policy

Order Description
Assessment 1: Policy problem
Length: 1500 words
In recent times, the problem of “domestic violence” has been “on the policy agenda”.1
This first assignment asks you to investigate this topic, with reference to the National
Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and Children 2010-2022 using aspects of
the health policy triangle presented in Chapter 1 of your text – specifically, context,
content, and process.
Please produce a referenced report that addresses the following questions:
1. What is the nature and extent of the problem of domestic violence in Australia?
(Think for example, about the prevalence, health and resource consequences,
risk group(s), geographic distribution).
2. “At this time [thirty years ago], violence between intimate partners, commonly
called a domestic, was widely considered to be a private, individualized matter
that was often blamed on the victim.” 2 How is the issue of domestic violence
being framed in Australia now? (What are our politicians saying, and how is the
media reporting it?) What are the implications of this change in framing, in
terms of addressing the issue?
3. The National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and Children 2010-
2022 brings together the efforts of governments across the nation to tackle the
problem of violence against women. You will find the policy document at the
following
link: https://www.dss.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/08_2014/national_pl
an1.pdf
What does the national plan aim to do?
What is the role of the action plans?
How are governments working together under the plan?
4. Domestic violence has been described as a “wicked problem”. Why is that, and
what does it mean for policy and policy makers? See Chapter 2 of “Tackling
Wicked Problems. A Public Policy Perspective.” Australian Government, 2007.
Available at: http://www.enablingchange.com.au/wickedproblems.pdf
1http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/malcolm-turnbull-to-go-hardagainst-
domestic-violence-20150923-gjtcui.html (see clip and article)
2 Murray, S. & Powell, A. “What’s the Problem?” Australian Public Policy
Constructions of Domestic and Family Violence. Violence Against Women. 2009
May;15(5):532-52. doi: 10.1177/1077801209331408
Assessment Criteria
Assignment 1 will be assessed against the specific requirements listed below as
follows:
? Relevance of answer to the question.
? Evidence to show an understanding of, and ability to source, interpret and
reflect on relevant public health information.
? A depth of analysis, evidence of critical thinking and conclusions supported by
evidence.
? Clear expression and ability to write scientifically.
? Referencing which is undertaken accurately and as necessary.
? Adherence to word limit (Please note: The word limit will be checked during
marking).