Media Law and Accountability

(CMLA801)

This subject examines the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern free speech and public communication. It covers journalism, media arts and production, advertising, public relations, corporate, marketing, government and political communication and the internet. Students become familiar with restrictions as well as rights and defences in relation to various forms of public communication. They critically examine proposals to introduce new and stricter laws in relation to media and the internet as well as rights and ethical issues in relation to privacy, data collection and use, freedom of information, defamation, and copyright in a digitally networked society. Case studies and reports of recent government inquiries are examined and students reflect on and discuss how issues such as privacy and freedom of information can be managed in ethical ways, while maintaining freedom of speech and an open democratic society.