This unit introduces students to the theoretical and practical basis for financial regulation in modern Australian law. The topics covered include: the nature and rationale of financial services regulation, contemporary trends in regulation, Australian regulatory framework, disclosure, licensing, prohibitions of market misconduct, self-regulation and powers of investigation and enforcement of the regulatory authorities. This unit also examines issues in financial regulation including product and market convergence and implications of intermediary conglomeration. At the end of this unit, students will have considerably expanded their knowledge of important and complex financial services law issues, as well as their legal research, analytical, problem solving, reasoning and communication skills, which will enhance their ability to perform effectively and competently in their studies and upon graduation.