This subject outlines the historical, political, and normative dimensions of social policy and policymaking in Australia and the international context. Students will explore concepts such as the welfare state and neo-liberalism. Students will examine and critically analyse social policy that is relevant to social work practice, and where there are gaps in policy (whose voice is missing) and service funding and delivery. For example, LGBTIQA+ needs are not adequately addressed in aged care policy and delivery, and The Closing the Gap report, which identifies priority reform areas, nonetheless, has failed to reach national benchmarks for most targets. Students will also explore the organisational context of service delivery and how organisations support or constrain professional practice. Students will evaluate the values and assumptions underpinning policy development, and how these can alleviate, but also exacerbate, poverty, inequality, and lack of social inclusion.