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WORK2203
SEMESTER One, 2023
Additional Slides – Week 8
GUIDANCE FOR MAJOR ASSIGNMENT
Bradon Ellem
The University of Sydney Page 2
Major Assignment
Write a submission calling on the Commonwealth government to
make a change in any one policy area.
 This task will take the form of a submission arguing for a change
to an aspect of industrial relations policy in Australia.
 This policy change might be about one of the policy areas
discussed in the classes or another issue you think needs attention.
 Your arguments should be developed by engaging critically with
Befort & Budd’s 'equity, efficiency, voice' framework and other
theories discussed in this Unit of Study.
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Submission details
 Due date: Monday 1 May 2023 at 2359 hours.
 2000 words (+/- 10%), including abstract and in-text
references; excluding reference list.
 Please follow the style guide: APA 7th.
 This task is worth 40% of the total marks available in this Unit.
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Start thinking now ...
What is the policy matter you want to write about? And why?
 Build on the main policy areas discussed thus far
… or work issues we identified that policymakers have not
addressed.
Whatever you decide, pick a ‘do-able’ topic; concentrate on one
particular aspect.
 Look at examples from previous inquiries/meetings.
What must you do?
 Make the case for the importance of the policy issue.
 Explain why the approach you suggest is the best way to deal
with it.
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Submission advice/structure
1. You can write as an organisation or as yourself; either way, explain upfront
why the issue concerns you.
2. Write a short Abstract (80 words max.), stating the problem and solution.
3. Frame the issue with a brief discussion of the context; you should be clear
about the objective(s) of your policy (efficiency, equity, voice).
4. Explain why the issue is important – don’t assume the reader will know.
5. Explain why your plan is the best way to address the issue.
6. Provide detailed evidence – don’t rely on assertions.
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Major assignment marking criteria and rubric
Total marks: 40. Divided as follows:
1. Theoretical engagement 5
2. Policy problem 5
3. Recommendations 10
4. Attention to purpose 5
5. Overall level of analysis 10
6. Structure, formatting, spelling 5
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Some tips for effective writing
1. Read widely – and wisely. Use material from lobby groups themselves where
appropriate; use the academic literature analysing the issue.
2. Make a plan.
3. Do some writing before you have finished the reading
4. In the submission, make your own position clear: explain why you say what
you say.
5. Provide extensive references. If in doubt, too many are better than too few.
6. Write and rewrite; the more drafts, the better.
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And, of course, things not to do
‘You know the rules by now …
Academic dishonesty’: this is any instance where you have deliberately
gained an unfair academic advantage. It includes:
• submitting work for assessment that that is the same, or substantially the
same, as a previously submitted work (‘recycling’)
• fabricating data or sources
• submitting unreferenced work that is not your own (plagiarism)
• engaging another person to complete or contribute to an assessment or
submitting work that has been completed by another person.
It’s bad for you, it’s bad for all of us … and you really don’t want to go
there! Any doubts or questions while preparing your assignment, let us
know.
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Submissions to previous inquiry – as a guide only
See recent government reviews for sample submissions:
https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Educatio
n_and_Employment/SecureJobsBetterPay/Submissions
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Final words
 Don’t overthink it … do something you feel interested in and confident
about
 …. as long as it fits within the parameters of this Unit and my advice here,
then go for it.
 If in doubt, contact us.