Australia · ACARA Content Descriptions
Year 10 Civics & Citizenship
This course investigates the complex mechanics of the Australian political and legal systems. Students analyze the tensions between individual rights and collective security while evaluating the effectiveness of democratic institutions in a global context.
The Pillars of Governance
Exploration of the constitutional foundations of Australian democracy and the distinct roles of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
An analysis of how the Australian Constitution divides power to prevent the concentration of authority and ensure accountability.
Examining the role of the High Court in interpreting the Constitution and acting as the final arbiter of legal disputes.
Investigating the relationship between Federal and State governments and the challenges of a multi-tiered governing system.
Justice and the Legal System
A deep dive into the Australian court system, the adversarial process, and the principles of equity and accessibility in law.
Evaluating the merits and drawbacks of the contest-based legal system used in Australia compared to other global models.
Analyzing the barriers that prevent certain groups from achieving fair outcomes within the legal system.
Investigating how international treaties and agreements influence Australian domestic law and policy.
Rights, Freedoms, and Responsibilities
Examining the protection of civil liberties in Australia and the ethical dilemmas that arise when rights conflict.
Debating the extent to which speech should be protected and when the state has a mandate to intervene.
Exploring the history and current status of First Nations rights within the Australian political framework.
Analyzing the impact of surveillance and data collection on individual liberty and national security.
The Legislative Process
An investigation into how laws are made, influenced, and challenged within the Australian parliamentary system.
Understanding the stages of the legislative process and the importance of parliamentary debate and scrutiny.
Assessing how interest groups, lobbyists, and corporate entities influence the creation of public policy.
Analyzing the media's power to shape public opinion and hold the government to account.
Global Citizenship and Identity
Examining Australia's role in the global community and the ethical responsibilities of being a global citizen.
Evaluating Australia's engagement with the UN and its commitment to international cooperation and peace.
Exploring how nations collaborate to address the ethical and political challenges of climate change.
Analyzing the ethical and legal complexities of Australia's borders and its treatment of asylum seekers.
Active Citizenship and Social Change
Developing the skills and knowledge required for students to participate effectively in democratic life and advocate for change.
Examining the history and effectiveness of protest as a tool for achieving social and political change.
Students apply their knowledge to plan a campaign for a social or political issue they are passionate about.
Reflecting on the challenges facing modern democracies and imagining new ways for citizens to participate.