Key facts
UNE unit code: AGB503
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - On Campus
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
How do climate change, trade wars, food policies, and government decisions shape the food on our plates – and who profits? This unit explores the major issues and debates that shape agricultural and natural resource policy in Australia and around the world, from GMOs and water allocation to carbon footprints and global pandemics.
Throughout the unit, you will use real-world data and case studies to unpack how these policies impact farmers, agribusinesses, rural communities and the environment in Australia and around the world. You’ll investigate key questions such as who benefits from agricultural subsidies, how international trade intersects with domestic politics, and how rent-seeking shapes policy outcomes.
By critically analysing the economic, environmental and social forces that drive policy, you’ll develop the tools to analyse, debate and influence the policies that drive the future of food and natural resources.
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 |
*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:
- critically evaluate complex economic, environmental, and social drivers influencing agricultural and natural resource policy in diverse national and international contexts, applying advanced theoretical and empirical frameworks;
- assess and synthesise the impacts of government interventions on agricultural markets, rural communities, and natural resources, drawing on contemporary research and policy analysis;
- interrogate and critique current and emerging policy debates in agriculture and natural resources, integrating real-world data, advanced case study analysis, and interdisciplinary perspectives;
- develop and communicate sophisticated, evidence-based policy recommendations and strategic insights to specialist and non-specialist audiences, demonstrating high-level professional and academic standards; and
- reflect critically on the ethical, cultural, and governance challenges inherent in the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of agricultural and natural resource policies in complex and dynamic environments.
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 1: Policy Brief | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Policy Brief and Case Study Analysis Word Count: 1500 |
| Assignment 2: Case Study Analysis (Individual or Group) | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Students will critically assess a contemporary Australian agricultural or natural resource policy debate. Using real-world data and case studies, they will evaluate the impacts of government interventions on markets, communities, and resources, and reflect on ethical, cultural, and practical challenges. Word Count: 2500 words (individual) or 3,500 words (group, with clear individual contributions). |
| Final Exam - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | A mix of multiple-choice, short-answer and essay questions covering all unit content. Word Count: 2000 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. |
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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