in international business operations.
2. to develop a sound practical understanding of international Alternative Dispute Resolution processes so as to:
• overcome problems with limits to national court jurisdictions when conducting international commerce
• develop skills in negotiation, mediation and constructive problem solving when conflict arises with another business entity.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 60%
Examination (2 hours): 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Rick Krever

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

The unit aims to develop knowledge and skills, and an understanding of the relationship between the common law, statute law and awards and agreements. In this regard, the unit introduces students to the central tenets of the contract of employment including the formation of the contract, breach of contract and wrongful dismissal, confidentiality, restrictive covenants, employee/independent contractor issues and discrimination law.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify a wide range of legal issues affecting the employment relationship, with a particular focus on the contract of employment
2. illustrate the practical implications of employment law by identifying emerging issues in the media, the workplace and the case law
3. apply the legal principles from relevant cases to hypothetical scenarios

4. evaluate the principles underlying employment laws and assess the law's impact on the employment relationship.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination (take-home): 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Christopher Arup

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTG9241, BTX5060

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

Synopsis

The unit aims to develop knowledge and skills, and an understanding of the collective aspects of the employment relationship, with a focus on the federal jurisdiction and the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth). The unit examines the development of Australian labour law and includes consideration of the constitutional framework, modern awards, the role of Fair Work Australia and other regulatory bodies, enterprise bargaining and good faith bargaining, the regulation of industrial action, and unfair dismissal protections.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify a wide range of legal concepts and issues affecting collective labour relations
2. apply the legal principles from relevant cases to hypothetical scenarios
3. assess the role and impact of the law on workplace relations
4. evaluate the competing aims and purposes of labour law.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination (take-home): 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Anthony Forsyth

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTX5070

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

Synopsis

This unit assists students to understand the regulatory framework supporting a transition to ecologically sustainable development in Australia, including an introduction to the Australian legal system and the role of international law, key principles of common law and relevant statutory schemes for protection of biodiversity, and regulation of pollution, urban and regional planning, environmental impact assessment and regulatory responses to climate change.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify and understand the regulatory framework supporting a transition to ecologically sustainable development in Australia
2. indentify and analyse the application of the principles of ecologically sustainable at common law and under statutory regimes; and
3. understand the environmental responsibilities of industry and business managers in local and global transactions.

Assessment

Within Semester Assessment: 60%
Examination: 40% (either 2 hours, or a take home paper).

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Wayne Gumley

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

This unit will examine the laws of intellectual property being copyright patents, trade marks, circuit layouts and plant breeders rights from the international treaties to the national implementation of these laws in Hong Kong, China, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, European Union. The interrelation of the laws and the regions and their effects on the implementation of the remedies will also be effected.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify and analyse theories and international treaties protecting intellectual property
2. compare and contrast the intellectual property protection between the countries examined in this course
3. identify and analyse the international harmonisation of legal protection of creativity, inventions, and biological material by intellectual property laws
4. analyse, evaluate and apply the intellectual property laws to a business and industry situation
5. critically evaluate a self-selected contemporary issue in intellectual property and write a research paper on that topic.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 25%
Examination (3 hours, open-book): 75%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Paul Sugden

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

Topics include law of international trade, including rights and duties in international sales transactions; legal regimes governing contracts for carriage of goods internationally; distribution agreements; legal aspects of financing international trade; shipping documents, documentary collections and letters of credit; marine and aviation insurance; international dispute resolution.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. define the purpose and scope of the international legal framework in which trade between nations takes place
2. recognise and understand the form and nature of documents used in international trade including contracts of sale, shipping documentation, invoices, insurance policies, bills of exchange, documentary collections and letters of credit
3. identify and understand legal issues in an international trade context
4. apply the laws relating to international contracts of sale, international carriage of goods and finance of international trade in a variety of situations
5. write a coherent piece of advice discussing the legal issues arising in an international trade dispute.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 50%
Examination (3 hours): 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Alice De Jonge (First semester)
Dr Jadranka Petrovic (Second semester)

