Law, Justice and Social Change (CRIM20010)

Law, Justice and Social Change considers the limits and potential of using law to pursue justice and achieve social change.  Through a series of case studies, we critically analyse some of the key goals of law reform (such as access to justice, rights and equality) as well as considering different understanding of justice and what constitutes a just outcome. We also focus on the importance of the process of law reform and having an awareness of its social, historical, cultural and political dynamics. We consider the central role of community organisations in advocating for social and legal change and engage with a range of campaign and inquiries.  

There is also a strong practical component to the subject – students choose a current law reform issue to consider in light of the issues discussed in the subject and interview a staff member from a community legal centre or government body involved in writing a report or submission that advocates for legal change. These organisations have in the past included the Human Rights Law Centre, Youthlaw, Victorian Council of Social Services, YACVic, Liberty Victoria, the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service, JobWatch, Berry Street, the Federation of Community Legal Centres and the Mental Health Legal Centre, amongst others.