Government and Public Law introduces students to the field of public law and the operation of government in Australia. The subject has four key focus areas: Public Law in Australia, How Government Works, Government Accountability and Integrity, and Individuals and Government. The subject is intended to provide an overview of government and public law in Australia and develops students' statutory interpretation skills as they relate to an expression of the constitutional relationship between the arms of government. The subject provides a foundation for the later study of Administrative Law and Constitutional Law.

This subject aims to provide knowledge of human rights issues and laws which are particularly relevant to social workers, youth workers and community welfare workers. It provides an opportunity for students to reflect upon their powers, responsibilities and obligations in their professional roles and acquire skills to promote justice for disadvantaged individuals and groups through advocacy and law reform.