Course coordinator
Associate Professor Elin Charles-Edwards
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 2, 2025 (28/07/2025 - 22/11/2025)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- The Environment School
This course acquaints students with keynotes in Australian geography. It seeks to provide students with an integrated account of the natural and human systems that characterise the contemporary geography of Australia and identify the big issues facing Australia in the 21st Century. The course will develop students' quantitative skills in geographical analysis and demonstrate the relevance of geography to planning and policy formulation.
The Geography of Australia provides students with an integrated account of the natural and human systems of Australia and introduces students to the big issues facing Australia in the 21st Century. Examples include the social structure of Australian cities, the impact of climate change on coastal communities, the health of the Great Barrier Reef, water and irrigation in the Murray Darling Basin, and the development of the northern frontier. ﾠThe course aims to provide a sound understanding of key geographic concepts, measures and techniques and equip students with the knowledge and skills to engage in Australian policy debates.
Course requirements
Assumed background
There are no formal pre-requisites for this course, though GEOS1100 and/or GEOG1000ﾠwould be an advantage. Students are assumed to have a satisfactory level of achievement in secondary English (or equivalent), reasonable general knowledge and basic numeracy.
Recommended prerequisites
We recommend completing the following courses before enrolling in this one:
GEOS1100 and GEOG1000
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Associate Professor Elin Charles-Edwards
Mr Al Healy
Mr Jim Walker
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Aims and outcomes
This course aims to provide students with an integrated account of the natural and human systems that characterise the contemporary geography of Australia and identify the big issues facing Australia in the 21st Century. In addition, this course seeks to further students' knowledge and skills in the application of key concepts, models and techniques in geography.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Describe key patterns and processes characterising the contemporary geography of Australia at a variety of spatial and temporal scales.
LO2.
Identify and apply geographic theories to contemporary Australian issues.
LO3.
Apply appropriate geographic methods and techniques to explore a range of contemporary issues in Australia.
LO4.
Apply a geographic perspective to contemporary issues in Australia.
LO5.
Demonstrate high level of written and visual communication skills to communicate your knowledge.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tutorial/ Problem Set | Workbook part 1 | 15% |
11/09/2025 2:00 pm |
| Project | A Contemporary Issue in Australian Geography | 30% |
9/10/2025 2:00 pm |
| Tutorial/ Problem Set | Workbook part 2 | 15% |
30/10/2025 2:00 pm |
| Examination |
Final Exam
|
40% |
End of Semester Exam Period 8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025 |
A hurdle is an assessment requirement that must be satisfied in order to receive a specific grade for the course. Check the assessment details for more information about hurdle requirements.
Assessment details
Workbook part 1
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Tutorial/ Problem Set
- Weight
- 15%
- Due date
11/09/2025 2:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05
Task description
Complete all practical exercises set during weeks 2, 3, 5, and 6 and submit as a compiled report.
Submission guidelines
Online submission by Turnitin only by the due date and time. No hard copy or assignment cover sheets are required. Submission via email is not accepted.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
See the Additional assessment information section below for information relating to extension applications.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (the assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date.
For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period).
A Contemporary Issue in Australian Geography
- Mode
- Product/ Artefact/ Multimedia
- Category
- Project
- Weight
- 30%
- Due date
9/10/2025 2:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05
Task description
Objective: The objective of this assessment task is to demonstrate your ability to effectively use ArcGIS Online to create an interactive and engaging StoryMap. Through this task, you will showcase your skills in spatial storytelling, data visualization, and effective communication using maps, text, images, and multimedia.
Task Description: You are required to create a StoryMap using ArcGIS Online on a contemporary issue in Australian geography. The StoryMap should incorporate a series of interactive maps, text, images, and other multimedia elements to guide the reader through a compelling narrative. The narrative should be well-structured, engaging, and effectively convey the information and message you want to communicate.
Guidelines:
- Topic Selection. You will be provided with a selection of topics to choose from in Week 4.
- Research and Data Collection: Conduct thorough research to gather relevant data, maps, images, and multimedia content that will support your story. Ensure that the data is reliable and properly cited.
- StoryMap Structure: Plan the structure and flow of your StoryMap. Decide on the number and sequence of sections or chapters, and how they will connect to form a cohesive narrative.
