76088 Discrimination and the Law

Description

This subject provides a comprehensive practical and theoretical overview of Australian discrimination law. Relevant federal and state anti-discrimination laws are explored, with a focus on sex, sexual harassment, disability and race, along with emerging issues and areas of reform. Students analyse legislation and key cases in each of these areas, developing crucial legal skills such as statutory interpretation and legal problem-solving, equipping them for professional practice. Students also learn about key procedures of discrimination law in practice, including complaints processes, conciliation and state tribunals.

Along with a solid grounding in discrimination law practice, students are required to consider anti-discrimination laws in their vibrant and constantly changing legal, political and social contexts. People's lived experiences of discrimination are incorporated through guest lectures and multimedia first-person narratives. Students think critically about the best ways to overcome social inequality and guarantee certain human rights protections through law and policy reform. They trace the emergence and reform over time of anti-discrimination laws, and consider ways in which social and public institutions, such as statutory authorities, non-government organisations and activism, might shape future reforms. Students are encouraged to examine current and emerging discrimination issues as they arise in the courts and media.