Competition and Consumer Law

Competition and Consumer Law at The University of Melbourne offers students an in-depth understanding of the legal frameworks governing market competition and consumer protection in Australia. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate complex legal issues arising in both domestic and international trade environments. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, practical case studies, and engaging seminars, students will explore key areas such as antitrust law, unfair market practices, consumer rights, and regulatory enforcement. The curriculum covers the legal principles underpinning competition policy, the role of government agencies like the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), and the implications of recent legislative developments. Students will also examine the interaction between competition law and other areas such as intellectual property, corporate governance, and commercial contracts, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the economic and legal dimensions of consumer and competition issues. The program is suitable for those aspiring to work in legal practice, policy-making, regulatory agencies, or corporate compliance departments involved in competition and consumer regulatory affairs. With access to world-class faculty members who are experts in the field, students will benefit from a rich learning environment that emphasizes practical application and critical thinking. The course promotes an understanding of how legal rules influence market behavior, ensure fair trading, and protect consumer interests, thereby contributing to the development of a fair and competitive economy. Graduates of this program are well-positioned for careers in law firms, government departments, private corporations, and non-governmental organizations dedicated to fair competition and consumer advocacy. Whether you aim to deepen your legal expertise or pursue a career dedicated to economic justice, the Competition and Consumer Law program at The University of Melbourne provides a comprehensive foundation to achieve your goals and make a meaningful impact in the field of law and economics.

The Master of Competition and Consumer Law at The University of Melbourne offers an in-depth exploration of the legal frameworks that regulate markets and protect consumer rights. This comprehensive program is designed for legal professionals, policy makers, and business practitioners seeking specialized knowledge in competition law, consumer protection, and economic regulation. Throughout the course, students will examine the principles underpinning the Australian Competition and Consumer Act, as well as relevant international laws and treaties, gaining a thorough understanding of the legal mechanisms used to promote fair competition and prevent anti-competitive conduct.

The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including cartel conduct, misleading and deceptive practices, market dominance, mergers and acquisitions, and enforcement strategies. Students will also delve into the regulatory roles of agencies such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and the Australian Competition Tribunal. Emphasis is placed on developing practical skills in legal analysis, policy formulation, and advocacy through case studies, simulations, and research projects. The program prepares graduates to interpret and apply the law in complex commercial contexts, whether working within government agencies, law firms, or private corporations.

Designed with flexibility in mind, the Master of Competition and Consumer Law offers part-time and full-time study options, with the possibility of online learning components. The advanced curriculum is complemented by opportunities for internships, moot courts, and engagement with industry experts, providing real-world experience. Graduates of this program will be equipped to contribute effectively to the development, enforcement, and interpretation of competition and consumer laws, both domestically and internationally. The program aims to foster critical thinking, ethical practice, and a strong understanding of the intersection between law, economics, and public policy, preparing students for influential careers in the field of competition and consumer protection law.

• A diploma in law (LLB, JD or equivalent) resulting in admission to practice, at honours standard, or equivalent
• or a diploma in law (LLB, JD or equivalent) resulting in admission to practice, or equivalent and two years of documented relevant professional experience
• Or an undergraduate degree in a suitable field and two years of documented relevant professional experience
• Or an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline
• And effective completion of four subjects at an cognate graduate diploma and one year of documented relevant professional experience. All candidates should also meet the English language requirements of this University of Melbourne.

The University of Melbourne offers various funding options and financial support mechanisms for students enrolled in their Competition and Consumer Law programs. Students can access a range of scholarships designed specifically for law students, including merit-based awards, equity scholarships, and regionally targeted funding opportunities. For domestic students, the university provides government-supported financial aid options such as FEE-HELP, which assists eligible students in covering tuition fees through an income-contingent loan. International students are generally required to pay full tuition fees upfront, but some scholarship opportunities may reduce the financial burden. The university also offers bursaries and grants which are awarded based on financial need, academic achievement, or particular student circumstances. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including industry sponsorships and professional development grants, which sometimes partner with the university to support students pursuing specialization in competition and consumer law. For students undertaking internships or practical placements as part of their course, some programs may include stipends or stipends may be available from external organizations to support students during their practical training. The Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships and other fellowship opportunities are also available for postgraduate students engaged in research-intensive components of the program. The university’s financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance and personalized support to help students navigate the available funding options, complete scholarship applications, and understand eligibility requirements. It is recommended that students start exploring funding opportunities early in their academic planning process to ensure timely application submission and to maximize their chances of receiving financial assistance. Overall, the university’s financing options aim to make legal education accessible while supporting students financially throughout their studies.

The University of Melbourne offers a comprehensive program in Competition and Consumer Law designed to equip students with a thorough understanding of the legal frameworks governing market competition and consumer protection. This program encompasses various aspects of antitrust laws, regulatory frameworks, and legal principles that underpin fair trading practices both domestically and internationally. Students will explore the legal mechanisms that promote and sustain competitive markets, prevent monopolistic behaviors, and ensure consumer rights are protected across different industries. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, including case law analysis, legal drafting, and policy evaluation, preparing graduates for careers in legal practice, government regulation, policy development, and compliance roles. The program is delivered by leading academics and practitioners with extensive experience in competition law, ensuring students receive current and relevant education reflective of contemporary legal challenges. In addition to core subjects, students may have the opportunity to engage in specialized electives focusing on areas such as merger control, cartel conduct, consumer credit law, unfair business practices, and online commerce regulation. The program also emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and professional ethics, fostering a rigorous analytical approach suited to the demands of the legal profession. graduates of this program are well-positioned to pursue careers in law firms, regulatory bodies like the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), corporate legal departments, or pursue further academic research. The University of Melbourne’s location in Australia’s legal and political capital provides unique access to internships, networking opportunities, and direct engagement with policymakers and industry leaders, enhancing the practical component of the learning experience. Overall, this program aims to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable about Competition and Consumer Law but also capable of contributing meaningfully to the development of fair, innovative, and sustainable markets.