- Map Creation: Create interactive maps using ArcGIS Online. Use appropriate basemaps, layers, symbology, and pop-up windows to effectively visualize and communicate your data.
- Text and Multimedia Integration: Write clear and concise text to accompany each map or section. Incorporate images, videos, audio, or other multimedia elements where appropriate to enhance the storytelling experience.
- Design and Layout: Pay attention to the visual design and layout of your StoryMap. Use consistent formatting, colors, fonts, and spacing to create a visually appealing and professional-looking presentation.
- Narrative Flow: Ensure that your StoryMap has a logical and coherent narrative flow. Each section should connect seamlessly to the next, guiding the reader through the story while maintaining their interest and engagement.
- Use of ArcGIS Online Tools: Explore the various tools and features available in ArcGIS Online to enhance your StoryMap. Consider incorporating geoprocessing, analysis, or other relevant functionalities to enrich your narrative.
- Citations and References: Properly cite and reference all data sources, maps, images, and multimedia content used in your StoryMap. Follow the citation style preferred by your academic institution.
Submission guidelines
A public link to your Story map will be submitted on a word document via online submission by Turnitin only by the due date and time. No hard copy or assignment cover sheets are required. Submission via email is not accepted.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
See the Additional assessment information section below for information relating to extension applications.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (the assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date.
For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period).
Workbook part 2
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Tutorial/ Problem Set
- Weight
- 15%
- Due date
30/10/2025 2:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05
Task description
Complete all practical exercises set during weeks 7, 8, 9, 10 and 12 and submit as a compiled report.
Submission guidelines
Online submission by Turnitin only by the due date and time. No hard copy or assignment cover sheets are required. Submission via email is not accepted.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
See the Additional assessment information section below for information relating to extension applications.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (the assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date.
For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period).
Final Exam
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 40%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05
Task description
A combination of multiple choice, short answer and essay questions.
Hurdle requirements
See ADDITIONAL COURSE GRADING INFORMATION for the hurdle relating to this assessment item.Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Calculator options | Any calculator permitted |
| Open/closed book | Closed book examination - no written materials permitted |
| Exam platform | Paper based |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 0% |
| 2 (Fail) |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 30% |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 45% |
| 4 (Pass) |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 50% |
| 5 (Credit) |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 65% |
| 6 (Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 75% |
| 7 (High Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 85% |
Additional course grading information
Assessment Hurdle
In order to pass this course, you must meet the following requirements (if you do not meet these requirements, the maximum grade you will receive will be a 3):
You must obtain 45% or more on the Final Exam.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Should you fail a course with a grade of 3, you may be eligible for supplementary assessment. Refer to the UQ website for information on supplementary assessment and how to apply.
Supplementary assessment provides an additional opportunity to demonstrate you have achieved all the required learning outcomes for a course.
If you apply and are granted supplementary assessment, the type of supplementary assessment set will consider which learning outcome(s) have not been met.
Supplementary assessment can take any form (such as a written report, oral presentation, examination or other appropriate assessment) and may test specific learning outcomes tailored to the individual student, or all learning outcomes.
To receive a passing grade of 3S4, you must obtain a mark of 50% or more on the supplementary assessment.
Additional assessment information
Applications for Extensions to Assessment Due Dates
- Read the information contained in the following links carefully before submitting an application for extension to assessment due date.
- For guidance on applying for an extension, information is available here: https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/exams-and-assessment/applying-assessment-extension
- For the policy relating to extensions, information is available here (Part D): https://policies.uq.edu.au/document/view-current.php?id=184
- Please note the University's requirements for medical certificates here: https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/uq-policies-and-rules/requirements-medical-certificates
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) provides emerging tools that may support students in completing assessment tasks 1, 2 and 3. Students may appropriately use AI in completing these assessment tasks. Students mustﾠclearly reference any use of AI in each instance.
A failure to reference generative AI use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Turnitin
By submitting work through Turnitin you are deemed to have accepted the following declaration “I certify that this assignment is my own work and has not been submitted, either previously or concurrently, in whole or in part, to this University or any other educational institution, for marking or assessment.”
