2022 First Year Guide

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ANU Law Students' Society

First Year's Guide 2022

A study guide for undergraduate and postgraduate law students commencing their law degree in 2022.


ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We acknowledge the traditional custodians of this land, past, present and future on whom we meet and gather and whose cultures are among the oldest continuing cultures in human history. We wish to acknowledge and thank everyone for their hard work and time spent in preparing this publication. Disclaimer: Whilst all care has been taken to provide you with the latest and correct information, we acknowledge that this is only a guidebook and is only indicative of one of the many ways to approach your law degree. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of the Australian National University. The information provided in this handbook is subject to change without notice. Please follow the latest information provided by ANU. The publication is distributed free of charge. The author(s), editor(s) and relevant people are not responsible for any errors or omissions that may have occurred in the production of this publication. Vice-president (Education): Kriti Jha Publications Director: Emily Austin Education Directors: Niamh Brazil, Margherita Dall’Occo, Rachel Ferguson


TABLE OF CONTENTS LSS President's Welcome LSS Education Executive Your First Weeks O- Week

Academic Information

2 3 4 5

What Courses Should I Be Taking?

6

Extra Academic Resources

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Dates For Your Diary Class Information; Lectures, Tutorials and Seminars Assessments; Research Essays, Tutorial Participation, Exams PAL (Peer Assisted Learning) and Learning Resources

Juris Doctor (JD) Course Information and Advice

Get Involved with ANU Law!

9 10 11 12

13 16

International Law Society

17

Law Reform and Social Justice

18

Law Revue

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Health and Wellbeing

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LSS Wellbeing

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ANU Health

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ANU Counselling Access and Inclusion

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ANU Sport

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ANU Wellbeing

FAQs Contact Us

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PRESIDENT’S WELCOME Hi everyone, and welcome to ANU Law! It’s an incredibly exciting part of your life that you’re all about to begin, and I hope you enjoy the challenge and reward that comes with studying in this discipline. My name is Henry, and I am the President of the ANU Law Students’ Societymore often just called the LSS- for 2022. I am about to start my third year at ANU, and am studying a double degree in Law and Politics, Philosophy and Economics. This first year guide is your one stop shop for all you need to know about getting started in your law degree. The LSS is the largest student society at ANU, and, at its heart, it exists to represent the voices and interests of ANU Law Students. We usually have anywhere from 700 to 1000 members in any given year, and those people are represented by a team of 37 students across nine portfolios who keep the society running effectively. Becoming a member of the LSS is essential to make sure you know about all the great initiatives that we run during the academic year. Throughout the year, that includes things like Law Ball, academic skills workshops, pre-exam tutorials, panel events with incredible legal professionals, networking opportunities, novice and professional competitions like mooting or negotiations, and so much more. To join the society and get information on all these events, please check out our Facebook page! Give it a like while you’re there- it really is the best way to stay in the loop about the events and services that the LSS offers. Starting university is a daunting experience, and especially so when most of you have likely moved away from home to be here. The biggest piece of advice I can give you is to get involved. Whether it’s at LSS events, your college, or other clubs and societies - get out there and meet people! Everyone is feeling just as uncertain as you are, and so the more often you push yourself out of your comfort zone and go to that LSS drinks event, grab coffee with someone from a tut, or kick the footy around down at the oval, the more amazing people you’re going to meet. Get amongst it, say hi to new people - I promise you won’t regret it. I wish you all the very best for the year ahead, and it goes without saying that my team and I are always here to help out and answer any questions you might have. See you soon!

Henry Palmerlee

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President


MEET THE EDUCATION EXEC Hi everyone, Welcome on board! Law School is a place where you not only get to learn and build your own legal toolbox, but also where you meet some incredible minds! We regularly liaise and advocate for students with the ANU College of Law on a range of issues relating to academic policies and procedures (current and proposed) and promote student needs, opinions and interests. Additionally, our portfolio also runs a range of events throughout the year which include:

LAWS 1001

This event has a specific focus on first year undergraduate law students and involves a panel discussion comprising – lectures and students. It covers most of the common themes that you need to know as a first-year law student.

