PL2291 - Australian Public Policy and Politics

[Offered in even-numbered years]

This subject examines the context, process and problems of public policy in Australia. It does this via a framework of public policy defined as government decisions, produced by the interaction of values, interests and resources, shaped by institutions and mediated by politics. The analysis of these factors is applied to the study of a range of specific policy areas. The lecture and tutorial program covers the Australian public policy context; the role of parties, parliament and cabinet in policy formulation and several policy case studies. A seminar program examines the influence of selected organisations (including pressure groups and statutory authorities) on public policy.

Learning Outcomes

• critically review academic, political and government literature;
• demonstrate knowledge of key concepts in public policy and their application to Australian politics;
• develop written and verbal communication skills;
• understand and contribute to contemporary policy debate in Australia;
• use research and analytical skills pertinent to the practice of public policy.

Graduate Qualities

• The ability to think critically, to analyse and evaluate claims, evidence and arguments;
• The ability to adapt knowledge to new situations;
• The ability to define and to solve problems in at least one discipline area;
• The ability to speak and write logically, clearly and creatively;
• A coherent and disciplined body of skills, knowledge, values and professional ethics in at least one discipline area;
• The ability to learn independently and in a self-directed manner;
• A commitment to lifelong learning and intellectual development.

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.