All students must ensure they receive their Turnitin receipt on submission of any assessments. A valid Turnitin receipt will be the only evidence accepted if assessments are missing. Without evidence, the assessment will receive the standard late penalty, or after five days, will receive zero.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Library resources are available on the UQ Library website.
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Week 1 (28 Jul - 03 Aug) |
General contact hours |
Space, Place, and Country In this week's contact, we apply core geographic concepts of space and place to understand Indigenous geographies and the role of geography in the colonisation of Australia. We develop some new skills in the access and interpretation of geographic data (Mr Jim Walker and Dr Elin Charles-Edwards). Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03 |
Week 2 (04 Aug - 10 Aug) |
General contact hours |
The Physical Geography of Australia This week introduces you to key concepts in Physical Geography and the landforms, processes, and climate that make up the Australian continent (Dr Al Healy) Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03 |
Week 3 (11 Aug - 17 Aug) |
General contact hours |
Australia's Population Geography This week's lecture explores the subfield of population geography that focuses on the spatial distribution, dynamics, and structure of human populations. We will explore the various factors influencing populations including such as birth rates, death rates, and migration. We will engage with contemporary population debates in Australia and develop informed positions based on our understanding of population dynamics (Dr Elin Charles-Edwards). Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03 |
Week 4 (18 Aug - 24 Aug) |
General contact hours |
The Australian Tropics and The Great Barrier Reef and Introduction to Story Maps We will explore the tropics of Australia this week and cover the factors that allow for massive geo-ecological systems, like the Great Barrier Reef, to form and the challenges these ecosystems face in the future. We will also introduce you to Story Maps and how to use them for your assessment task ( Dr Al Healy). Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
Week 5 (25 Aug - 31 Aug) |
General contact hours |
Australia's Regional Geography Why do voting patterns vary so much between Australian cities and the bush? In this week's class, we explore Australia's regional divide, its formation, and contemporary drivers (Dr Elin Charles-Edwards). Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03 |
Week 6 (01 Sep - 07 Sep) |
General contact hours |
Arid Australia This week we will investigate why Australia is so dry and how this influences the water resources and geomorphology of the Australian continent (Dr Al Healy). Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03 |
Week 7 (08 Sep - 14 Sep) |
General contact hours |
The Northern Frontier In this week's class, we turn the map of Australia upside down to focus on northern Australia. We explore several "northern narratives" and how these have been driven by distant policymakers and politicians in southern Australia. We explore modes of land occupancy in northern Australia and the importance of northern Australia to First Nations land rights (Dr Elin Charles-Edwards and Mr Jim Walker). Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03 |
Week 8 (15 Sep - 21 Sep) |
General contact hours |
The Murray Darling Basin We will investigate Australia’s food bowl, the Murray-Darling Basin, this week and discuss the physical geography of rivers and water resources of Australia (Dr Al Healy). Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03 |
Week 9 (22 Sep - 28 Sep) |
General contact hours |
Australian Cities and the New Economy Is Australia still the land of a "fair go"? This week, we explore Australia's economic development and the resulting spatial divides. Adopting a historical-structural view, we examine the transition from a protected to a neoliberal economy characterized by deregulation, privatization, and reduced trade barriers. We look at how this has impacted employment, industrial structure and socioeconomic inequality in Australia (Dr Elin Charles-Edwards) Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03 |
Mid Sem break (29 Sep - 05 Oct) |
General contact hours |
Mid semester break |
Week 10 (06 Oct - 12 Oct) |
General contact hours |
Hazards in Australia Under a Changing Climate This week we will look at some of the natural hazards of Australia, and what we can do to manage them with a focus on the coast of Australia (Dr Al Healy). Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03 |
Week 11 (13 Oct - 19 Oct) |
General contact hours |
Australia and its neighbourhood Is Australia a part of Asia, the Pacific or an Anglo-American outpost? How might we use geographic concepts and methods to answer this question? What does this mean for our future economic and strategic relationships? (Dr Elin Charles-Edwards). |
Week 12 (20 Oct - 26 Oct) |
General contact hours |
So what can geographer's contribute? In this final class, we synthesise our learning from the semester to better understand how geographers can help shape Australia in the 21st Century (Dr Elin Charles-Edwatds and Dr Al Healy). Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04 |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments for Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.