Australia · ACARA Content Descriptions
Year 6 HASS
Year 6 HASS: Australia as a nation, democratic values, migration stories, and Australia's place in the Asia-Pacific. Students explore the key events, ideas, and people that have shaped modern Australia.
01Australia as a Nation
Students investigate the key events and developments that shaped Australia in the 20th century, from Federation to the modern era.
Examine the distinct characteristics of the six Australian colonies prior to their unification, including their economies and governance.
Explore the roles of prominent figures like Henry Parkes and Edmund Barton, and the core arguments for and against Federation.
Investigate the ceremonial inauguration of the Commonwealth of Australia, the first parliament, and the initial challenges of nation-building.
Examine Australia's involvement in WWI, focusing on the Anzac legend, key battles, and the impact on national identity.
Explore the social and economic changes on the Australian home front during WWI, including conscription debates and women's roles.
Investigate the global and local causes of the Great Depression and its immediate economic and social effects on Australia.
Examine how Australian families, communities, and governments responded to the challenges of the Great Depression.
Explore Australia's involvement in WWII, including key campaigns in Europe, North Africa, and the Pacific.
Investigate the profound social changes on the Australian home front during WWII, including women's roles and the shift in global alliances.
Examine the period of post-WWII prosperity, suburban growth, and the emergence of new social and political challenges.
02Democratic Values
Students explore the values and principles of Australian democracy, how they developed and how they work in practice.
Differentiate between the roles and responsibilities of Federal, State/Territory, and Local governments in Australia.
Investigate the Australian electoral system, including compulsory voting, preferential voting, and the importance of fair elections.
Explore the core rights and freedoms enjoyed by Australians, and the corresponding responsibilities of citizenship.
Trace the historical development of Australia's parliamentary system from its British origins, including the role of the Monarch and Governor-General.
Understand the principles of separation of powers (legislature, executive, judiciary) and the rule of law in safeguarding democracy.
Explore various ways individuals and groups can participate in democracy and influence government decisions beyond elections.
Investigate how political parties and interest groups function within the Australian democratic system to represent different viewpoints.
Examine the role of media in providing information, shaping public opinion, and its impact on democratic processes.
Understand the importance of active civic participation and contributing positively to local and national communities.
Briefly explore challenges to democracy globally and the importance of protecting democratic values.
03Migration Stories
Students investigate how migration has shaped Australia, covering the waves of migration, the stories of migrants, and the creation of a multicultural nation.
Examine the government's 'Populate or Perish' policy after WWII and the initial waves of European migration to Australia.
Investigate the origins, implementation, and social impact of the White Australia policy on non-European migrants.
Explore the gradual abolition of the White Australia policy and the shift towards a non-discriminatory migration program.
Understand the reasons why people seek asylum, the challenges they face, and their contributions to Australian society.
Celebrate Australia's cultural diversity through examining various traditions, festivals, languages, and foods brought by migrants.
Reflect on how successive waves of migration have continuously shaped and redefined what it means to be Australian.
Investigate the history and profound impact of the forced removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families.
Examine the campaign and outcomes of the 1967 Referendum, which sought to include Aboriginal people in the census and federal law-making.
Explore Eddie Mabo's legal challenge to 'terra nullius' and the High Court's recognition of Native Title.
Understand the call for Voice, Treaty, and Truth as articulated in the Uluru Statement from the Heart and its path towards reconciliation.
04Australia in the Asia-Pacific
Students explore Australia's connections with the Asia-Pacific region, including trade, culture, diplomacy, and shared responsibilities.
Identify and locate the diverse countries of the Asia-Pacific region, exploring their geographical and cultural characteristics.
Investigate Australia's vital economic ties and trade relationships with countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
Explore Australia's diplomatic efforts and participation in regional organisations to foster peace and cooperation.
Examine Australia's commitment to providing humanitarian aid and disaster relief to neighbouring countries in times of crisis.
Investigate shared environmental challenges in the Asia-Pacific, such as climate change and ocean pollution, and regional cooperation efforts.
Explore the concept of global citizenship and Australia's role in addressing global issues like human rights and peace.
Understand the fundamental economic problem of scarcity and how individuals and societies make choices between needs and wants.
Investigate the different types of resources (natural, human, capital) used in the production of goods and services.
Explore how technological advancements and automation are transforming job markets and the skills required for future employment.
Understand the rights and responsibilities of consumers in the economy and the importance of making ethical purchasing decisions.