Course overview
This course aims to equip learners with core knowledge and understanding of the Australian political system focusing on key political institutions such as parliament, cabinet, federalism, the constitution, High Court, parties, and the public service. The course explains how the Australian political system works, highlighting both the formal structures and informal practices that shape Australian politics, especially in regard to the social, political and economic factors that enable or constrain their introduction. These understandings will develop critical insights into how Australian government operate and provide the necessary foundation for undertaking subsequent courses in the political major.
- Foundations of Australian politics
- Formal structures of Australian politics
- Australian political practice
Course learning outcomes
- Examine some of the key concepts in Australian political science
- Discuss Australian political culture and its historical context
- Critically reflect upon political practice and the theories underpinning the legal and political structures of governments in Australia
- Identify some of the major current political debates in Australian politics
- Investigate the context and history of citizenship and human rights issues as they pertain to political practice
Availability
Class details
Whyalla
Group 1
Class number 66747
Section TU01
Size 25
Available 25
Adelaide City Campus East
Group 1
Class number 64068
Section TU08
Size 30
Available 27
Class number 64070
Section TU06
Size 28
Available 27
Class number 64072
Section TU04
Size 28
Available 24
Class number 64073
Section TU03
Size 28
Available 27
Class number 64074
Section TU02
Size 28
Available 25
Class number 68494
Section TU09
Size 30
Available 29
Class number 63741
Section LE01
Size 240
Available 227
Mt Gambier
Group 1
Class number 66746
Section TU01
Size 25
Available 24
Fee calculator
To display course fees for 2027, select your status and program below:
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Only some Postgraduate Coursework programs are available as Commonwealth Supported. Please check your program for specific fee information.
If you are studying in a Professional Pathway Psychology, Clinical Psychology or Social Work program, please refer to the Student Contributions amounts published here.
The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.