AIP748 - Intergovernmental Relations: Federalism, Power and Multi-Level Governance
Unit details
| Year | 2026 unit information |
|---|---|
| Enrolment modes: | Trimester 1: Online |
| Credit point(s): | 1 |
| EFTSL value: | 0.125 |
| Unit Chair: | Trimester 1: Geoff Robinson |
| Prerequisite: | Nil |
| Corequisite: | Nil |
| Incompatible with: | Nil |
| Educator-facilitated (scheduled) learning activities - online unit enrolment: | 1 x 1-hour online seminar per week |
| Typical study commitment: | Students will on average spend 150-hours over the teaching period undertaking the teaching, learning and assessment activities for this unit. |
Content
Across the world the authority of governments is under challenge due to political polarisation, globalisation, economic inequality and the politics of identity. Federal systems of government strive to balance competing sovereignties, but their ability to secure this objective is under increasing question. This unit examines public policy in an era of radically competing sovereignties. It considers traditional forms of federalism, with specific attention to Australia, but also the rise of new forms of multi-level governance that brings together the State and civil society in policy formation and implementation. Particular attention is given to the claims of Indigenous self-determination in Australia, after the defeat of the Voice to Parliament proposal.
Learning outcomes
| ULO | These are the Unit Learning Outcomes (ULOs) for this unit. At the completion of this unit, successful students can: | Alignment to Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes (GLOs) |
|---|---|---|
| ULO1 | Demonstrate an understanding of the theory and practice of federalism, reflecting critically upon approaches, identifying the key tenets along with relative strengths and limitations here | GLO1: Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities GLO2: Communication GLO4: Critical thinking GLO6: Self-management |
| ULO2 | Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the specific features and challenges of intergovernmental relations in Australia | GLO1: Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities GLO2: Communication GLO4: Critical thinking GLO6: Self-management |
| ULO3 | Approach the interpretation of issues relating to reform of Australian federalism in analytic and reflective way, drawing together conceptual and empirical materials, and communicate findings effectively | GLO1: Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities GLO2: Communication GLO4: Critical thinking GLO5: Problem solving |
| ULO4 | Reflect critically upon how different models or theories can enhance not only our understanding of federalism, but also contribute to our own learning and development experience more broadly | GLO1: Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities GLO8: Global citizenship |
Assessment
| Assessment Description | Student output | Grading and weighting (% total mark for unit) | Indicative due week |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1: Essay | 2000 words or equivalent | 40% | Week 7 |
| Assessment 2: Essay | 3000 words or equivalent | 60% | Week 11 |
The assessment due weeks provided may change. The Unit Chair will clarify the exact assessment requirements, including the due date, at the start of the teaching period.
Learning resource
The texts and reading list for AIP748 can be found via the University Library.
Note: Select the relevant trimester reading list. Please note that a future teaching period's reading list may not be available until a month prior to the start of that teaching period so you may wish to use the relevant trimester's prior year reading list as a guide only.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
To fully engage with Deakin's learning experiences, students must be able to access and use internet-connected devices as outlined in computing requirements at Deakin.
To support student success at Deakin, we have a bring-your-own-device (BYOD) learning environment that acknowledges that students and educators bring with them the digital tools they regularly use to complete academic tasks. These tools stay with you beyond the classroom, helping you to keep learning, explore ideas more deeply, and connect with knowledge in ways that matter to you.
Students requiring a loan device should visit our Loan Laptop webpage or students requiring longer-term assistance should visit our Student Financial Assistance webpage.
Unit Fee Information
Fees and charges vary depending on the type of fee place you hold, your course, your commencement year, the units you choose to study and their study discipline, and your study load.
Tuition fees increase at the beginning of each calendar year and all fees quoted are in Australian dollars ($AUD). Tuition fees do not include textbooks, computer equipment or software, other equipment or costs such as mandatory checks, travel and stationery.
For further information regarding tuition fees, other fees and charges, invoice due dates, withdrawal dates, payment methods visit our Current Students website.