BTC1110 · Commercial law

Overview

As the law affects all kinds of business activities, learning about the law as a non-lawyer is vital for everyone working in business. There are serious legal consequences for failing to comply with the law which in turn can impact upon business profitability and value. Understanding the law will enable you to appreciate how businesses are set up, to understand business risks, and to seize upon business opportunities, while also recognising when professional legal advice might be required. This unit covers essential topics in the Australian business world, including the Australian legal system, the law of contract, consumer protection, and the law of torts (including negligence as it affects business and as it applies to professionals). Privacy and data protection laws and the law of business organisations, including the law of agency, partnerships, and an introduction to company law, will also be covered.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. FIRST SEMESTER: explain the nature of the Australian legal system and its role in regulating business activity SECOND SEMESTER: explain foundational aspects and institutional arrangements of the Australian legal system and its role in regulating business activity
2. FIRST SEMESTER: understand key legal principles from contract law, consumer protection law, tort law, privacy and data protection law, and the law of business organisations, and the impact these principles have on business conduct SECOND SEMESTER: apply key areas of law, including contract law and tort law, to common business problems
3. FIRST SEMESTER: assess common legal scenarios arising in business and identify relevant legal principles to predict possible legal risks and outcomes SECOND SEMESTER: compare legal obligations and ethical considerations in the context of business decision-making and conduct
4. FIRST SEMESTER: demonstrate an understanding of legal reasoning and apply this skill set to solve legal problems and inform business decision-making and conduct SECOND SEMESTER: employ legal reasoning to communicate professionally on legal issues.
5. FIRST SEMESTER: recall business ethical obligations arising under the law relevant to business activity and conduct.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. You are expected to complete all pre-class activities prior to your scheduled class, and post-class activities should be completed after your scheduled class. Learning activities may include a combination of teacher directed, peer directed and online engagement activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.