Pre-Exam Tutorials

These tutorials are organised at the end of Semester. Run by successful senior students, these engaging interactive sessions provide an unapparelled opportunity to revise and consolidate legal knowledge prior to final exams.

Semester 1 and 2

Juris Doctor Event

This event is specific for JD students and aims at inviting accomplished legal professionals to share their insights on learning skills that they consider are invaluable to your degree.

Semester 2

Education Speaker Events

These events may take a form of either keynote speakers, panels discussion or even a workshop! Stay tuned to know more!

Semester 1 and 2

Semester 1

If you would like to raise any academic related issues or provide suggestions on events that you would like us to consider, please send us an email at lsseducation@anu.edu.au. Cheers,

Kriti Jha Vice President (Education)

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YOUR FIRST WEEKS Hello! Welcome to the ANU College of Law. You have an exciting 3 or 5 years ahead of you. Starting university can be challenging and overwhelming, so we’ve put together this guide to help you settle into life at ANU. Think of it as a mini survival guide for your first few weeks, classes and semesters at university!

O-Week Orientation Week, or ‘O – week’ runs from 14-18 February. Things may be a bit different from past years, but it is still going to be a lot of fun!

During the week there will be events held both online and in-person so you can be involved regardless of if you are on campus, interstate or overseas The events are run by different student societies and faculties on campus. Make sure you keep up to date with what events are being held. ANU itself will host informative events such as Course Induction Sessions. These are really great sessions and it’s a good idea to try and attend.

If you live in a Residential Hall, they will also have their own O-Week calendar. If you don’t live in a

Prepare for O-Week Start filling up your calendar with O-Week activities! Join information sessions about enrolment, timetabling, fees and your courses and connect with ANU student leaders and mentors. You never know – the people you’ll meet during O-Week could be friends for life! See here for more information: https://orientation.anu.edu.au/program

Residential Hall, talk to Griffin Hall on Market Day, 17 February, about becoming a member.

The LSS is hosting welcome drinks during semesters one and two (Check our FB page- ANU Law Students' Society- for more info). It would be great to see you there!

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Academic INFORMATION


ACADEMIC INFORMATION What Courses Should I Be Taking? Below is a table of the recommended degree structure. To find this online follow the below steps: 1. Go to https://programsandcourses.anu.edu.au/ 2. Find your degree – i.e. LLB and PPE, LLB and Arts 3. Go to the course page 4. Click on the ‘study’ tab 5. Scroll to the bottom of the page

Study Options for LLB (Hons) Flexible Double Degree Study Year 1 48 Units

Year 2 48 Units

Year 3 48 Units

Year 4 48 Units

Year 5 48 Units

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Semester 1

Semester 2

LAWS1201 Foundations of Australian Law- 6 units

LAWS1202 Lawyers Justice and Ethics- 6 units

LAWS1203 Torts- 6 units

LAWS1204 Contracts- 6 units

LAWS1205 Australian Public Law- 6 units

LAWS2250 International Law- 6 units

LAWS1206 Criminal Law and Procedure- 6 units

LAWS2249 Legal Theory- 6 units

LAWS2201 Administrative Law- 6 units LAWS2203 Corporations Law- 6 units

LAWS2204 Property- 6 units Law Elective

LAWS2244 Litigation and Dispute Management- 6 units Law Elective

LAWS2202 Constitutional Law- 6 units Law Elective

LAWS2205 Equity and Trusts- 6 units Law Elective

LAWS2207 Evidence- 6 units Law Elective


ACADEMIC INFORMATION Study Options for JD (3 Years Full Time) Study

Year 1 48 Units

Semester 1

Semester 2

LAWS6101 Foundations of Australian Law- 6 units

LAWS6102 Lawyers Justice and Ethics- 6 units

LAWS6103 Torts- 6 units

LAWS6105 Australian Public Law- 6 units

LAWS6104 Contracts- 6 units

LAWS6250 International Law- 6 units

Full Time Students only take 3 Courses in Semester 1*

LAWS6249 Legal Theory- 6 units

LAWS6201 Administrative Law- 6 units

Year 2 48 Units

LAWS6203 Corporations Law- 6 units

LAWS6202 Constitutional Law- 6 units

LAWS6106 Criminal Law and Procedure- 6 units

Law Electives x 3

Law Elective

LAWS6204 Property- 6 units

Year 3 48 Units

LAWS6244 Litigation and Dispute Management- 6 units

LAWS6205 Equity and Trusts- 6 units LAWS6207 Evidence- 6 units

Law Elective x 2

*Full-time students undertake 3 compulsory courses in their first semester. An additional Law Elective will need to be taken in a later year, during an intensive session or semester, to complete the degree in 3 years.

