LAW4196 - Consumer law - 2018

This Unit examines the legal regulation of the marketplace for consumer goods and services in Australia. The nature of the consumer marketplace is considered, and the ways in which Australian governments seek to protect the interests of consumers is examined. The Unit critically examines the theoretical and evidence-based foundations for consumer protection laws. Particular attention is given to the operation of the Australian Consumer Law regarding unfair contract terms, consumer guarantees, and manufacturer's liabilities. Attention is also given to the regulation of buying consumer goods and services on the Internet, the operation of the National Consumer Credit Protection Act, the regulation of retail investment advice, industry codes of conduct and resolving consumer disputes.

On completing the unit, students should be able to gain an understanding of:

1. the ways in which various sectors of the consumer marketplace are regulated
2. the regulatory and policy options available to regulators
3. theories, and any supporting empirical evidence, regarding the ways in which consumers and businesses respond to regulatory settings
4. the operation of relevant consumer protection laws and regulations in Australia.

Compulsory Research assignment (1,500 words): 30% and

End of semester take home exam (3,500 words): 70%;

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. The unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information