Program Overview
Program Overview
The subject POL213 Australian Political Institutions examines the institutional framework of Australian politics and the political process itself. It outlines the central features of the federal political system with special attention to both historical background and contemporary debates.
Subject Details
Subject Outlines
The subject examines the dynamics of inclusion and exclusion that have shaped Australian politics and what it means for Australians to live together as members of a political community.
Availability
The subject is available in Session 2, with 60 students, and is offered online and at the Bathurst Campus.
Subject Information
Grading System
The grading system for this subject is HD/FL.
Duration
The subject is one session in duration.
School
The subject is part of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Enrolment Restrictions
Students who have completed POL101 are not eligible to take this subject.
Incompatible Subjects
POL101 is an incompatible subject.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:
- demonstrate an understanding of the workings of the key institutions of government
- identify the main actors in the political process and their impact on the legislative process and on electoral behaviour
- communicate and debate Australian political issues
- monitor political events and contribute as informed citizens and as members of interest groups
- critically evaluate Australian politics and government policies
Syllabus
The subject will cover the following topics:
- An introduction to Australian Politics
- The Federalist System
- The Constitution
- Electing the Executive
- The Legislature
- The Judiciary
- The Bureaucracy
- The Political Left
- The Political Right
- Minor Parties, Interest Groups and the Media
- Australian Foreign Policy
- Where is Australia heading?