The Australian Political System in Action offers an engaging introduction to the dynamics of the Australian political system. It analyses the key features of modern democratic institutions and critiques the way these institutions operate in practice in Australia. The second edition has been updated to provide students with an overview of the actors, institutions and the political events, and the role these have played in shaping the current system in Australia.

Each chapter is divided into two sections: the first section examines a core Australian political institution, outlining its structure, purpose and function. The second section explores an issue or controversy associated with the particular institution under review, and helps to relate political processes to everyday life.

NEW TO THIS EDITION

• Discussion of the 2010 federal election, the Rudd-Gillard leadership dispute, and the political machinations associated with the subsequent formation of minority government.
• Analysis of recent policy changes under the Gillard ALP government, including the National Broadband Network, carbon tax and refugee policy.
• New material on indigenous recognition in the Constitution, the National Human Rights Consultation, and the debate over the 'Dialogue model' for protecting and promoting human rights.

1. Democracy and Liberalism in Australia
2. The Australian Constitution
3. Federalism
4. The Legislature
5. Running the State: Executive Power
6. The Public Service: Making and Implementing Policy
7. The High Court
8. The Electoral System
9. Australian Political Parties and the Party System
10. The Australian Labour Party
11. The Liberal Party
12. Minor Parties in Australia

Narelle Miragliotta - Senior lecturer, School of Political and Social Inquiry, Monash University
Wayne Errington - Senior lecturer, School of History and Politics, University of Adelaide
Nicholas Barry - Lecturer, School of Social Sciences, La Trobe University

The following resources are available for students using The Australian Political System in Action:

• Useful web links

Click the link below to access a sample chapter from The Australian Political System in Action:

Chapter 1: Democracy and Liberalism in Australia