Graduate Diploma in Natural Resources Law

Program Overview

The Graduate Diploma in Natural Resources Law from the University of Western Australia equips graduates with an in-depth understanding of the regulatory and commercial context of the natural resources sector. This program is designed for both law and non-law graduates, providing a foundation in legal principles and governance for those seeking employment in the mining, energy, or natural resources industry. Through a blend of core and optional units, students gain expertise in areas such as mining law, oil and gas law, environmental law, corporate governance, and construction contracts. Graduates may pursue careers in government agencies, resource companies, or the corporate energy sector.

Program Outline

Graduate Diploma in Natural Resources Law - University of Western Australia

Degree Overview:

This Graduate Diploma is designed for individuals seeking to expand their knowledge of the mining, energy, and natural resources sector or pursue a career in this highly regulated industry. It is suitable for both law and non-law graduates. The program aims to provide a strong understanding of the regulatory and commercial context of the natural resources sector, including mining and oil and gas law, corporate governance, environmental laws, climate change, human rights, commercial agreements, and construction contracts.

Outline:

The program consists of a core unit and a selection of option units.

Core Unit:

• LAWS5227 Foundations of Law and Governance (6 points): This unit is mandatory for all students except those with a recognized law degree.
It provides a foundation in legal principles and governance relevant to the natural resources sector.

Option Units (Group A):

Students choose units to the value of 18 points from the following:

• LAWS5111 Corporate Governance for Resources Companies (6 points): This unit explores the principles and practices of corporate governance in the context of resource companies.
• LAWS5114 International Environmental Law (6 points): This unit examines international legal frameworks and principles governing environmental protection.
• LAWS5208 Oil and Gas Project Development Law (6 points): This unit focuses on the legal aspects of oil and gas project development, including exploration, production, and transportation.
• LAWS5252 International Trade Financing (6 points): This unit explores the legal and practical aspects of international trade financing.
• LAWS5253 International Shipping Law (6 points): This unit examines the legal framework governing international shipping.
• LAWS5261 Planning Law (6 points): This unit explores the legal principles and practices of planning law, particularly in relation to natural resources development.
• LAWS5398 Construction Law (6 points): This unit examines the legal framework governing construction projects, including contracts and dispute resolution.
• LAWS5517 Mining Law (6 points): This unit examines the legal framework governing mining operations, including exploration, extraction, and environmental protection.
• LAWS5521 Climate Change Law and Emissions Trading (6 points): This unit explores the legal and policy responses to climate change, including emissions trading schemes.
• LAWS5532 Energy Agreements: Oil and Gas, Alternative Energy and Sustainability (6 points): This unit examines the legal framework governing energy agreements, including oil and gas, renewable energy, and sustainability.
• LAWS5540 Environmental Protection Law (6 points): This unit examines the legal framework governing environmental protection in Australia.
• LAWS5576 International Commercial Arbitration (6 points): This unit explores the principles and practices of international commercial arbitration.
• LAWS5589 Energy Regulation: Sustainable Oil and Gas and Alternative Energy Production (6 points): This unit examines the legal framework governing energy regulation, including sustainable oil and gas and renewable energy production.
• LAWS5590 Water Resources Law (6 points): This unit examines the legal framework governing water resources management.

Teaching:

The program is taught by leading experts in their fields. The teaching methods are highly practical, making use of real-life examples, contracts, and case studies.

Careers:

Graduates of the Graduate Diploma in Natural Resources Law may find employment opportunities within the government sector, resource companies, or the corporate energy sector. The program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue careers in areas such as:

• Mining law
• Oil and gas law
• Environmental law
• Climate change law
• Corporate governance
• Commercial agreements
It is available for both full-time and part-time study. The estimated time commitment for a standard full-time enrolment is approximately 46 hours per week (over 13 weeks), including contact hours, personal study, and examinations. The Graduate Diploma in Natural Resources Law is articulated into the Master of Commercial and Resources Law or Master of Mining and Energy Law, depending on the student's qualifications. The program is supported by the Centre for Mining, Energy and Natural Resources Law, which has a successful research record and a focus on practical applications.