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTX5190, LAW7028, LAW7209

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

Synopsis

Topics include legal background to financial systems; banker and customer; negotiable instruments, guarantees, capacity and authority to borrow and grant security; lending on the security of land; lending on the security of goods; company securities; insolvency.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. define the main legal structures of the Australian banking system
2. critically analyse the main legal characteristics of cheques, bills of exchange and promissory notes and their uses
3. explain the law in respect to securities, including mortgages, company charges and guarantees
4. assess the modern Australian payment system with specific reference to electronic payments and credit cards
5. assess the modern regime for corporate and personal insolvency and its legal consequences.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination (3 hours): 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Rhett Martin

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTX4001, BTX5131

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

Synopsis

This unit provides an introduction to the important areas of business law and corporations law. The topics include contract law, negligence, trade practices legislation, agency, characteristics of a company, directors' duties, share capital, members' remedies and corporate insolvency.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify the important elements in business law and the regulation of companies and how they may be applied
2. identify the important features and characteristics of companies as a form of business organisation
3. analyse hypothetical case studies and formulate a legal argument by the application of statute and case law; and
4. demonstrate in individual summative assessment tasks the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by this unit.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination (3 hours): 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Phillip Lipton

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must be enrolled in course code 0790 or 0826

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in one of the following courses: 0748, 0790, 0826, 3843, 3849, 4402 to undertake this unit.

Prohibitions

BTX9020, BTX9541, MBA9002

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

Synopsis

Topics include the Corporations Act scheme; the role and functions of the Australian Securities and Investments Commission; the concept of limited liability; the effect of registration; the corporate constitution; the company's relationship with outsiders; share capital; regulation of public fund raising; duties of directors, officers and promoters; rights of members and minority shareholder protection; forms of corporate insolvency administrations, particularly as they affect creditors, officers and shareholders; trusts, trustees, beneficiaries and third parties.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify the important elements in the regulation of companies and how they may be used
2. analyse hypothetical case studies and formulate a legal argument by the application of statute and case law
3. critically evaluate the effectiveness of aspects of corporate law in the context of the changing needs of the community.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Phillip Lipton

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

BTX9020 or MBA9002, or equivalent

Prohibitions

BTG9220

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

Synopsis

The unit covers the concepts of income taxation and the taxation of capital gains in their underlying historical, social and constitutional contexts. It includes discussion and learning of the policy and constitutional matrices of taxation, the legal definition of income, taxation of income from personal services and business, taxation of fringe benefits, indirect taxation of goods and services, taxation of capital gains, taxation of companies and allowable deductions from gross income in personal and business contexts.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify and explain the administrative framework within which the federal taxation system operates
2. calculate income tax and goods and services tax liabilities
3. identify and analyse fundamental tax concepts such as the distinction between income and capital
4. apply legislative provisions and judicial principles to practical taxation problems and provide supporting evaluations through the application of statutory and case law principles.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination (3 hours, closed-book): 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Toan Le (First semester and Summer semester)
Mr Jonathan Teoh (Second semester)

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

Students must have passed one unit from the following: BTX9020, BTX9500 or MBA9002 before undertaking this unit. Students enrolled in Master of Business Law have no prerequisite.

Co-requisites

Students enrolled in Master of Business Law must undertake BTX5140.

Prohibitions

BTG9270

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

Synopsis

This unit considers the nature of legal risk and their importance in modern business operations, with particular consideration of the common law and statutory obligations faced by employers, corporate directors and business managers, particularly with respect to occupational health and safety risks, corporate governance and environmental obligations and including consideration of litigation and other formal procedures for dispute resolution.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify the major sources of legal risk faced by business managers
2. identify and apply the various legal principles that may impose liability upon business owners and managers, across a range of areas that may include: the law of business entities, contract and tort, workplace law, banking and lending law, directors duties, environmental law and corporate social responsibility
3. recommend and explain appropriate strategies to minimise the legal risks identified above.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 60%
Examination (2 hours, open-book): 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Rhett Martin

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTF9760

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

Synopsis

The unit aims to develop knowledge and skills relating to the legal principles which underpin contemporary human resource management issues. It includes consideration of such matters as recruitment and selection, contract of employment issues, performance appraisal, equal opportunity and anti-discrimination, termination of employment, remuneration, rewards and employee benefits, employee health and safety and related HRM issues. The unit takes a practical approach to these matters and focuses specifically on practical case studies and decisions of the Courts and Tribunals.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. identify a wide range of legal issues affecting the human resources practitioner
2. illustrate the practical implications of the law in the area of human resources management by identifying emerging issues in the media, the workplace and the case law
3. apply the legal principles from relevant cases to hypothetical scenarios involving human resources management issues
4. evaluate the principles underlying employment laws and assess the law's impact on the employment relationship.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination (take-home): 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Carolyn Sutherland

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

BTX5841

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

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course code 3186 to undertake this unit.

