Australia · ACARA Content Descriptions
Year 7 Civics & Citizenship
This course explores the mechanics of Australian democracy and the legal system while challenging students to consider their roles as active citizens. Students examine the tension between individual rights and collective responsibilities through the lens of ethical decision making and constitutional law.
The Australian Constitution and Parliament
An investigation into the design of the Australian government and the separation of powers that prevents the abuse of authority.
Analyzing how the legislative, executive, and judicial branches provide checks and balances on government power.
Exploring the High Court of Australia as the final arbiter of constitutional disputes and legal interpretation.
Examining the division of responsibilities between federal, state, and local governments in the Australian system.
The Path to Legislation
Tracing the journey of a bill through parliament and the influence of various stakeholders on the law-making process.
Following the stages of debate and voting in the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Evaluating how interest groups and lobbyists shape the development of national policy.
Investigating how preferential voting and proportional representation determine who speaks for the people.
Justice and the Legal System
Understanding the principles of a fair trial and the mechanics of the Australian court system.
Examining the roles of the prosecution, defense, and judge in a criminal trial.
Analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of using ordinary citizens to decide legal outcomes.
Discussing the existence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander customary law alongside the Australian legal system.
Rights, Responsibilities, and Identity
Exploring what it means to be a citizen in a diverse, multicultural democracy.
Investigating the legal and social definitions of being an Australian citizen.
Reviewing how rights are protected through common law, legislation, and international treaties.
Considering the moral obligations of citizens to participate in their community and democracy.
Media and the Digital Public Square
Analyzing the role of traditional and social media in informing voters and shaping public opinion.
Evaluating the importance of an independent media in holding the government accountable.
Investigating how algorithms and echo chambers impact political discourse and truth.
Examining the rules governing how political parties persuade voters during elections.
Global Citizenship and International Law
Connecting Australian domestic policy to international obligations and global challenges.
Exploring Australia's role in the UN and its commitment to international peace and security.
Using ethical frameworks to analyze Australia's policies regarding people seeking protection.
Analyzing how democratic nations cooperate to address climate change and resource management.