LAW5372 - Principles of construction law - 2018

This unit will allow students to acquire knowledge and understanding of a specialist, and increasingly important, area of the law. The unit begins with a critical analysis of the different types of contracts and project delivery methods used by the Australian construction industry, ranging from traditional to alternative. Second, students explore the problem areas that can lead to conflicts during the course of construction projects and the resultant legal ramifications and insurance issues.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

Apply knowledge and understanding of the different types of contracts used on construction projects and the pros and cons of each with creativity and initiative to new situations in professional practice;

Investigate, analyse and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts and theories in relation to issues that impact on construction projects such as variations, land defects, delays and defective works and the legal ramifications of each;

Conduct research into the broad range of dispute avoidance and management options available and their relationship to judicial and arbitral processes based on knowledge of appropriate research principle and methods; and

Use cognitive, technical and creative skills to generate and evaluate at an abstract level complex ideas and concepts relevant to the various statutes and regulations governing the construction industry and issues relating to construction law.

Assignment (3,750 words): 50%

Take-home exam (3,750 words): 50%

24 contact hours per semester (either intensive, semi-intensive or semester long, depending on the Faculty resources, timetabling and requirements)