Public Policy in Australia: Theory and Practice is designed to help students engage with public policy. The book covers theoretical traditions, ideas and concepts together with the processes that enable policy making.

Shedding light on the internal processes and practices that underpin policy formation and implementation, Public Policy in Australia also discusses the role of interest groups, media and social movements as external factors influencing public opinion and policy change. Each chapter contains study questions and topical case studies, to help students understand the importance and practical application of public policy.

Key features:

• Makes the link between the policy making process, theoretical frameworks and policy analysis.
• Covers the external factors which can influence public policy, including the role of the media and interest groups and the way they shape public opinion.
• Topical and contemporary case studies at the end of each chapter to help students understand key points from the chapter and real-life applications of the policy process.
• Encourages critical thinking and reflexive practice.

Part 1: Theoretical Traditions, Concepts and Ideas
1. Rationality, Individuality and Public Choice
2. Ideology, Power and Public Policy
3. Pluralism, Corporatism, and Public Policy
4. The Policy Sciences

Part 2: Policy in Process
5. Problem Definition and Agenda Setting
6. Policy Analysis and Policy Instruments
7. Consultation and Decision-making
8. Implementation, Evaluation and Policy Change

Part 3: Contingent Factors in Public Policy
9. Interest Groups and the Media
10. Policy Resources and Institutional Learning
11. Evidence and Research in Public Policy

Yvonne Haigh - Lecturer of Politics and Community Development, Murdoch University