This workshop seeks to acquaint participants with the key values and issues shaping government activity and policy choices. Participants are asked to make choices about the form and direction of government, the role and style of the public sector, issues concerning the need for government action and choices in policy development. Activities are related to existing trends, present government structures and institutional processes affecting public sector staff now, and particular relevant policy issues.
Key issues for this discussion include:
Views of government
Why government exists
Causes of government action
Interest groups
Structure of government
Public sector forms
Changing roles of government
Forces of change
Relationship between values, government structures and policy choices
Methodology
Using a participative and role play format and a range of different scenarios, participants will learn about existing government structures, processes and policies.
This workshop equips participants to:
Understand the reasons for government;
Identify the different values and issues affecting the form and structure of government;
Comprehend the causes and dilemmas concerning the needs for government action;
Recognise the role of interest groups;
Appreciate key choices and factors affecting the activities of the public sector; and
Relate key concepts to real world situations and recent developments in Australian, state and local governments.
