POLI3067 Access and Equity: Social Issues in Public Policy

This topic builds on existing knowledge of the Australian welfare system to examine the different needs of disadvantaged and minority groups in Australian society. Students will look at the formal and institutional processes by which equal opportunity and access and equity are promoted, enforced and monitored. A range of specific issues will be considered, for example the needs of women, the poor, Indigenous people, rural communities, migrants, the disabled, the aged and students will be asked to critically examine government policy in each of these fields. Students will be expected to work at an advanced level and take responsibility for developing their own research project on a relevant theme.

This topic aims to:

• Introduce students to a range of issues which are relevant to social justice in policy outcomes in Australia
• Examine the development of a human rights and equal opportunity framework in Australia and to understand the processes through which access and equity goals are promoted, enforced and monitored
• Examine and critically assess policy issues, the disabled, the poor, rural and remote populations
• Develop independent research skills, critical thinking and policy analysis skills

1. Understand concepts of social justice, access and equity and apply this knowledge analytically to policy issues
2. Be aware of the formal rights processes and government agencies thatmonitor, promote and enforce equal opportunity and access and equity requirements in Australia
3. Critically assess the impact of policy processes and institutional arrangements on social policy outcomes
4. Demonstrate advanced independent research and writing skills