Key facts
UNE unit code: ECON243
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - On Campus
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Trimester 3 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information

Explore the origins, functions and importance of Australia’s principal economic institutions and their significance for today’s globalised economy studying this fascinating unit.
You will chart the ways in which government, business and interest groups have interacted to develop Australia’s economy since Federation.
You will examine the Constitution and the economic functions of government, as well as international economic relations. You will also study topics including the labour market, rural production, industry and competition policy, and public and private finance.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 2 | Online |
| Trimester 3 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)

Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- analyse the origins, evolution, functions, and importance of Australia's principal economic institutions;
- analyse the impact of Australia’s economic institutions on economic performance;
- interpret and compare the factors that drive institutional change and shape institutional structures; and
- construct clear, evidence-based arguments through analytical writing, short answers, and/or oral presentations.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assignment 2 | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Written task No. Words: 2500 |
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 40% | All offerings | There is a supervised exam during the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. Students must obtain at least 50% in the examination (and at least 50% overall) to receive a pass or better in the unit. |
| Online Invigilated Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 25% | All offerings | The exam will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. Students must obtain at least 50% in the examination (and at least 50% overall) to receive a pass or better in the unit. |
| Online Participation | No | 5% | Trimester 2, Online; Trimester 3, Online | Online students are required to actively contribute to forum discussions or live Zoom meetings in at least 5 of the 11 teaching weeks. Exceptions will be permitted where good reasons can be provided, in agreement with the Unit Coordinator. |
| Tutorial Participation | No | 5% | Trimester 2, On Campus, Armidale Campus | On campus students are required to actively participate in workshops, live Zoom meetings or forum discussions in 5 of the 11 teaching weeks. Exceptions will be permitted where good reasons can be provided, in agreement with the Unit Coordinator. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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