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 examines the fundamentals of construction law with an emphasis on their use in the context of petroleum and mining projects. Topics covered include the nature of resource project contracting arrangements and construction contracts, common terms in construction contracts, risk allocation in construction contracts, contract formation, common issues including liquidated damages, extensions of time, causation and procedural issues for claims, variations, indemnity and insurance provisions, liability for defects, warranties and indemnities. The unit examines these in the context of a construction project for a mine site, involving either a power station for the mine or a desalination plant. The workshop sessions involve participants familiarising themselves with a standard form of contract widely used in the resources industry in Australia.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2025UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) describe the fundamental principles of construction law; (2) explain the common terms of construction contracts; (3) apply those principles and terms in hypothetical case studies to demonstrate understanding of construction law; (4) critically analyse the application of those principles and terms in situations relevant to mining and petroleum projects; and (5) create clear, concise and persuasive legal arguments using correct and plain English both verbally and in writing.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) case study analysis and (2) 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)
Chris Ryder
Unit rules
Co-requisites
enrolment in
Master of Mining and Energy Laws (20550), Master of International Commercial Law (21510), Graduate Diploma in Mining and Energy Law (20370), Graduate Diploma in Law (20320), Master of Commercial and Resources Law (20560)
or Master of Laws (20500)
or Master of Architecture (25520)
Incompatibility
LAWS5208 Oil and Gas Project Development Law
Contact hours
This unit will run 25-27 September 2024. Please refer to the timetable website for session times and venues. Attendance at all sessions is mandatory.
  • 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.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • 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.