James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2003

PL2294:03

Public Administration and Intergovernment Relations *

26 hours lectures, 10 hours tutorials. Semester 2.

Staff: Dr D Hunt.

This subject introduces students to a range of issues affecting contemporary public administration, with emphasis on the debate on the role of government; the political context; the process of public sector change and relations between the levels of government in Australia. Topics include: the ‘fiscal crisis’ of the state; corporatisation and privatisation; ‘new contractualism’ – outsourcing, contracting out and competitive tendering. Some emphasis is also placed on moves for systemic reform of intergovernment structures as advanced via the Council of Australian Governments and other ministerial councils. This includes examination of problems of duplication and overlap; National Competition Policy; program responsibilities and funding and fiscal imbalance.

Learning Objectives:

1. develop understanding of key concepts in public administration and their application to contemporary developments in public sector management and intergovernment relations in Australia;
2. critically review relevant academic and government literature;
3. use research and analytical skills pertinent to work in public administration;
4. develop appropriate written and verbal communication skills.

Assessment by examination (40%); at least 10% invigilated tutorial work; the remainder, essay work, in accordance with University guidelines on invigilation. Assessment will be finalised after consultation with students.