730-364 Communications Law

Legal Method and Reasoning; Principles of Public Law; Torts; Legal Theory; Obligations; Contracts or in each case their equivalents.

Communications Law introduces students to the regulatory framework governing broadcasting and telecommunications in Australia. It focuses on selected topics within three broad areas: broadcasting, telecommunications and the internet. The regulatory frameworks covering these areas are examined in light of the historical policy goals of regulation, legal approaches to freedom of speech, and key works in the extensive literature from media studies and related fields outside law. Example topics include:

• overview of broadcasting, telecommunications and internet industries;

• traditional justifications for electronic communications regulation and legal approaches to speech;

• other disciplinary approaches to communications industries, audiences and regulation;

• self-regulatory models for communications;

• media ownership and control;

• content regulation and classification schemes;

• public broadcasting;

• digital broadcasting;

• access to telecommunications; and

• internet communications regulation.

Note: The research essay in this subject is regarded as a substantial piece of legal writing for honours purposes.

Reflective essay 1000 words 10% (due mid semester) and final examination three hours 90% OR reflective essay 1000 words 10% (due mid semester) and research essay 5000 words 90% (due during the examination period).

Printed materials will be issued by the Faculty of Law.