Course Title: Land Policy in the Asia Pacific

Part A: Course Overview

Course Title: Land Policy in the Asia Pacific

Credit Points: 12.00


Course Coordinator: Dr David Mitchell

Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925 2420

Course Coordinator Email: d.mitchell@rmit.edu.au

Course Coordinator Location: 12.10.12


Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities

None. No prior knowledge of land policy is required, however this course assumes that you have a degree in a related field, and access to the Internet.


Course Description

This course assists you in developing a deeper understanding of land policy issues in the Asia-Pacific. You will explore an appreciation of the key theory and concepts involved in the development of land policy and land reform exemplified by practical case studies from Australia, New Zealand and Asia. The course is designed for anyone with an interest in land policy, or for people involved in international development projects. This may include policy makers, policy analysts, consultants, and private professionals such as surveyors, planners, engineers and valuers.

Land is a fundamental asset in both modern and traditional societies. For most people in developing countries land continues to be the primary means of shelter, and of deriving a livelihood. It provides the basis for food security and wealth creation. Increasingly, improvements to tenure security and access to land are sought as a means of reducing poverty. In developed countries tenure security underpins the land market and land ownership comprises a significant portion of GDP. Land Policies specify how a government provides for tenure security and access to land, and outlines how land markets are regulated and land taxation undertaken.


Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

Upon successful completion of this course you should be able to:

  • critically analyse components and stages of land administration systems
  • understand the difference between land administration and land management
  • recognise the concepts of land policy in relation to tenure security and land markets
  • display a critical understanding of the different approaches used in developed and developing countries
  • understand the application of geospatial technology to land administration systems
  • demonstrate skills in relating land theory to particular country situations.


This course contributes to the development of the following Program Learning Outcomes:

  • 1.1 Describe the fundamental and applied scientific knowledge that underpins the geospatial sciences.
  • 1.2 Demonstrate in-depth understanding of the spatial models and mathematical methods used in contemporary practice.
  • 1.3 Understand specialist bodies of knowledge in geospatial science.
  • 1.4 Discern research directions and advances within geospatial science.
  • 4.1 Communicate effectively by means of oral, written and graphical presentations to peers and a wider audience.
  • 6.1 Be self-motivated and personally responsible for your actions and learning.
  • 6.2 Work with others and contribute in a constructive manner to group and team activities.
  • 6.3 Professionally manage and use information.


Overview of Learning Activities

Topic 1: Overview
Topic 2: Introduction to Land Administration
Topic 3: Land policy defined
Topic 4: Land Policies in Australasia
Topic 5: Major Global Issues
Topic 6: Land Policies for Growth and Poverty Reduction
Topic 7: Land law
Topic 8: International Development and Land Administration
Topic 9: Land Policy in the Asia Pacific
Topic 10: Land Policy and Sustainable Development
Topic 11: Developing and Implementing Pro-poor Land Policies
Topic 12: Revision and Major Essay Presentations


Overview of Learning Resources

As a student enrolled in this course you have access to extensive learning resources provided in the school and in the RMIT Library. Our library offers comprehensive services and facilities, geared to assist you in completing your studies successfully. Furthermore journal articles, references specifically used in this Learning Package will be used as additional references. Throughout this course you will be directed to many websites to enhance your studies, which have been selected for their quality and innovative approach to the material you are studying. More details will be provided during the course.


Overview of Assessment

The assessment will comprise a minor essay considering land policy in Australasia, a major essay considering land policy in developing countries in the region, and class discussions and presentation of the major essay.