Construction Law

Unit code: NBC3005 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Online Real Time
Prerequisites
N/A
Overview
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Overview

Construction law is an important field of legal expertise that deals with the intricacies of building and infrastructure projects. This unit offers an introduction to the Australian legal system and an examination of the common law and statutory frameworks that regulate the construction industry. It delves into the liabilities and responsibilities of the principal parties involved in construction contracts, as well as the various methods of project delivery and the strategies for mitigating risks. Additionally, the unit addresses techniques for avoiding, managing, and resolving disputes within the construction sector. Through this comprehensive overview, students will gain a deep understanding of the legal landscape that shapes construction projects in Australia.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Interpret relevant legal information in Australian databases;
  2. Apply contract practices, procurement procedures and standard forms of contracts for building and infrastructure projects;
  3. Critically analyse the relationships, liabilities and responsibilities of key parties in construction contracts;
  4. Assess legal risks related to construction processes and devise associated risk mitigation measures; and
  5. Critically evaluate different types of dispute avoidance, as well as management and resolution mechanisms.

Study as a single unit

This unit can be studied on its own, without enrolling in a full degree.

Learn more about single units of study at VU

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Assignment
|
Grade: 20%
Key stakeholders roles, responsibilities and relationships (Individual)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 20%
Two online quizzes on procurement procedures and standard forms of contracts (Individual)
Assessment type: Case Study
|
Grade: 40%
Construction law scenario (Group)
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 20%
Presentation (Group)

The case study and presentation include an evaluation of the contributions made by each member of the team to facilitate the assessment of students' achievement of learning outcomes.

Required reading

A comprehensive set of notes will be available, which will contain further references and reading material. Students will also be directed to journal articles for supplementary reading as they become relevant and available.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Construction Management (Honours)
NHCM | Bachelor honours degree | Duration: 4 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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