Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On completion of this subject students should understand the relative roles of the private and public sectors in achieving an efficient allocation of scarce national resources; have developed a critical evaluation of different forms of government policy options for altering the allocation of resources; and have gained an enhanced understanding of Australian government policies towards the supply and consumption of education, health care, housing, the arts, social security and pollution.
Synopsis This subject is concerned with the analysis of the role of the private and public sectors in resource allocation, in areas of vital social significance, but in which there is also a considerable amount of disputed terrain. It involves an analysis of the operation of market mechanisms and bureaucratic procedures, primarily with the view to establishing what are the most efficient and equitable alternatives. Some of the areas under consideration are education, health care, housing, the arts, crime prevention, pollution, urban congestion, poverty, and social security. Particular attention is given to Australian policies and practices.
Assessment Take-home examination + Assignments