Navigating social partnerships: central agencies–local networks

Abstract

This paper considers the way social partnerships tend to be represented as either horizontal localised networks or neo‐liberal policy instruments. Building on two empirical studies of partnerships, we argue that partnerships cannot be understood in either/or ways but are negotiated at the interface between central agencies and local networks. They are mediated by networks operating through the partnership and through government and community, and by the different organisational logics of agencies. These complexities challenge our ways of analysing and representing partnerships, and justify further research.

Acknowledgments

The authors thank the Victorian Department of Education and Training, and the Australian National Training Authority for funding these projects, and the contributions of John Fischer, Jeff Malley and Athena Vongalis.

Notes

1. © The Crown in right of the State of Victoria 2002. This publication is based on the Evaluation of the Local Learning and Employment Networks, first published in 2002 by the Department of Education and Training, Victoria. Reproduced with permission. Not an official publication. The State of Victoria accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of any part of this material and bears no responsibility for any modifications made. Except to the extent that a licence is not required under the Copyright Act 1968, reproduction, modification or adaptation without the permission of the State of Victoria is strictly forbidden.