Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On completion of this subject students should understand the general outline of Victoria's economic development; have acquired an historical understanding of Victoria's current economic circumstances; have developed analytical, oral and written skills by writing a long essay and delivering a tutorial paper; be able to extend their knowledge of Victoria's economic past through further independent study.
Synopsis This subject surveys the growth and diversification of the Victorian economy from the gold rushes which began in 1851 to recession at the end of the 1970s. Topics to be discussed include population growth, the economic impact of gold, attempts to use the land more intensively through selection and closer settlement, the growth of Melbourne, changes in the structure of the economy, immigration, industrialisation, technical change, the role of government in the economy, the impact of depression in the 1890s and 1930s, two world wars, and post-war prosperity to the early 1970s.
Assessment Written (2500-word essay): 40% + Tutorial assessment: 10% + Examination (2 hours): 50%