Social Work & the Legal Context (SWSP2066)
Information valid for Semester 2, 2025
Course level
Undergraduate
Faculty
Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences
Units
2
Duration
One Semester
Attendance mode
In Person
Class hours
3W
Incompatible
SW246 or SW304
Assessment methods
Group project, intra-semester exam, final exam
Course enquiries
Doctor Jemma Venables ()
Dr Jemma Venables (jemma.venables@uq.edu.au)
Current course offerings
| Course offerings | Location | Mode | Course Profile |
| Semester 2, 2025 (28/07/2025 - 22/11/2025) | St Lucia | In Person | Profile unavailable |
Please Note: Course profiles marked as not available may still be in development.
Course description
The primary purpose of this subject is to develop a critical awareness of the interaction between social work and the law in contemporary social work practice. The course (1) explores some of the key legal principles and processes that underpin the Australian legal system; provides insight into how the law in relation to human rights, child protection, domestic violence, guardianship, mental health, administration, social security and criminal law affects social work clients and practice and also discusses the legal responsibilities of social workers. Throughout the course there is a focus on how social workers can enhance their practice and outcomes for clients by thoughtful application of legal principles.
