The Canberra Model: Essays on Australian Government by David Butler

Book Description

Secondhand. Very good condition. Minor wear to book corners and edges. Light foxing to top foredge. Dust jacket has wear to corners and edges. Fading to spine. Wear to covers. Dust jacket is now enclosed in a glossy protective cover.

The Canberra Model: Essays on Australian Government (1973/1974) by Sir David Butler is a foundational political science work analysing Australian politics as a distinct variant of the British Westminster system. Based on 1967/1972 visits, it covers ministerial responsibility, bureaucracy, and electoral behaviour, arguing that Australia often adhered more closely to traditional parliamentary ideals than Britain.

It comprises 15 short essays detailing the inner workings of the Australian government, particularly the relationship between ministers and their departments. While heavily focused on the early 1970s, it is considered a pioneering, classic text for understanding the evolution of the Australian Federal system. (book flap)