Australia's democratic beliefs, rights and liberties Flashcards
What are the four democratic beliefs of Australia?
Parliamentary democracy, the rule of law, living peacefully, respect for all individuals regardless of background
What is Australia’s system of government? Explain how it works
Parliamentary democracy - the power of the government comes from the Australian people because Australian citizens vote for people to represent them in parliament. The representatives in parliament must answer to the people, through elections, for the decisions they make.
Explain the Rule of Law democratic belief
All Australians are equal under the law. The Rule of Law means that no person, group or religious rule is above the law. Everyone, including people who hold positions of power in the Australian community, must obey Australia’s laws. This includes government, community and religious leaders, as well as business people and the police.
Explain the Living Peacefully democratic belief
Australians are proud to live in a peaceful country with a stable system of government. Australians believe that changes should occur through discussion, peaceful persuasion, and the democratic process. We reject violence as a way to change a person’s mind or the law.
Explain the Respect for all individuals regardless of background democratic belief
Australia’s democratic system is based on the principle that every individual, regardless of their background has rights and equality under Australian law. All Australians are expected to treat each other with dignity and respect, regardless of their race, country of origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, heritage, culture, politics, wealth or religion.
Explain the core Australian value of freedom of speech
people can say and write what they think, and discuss their ideas with others (e.g. people can criticise the government, protest peacefully against government decisions and campaign to change laws)
Explain freedom of expression
people can express their views, including through art, film, music, and literature - people are free to meet in public or private places for social or political discussion
Freedom of association
The right to form and join associations to pursue common goals (e.g. in Australia people are free to join any legal organisation, such as a political party, trade union, religious, cultural, or social group.)
Explain Freedom of Religion
The government and the law treat all citizens equally, whatever their religion or beliefs. The government in Australia is secular, which means it operates separately from churches or other religious entities.
What religious heritage does Australia have?
Judaeo-Christian
What is a ‘fair go’?
Australians value equal opportunity in our society; which is often called a ‘fair go’. This means that what someone achieves in life should be as a result of their talents, work, and effort rather than their wealth or background. This is to ensure that there are no formal class distinctions in Australian society.
What responsibilities will you have as an Australian citizen?
you must: obey the laws of Australia, vote in federal and state or territory elections, and in a referendum, defend Australia should the need arise, serve on a jury if called to do so
What Privileges will Australia give you as a citizen?
You can: vote in federal and state or territory elections and in a referendum, apply for children born overseas to become Australian citizens by descent, apply for a job in the Australian Public Service or in the Australian Defence Force, seek election to parliament, apply for an Australian passport and re-enter Australia freely, ask for consular assistance from an Australian official while overseas
Why do you need to obey the laws of Australia?
Because they make the laws to maintain an orderly, free and safe society and to protect our rights.
Why is it important to vote in elections?
to have a say in how Australia is governed and contribute to its future. (Voting is compulsory in federal and state or territory elections. It may not be compulsory to vote in local government elections in some states)
