This introductory course can be taken alone or in conjunction with LAWS8168.  It introduces the Australian legal system with a focus on the legal structure for the regulation of migration; studies the context of migration regulation and examines the role of migration agents and the philosophy of their profession.

It is designed to equip participants with the skills needed to communicate as an agent, the research capacity to find appropriate legal materials and a sound understanding of Australian administrative law and context.

Primary Course Content

• Australia's immigration system, legislation and policy
• Establishment and regulation of the Migration Agent profession
• Research skills to ensure current and reliable advice
• Statutory interpretation including the Migration Act 1958 and relevant legislation
• Communication strategies
• Nature of professional conduct
• Valid visa application processes and procedures

On completing this course students should be able to:

• Understand the relationship between legislation, policy and the Australian immigration system in order to interpret and apply migration law in professional practice
• Demonstrate the ability to research to assess current and relevant information from a range of sources to assist in preparing migration advice
• Demonstrate sound knowledge of legislation and in particular, procedures for valid visa application
• Formulate and implement communication strategies orientated to key stakeholders including clients

There is also a compulsory invigilated exam, prescribed by the legislation that governs registration as a migration agent. ANU organises exam centres in major capital cities in Australia.

There is also a compulsory invigilated exam, prescribed by the legislation that governs registration as a migration agent. ANU organises exam centres in major capital cities in Australia.

This is an online course, and students are expected to devote approximately 10 - 15 hours per week reading, participating, researching and studying. We provide online course materials, study resources, discussion forums, and online live class meetings that make this program highly flexible for domestic and international students. Subject to student demand in each teaching session, we also offer opportunities to meet teachers and fellow students face to face in small Sydney classes. It is not compulsory to attend these classes but students who do, find they add significant value.

This course does not assume you have a knowledge of Australian Law or legal research skills.  However if you have a background in a legal area or have previously studied law, you will be able to use this to assist in your study of migration and immigration law.

None

Students are expected to conduct extensive online research and wide reading during their study. Prior to the start of the course students should familiarise themselves with the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) website. ComLaw and Austlii.

Migration legislation changes so frequently that we do not recommend textbooks which can quickly become out of date. We author and provide online written course materials that are updated each teaching session, to reflect the most recent changes in migration law. We also provide reading guides, additional resources, self-help quizzes, and guidance about how to access legislation.

This course makes extensive use of online technology for accessing resources, activities and assessment.  It is in your best interests to ensure you have a secure computer, preferably at home, where you can access all on-line information without restriction or difficulty.

If you intend using IT supplied by your employer, please be aware that you are likely to experience difficulties accessing key on-line resources due to firewall and security restrictions.

The computer you intend to use should meet the following minimum specifications:

Hardware

• CD ROM/ DVD Player
• Sound Card and speakers
• Video Card
• Modem
• Broadband (dial-up access is not recommended) access to an Internet Service Provider (ISP)
• Printer

Software

• Firefox is the recommended web browser
• Adobe Acrobat Reader (Free download)
• Real Player (Free download)
• Microsoft Word

WATTLE relies heavily on the use of "pop ups". You will need to disable "pop up blockers" for WATTLE on your internet browser and or Firewall/Anti virus software and toolbars.