Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description
This unit is designed to equip students with a working knowledge of the different facets of workplace relations law in Western Australia and Australia more broadly. This unit provides a practical understanding of employment law, industrial and workplace relations law and occupational health and safety with a main focus on the application of the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) (Fair Work Act) in Western Australia. The unit is based upon one ongoing factual scenario where a client has asked for advice on different aspects of their business so that it can clearly demonstrate to students how these issues practically arise on a day-to-day basis.
Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2024UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes
Students are able to (1) demonstrate an advanced critical understanding of (a) the key principles for the engagement of employees under the Fair Work Act and the common law; (b) the rights and duties of employees and employers during workplace investigations and performance management; (c) the key principles in relation to discrimination, unfair dismissal and general protections; (d) the process by which employers, employees and industrial organisations bargain for an enterprise agreement; and (e) occupational health and safety in the workplace; (2) identify, develop and critique (a) the strategic options available for employers to engage a workforce in the federal system; and (b) the role of industrial action during bargaining and the limits placed on it by the Fair Work Act; (3) critically read and evaluate workplace relations and safety law problems and provide a practical and commercial solution in advice form by demonstrating (a) interpretation and application of fundamental and relevant legal principles and reasoning; and (b) analyse and apply relevant cases and secondary materials; (4) provide strategic and thoughtful application of legal principles in both written and oral formats; and (5) contribute in a meaningful manner to class discussions in both tutorials and lectures.
Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) class participation; (2) unfair dismissal assessment; and (3) take-home assessment. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Courtney Fiddian, Lauren Fysh and Joanna Vincent
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
20810 Doctor of Juridical Science
Incompatibility
Enrolment in
LAWS5298 Human Capital
Contact hours
3 hours per week
Note
Due to the interactive nature of this unit it will not be recorded.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.