A great deal of what is called politics in Australia is identified with political parties and, ultimately, with prime ministers. Popular and media views identify the prosperity of Australia, various events and the achievements of a Federal government with success or failure of the Prime Minister. Hence, there are a great many people who discuss the so-called 'presidentialisation' of Australian politics. But do prime ministers have as much power as is popularly conceived? This course is based on the old political theme of agency versus structure. How much can one individual achieve as prime minister when he/she is dependent on a political party and a cabinet which include powerful allies? How much has the process of socialisation in a party shaped the aspirant? What style of leadership must a prime minister present to the electorate?