This course provides a detailed investigation into the history, working and challenges experienced by Australia’s security and intelligence organisations. The course is designed to examine and contrast the varying roles and functions of the various agencies as part of Australia’s national security apparatus in the context of its engagement in the Asia-Pacific region. The course considers how the various intelligence and security functions and organisations have evolved and how they have interacted with society and how they have helped shape Australia’s engagement in the Asia-Pacific.

Students who successfully complete this course should be able to:

1. Describe the components of the Australian Intelligence Community
2. Explain how and why the AIC came to be configured as it is
3. Explain the role of the AIC in Australia’s national security community and national security strategy
4. Critically analyse the strengths and weaknesses of the AIC
5. Evaluate the significance of the AIC for Australia as an Asia-Pacific power

1. Tutorial presentation 10%
2. Short essay 20%
3. Research Essay 60%
4. Final Examination 10%

36 contact hours per semester

Two one-hour lecture sessions per week for 12 weeks and a one-hour tutorial per week for 12 weeks of the semester

STST1001, STS1002 and STST2001 or STST2002 or permission from the coordinator

A basic interest/ knowledge in Australian and Asia-Pacific history, security, political science and /or international relations

Key readings will be provided via Wattle

Wattle access

Power-point and recording enabled lecture theatre