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ACADEMIC RESOURCES Extra Academic Resources Find Legal Answers: Australian Legal System An online resource that delves into the different branches of the Australia legal system, how laws are made and the philosophical principles which guide law-making. This will be a really helpful resource as you start your Foundations of Australian Law course!https://legalanswers.sl.nsw.gov.au/hot-topics-australian-legal-system World Intellectual Property Organisation Distance Learning A range of both free and fee-based online courses in relation to intellectual property law: https://welc.wipo.int/ The Unrequired Reading List A curated list of books, speeches, film, philosophy and other creative works selected by the ANU College of Law to expand your appreciation of law and justice beyond the prescribed reading list: https://law.anu.edu.au/about-us/unrequired-reading-list The Constitutional Podcast A six-part podcast interviewing legal scholars about the debates that connect current affairs and the law such as prison sentencing, free speech and citizenship. Available on Apple Podcasts and SoundCloud.

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SEMESTER ONE DATES FOR YOUR DIARY O-Week

14-18 February

Classes Begin

21 February

Last Day to add Courses

28 February

Canberra Day Public Holiday

14 March

Mid Semester Exams Week 1

28 March- 1 April

Census Date for Semester 1 2022

31 March

Teaching Break

4-19 April

Mid Semester Exams Week 2

19-22 April

Anzac Day Public Holiday

25 April

End of Classes

27 May

Reconciliation Day Public Holiday

30 May

Exams Commence

2 June

Results from Semester 1 Published

30 June

Class Summary! Keeping track of all of the information for each of your subjects can be difficult, but don’t stress! Each course has a class summary that outlines all of the course information such as lecturer contact details, class times, required textbooks and assessment due dates. Course guides are the key to effective study so it is super important you have a copy. Usually, a course convenor will post a link to this course guide on the wattle course page. However, if a link is not provided, follow these easy steps to get a copy: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Go to the ANU Programs and Courses webpage: https://programsandcourses.anu.edu.au/ Search the course you are taking, i.e LAWS1203 (Image 1) Once you are on the course page (Image 2) click on the class tab Click on the ‘view’ link under class summary (Image 3) This will take you to a new page that looks similar to the previous one, but has specific course information for that semester.

TIP: Download and save the course guide for future easy reference

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CLASS INFORMATION Lectures Lectures are where the majority of course content is taught. They are almost always recorded and uploaded to the wattle course page via Echo360. However, it is important to try and attend the lectures in person because these recordings can fail. It is also a good opportunity to meet other law students in your first year of law!

TIP: most lecturers will post their lecture slides on wattle. Be sure to use these!

Tutorials Tutorials are small classes held with an individual tutor. They are designed to be interactive to aid your understanding and learning of course content. Attendance and participation in tutorials often make up a part of you marks for the course. These are easy marks to get so be sure to go to every tutorial! Tutorials require an online sign-up on wattle. These will take place sometime in O-Week or week 1 as law tutorials generally won’t start until Week 2. The course convenor will most likely announce when the sign-ups open online. NOTE: For first year JD students,“My Timetable”, a new timetabling system is on its way! Don’t forget to check your emails for more info!

TIP: Be sure to make note of this in your diary as most tutorials become full within the first minute of opening!

Seminars Seminars are similar to tutorials but are slightly larger in size. Foundations of Australian Law (LAWS1201) is taught in this way.

TIP: Just like tutorials, check the course guide to see what participation requirements your seminar requires.

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ASSESSMENTS There are three common forms of assessments: essays, tutorial participation and exams. You will learn the basics of how to complete law assessments in Laws 1201: Foundations of Australian Law. So it is super important to attend these classes to set yourself up for success in your law degree.

