Institutions in Australian Society

As Australian society becomes increasingly complex and diverse, it is more difficult than ever for the lay person to understand how the variety of institutional structures within society function. Institutions in Australian Society examines the basic characteristics of thirteen fundamental institutions in Australian society, giving an overview of the development and contemporary significance of each of them. Written by specialists in each area, but assuming no prior study of the institutions, the book gives insights into the workings of federal, state and local government, the law, the economy, industrial relations, agriculture, education, mass media, social welfare, medicine, religion and sport. Each chapter is self-contained and includes a guide to further reading, while an introduction provides an overview of the importance of these institutions in contemporary Australia.