733-213 Legal Studies:Environmental Law

Note

Credit Points

HECS Band

Coordinator

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

This subject familiarises students with the increasingly important and topical area of environmental law. Legal concepts necessary for studying the subject are introduced through an examination of the nature and sources of law. The approach of the common law to environmental issues is examined critically. The particular environmental objectives of the public land-use planning system are studied with particular attention to the rights of objection and appeal. The preservation of heritage and conservation of nature are also dealt with in a planning context. Pollution discharge licensing and appeals are also examined. International environmental commitments are also dealt with at relevant points. The complex interrelationships of these fields of law are traced in the integrated environmental legal problems and legal policy issues encountered in urban transport planning.

Assessment

A 2000 word assignment and a 2-hour examination.

Prescribed Texts

• Loorham et al, Introduction to Victoria's Key Environment and Planning Law. (2nd ed) Environment Defenders Office.
• Eccles and Bryant, Statutory Planning in Victoria. (2nd ed) Federation Press, 1999.
• G M Bates, Environmental Law in Australia. (5th ed) Butterworths.