UWA Handbook 2026

Unit Overview

Description

This service?learning unit provides students with the opportunity to undertake a research internship through the WA Parliament. The program operates as a cooperative arrangement between the WA Parliament and UWA, enabling students to conduct research on topics of public policy nominated by Members of Parliament. Students work with a UWA academic supervisor and a Member of Parliament to undertake an independent research project that addresses contemporary public policy issues and is of direct benefit to WA. Projects draw on and further develop students' interdisciplinary knowledge and research skills and may be undertaken by students majoring in any discipline. The program is restricted to high?achieving students in their third year of study or above. HDR students are not eligible. Interested students must submit a written expression of interest through the UWA WIL Office. The competitive selection process includes consideration of the written expression of interest, academic standing, and alignment with program guidelines, and may also include an interview. Eligible UWA students are nominated to the WA Parliament, with the Parliamentary Education Office making the final determination regarding student placements.

Students accepted into the WA Parliamentary Research Program assume the role of a research assistant, working under the guidance of a Member of Parliament. As the unit is research?intensive, participating students must demonstrate strong academic capability, relevant research skills, and a high level of self?motivation to successfully complete the research program. Throughout the program, students receive academic support from a UWA supervisor and professional guidance from staff in the Parliamentary Education Office.

The unit includes a compulsory induction at Parliament House. Students learning will be supported by 6 weeks of lectures focused on research methods and research communication and presentation for public policy. Final research projects are formally lodged with the Western Australian Parliamentary Library. Further guidance and support throughout the program is provided through the academic supervisor and through staff in the Parliamentary Education Office. Final projects are lodged with the West Australian Parliamentary Library.

Credit

6 points

Offering
(see Timetable)

Availability	Location	Mode
Semester 2	UWA (Perth)	On-campus

Details for undergraduate courses

• Level 3 option in the Political Science and International Relations; Philosophy, Politics and Economics; Geographical and Spatial Science major sequences
• Level 3 elective

Outcomes

Students are able to (1) deliver a report based on independent research and critical/descriptive analysis on a policy-relevant topic as issued by the Parliamentary Education Office; (2) develop and enhance communication skills – written, visual and oral.; (3) develop and enhance understanding of the role of research in policy-making/political processes; and (4) demonstrate an ability to contribute to policy discussion/debate.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) presentation and (2) report. Further information is available in the unit outline.

Supplementary assessment is not available in this unit.

Unit Coordinator(s)

Professor Amanda Davies

Unit rules

Prerequisites

Acceptance into the WA Parliamentary Research Program
and Successful completion of

96 points in your chosen degree
or approval from the School

Advisable prior study

Successful completion of

research methods
or project units

Approved quota: NA—there is no need to stipulate a quote as places are limited by the Parliamentary Office via the selection process.

Contact hours

150 hours of study

Note

Please note that the WA Parliamentary Research Program may not be offered by the WA government every year, and placements available to UWA students may be limited. Students are encouraged to contact the unit coordinator to confirm the program's availability.

Acceptance into the WA Parliamentary Research Program is also subject to School placement via an EOI process prior to enrolment, and prior approval of students' study plans.