Course overview
This course introduces students to the evolving role of tort law in addressing the complex challenges of the 21st century, including its limited role in achieving social justice. Torts introduces students to the law in relation to civil wrongs, and the rights and remedies available to people who are affected by the actions of a tortfeasor. The course will provide students with a foundational overview of the law of torts, focussing on the tort of negligence and a representative range of other torts such as trespass and defamation. Students will engage in case reading and basic interpretation and application of legislation to consolidate these legal principles. This course will introduce students to, and allow them to develop, the important skill of legal problem solving, where the law is applied to hypothetical problem situations to provide an answer which is reasoned and justified in law. This replicates what lawyers do in practice and prepares students to think critically about the role of tort law in advancing justice in the 21st century. Torts is a compulsory course which addresses the mandatory requirements for Torts for accreditation purposes while also providing students with a forward-looking perspective on the field and its potential application to emerging issues in the 21st century. By the end of the course, students will have developed a solid foundation in tort law principles, as well as an understanding of how these principles can be adapted and applied to address contemporary challenges.
- Intentional Torts
- The Tort Of Negligence
- The Tort Of Defamation
Course learning outcomes
- Identify tortious conduct in a hypothetical situation
- Explain the law of torts according to authoritative sources, including cases and legislation
- Apply the law to hypothetical scenarios to determine rights and liabilities
- Construct legal argument through written communication
Fee calculator
To display course fees, please select your status and program below:
Study Abroad student tuition fees are available here.
Only some Postgraduate Coursework programs are available as Commonwealth Supported. Please check your program for specific fee information.
If you are studying in a Professional Pathway Psychology, Clinical Psychology or Social Work program, please refer to the Student Contributions amounts published here.
The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.