Royal Commissions and Public Inquiries in Australia
By: Scott Prasser
About This Book
While there have been many different studies on public inquiries, Royal Commissions and Public Inquiries in Australia provides the most comprehensive and up-to-date overview of public inquiries in Australia. It is based on rigorous and in-depth analysis spanning several decades, and has required patient and painstaking work in defining and identifying different federal public inquiries and monitoring their performance over the last 100 years. ROYAL COMMISSIONS AND PUBLIC INQUIRIES IN AUSTRALIA will be of interest to all who seek to better understand the particular role of public inquiries and what their continued appointment tells us about trends in Australian government generally.' From the Foreword by Professor John Wanna, The Sir John Bunting Professor of Public Administration, Australian National University. ROYAL COMMISSIONS AND PUBLIC INQUIRIES IN AUSTRALIA provides the first comprehensive overview of the extent, use and impact of Commonwealth public inquiries appointed since 1901. Specifically, this new book:* defines 'public inquiries,' and delineates them from other advisory bodies;* details trends in public inquiry numbers since Federation and compares these to overseas jurisdictions;* classifies the different types and forms of public inquiries;* explains public inquiry procedures, powers and associated legislation;* analyses why public inquiries are appointed and their roles in the political system;* assesses their impact on public policy; and,* explores the continuing and future roles of public inquiries. Covering public inquiries appointed by the Commonwealth government since Federation, particular attention is given to those public inquiries appointed during the last thirty years, when inquiry numbers increased markedly. References to numerous inquiries throughout the book are supplemented by detailed case studies of key public inquiries, including royal commissions and appointed by different governments. This authoritative book has been written by an expert in the field. Lecturer Dr Scott Prasser has worked in federal and state governments in senior policy and research advisory positions. ROYAL COMMISSIONS AND PUBLIC INQUIRIES IN AUSTRALIA will be a valuable reference for those interested in a widely used, but often neglected, advisory instrument of modern government that continues to influence many areas of public policy.
AI Overview
"Royal Commissions and Public Inquiries in Australia" by Scott Prasser is a comprehensive book that provides an in-depth examination of the role, function, and impact of royal commissions and public inquiries in Australia. Here is a detailed overview of the book:
Key Themes
- Historical Context: The book offers a historical perspective on the development and evolution of royal commissions and public inquiries in Australia, tracing their origins and growth over time.
- Extensive Use: It provides a comprehensive overview of the extent and use of these inquiries, highlighting their significance in addressing various issues within the Australian public sphere.
- Impact Analysis: The book delves into the impact of these inquiries, including their influence on policy changes, public opinion, and institutional reforms.
- International Trends: It also explores international trends and comparisons, discussing how other countries utilize similar mechanisms for public scrutiny and reform.
- Key Issues and Controversies: The book covers key issues and controversies surrounding royal commissions and public inquiries, including their effectiveness, transparency, and potential biases.
Plot Summary
The book is structured to provide a thorough understanding of the subject matter. It begins with an introduction to the concept of royal commissions and public inquiries, followed by a historical analysis of their development in Australia. The author then delves into the practical aspects of these inquiries, including their establishment, procedures, and outcomes. The book also includes case studies and examples of notable inquiries, which serve to illustrate the themes discussed. Finally, it concludes with an analysis of the future of these mechanisms in Australia, considering both their potential and challenges.
Critical Reception
While specific reviews are not readily available, the book is recognized as an authoritative work in the field by experts. It is written by an expert in the field and includes several new chapters covering international trends, key issues, and controversies, indicating its comprehensive nature and relevance to the subject matter.
Additional Information
- Editions: The book has been published in multiple editions, with the second edition of "Royal Commissions and Public Inquiries in Australia" providing further updates and insights.
- Edited Works: Scott Prasser has also edited another book titled "Royal Commissions and Public Inquiries – Practice and Potential," which further explores the practice and potential of these inquiries in Australia.
Overall, "Royal Commissions and Public Inquiries in Australia" by Scott Prasser is a seminal work that offers a detailed and authoritative examination of the role and impact of royal commissions and public inquiries in Australia. Its comprehensive coverage of historical context, practical aspects, and future prospects makes it a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in public inquiries.