This introductory course can be taken alone or in conjunction with LAWS8167. It aims to equip participants with the skills needed to determine and advise on visa options, the research capacity to find appropriate legal materials - including researching various legal databases such as LEGENDcom, Austlii and Comlaw. It examines the fundamentals of Australia's visa system including making a valid visa application, procedures for decision making, general requirements for most visas and criteria for obtaining visas. In addition, students will consider the problem solving skills needed to apply this legal knowledge to particular situations when looking for solutions, visa options and alternative pathways for clients.

On completing this course students should be able to:

• Assess different visas and their respective requirements and demonstrate sound knowledge of visa requirements and their application procedures 

• Recognise when and how to undertake appropriate research to prepare submissions, and applications and effectively advocate for clients

• Research, formulate and implement appropriate strategies for providing effective advice to clients

• Prepare appropriate submissions and applications to government

This course uses a mixture of assessment tasks (written assignments, participation, and case studies) to test competencies.

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 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.

LAWS8167 - Australian Migration Law and MARA.  This may also be taken as a co-requisite

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), ComLaw and Austlii websites.

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.