University of Western Australia

What you'll study

The program focuses on the legal framework governing the use, management and protection of natural resources, with emphasis on issues that arise in mining, petroleum, water, forestry and biodiversity management. Core topics typically include statutory and regulatory frameworks for resource development, environmental assessment and approvals, native title and land access, water law, pollution control and compliance, and the intersection of planning and resource project approvals. Students also study dispute resolution and litigation strategies relevant to resource projects, and may analyse contemporary policy and governance challenges such as climate change impacts and Indigenous rights in resource decision‑making.

Course delivery combines doctrinal legal study with case analysis, statutory interpretation and practical problem‑solving. Assessment methods commonly include written assignments, case commentaries and policy briefs, and some offerings include simulated negotiations or regulatory compliance exercises. Elective options or directed study projects allow students to focus on sectors of particular interest, for example mining law, petroleum law, or water resource management.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a recognised law degree (such as an LLB or JD) or equivalent legal education. Candidates with substantial professional experience in natural resources, environmental management, policy or regulation may also be considered; such applicants should demonstrate how their background prepares them for advanced legal study. Prospective students must meet the University of Western Australia’s general graduate entry standards, including appropriate academic transcripts and references.

As the program is delivered in English, applicants whose prior education was not in English will be required to demonstrate proficiency through an accepted English language test or evidence of prior study in English, in line with the university’s graduate language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates use the diploma to enhance practice or to transition into legal and regulatory roles focused on natural resources and the environment. Common career paths include working as:

• in‑house or external legal advisers for mining, oil and gas or agribusiness companies;
• regulatory compliance officers and project approvals specialists within government agencies;
• policy advisers and analysts in environmental and resource management;
• consultants advising on permitting, environmental impact assessment and community engagement;
• practitioners in private law firms specialising in environmental, planning, land access and native title matters.

The qualification is also used by non‑law professionals to gain a rigorous grounding in the legal issues that shape natural resource projects and environmental governance.

Why study at University of Western Australia

UWA’s Law School delivers the program in a location with direct exposure to one of Australia’s major resource regions, offering strong industry connections with mining, energy and water sectors. Students benefit from teaching by academics experienced in natural resources and environmental law and from guest contributions by practising lawyers, regulators and industry advisers.

The university emphasises interdisciplinary research and practical relevance, drawing on links across environmental science, policy and Indigenous studies to give students a rounded perspective on contemporary resource law challenges. Flexible study options make the program suitable for both recent law graduates and professionals seeking to upskill while working.