Research Essays All law subjects have a significant research assessment component. Researching and writing legal essays can be daunting as it is completely different to previous research essays you are probably used to writing. Not to worry! Many different bodies such as the ANU College of Law, LSS and ANUSA College of Law Reps will put on essay writing workshops. TIP: Keep an eye on social media and your emails to see when essay writing workshops are being held!

Tutorial participation Tutorial participation will usually make up only 10% of your overall mark for the course. By completing the weekly readings, preparing some questions and participating in class discussion you will guarantee yourself a good mark! TIP: Don’t be shy! You’re contribution to class discussion won’t look “show-offy”, it will usually help your classmates with their learning (and get you a good mark!).

Mid-semester and final exams Law courses will also have an exam in the mid-semester exam period and/or in the final exam period. Exams are looking a bit different than usual this year due to COVID-19. Be sure to read your course guide carefully and keep up to date with course announcements to see what requirements are in place for your exams. The course guide will not specify a date for the exam. The ANU Examinations Office will email you a personalised exam timetable with specific exam dates and times in the few weeks before exams. TIP: The LSS will run pre-exam tutorials during the stu-vac period for the compulsory law courses. Keep an eye on our Facebook page!

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PAL AND LEARNING RESOURCES ANU Academic Skills ANU Academic skills helps students to develop key academic skills to achieve their academic goals. They have many resources on their website stemming from referencing to writing assessment to adjusting to university study. Have a look here: anu.edu.au/students/academic-skills You can also book an individual appointment to get personalised advice on their website! TIP: Keep an eye out for their academic skills workshops being held in O-Week!

Peer Assisted Learning – PAL The ANU College of Law has a ‘Peer Assisted Learning’ program for first-year law students. Later year law students run weekly study sessions during the semester on foundational legal skills that you will need throughout your degree. Information about upcoming PAL sessions will generally be included in weekly email updates from the ANU College of Law.

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Juris DOCTOR


JURIS DOCTOR Planning ahead Although there are many similarities between the Juris Doctor and the Bachelors of Law, there a few important differences that first year JD students should be aware of when beginning their studies. The most important thing to consider is the length of the JD in comparison to the undergraduate course. Due to the JD being 3 yrs instead of the usual 4-6, this means as a first year JD student it is best to start planning earlier rather than later. That way you can make the most of your 3 years and you don’t miss out on opportunities due to failing to do something in your first year. Here are a few examples: 1. Applications for summer clerkships start in Year 2 and happen over the summer before you begin your final year. So start thinking about what you will need in your application so it's not too late by the time you start your 2nd year. 2. You can participate in LSS novice competitions in your first year and senior LSS competitions in your second year, you do not have to wait! Participating in these in your 1st and 2nd year is a great way to demonstrate your skills.

Courses Although Juris Doctor students often have the same assessments, course requirements and tutorials with undergraduate law students, there are a few differences you should be aware of if you are pursuing a JD. Some course conveners will not grade JD students on their tutorial attendance and participation. Due to this, assessments will sometimes have slightly higher weighting to make up the 10% of your grade that is not from the participation. For example, instead of an exam being worth 45% of your final grade, it will be worth 55%.

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JURIS DOCTOR Courses However, it is still beneficial to attend the tutorial! The best way to understand the course content and meet fellow JD students is by attending the tutorials. Keep an eye out for tutorials later in the afternoon if you are juggling work and study. Another difference is the amount of and type of assessments you may find in JD courses compared to the undergraduate courses. JD students sometimes have less or more assignments; and the word count requirement is usually higher for JD students. With this in mind make sure you are looking at the right course guide when looking for information about your courses. Furthermore, the standard in which you are judged by course convenors may be higher due to JD students already having an undergraduate degree. Don’t stress though, course convenors are always willing to go over skills if you need, especially if it's been a while since you have studied at university!

Social Luckily, the law school is not just about studying! The JD draws students from diverse backgrounds and ages, you will find many of your fellow JD students come from very different areas of study and career paths. This is what makes the JD unique, so make sure you attend the social events. Join the LSS Facebook Page and JD Facebook Group to stay updated on LSS social events that are specifically for JD students. This is a great way to meet and socialise with other JD students, from there you can organise study groups and course group chats to make studying law easier. Usually there is a beginning and end of semester drinks with a bar tab, so take advantage of free drinks and good company! If you would like to see more social events for JD students then contact the LSS or the JD Social Director with your ideas.

