This topic provides students with a working knowledge of those aspects of Australian constitutional law that flow from Australia's status as a federation, and those that govern relationships between the Commonwealth and the States. Areas to be covered include the separation of judicial power; the distribution of legislative power between the Commonwealth and the States; inter-governmental immunities; inconsistency of laws; fiscal federalism; and the procedure for altering the Commonwealth Constitution. Students in the topic will also consider the potential role and limitations of the Constitution in supporting and enhancing Australia's position in the international community. Comparative perspectives will be used to broaden students' understanding of Australian law and practice.
This topic aims to:
Timetable details for 2021 are no longer published.