Empowering change through exceptional research and education in politics and global affairs.
The School of Government and International Relations is one of the best in Australia for teaching and research in politics, and it is a leader in student career readiness. The School’s research has been recognised as ‘well above world standard’ for more than a decade by the Australian government – a record matched at only three other universities in the country
Our staff of world-class teacher-researchers, and our dedication to student career readiness, ensures the School offers one of the best Political Science and IR experiences available in Australia or internationally.
Our researchers work at the cutting edge of crucial issues in Political Science, Public Policy and International Relations, and their work is assigned and discussed in classrooms around the world. They bring their own research into classrooms, engaging and inspiring students in our dynamic range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
We place significant emphasis on career preparation and all students are provided with Career Guides produced by the School, helping take the guesswork out of the process. Undergraduate students get further guidance in the core course Career Pathways in Political Science and International Relations, and both undergraduates and postgraduates can gain valuable work experience through a for-credit internship.
Study Government and International Relations
World-leading academic staff
At our department, you'll find a team of exceptional educators, researchers, and professors who are experts in their respective fields. Our diverse and talented team is committed to providing research-led education that equips our students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in today's rapidly evolving political science landscape.
Research-led advocacy driving reform
Professor AJ Brown AM honoured in 2023 King's Birthday Awards
Professor AJ Brown AM was honoured for his significant service to the law and to public policy particularly to whistleblower protection. A board member of Transparency International, Professor Brown continues to be one of the prominent advocates for whistleblowing protection laws for employees who speak up and publicly disclose corruption in the workplace. Professor Brown also has been instrumental heading Griffith research-led advocacy in helping to drive and deliver ground-breaking national anti-corruption reform for Australia.
Research
Our expertise encompasses many sub-disciplines within the field including International Relations, International Political Economy, Comparative Politics, Australian Politics, Political Theory and Public Policy.
Our research remains relevant and impactful as we actively collaborate with governments and political leaders, ensuring our work addresses contemporary challenges.
Higher Degree Research
Our School has a strong reputation for developing emerging scholars and professionals. As a higher degree by research student, you will become part of a community, participating in the activities of the cohort and key Griffith research centres and hubs.
Our HDR candidates, are nurtured throughout their degree, and are ready to follow an academic or professional career upon graduation.
Collaboration
We work with government, industry and community to find policy-relevant solutions to problems in the political science arena.
Centre for Governance and Public Policy
The Centre for Governance and Public Policy examines and critiques the capacity, accountability and sustainability of the public service and government, providing insights into improved management structures.
Griffith Asia Institute
The Griffith Asia Institute is an internationally recognised research centre with research focused on the trade and business, politics, governance, security, economies and development of the Asia Pacific and their significance for Australia.
Policy Innovation Hub
The Policy Innovation Hub forms relationships with governments, international institutions and policymakers to assist informed decision-making and involvement in the delivery of transformational projects. Helping policy-makers solve policy problems through evidence-based collaboration with multidisciplinary experts who understand public policy.
Australia and New Zealand School of Government
The Australia and New Zealand School of Government (ANZSOG) works governments and partner universities to strengthen the quality of public sector leadership in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.
Find out about the international reputation of Griffith's School of Government and International Relations, and why political science and international relations is such an exciting career path.
Employability
We prioritise our students career success. We provide valuable resources, including the careers guide "The Places You Can Take Your Degree," tailored for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. This guide features inspiring profiles of successful Griffith politics graduates, connecting you with real-world career possibilities. We also facilitate access to Griffith Career Services to support your career aspirations.
Our core undergraduate course, Career Pathways in Political Science and International Relations, centers around the careers guide, helping students take important steps toward professional goals. Join us in an empowering environment where we prioritize your employability and guide you on a path to a rewarding career.
Student success
Our graduates have achieved a wide range of fascinating and rewarding careers. This collection showcases various positions held by alumni, including roles in local, state, and national government, diplomacy, non-governmental organizations, and international business. It is important to note that this is just a sample, as there are numerous other career paths available with a degree in Government and International Relations. The possibilities extend to diverse fields such as government, business, media, non-governmental organizations, international organisations, and more.
