Politics

VCE Australian and Global Politics is the study of contemporary power at both national and global levels. Through this study students explore, explain, analyse and evaluate national and global political issues, and events. Over 4 units this study will explore Australian and global politics and offers students the opportunity to engage with key political, social and economic issues, and to become informed citizens, voters and participants in their local, national and international communities.

Australian Politics is the study of how power is gained and exercised and evaluates Australian democratic practices. Global Politics is the study of the political, social, cultural and economic forces that shape interactions at the national and global level. It explores the impact of globalisation on culture, sovereignty, human rights and the environment.

Year 10 Global Politics

In the past 200 years the world has become increasingly globalised seeing an intersection of cultures. As such the misuse of power and development of international politics has had some harrowing impacts on humanity. In this subject students will explore the development of global politics as an introduction to VCE Australian and Global Politics, they will explore the role of Australia in the international political arena and the development of human rights through the study of genocide both here in Australia and the wider world, including the Holocaust and the invasion of Timor Leste.

Unit 1 Australian & Global Politics

Ideas, Actors and Power

In Unit 1, students will be given a general introduction to the concept and significance of politics, power, authority and legitimacy. They are introduced to the political spectrum and the ideas that shape political systems and explore the characteristics of the Australian political system. They will explore the role of the media, political parties and interest groups in defining and influencing the political agenda of Australia.

Unit 2 Australian & Global Politics

Global Connections

This unit has a contemporary focus and explores globalisation and how citizens and global actors in the 21st century interact and connect with the world. Students investigate key political, economic and social links throughout the global community and apply two key theories about global politics: realism and cosmopolitanism. Students also investigate Australia’s involvement in an issue affecting the global community, and assess the response. They will also investigate contemporary case studies of global cooperation and conflict.

Unit 3 Evaluating Australian Democracy

This unit introduces students to the core principles and operation of the Australian political system. Students examine the Australian system of government; the protection of democratic rights and freedoms; the key institutions and processes of representative democracy; the electoral system; and the operation of federal parliament. Students will also compare the Australian political system with that of the United States of America to consider the similarities and differences.

Unit 4 Australian Public Policy

This unit focuses on Australian federal public policy. Students investigate the formulation and implementation of domestic public policy.They will analyse the contribution of numerous factors to domestic policy formulation and the opportunities for stakeholders to participate in the formulation of domestic policy. They will analyse ONE selected contemporary Australian domestic policy issue including the nature and context of the issue and the government’s responses to it. Students will also explore Australian foreign policy making and implementation including objectives and policy formation.

For further information please refer to page 47 Year 10 & page 71 (VCE) of the St. Joseph's College Senior School Subject Information Handbook.

Useful links:

VCAA Australian & Global Politics Study Design: https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/Documents/vce/politics/2018AustGlobalPoliticsSD.pdf

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