The course begins with a discussion of principles of evaluation of social policies. Experts then give lectures on case studies in social policy with which they are familiar. In each case, the lecturer considers the history of the implementation of the policy, its rationale, the politics involved, an evaluation against social policy principles, and the current standing of the policy. Australian cases covered may include the maternity payment; family tax benefit payments; the Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS); Jobs, Education and Training Program (JET); the child support scheme; matrimonial property; and child care. Cases from Asia may include the family planning program in Indonesia; China's one-child policy and the public health system in Iran.

For further information, see http://adsri.anu.edu.au/study/Courses/DEMO8085.php