Migration and Multiculturalism · Term 3

The 'Beautiful Balts' and European Migration

Students will investigate the arrival of European displaced persons, particularly from the Baltic states, and their experiences in Australia.

About This Topic

The dismantling of the White Australia Policy was a gradual process that spanned several decades and multiple governments. This topic examines the shift from a policy of racial exclusion to one of non-discriminatory migration. Key moments include the 1966 reforms under Harold Holt, which allowed non-European migrants to apply for citizenship after five years, and the final formal abolition of the policy by the Whitlam Government in 1973.

For Year 10 students, this is a study in how social values and international pressure can drive significant policy change. It highlights Australia's transition from a British outpost to a multicultural nation in the Asia-Pacific. Students grasp the complexity of this shift through active learning strategies like structured debates on the drivers of change and collaborative investigations into the impact of the 1973 migration reforms.

Active Learning Ideas

Inquiry Circle: Drivers of Change

In small groups, students research different factors that led to the end of the White Australia Policy: international pressure from the UN, the need for skilled labor, and changing social attitudes. They create a 'causation web' showing how these factors interacted to force political change.

⏱ 50 min·Small Groups

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Formal Debate: The 1966 vs. 1973 Reforms

Divide the class to represent the Holt and Whitlam governments. Students must argue which set of reforms was more significant in ending racial preference in migration. This helps students understand that policy change is often an incremental process rather than a single event.

⏱ 45 min·Whole Class

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Think-Pair-Share: Australia's International Reputation

Students read excerpts from Asian newspapers from the 1950s and 60s that criticised the White Australia Policy. They discuss in pairs how this policy affected Australia's ability to form trade and security alliances in the region. They then share their thoughts on why 'soft power' matters in foreign policy.

⏱ 25 min·Pairs

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Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

The White Australia Policy was ended by a single law in 1901.

What to Teach Instead

The policy was actually a series of laws and administrative practices that began in 1901 and were gradually dismantled between 1949 and 1973. Using a 'policy timeline' helps students see the long process of reform.

Common Misconception

The end of the policy was only due to the kindness of politicians.

What to Teach Instead

While some politicians were visionary, the end of the policy was also driven by the need to improve relations with Asian neighbors and the global shift against racism after WWII. Peer discussion of international treaties like the ICERD helps students see the external pressures on Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the White Australia Policy?

It was a set of historical policies that aimed to forbid people of non-European ethnic origin, especially Asians and Pacific Islanders, from immigrating to Australia. It started with the Immigration Restriction Act 1901. Students can investigate the 'Dictation Test' to see how the government used a language test to unfairly exclude people.

How did Harold Holt change the policy in 1966?

The Holt Government introduced reforms that allowed non-European migrants to apply for permanent residency and citizenship after five years, the same as Europeans. This was a major break from the previous policy which required 15 years. In class, students can compare these residency requirements to see the shift toward equality.

What happened in 1973 to end the policy?

The Whitlam Government formally abolished the White Australia Policy by instructing migration officers to disregard race as a factor in migration applications. They also ratified international treaties against racial discrimination. Students can examine Whitlam's 'Men and Women of Australia' rhetoric to see the new vision for the country.

How can active learning help students understand this policy shift?

Active learning helps students navigate the slow and often contradictory process of policy change. By investigating the different 'drivers of change' or debating the significance of various reforms, students move beyond a simple narrative. This approach allows them to see how domestic politics and international relations intersect, making the history of Australian migration more relevant to today's globalised world.

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