Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit provides students with an understanding of the governance structure of planning systems in Australia, and in particular Western Australia. It introduces students to the political and bureaucratic frameworks that underpin planning; the role of different tiers of government—federal, state and local; the links between planning, the business sector and non-government organisations; the dynamics of power, conflict, and decision-making in democratic planning systems; and the complex interplay of social, political and economic processes within planning systems and policy decision making more broadly.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2025UWA (Perth)Face to face
Not available in 2025OnlineOnline timetabled
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate a critical understanding and mastery of theories and conceptual tools used in planning and governance systems, structures, and processes; (2) exhibit an advanced understanding of the practical and operational facets shaping the institutional, policy, and political landscape of planning and governance within Western Australia and Australia; and (3) prepare for planning practice by examining and reporting on power and decision-making in planning and governance processes within the planning system at state, metropolitan, and local levels.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) class test / quiz; (2) student-led seminar presentations; and (3) discussion paper. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Linda Robson
Unit rules
Prerequisites
enrolment in
the Master of Urban and Regional Planning (72560)
or Master of Landscape Architecture (25550)
or Master of Environmental Planning (13550)
Incompatibility
EART4412 Planning and Governance
Contact hours
Workshops: 4 hours per week including independent industry learning engagement related to planning and governance.
The total workload for the unit is 150 hours.
Note
Any students needing this unit to complete their course will need to complete the unit in semester 1, 2022.
Texts

There are no textbooks required for this unit.

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.