Handbook

This course examines the adaptation of the principles of property law in the context of housing, focusing primarily on residential tenancies. The course will be relevant to those advising any resident, owner or operator in statutory housing regimes. The course examines the legislation and case law governing relationships within housing types, including residential tenancies, residential communities, boarding houses, strata title, retirement villages, and aged care facilities. The course will examine broader policy questions concerning the built environment, homelessness, housing affordability and rights to housing. There will be an in-depth examination of practice and procedure, including alternative dispute resolution, within housing tribunals. Students will be required to attend the Tribunal, and write a brief report about the matters they have witnessed. Students will write an essay on a subject of their choice related to housing law reform. The final examination takes the form of a report on possible advice to clients. Class discussion and assessment tasks are supplemented by online activities. This course will appeal to students who enjoy practical problem solving and creative thinking.

Main Topics

• Tribunal process and procedure
• Conflict resolution strategies in housing disputes
• Rights and responsibilities under residential tenancy law in NSW
• Social housing, affordable housing and Aboriginal housing
• Residential Communities in NSW
• Boarders and Lodgers in NSW
• Strata Title in NSW
• Retirement Villages in NSW
• Aged Care Facilities
• Homelessness, Housing policy, Rights to Housing