PLM4800

Australian national government

(ART)

Offered subject to final approval

Brian Costar and Nick Economou

12 points + 2 hours per week + Second semester + Clayton

Synopsis: Major impacts on Australian national government and politics over the last two decades. The changing economic and social fabric of Australia; the impact of globalisation and the re-emergence of neo-liberal ideology. The changing Australian political tradition; recent challenges to representative and accountable governance; the increase in political disenchantment and the gradual dealignment of the electorate and the effect of these on the political parties; and, more generally, the form and nature of democracy in Australia.

Assessment: Essay (6000 words): 40% + Seminar presentation and participation: 20% + Examination (3 hours): 40%