PCE3020

Development of policing in Australia

David Baker

8 points
* 3 hours per week
* Second semester
* Caulfield

Objectives On completion of this subject, the student will be expected to have developed a critical awareness of the historical determinants of contemporary Australian policing, its structure and its impact on society. The student is expected to gain understanding of the significance of police institutions in terms of Australia's legal and social evolution.

Synopsis The subject is designed to provide insight and understanding of the historical development of policing in Australia. The subject explores in depth the foundations, present structures and future directions of policing in Australia. The subject will explore changes in policing; compare colonial policing to that of today; examine the ramifications of relevant historical Royal Commissions and inquiries; investigate the causes and effects of the Melbourne police strike; study the expanding role of police during national crises; assess police procedures and practices of maintaining public order; consider police adaptation of modern technologies, and predict, according to historical precedent, future developments in policing.

Assessment Research essay (3000 words): 40%
* Topic essay (2000 words): 30%
* Tutorial presentation and paper (1000 words) and class participation: 30%

Prescribed texts

Haldane R K The people's force: A history of the Victoria Police 2nd edn, MUP, 1995
Finnane M (ed.) Policing in Australia: Historical perspectives NSWUP, 1987