This course provides a multi-disciplinary introduction to a range of broad concepts and issues in industrial relations both internationally and in Australia. The political, social, economic, legal, historical and psychological aspects of the evolution and operation of modern industrial relations are considered. Attention is given to the respective roles of the State (including international regulatory bodies), employer and labour organisations and employers and employees. In addition, the course will focus on the nature of industrial relations in the workplace. The role of employer strategy is considered. Other topics include industrial conflict and employee alienation; the structure and policies of unions and employer associations; forms of industrial action by employers and employees; workplace bargaining and agreement making and individual employment contracts. Consideration is given to the decline of compulsory conciliation and arbitration as the principal means of regulating relations between employees and employers.