Political Parties & Pressure Groups

Topic Outline

Political parties and pressure groups are the main organisations which allow for participation in the political system. Parties, though not originally mentioned in the Australian Constitution, are crucial to understanding the realities of Australian politics. Most members of Parliament represent political parties, and parties closely influence policy development and the operations of both Parliament and the Executive. The Australian party system has been relatively stable, but both major groupings have experienced division and reconstruction at times. The traditional party system was based on socioeconomic interests, although this relationship has become less clear in recent times. Minor parties have often been influential and are an important variable in the political process.

Pressure group activity is an important feautre of Australian democracy. Unlike political parties, which seek public office, pressure groups seek to influence government policy by indirect means such as lobbying, public protests and media campaigns. Their role and methods are often the subject of controversy, because although they provide widespread opportunity for political participation, they are sometimes thought to exert too much influence and lack accountability.

This topic will explore the contribution which political parties and pressure groups make to the democratic process, and the opportunities they provide for individuals and groups to participate in political life.

The study of parties and pressure groups will include:

• political parties
  • functions
  • basic structure of the Australian party system
  • impact on the democratic process

• Labor, Liberal and National parties
  • broad philosophy and key policies
  • basis of support
  • influence of recent leaders
  • internal divisions, factions, party discipline

• minor parties (at least two minor parties should be studied
  • aims, broad philosophy and key policies
  • basis of support
  • role and influence in parliament and in elections
  • reasons for recent success or failure
  • relations with major parties

• pressure groups
  • types
  • aims, goals
  • methods and tactics
  • reasons for recent success or failure
  • impact on the democratic process

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