This course offers students a general introduction to the Australian legal system. A basic understanding of Australian business law is not only a fundamental requirement for those establishing a business but necessary for all of us who deal with businesses every day. This course combines both legal principles with everyday examples and encourages students to explore the practical effect of the laws relating to business. Emphasis will be on class discussion and debate.

We all enter into agreements everyday but when can we really enforce other peoples’ promises by going to court? When can someone escape from their obligation under contract? If you have accepted the risk of engaging in a dangerous sport can you still sue when something goes wrong? You may think badly about someone but can you tell others about your views even if they happen to be true? You may not be business owners but we are all consumers of goods and services; do we know when we can claim a refund when what we have bought doesn't work properly? Have you ever applied for a loan or credit card and then refused credit on the basis of a negative credit report? If you owe someone money or you are trying to recover money owed to you, what are your alternatives? What can you do if your company starts to fail? So much of your business will depend on being able to protect your idea, creation, invention, commercial advantage and reputation. You will find out about the many forms of intellectual property protection and how the fictitious beer, Duff Beer, of The Simpsons fame made the headlines in Australia and how Thorpedo won over Torpedoes brand.

None

A practical approach will be taken and no prior knowledge of any legal principle is required. Students will be provided with everyday examples of the application of the law on business. A major focus of the course is the demystification and simplification of the law and empowerment of students by providing information in a combination of lecture and tutorial style format, stimulating discussion by role play, team work and class debate.

Class attendance and class participation 10%
Team presentation (unwritten) 30%
Take home exam 60%

B Pentony, S. Graw, J. Lennard and D.Parker; Understanding Business Law Fourth edition, LexisNexis Butterworths

Printed notes: available from the UNSW bookshop

Refer to the course outline which will be provided by the lecturer at the beginning of the relevant semester.