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

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. review and evaluate critically the literature in a candidate's domain of research in business administration, OR
2. research a topic chosen by the candidate and supervisor, AND
3. submit a report on the candidate's research.

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course code 3186 to undertake this unit.

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

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. develop, design and implement a research methodology to conduct a research study
2. analyse and evaluate data or information collected using the methodology
3. explore the implications of the study for theory and practice, OR
4. research a topic chosen by the candidate and supervisor, AND
5. submit a report on the candidate's research.

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course code 3186 to undertake this unit.

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

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. interact in a semi-structured environment in order to test research ideas through seminar presentations on a candidate's research proposal and progress
2. contribute to the development and improvement of co-candidates' research phases through interactive class discussions.

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course code 3186 to undertake this unit.

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

Synopsis

This unit looks at a number of current issues in business, in order to provide a broader perspective than might be achieved by narrow specialisation in either particular units or research reports. Current issues have been selected for their topicality, appropriateness and mix of theory and practice.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. explore in-depth current issues in business administration
2. consider how current issues contribute to competitive advantage
3. engage in the debate over issues which are often intractable and determine how these affect business now or in the future
4. examine the literature in-depth to assist in better understanding management roles.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

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

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. carry out independent research critically and analytically at an advanced level
2. present a candidate's research in the form of a research portfolio capable of being examined externally
3. make a significant contribution to the knowledge and understanding of the discipline.

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course code 3186 to undertake this unit.

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

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. acquire an advanced understanding of a wide range of qualitative research methods applicable in different business environments
2. collect qualitative data using a variety of research techniques
3. design probability and non-probability samples for conducting qualitative research
4. analyse and evaluate qualitative data
5. design research proposals that are business useful, relevant, practical and integrated with the business environment.

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course code 3186 to undertake this unit.

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

Synopsis

Topics include consumer preference theory; choice; demand; technology; profit maximisation and duality; competitive general equilibrium in the context of decreasing, increasing and constant returns; two-part tariffs; expected utility; adverse selection; and moral hazard.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. upgrade their analytical skill for intermediate microeconomics
2. appreciate and have a basic understanding of the key ideas of advanced microeconomic theory
3. gain first hand experience in the application of microeconomic principles to the analysis of a range of economic issues
4. gain the microeconomic techniques to undertake successfully other fourth year units and some fifth year units taught by the Department.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination (3 hours): 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Hee-Seung Yang

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

ECX5465

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

Synopsis

Contemporary macroeconomics and recent policy debates, including market clearing and long-run equilibrium; classical dichotomy; money in the global economy; aggregate demand and price rigidity, microfoundations of macroeconomics, disequilibrium models; stock-flow interactions; wealth effects; rational expectations; policy ineffectiveness and Ricardian equivalence; money and credit; exchange rate regimes; new Keynesian macroeconomics; comovements of macro variables and macroeconomic forecasting.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. be aware of major recent developments in the field of macroeconomics
2. have a basic understanding of the concepts and techniques of macroeconomic forecasting using an applied general equilibrium (AGE) model
3. be aware of the major developments in the field of macroeconomics in the last ten years
4. be familiar with different macroeconomic models used for policy making and their points of emphasis
5. be able to make judicious policy predictions and undertake independent research studies in the unit.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination (3 hours): 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Pedro Gomis

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

ECX5466

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

Synopsis

Characteristics and experience of developing countries; theories of economic growth and development; domestic and external sources of financial and human resources for development; the roles of international trade, investment, technology manufacturing and government in the development process.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. be familiar with the distinctive environmental, technical and social characteristics of developing countries
2. understand the processes of structural change and social change which occur during development
3. recognise the importance of institutions, technological change, and international trade, aid, and investment for the development process
4. have skills necessary for the critical appraisal of theories of economic development.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination (3 hours): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Paulo Santos

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

ECC3670

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

Synopsis

Topics include the gains and costs of trading internationally; static and dynamic welfare effects of protection; the political economy of international trade policy; optimum policies in the presence of market power, uncertainty, and other market imperfections; trade policy instruments; strategies for trade liberalisation including regional trade agreements.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. be able to analyse the effects of international trade on real income and its distribution in various market structures
2. have a sound understanding of the allocation and welfare effects of commercial policies
3. possess the skills necessary to evaluate critically contemporary innovations in Australia's trade policies.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination (3 hours): 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Christis Tombazos

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

ECC4650 and ECC3690

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

Synopsis

Outline of the Australian and overseas approaches to competition policy; the economic background to the Trade Practices Act; market definition issues; evaluation of restrictive trade practices and mergers or alliances; structural reform of industries, access and monopoly regulation.

