Almost every public policy decision made today has a China dimension to it. Therefore, knowledge of Chinese policymaking is an essential qualification in the effective fulfillment of public servants’ responsibilities. Without a deeper understanding of policymaking within China, misunderstandings with severe implications can impact the decisions of Australian public servants, business, security, defence, and media communities as well as the greater Australian public.

This program will pull back the curtain to reveal what and who is behind this complex economic and political system. Current and future Australian decision makers will be provided with the knowledge and tools to make more informed and better public policy related to the bilateral relationship.

Over two intensive periods, participants will learn how Chinese policies are made, who makes them, and how disputes over them are resolved. Each session will be unique, with in-depth tutorials and participant-led discussions about how Chinese policies are constructed and implemented.

By the end of the program, participants will have the knowledge and the tools to understand not only how policies in China are made, but also will have developed their own framework of Chinese policymaking which they can apply in their own relevant area of work.

Core topics:

The course is divided into several sessions covering such topics as: public & private ownership in China, social-welfare policymaking, minority policy, financial and banking institutions, military-civilian integration, technological policy and Chinese foreign policy.

Each session will include a presentation by relevant experts including academics, researchers, senior public servants and business leaders. Each presentation will be followed by participant-led workshops facilitated by presenters and program academic leads.

Learning outcomes

• Understand the actors involved in Chinese policymaking.
• Understand the process by which policies are made at all levels of government
• Apply knowledge in research relevant to field.
• Be able to discuss Chinese economic decision making with a clear framework and knowledge base.
• Gain a deeper understanding and be able to critically analyse, discuss and debate China’s changing role in the world and relations with other states.

Who should attend?

This program is designed for mid/senior level public servants whose work duties would be aided by a more informed understanding of the peculiarities of Chinese policymaking. Australian government will be able to make more accurate assessments of China’s policy strategies and realise Australia’s interests in its engagement on all areas including trade, the environment, healthcare, energy and education. Participants should be prepared to frame their particular interest in Chinese policy in conjunction with their employer, with the aim to complete a research project related to that interest.

It is also suitable for participants in not-for-profits and media industry. Participants will be able to provide better analysis of Chinese policy announcements, providing the public with more informed understanding of the country and its policies.

Indicative assessment

Details of the final assessment will be provided on the course home page. Participants are supported to think about the course content in relation to their area of professional interest, producing a tailored 3000 word research project to be submitted in early December.