LAW2221 Administrative Law

Requisites

Pre-requisite: LAW2211

Other Requisites

Students are required to have access to a personal computer, e-mail capabilities and Internet access to UConnect. Current details of computer requirements can be found at http://www.usq.edu.au/current-students/support/computing/hardware.

Synopsis

Government agencies and officials constantly make decisions that affect us. Administrative law is the body of law that defines the responsibilities of these decision-makers (ensuring amongst other things that powers are not exceeded and correct processes are followed). It also provides avenues of challenge for aggrieved persons and bodies.

Administrative law is the second major component of domestic 'public law' (the law governing the exercise of public power). Prior study in constitutional law focused principally on the validity of legislation. Administrative law generally assumes legislative validity and focuses on the validity and appropriateness of executive action taken under legislation (or under other powers) - especially insofar as that action affects the rights and interests of individuals.

The course first focuses on the principles and processes of `judicial review' including the `grounds' upon which such proceedings may be brought (and relevant questions of statutory interpretation), who may bring them, and what remedies may be obtained. The course then turns to the core non-judicial components of contemporary administrative law: `merits review', ombudsman investigation and freedom of information.

Course offers