Outcomes

The learning objectives of this unit are to:

1. be able to understand and analyse critically the economic reasons for government intervention to reduce the adverse effects of restrictive trade practices;
2. have an understanding of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (and its predecessor, the Trade Practices Commission);
3. be able to evaluate recent decisions from the perspectives of an economist, lawyer, policy-maker and business manager.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination (3 hours): 70%

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prohibitions

ECX5470

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

Synopsis

Topics include Keynes' aggregate demand and supply analysis and critique of automatic adjustment in the economy; the significance of an endogenous money supply for inflation; credit, speculation and financial instability; the national saving debate; investment and income distribution; the Phillips Curve and hysteresis.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. be familiar with the Post Keynesian framework of the economy, which draws on the work of J M Keynes and M Kalecki
2. have a clear understanding of how the framework can be used to analyse a number of policy issues in Australia, including monetary policy, the roles of investment and saving, government budgetary strategies and income policies
3. be able to critically analyse the framework through written work.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination (3 hours): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Michael White

Contact hours

3 hours per week

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

Synopsis

The unit applies the method of economics to the analysis of the law itself - to the structure of the common law, legal processes, legal institutions and statutory regulation, and to the impact of law on the behaviour of individuals and groups and the functioning of the economy. Topics include: is there a role for law and economics in studying the law, economics of crime and capital punishment, punitive damages, interest group theories of judicial independence and the determinants of judicial influence and prestige.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. understand the two-way interrelationships between law and economics
2. evaluate the key role of laws in setting the institutional framework in which economic decisions are taken and to critically evaluate current and proposed laws as determinants of economic performance
3. critically assess the responses of households and business enterprises to current and alternative laws.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 30%
Examination (3 hours): 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Peter Forsyth (First semester)
Professor Russell Smyth (Second semester)

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Co-requisites

Students must be enrolled in course code 0181, 0024 or 0171 to undertake this unit

Prohibitions

ECX5472

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

Synopsis

Theories of hedging and speculation; determination of spot and futures prices, and intertemporal allocation; market efficiency; expectations, including adaptive expectations and rational expectations.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. have an understanding of how to think about the trade-off between risk and return
2. have the ability to read literature in financial economics.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Stephen Miller

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

ECC4650 or ECX5465

Prohibitions

ECX5475

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

Synopsis

Topics include development and application of microeconomic theory for the economic evaluation of (public) sector investment projects and policies; investment analysis and criteria, discounting techniques; Pareto potential improvement criterion, shadow pricing, social discount rates, distribution issues, secondary benefits, risk and uncertainty, cost-effectiveness.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. apply the analytical framework, economic principles and techniques required for the economic evaluation of investment projects, policies and regulations, especially those involving the public sector
2. appreciate the welfare economic foundations upon which economic evaluation is based
3. design studies to estimate benefits and costs, in the presence of market distortions (eg controls, taxes and externalities), and for non-marketed goods (for example, time, noise, safety).

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination (3 hours): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Peter Forsyth

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

ECC4650 or equivalent

Prohibitions

ECX5479

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

Synopsis

Models of decision making in the collective setting, utilising a number of tools, some of which will be familiar microeconomic ones. Economic approaches to collective decision environments, including 'new welfare economics', the 'Chicago' and 'Virginia' schools. Whenever possible, Australian policies will be examined in light of theory.

Outcomes

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

1. understand the issues and analysis of collective decisions
2. become more discriminating observers of the political and policy environment
3. be able to review market failures and consider the potential for solving these failures in the collective or political setting
4. be able to examine problems of free-riding, incentives to vote, interest group influence, bureaucratic behaviour and constitutional frameworks
5. understand the economist's role in the process of formulating public policy.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 100%

Chief examiner(s)