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Getting

INVOLVED


INTERNATIONAL LAW SOCIETY The ANU International Law Society is a student organisation that allows law students interested in international law to discover more and further their enjoyment in the area. It is the only Australian affiliate of the International Law Students’ Association. The ILS runs a range of events throughout the year including panel discussions with academics and experts discussing topical issues and developments in international law as well as mentoring programs which match a student with lawyers or academics. In addition, the society also participates in the International Humanitarian Law moot competition and various networking and careers events which provide students with the unique opportunity to meet with lawyers practicing in the field and discover more about careers or working in international law. If you are someone who enjoys international law and sees studying law as a potential pathway to explore beyond Australia, or wants to be a part of an exciting student society, then the ANU ILS is for you! To get involved in ILS events, competitions and opportunities, look for the at the ANU International Law Society Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ANUILS or email the ILS at ils@anu.edu.au.

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LAW REFORM AND LAW REVUE Law Reform and Social Justice ANU Law Reform and Social Justice (LR+SJ) is an opportunity to combine your values with your studies. LR+SJ activities and projects explore the complex role of law in society and how lawyers can work to promote both social change and stability. LRSJ activities consist of student-run projects including community legal education providing legal information to high schools, prisons and community legal centres; research projects on corporate responsibility and Constitutional issues. LRSJ also runs workshops on skills such as FOI requests and submission writing as well as holding film screenings and careers panels on social justice jobs. By joining LR+SJ you can join a project, start your own project on a topic that you're passionate about or discover more about pertinent issues by coming along to events. Learn more about the LRSJ on Facebook and hear about upcoming events at https://www.facebook.com/ANULRSJ/

Law revue The ANU Law Revue is an annual student-run theatre comedy production performing in early Semester 2. This is a show that goes from current affairs to abstract legal theory, everyday student life to pop culture, legal issues to funny puns, so if any of this sounds like you, the law revue is the show for you! Auditions are held in the early weeks of Semester 1 for all ANU students across all degrees. Whether you are a seasoned singer, musician, dancer or someone who hasn’t had much experience in theatre, ANU Law Revue has got a spot for you. If you're interested in this production, check out the ANU Law Revue on Youtube or message on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ANULawRevue/

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Health & WELLBEING


LSS WELLBEING The ANU LSS is deeply committed to prioritising the wellbeing of all law students at the ANU. The toll that legal education and practice can take on the mental health of individuals is well-established. With this in mind, the Wellbeing Director- working closely together with the President as well as other portfolios- strives to ensure and promote both mental and physical health of law students through a variety of events, resources and initiatives throughout the year. The LSS Mental Health Week is a particularly important week that highlights the works of the Wellbeing director, which include various workshops, guest talks, yoga, meditation sessions and much more. However, they are actively involved in promoting student health and wellbeing throughout the year, so if you ever have any questions, concerns or simply want to chat with someone, we highly encourage you to contact the LSS Wellbeing Director at lsswellbeing@anu.edu.au.

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ANU SERVICES ANU Medical Services The on-campus health services provider is the ANU Medical Centre. The ANU Medical Centre operates a state-of-the-art health and wellness clinic on levels 2 and 3 of Health and Wellbeing Centre (Building 156) in Kambri. Services are currently free for ANU students and staff. Students should bring their Medicare Care and Student ID or an international health care if relevant. Website: https://www.anu.edu.au/students/contacts/medical-services Phone: +61 2 6178 0400

ANU Counselling The ANU offers a free, confidential and non-diagnostic counselling service to all current ANU students provided by the Counsellors in the Counselling Centre. No referral or Mental Health Treatment Plan from a General Practitioner is required to attend appointments.