The Hon. Jim Chalmers, Treasurer of Australia, Member for Rankin, Queensland
Jim Chalmers completed a Bachelor of Politics and Government degree at Griffith University in 1999, achieving first-class honours in public policy. He went on to earn a PhD in Political Science and International Relations from the Australian National University. He was elected to the House of Representatives for the Federal electorate of Rankin, Queensland in 2013 and was re-elected in 2016, 2019, and 2022. He looks back fondly on his time at Griffith: "I owe Griffith so much. I wouldn’t be here without my time here, and that's why I've tried to stay as involved as possible in the life of the uni.
He looks back fondly on his time at Griffith: "I owe Griffith so much. I wouldn’t be here without my time here, and that’s why I’ve tried to stay as involved as possible in the life of the uni."
Jasmina Joldić, Director-General of the Department of Justice and Attorney-General
Jasmina completed a Master of Public Administration (Policy) at Griffith allowing her to climb the career ladder since landing her first role as a Policy advisor for the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet in Canberra. Jasmina's distinguished career includes several senior positions including Associate Director-General with Queensland Health, Assistant Director-General with the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning.
Jasmina was awarded an Australia Day Public Service Medal in 2022 for her leadership at Queensland Health during Queensland's COVID-19 pandemic response. In 2023 she received Griffith Business School Alumnus of the year award.
Jayne Francis, Assistant Director of International Policy, Australian Public Service
Jayne completed a BGIR degree with Honours in 2016. During her degree she completed an internship with the Australian Institute of International Affairs as an administrative assistant, which led to a paid position as an assistant to the President of the QLD Branch. Upon graduation Jayne worked as a policy officer for the QLD Department of Transport and Main Roads and then transitioned to the Australian Public Service. In her current role as Assistant Director working on Pacific policy Jayne is responsible for implementing Australia’s foreign policy with other countries, negotiating international agreements, and providing policy advice to senior government officials.
The Hon. Anika Wells, Federal Minister for Aged Care and Minister for Sport, Queensland
Anika Wells completed a Bachelor of Arts - Political Science and Government and a Bachelor of Laws at Griffith University in 2009. She also earned a graduate diploma in legal practice and worked for Maurice Blackburn lawyers from 2014 to 2019. She was elected to the House of Representatives for the Federal electorate of Lilley, Queensland in 2018, replacing former Australian Treasurer Wayne Swan through a preselection. She then won the seat in the 2019 election and was Australia's youngest female Minister of Parliament at 34. In 2022, she was re-elected for the seat of Lilley, and then she was elevated to Minister for aged Care and Minister for Sport.
Auguste Lameta, Programme Support Specialist, United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation
Auguste graduated in 2016 with a Bachelor of Government and International Relations. During her degree, Auguste interned for the International Business Development Unit at Griffith University. Upon completion, Auguste took a posting with the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) as a Programme Assistant in the FAO Pacific Office in Samoa. In 2020, Auguste began her Master of Global Development with Griffith University and undertook another internship with the non-profit organisation Crossroads Foundation in Hong Kong through a Global Mobility course.
Student opportunities
Griffith Business School offers many opportunities for students to get involved with our community, build professional and social networks, and enhance business skills.
We also offer a wide range of scholarships, prizes and awards to assist with the costs of course fees, textbooks, accommodation and living expenses.
News
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In a thought-provoking and insightful panel discussion hosted by the Griffith Asia Institute, the...
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Online micro-credential course to build organisations’ capability to adapt and mitigate against...
Bold experiment hailed a success by GAI and AIIA Queensland
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Contact Government and International Relations
Enquiries
- Higher degree by research phone
- Freecall within Australia: 1800 154 055
- +61 7 3735 3817
Nathan campus
- Phone
- (07) 3735 3817
- Location and postal address
- Glyn Davis Building (N72) -1.14
- Nathan campus, Griffith University
- 170 Kessels Road, Nathan QLD 4111 Australia
