Introduction to Social Policy

Social policy influences individuals and communities in all aspects of everyday life and is indicative of how the state addresses social problems and social need. This unit of study introduces students to the identification and construction of social problems; contemporary Australian social policy, and theoretical frameworks that inform policymaking, implementation and review. Social policy is a key intervention used in social work for facilitating social change with regard to income security, employment, housing, education, health and community services, and the social effects of climate change.

Students use skills in research and critical thinking to identify and analyse contemporary public debates about social issues/problems, and present these debates in ways that promote social inclusion, equality and empowerment in social work practice.