Land Law

Overview

This unit enables students, through the study of cases, statutes and other materials, to acquire a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of, and competence in, Australian land law. This unit focuses on the nature and creation of interests in land. It provides students with a comprehensive introduction to the Torrens system of land registration, the creation of security and other interests in land including mortgages, easements, restrictive covenants and leases, co-ownership and the transfer of interests in land.

Unit learning outcomes

Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:

1. Describe and evaluate the Australian land law registration system and related policy debates and reform proposals
2. Locate and interpret land law applicable to interests in land, including concurrent ownership
3. Effectively use legislation and case law to address factual situations and communicate responses about rights and obligations in land
4. Conduct land law related research and use the results of that research to develop a legal argument

Teaching methods

Hawthorn

Assessment

Content

• The nature and scope of interests in land
• Torrens system of land registration including the concept of indefeasibility and the exceptions thereto and the treatment of unregistered interests
• Co-ownership
• The acquisition and disposition of interests in land
• Interests in land owned by another person
• Mortgages
• The assurance fund
• Ownership of chattels and fixtures
• Leases
• Easements and restrictive covenants