Property Law
Overview
This unit enables students, through the study of cases, statutes and other materials, to acquire a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of, and competence in, Australian property law. This unit introduces students to the interests in real and personal property recognised by law, including their acquisition and disposition. As well as examining the concept of ‘property’ itself, the unit considers the distinction between personal and real property, and between ownership and possession. It also deals with the recognition of native title and aspects of environmental law.
Requisites
75 credit points in Law units
01-June-2025
08-June-2025
08-February-2026
Learning outcomes
Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:
- Describe and evaluate Australian property law and related policy debates and reform proposals
- Locate and interpret legislation and case law applicable to property law
- Apply property law to factual situations and effectively formulate written arguments for a legal audience
- Conduct research to solve problems related to Australian Property Law and communicate the results of that research
Teaching methods
Hawthorn
| Type | Hours per week | Number of weeks | Total (number of hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-campus Class | 3.00 | 12 weeks | 36 |
| Online Lecture | 1.00 | 12 weeks | 12 |
| Unspecified Activities Independent Learning | 8.50 | 12 weeks | 102 |
| TOTAL | 150 |
Swinburne Online
| Type | Hours per week | Number of weeks | Total (number of hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Directed Online Learning and Independent Learning | 11.50 | 12 weeks | 138 |
| Live Online Class | 1.00 | 12 weeks | 12 |
| TOTAL | 150 |
Assessment
| Type | Task | Weighting | ULO's |
|---|---|---|---|
| Examination | Individual | 50 - 70% | 1,2,3 |
| Experiential Learning Exercises | Individual | 15 - 25% | 1,2,3,4 |
| Research Assignment | Individual | 15 - 25% | 1,2,3,4 |
Content
- The nature, purposes and sources of property
- Personal and real property interests
- Possession, and ownership in real and personal property
- Tenure
- Adverse possession
- Legal and equitable interests in property
- Fixtures
- Native title
- Property and the environment
Study resources
Reading materials
A list of reading materials and/or required textbooks will be available in the Unit Outline on Canvas.