Australia · ACARA Content Descriptions
Year 9 Civics & Citizenship
This course explores the mechanics of Australian democracy and the role of the individual within a globalized legal framework. Students analyze how laws are made, challenged, and applied while developing the ethical reasoning skills required to participate in deliberative democracy.
Foundations of Australian Democracy
An investigation into the constitutional pillars and parliamentary processes that define the Australian political system.
Examining the distinct roles of the executive, legislature, and judiciary in preventing the concentration of power.
Analyzing how the High Court interprets the Constitution and resolves disputes between states and the Commonwealth.
Exploring the mechanism of Section 128 and the historical outcomes of attempts to change the Australian Constitution.
Justice and the Legal System
A deep dive into the court hierarchy, the adversary system, and the principles of procedural fairness.
Comparing the strengths and weaknesses of the contest-based legal system used in Australia.
Evaluating the role of ordinary citizens in the administration of justice through the jury process.
Investigating the barriers that prevent individuals from achieving fair outcomes in the legal system.
Global Citizenship and International Law
Examining Australia's international obligations and the role of global organizations in protecting human rights.
Studying the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and its impact on domestic policy.
Analyzing how Australia engages with the Asia-Pacific region through aid and diplomatic missions.
Evaluating international agreements regarding climate change and environmental protection.
The Power of Persuasion
An analysis of how political parties, interest groups, and the media influence the democratic process.
Comparing the platforms and core beliefs of major and minor Australian political parties.
Investigating how organized groups influence government decision-making and legislation.
Analyzing the role of traditional and social media in shaping public opinion and political discourse.
Voices and Values
Exploring the diversity of Australian society and the importance of social cohesion in a multicultural democracy.
Examining how Australia manages cultural diversity while maintaining a shared national identity.
Reviewing the history of First Nations advocacy and the ongoing push for constitutional recognition.
Analyzing the ethics of protesting and the limits of legal dissent in a democratic society.
Active Participation and Change
Applying civics knowledge to real-world issues by designing and evaluating campaigns for social change.
Students select a local or national issue and develop a strategy to influence policy or public opinion.
Assessing the effectiveness of existing laws or government programs in achieving their stated goals.
Speculating on how democratic institutions might evolve in response to technological and social changes.