This course examines the structures, processes, actors and norms of Australia's national security policymaking system. The central subject matter of the course includes: the evolving meaning of national security; Australia’s national security policymaking architecture; actors and interests in the national security community; practical aspects of national security policymaking including strategy planning and implementation; leadership in the national security community, and the future of national security policymaking in Australia.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Analyse Australia’s national security community. 
2. Demonstrate an understanding of contemporary leadership issues concerning Australia’s national security community.
3. Analyse concepts related to strategy planning and implementation in a national security context.
4. Conduct independent research and understand aspects of professional practice within national security agencies.

12,000 words:

Essay Proposal (10%)

Annotated Bibliography (20%)

Major Research Paper  (40%)

Exam  (30%)

20 hours per week (over 13 weeks), including 4 contact hours per week comprised of one 3 hour seminar and a 1 hour tutorial/online activity.

Incompatible with NSPO8001 and NSPO8003.

A basic understanding of Australia’s system of democracy and its processes.

Course reading list and guide to library resources.