ANU MEDICAL SERVICES

The ANU Counselling is currently operating remotely and is offering appointments via Zoom. Website: https://www.anu.edu.au/students/health-safetywellbeing/counselling/anu-counselling Phone: 02 6178 0455

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ANU SERVICES ANU Wellbeing and Support Line Available to all ANU students – 24h The ANU Wellbeing and Support Line is a phone service for all current students who are experiencing situational stress, emotional difficulties and mental health concerns. The service can also be used to provide debriefing support and assistance for student leaders. The ANU Wellbeing and Support Line works with ANU Counselling but is operational 24 hours a day. TELEPHONE: +61 1300 050 327 SMS: +61 0488 884 170

ANU Thrive Wellbeing Consultations Bookings can be made online or by email at thrive@anu.edu.au . Available to all ANU students ANU Thrive offers free wellbeing consultations every Tuesday and Wednesday. Consultations are held by a later-year student mentor, who can assist in finding appropriate support services and guiding you through your time at university. The team is trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid and is familiar with both ANU and external community support available to students. While this is not a counselling service, international students can access wellbeing consultations while off-shore and at no cost.

Respectful Relationships Unit Available to all ANU students The Respectful Relationships Unit provide information, support, case coordination and referral for those impacted by sexual assault or sexual harassment, including those supporting someone who has experienced sexual assault or sexual harassment. You can also disclose an incidence of sexual misconduct using the ANU Sexual Misconduct Disclosure Form.

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ANU SERVICES Access and Inclusion Access and Inclusion (A&I) is aimed at supporting students within the ANU community whose participation in academic studies is impacted by physical and learning disabilities, mental health conditions, chronic medical conditions and short-term illnesses/conditions as well as carers, international under 18 students and elite athletes. They aim to raise awareness and understanding of disability issues amongst the broader ANU community and enable students with disability to participate fully in university life. Access and Inclusion helps students to participate fully in their program of study, be academically successful and achieve their personal best through the development of an Education Access Plan. Students are required to register with A&I before services can be provided, this process will require verification of the disability or medical condition through the provision of appropriate documentation and discussion of student's needs. The office will then assess the nature and extent of the disability or medical condition and facilitate the provision of support. This may include the use of equipment, note taking support and reviews of exam and assessment. Access and Inclusion appointments are available by Zoom virtual appointment until further notice. Website: https://www.anu.edu.au/students/contacts/access-inclusion Phone: +61 2 6125 5036

ANU Sport ANU Sport is aimed at promoting and providing a diverse and exciting range of professionally provided, affordable sporting and physical recreation participation opportunities for all ANU students. They are also committed to enhance your university experience by offering health, fitness and leisure activities to make your time at the ANU a lot more enjoyable, energetic and fun! Location: 19 North Road, Acton ACT 2601 Website: https://www.anu-sport.com.au/ Phone: 02 6125 2273

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FAQS What courses should I take in my first semester ? Please refer to the provided outline on page 5 for an outline for both LLB and JD degrees, and instructions on how to access your course plan

Where can I find out what textbooks I need for my course?

Help! I don’t know where to find cases online or how to reference them.

The LSS have created a textbook guide accessible on our Facebook page. This information is now also included on the “Course Search” law web page at https://law.anu.edu.au/currentstudents/course-search

Don’t worry! You’ll be taught everything in Foundations of Australian Law (LAWS1201) If you are still worried, check out the ANU Law Subject guide: https://libguides.anu.edu.au/c.php? g=634887&p=4440533 and more specifically, https://libguides.anu.edu.au/c.php? g=641553&p=4493583 for an idea about AGLC Referencing.

Who can help me out if I have a disability or need special exam requirements?

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Feel free to contact Access and Inclusion, they will be able to help you out. Website: https://www.anu.edu.au/students/contacts/accessinclusion Phone: +61 2 6125 5036 Email: access.inclusion@anu.edu.au


CONTACT US Don’t hesitate to reach out to us! LSS Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ANULSS Website: https://www.anulss.com/ Email: lsseducation@anu.edu.au

ANUSA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ANUStudentsAssociation Website: https://anusa.com.au/ Phone: (02) 6125 2444

ANUSA CoL reps Neha Kalele & Katherine Byrnes Email: sa.col@anu.edu.au

College Student and Education Support Team Phone: +61 2 6125 3483 Email: enquiries.law@anu.edu.au

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