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 provide students with an overview of the key legislative frameworks—planning law, land law and administrative law—that guide the Western Australian (WA) planning system. More specifically, the unit examines a range of issues including (1) the West Australian Planning and Development Act 2005; (2) Torrens land system; (3) land subdivision; (4) planning schemes; (5) the development approval process; (6) planning enforcement and approvals; and (7) administrative law as it relates to contracts, torts and insurance. These various legal contexts provide the foundations of professional planning practice.
Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2024UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate a general understanding of the broad planning law framework within WA, especially in relation to planning schemes, development control and subdivision matters; (2) demonstrate an understanding of the legal and planning administrative processes that underpin the formulation and assessment of planning schemes and their amendment as well as development and subdivision applications; and (3) undertake general planning administration duties as they relate to planning schemes, development assessment and/or subdivision applications when on professional planning practicum.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) three planning law quizzes (10 per cent each); (2) a seminar/discussion paper; and (3) an examination—multiple-choice and short answer questions. 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)
Dr Linda Robson
Unit rules
Incompatibility
EART4413 Principles of Land Development and Control
Contact hours
4 hours per week. The total workload for the unit is 150 hours.
Texts

Planning Law Handbook (purchase directly from Adjunct Prof. Denis McLeod)

  • 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.