Event Management Law (LAWS70065)

Bidding for and managing major events have become a significant part of the sporting and cultural scene in Australia and internationally, attracting the interest of governments and major businesses. Australia, and Melbourne in particular, are recognised for their leadership in this growing segment of the entertainment industry, with Melbourne repeatedly winning the title of the world‘s ‘Ultimate Sports City‘. Most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant disruption to the staging of major events and particularly to international and national sporting competitions. This subject provides students with an applied approach to the legal aspects of staging major events from beginning to end, including an examination of the implications of the evolving COVID-19 crisis for events. The lecturer has worked in the industry and brings to the subject strong practical experience and expertise in sports law.

Principal topics will include the legal aspects of:

• Event ownership
• Event procurement, including bidding processes and government support
• Role of host organisations and promoters
• Commercial arrangements, including broadcasting, sponsorship, corporate hospitality and merchandising
• Venue hire
• Role of federal and state governments, including special-purpose legislation, policing and security, traffic and transport, public health, and business and tourism development programs
• Ticketing and accreditation, including sale and distribution methods, and terms and conditions
• Brand protection and anti-infringement strategies
• Risk and incident management.