Australia · ACARA Content Descriptions
Year 5 Civics & Citizenship
This course explores the structures and values that underpin Australian democracy. Students examine the role of government, the importance of the rule of law, and how diverse communities participate in shaping a just society.
01The Democratic Engine: How Australia Governs
An exploration of the three levels of government and the key functions of the Westminster system in an Australian context.
Distinguishing the specific responsibilities of the federal government to citizens, such as defence and national laws.
Investigating the roles of state and territory governments in areas like education, health, and transport.
Examining the functions of local councils in managing community services, parks, and local infrastructure.
Analyzing the Australian Constitution as the foundational document that governs the government, focusing on its key sections.
Investigating the process of changing the Australian Constitution through a referendum and historical examples.
Understanding the symbolic and constitutional role of the Governor-General in Australia's parliamentary system.
Investigating how representatives are elected to make laws on behalf of the people, focusing on the electoral process.
Tracing the journey of a bill through parliament, from its introduction to becoming a law.
Understanding the basic roles of the Parliament, including making laws and representing the people, without delving into the complexities of the Westminster system.
Identifying that different parts of government have different jobs, such as making laws, putting laws into action, and making sure laws are fair, without using the term 'separation of powers'.
02Fairness and the Law
Investigating the legal system, the concept of the rule of law, and how courts ensure justice for all.
Understanding the principle that laws apply equally to all people, regardless of their status or wealth, and its historical origins.
Exploring the concept that everyone is subject to the same laws and legal processes, including those in power.
Examining the structure of the Australian court system, from local magistrates to the High Court.
Understanding the importance of an independent judiciary in ensuring fair trials and upholding the Rule of Law.
Exploring why we have laws, the difference between rules at home/school and laws in society, and the idea that breaking laws has consequences.
Exploring the foundational principles and practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander customary law.
Understanding that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have their own traditional laws and customs, and the importance of respecting diverse cultural practices in Australia.
Understanding the function of juries in criminal trials and their importance in ensuring community participation in justice.
Exploring the concept of access to justice and the barriers some individuals or groups face in using the legal system.
Investigating alternative approaches to justice that focus on repairing harm and reconciliation, rather than just punishment.
03Voices of the People
Focusing on the electoral process and the various ways citizens can influence government decisions.
Understanding the basic process of voting in Australia, including how to cast a vote and why every vote counts, without detailing the preferential system.
Investigating the significance of secret ballots and other measures to ensure free and fair elections.
Discussing the arguments for and against compulsory voting in Australia.
Exploring how political parties form, their ideologies, and their role in elections and governance.
Investigating how various interest groups (e.g., environmental, business, social) advocate for their causes.
Examining the role of traditional and social media in shaping public opinion and influencing political outcomes.
Analyzing the role of peaceful protest as a fundamental democratic right and its historical impact.
Exploring how formal petitions and other forms of community action can influence government decisions.
Investigating ways young people can participate in civic life and influence decisions, even before voting age.
Reflecting on the broader concept of active citizenship and its importance for a healthy democracy.
04Rights and Responsibilities
Examining the balance between individual freedoms and the obligations citizens have to their community.
Identifying the core principles of human rights as outlined in international declarations and treaties.
Exploring basic rights that Australians have, such as the right to be treated fairly, to go to school, and to express opinions, focusing on practical examples rather than legal frameworks.
Investigating laws designed to prevent discrimination based on race, gender, religion, and other attributes.
Discussing the civic obligations of jury duty and voting, and their importance for a functioning democracy.
Understanding the obligation to pay taxes and how these funds contribute to public services and infrastructure.
Exploring the importance of voluntary community service and its role in building a strong society.
Exploring the right to privacy and data protection in the digital world.
Discussing the ethical responsibilities of digital citizens regarding cyberbullying and respectful online interactions.
Developing skills to critically evaluate information encountered online and identify misinformation.
Reflecting on the inherent tension between individual rights and collective responsibilities in a democratic society.