Law, Justice and Social Change

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.

• 1Examine the ways in which law can be seen as both an instrument of positive social change and yet also a means of confirming existing social arrangements and resisting social change
• 2Explore theoretical perspectives on law, justice and the community
• 3Critically analyse a series of contemporary and historical case studies relating to access to justice, and social change
• 4Connect academic debates and frameworks with practice and practical case studies
• 5Be aware of the social, political, cultural and historical dynamics of law reform
• 6Work productively in groups.