Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On completion of this subject students should (1) have extended their basic understanding of Australian federal constitutional principles; (2) have acquired an appreciation of contemporary issues relating to the constitutional system; (3) be able to evaluate critically the role and functioning of the High Court in contemporary Australian society; and (4) have developed a greater appreciation of the complex task of constitutional interpretation, with particular emphasis on fundamental doctrines.
Synopsis This subject canvasses a number of fundamental constitutional doctrines and also issues of contemporary significance. The subject will deal with the characterisation of Commonwealth laws, the doctrine in the Communist Party case (`The stream cannot rise above its source'), the notion of implied rights, the methods, techniques and attitudes of the High Court, a bill of rights and an Australian republic.
Assessment Written research assignment (5000 words): 50% + Final examination (2 hours): 50%