The first minister in Australia : studies of the office in crisis situations, 1920-1941

Abstract

The object of this thesis is to throw some light upon Australian party leadership in office. The position is examined in times of crisis in order to illustrate the tactics available to, and factors affecting, any First Minister, in his efforts to remain both Government and party leader. The thesis is based upon fourteen case studies

of a variety of crises at both Federal arid State levels between the two world wars. The studies are arranged in party groups, since the First Minister's relations with various sections of his party proved particularly important in the analysis, and it enabled each group to be introduced by an outline of the party's relevant rules, traditions and organisation.