In this subject we examine representative democracy in Australia, focusing on the key ideas, representative institutions and political actors involved in Australian politics. We explore the concepts of democracy, citizenship and representation, and then consider how these ideas have been put into practice in Australia. Students will examine the Australian party system in depth, with a particular focus on ideological and organisational change in Australia's political parties. The subject will also explore changes in the nature of election campaigning and media coverage in Australia, and it will examine the important role played by interest groups and social movements. We conclude the semester by considering the feasibility of participatory and deliberative alternatives to representative democracy.

Subject rules

Readings