Humanities – Guide (Exam)
Definitions
Constitution (23.1): a document that outlines the rules and principles that guide the
way an organisation, state or nation is governed (or managed)
Budgetary Policy (week 3 PowerPoint): The fiscal policy outlines how a government
generates revenue by collecting taxes, spends the income on public expenses and
investments, and creates a budget using revenue and expenditure projections.
Governments achieve macroeconomic goals through taxes, spending, and
budgeting.
Living Standards (page 518): The level of wealth, material goods, comfort, and life
necessities available to people living in a geographical area
Responsible Government: The requirement that the government must be
accountable or answerable to people for its action and decisions, and that members
of the government must carry out their duties in an honest manner and resign.
Separation of Powers: The principle of government that ensures no single group or
body within the parliamentary system – i.e., neither the government, the parliament
nor the courts – can administer the law, make the law, and interpret and apply the
law.
Wellbeing- the ability of a human being to access the things they need to live happy
and healthy lives (e.g., food, water, education, safety and security).
Globalisation: the process that involves all the countries of the world being linked
together, resulting in an exchange of views, ideas, products, and culture
World War II
Causes of World War 2
TREATY OF VERSAILLES
In January 1919, representatives from 32 countries gathered at the Palace of
Versailles to negotiate the Treaty of Versailles, which ended World War I.
1. Harsh terms imposed on Germany, making them accept war responsibility.
2. Led to weak, unstable German economy with high unemployment and
hyperinflation.
3. Key outcomes: substantial payments, military limitations, territorial losses.
4. League of Nations formed to prevent future wars and maintain peace.
5. Treaty contributed to German resentment and economic difficulties,
leading to World War II.
INCREASED RESENTMENT
At the end of World War 1 a new democratic government, known as the Weimer
Republic, that took power in Germany, many Germans blamed it for agreeing to the
terms of the treaty of Versailles.
-
Great Depression hit Germany, causing unemployment and price rises.
Gave rise to movements like militarism, imperialism, fascism, communism.
These movements stressed strict government control and military power.
Spread to countries including the Soviet Union, Italy, Japan, and Germany.
All of this led to increased resentment in Germany.
RISE OF HITLER
1. Formation of the Nazi Party in Germany, led by Adolf Hitler.
2. Hitler, a WWI veteran, disliked the Treaty of Versailles restrictions.
3. Nazi Party's failed attempt to seize power in 1923 resulted in Hitler's
prison sentence.
4. Hitler sought to gain power legally and was appointed Chancellor in 1933.
5. His rule became known as the Third Reich, marked by limited personal
freedom.
6. Citizens were encouraged to report disloyalty, and punishments were harsh.
7. Jews were the primary targets of Nazi persecution.
SHORT-TERM CAUSES
GERMAN INVASION OF CZECHSLOVAKIA
Showed that Hitler wasn’t just interested in ‘greater Germany’ - he wanted to build
his empire.
GERMAN INVASION OF POLAND
Caused Britain and France to declare war on Germany and countries within British
empire inclosing Australia to also declare war.
Germany had the support of Italy and Soviet Union who became involved as soon as
the war had been declared.
Invasion of Poland: The invasion of Poland by Germany on September 1, 1939,
marked the official beginning of World War II. In response, the United Kingdom and
France declared war on Germany on September 3. The swift defeat of Poland
demonstrated the ineffectiveness of the League of Nations in preventing
aggression.
JAPANESE EXPANSION
Japan's invasion of Manchuria in 1931 and its subsequent expansion into China in
the 1930s further destabilized the international situation in Asia. The Second SinoJapanese War (1937-1945) was already underway before World War II officially
began
Australia’s involvement in World War 2 – causes 9.2 + chapter 9
Australia declared war when Great Britain declared war upon Germany after its
invasion of Poland.
Apart of the commonwealth:
1. Australia’s involvement in the war was due to Australia being automatically
being allied with Britain. As Australia was a part of the commonwealth, it’s
involvement in the war was predestined.
Threats from Japan’s likely invasion of Australia:
As Australia’s White Australia Policy was already set, it allowed no migration of the
Japanese to Australia, resulting in Japan’s anger.
Australia also had a high likelihood of being invaded as Japan was seeking control
over East Asia and there needed to be involved in the war to avoid invasion, (relying
on other countries for protection)
Fall of Singapore - Singapore had been regarded as almost impossible to invade,
and the strong British presence causing Australia to feel protected.
The defeat of the British base in Singapore meant that there was nothing to stop the
Japanese advance into Australia, making it imminent for Australia to protect itself
and be a part of WWII.
Human Wellbeing:
4.1 - Measures of Health (Week 1)
Human health is affected by a wide range of factors. Clean air, clean water and a
secure supply of nutritious food
Other factors include:
1. These include the ability of a community to treat and control the spread of
diseases
2. Provide health vulnerable such as babies and the aged
3. provide emergency services in times of crisis. Access to health care is vital during
natural disasters or human-made disasters such as war, which can limit supplies of
food and water.
People living in war-torn countries often struggle to find the basic requirements
needed for a healthy life.
Indicators:
1. Birth Rate - The number of people who are born per 1,000 people.
2. Life expectancy rate - The average age people of a given population are likely
to live to.
3. Population per doctor - The number of doctors divided by the number of
people in the population.
4. Infant mortality rates - The number of children per 1,000 of the population
who die before the age of 1.
Question:
Using Identify one indicator of human wellbeing. Using an example, explain
how this can be measured and explain its contribution to wellbeing.
One indicator of wellbeing would be Health. Health can be expressed as clear
air, clean water and a secure supply and access to nutritious food as well as
the country being able to treat and control the spread of having high-quality
healthcare.
By individuals having access to these things, a country can measure health
through factors such as life expectancy and infant mortality rates.
If a country has low levels of health, it could result in more people falling sick,
resulting in higher death rates, causing the country to have a negative impact
on the country’s wellbeing. If a country faces natural disasters or is at war, it
can have limited supplies to food and water which can cause lower levels of
health which can also have a negative impact on the country’s wellbeing.
4.2 - Gross National Happiness
New Indicator: GNH (Gross National Happiness): A GNH measure is taken every
year, as the country’s government attempts to move its citizens towards a happier
state.
The four guiding principles of GNH: Equitable social development, cultural,
preservation, conservation of the environment and promotion of good governance.
Reasons why GNH is a good method (advantages) :
1. Holistic Approach: GNH considers a broader range of factors that
contribute to overall wellbeing, including physical, mental, and spiritual
dimensions.
2. Sustainability: GNH encourages sustainability and environmental
conservation, which is crucial for the long-term health of the planet and the
well-being of future generations.
3. GNH prioritizes the happiness and well-being of citizens - This can lead to
policies that improve people's quality of life.
Reasons why GNH is a bad method (Disadvantages):
1. Subjectivity: Measuring happiness is subjective, and what makes one person
happy may not apply to others. This subjectivity can make it difficult to
assess and compare GNH across different populations.
2. Lack of Economic Focus: Critics argue that GNH may neglect economic
development, which can be essential for improving living standards and
providing resources for social programs.
(There are still an uneven level of wealth and resources distributed within the
country = still being a divide between the wealthy and the poor)
3. Practical Implementation: Implementing GNH in policymaking can be
challenging, as it requires a shift in priorities and the development of new
metrics. This transition may face resistance or be difficult to achieve in
practice.
Literacy rates –
Question: Explain the impact of literacy on two areas of wellbeing in Australia
Literacy rates has had an impact on the wellbeing of Australia in terms of
Australia’s rural population. In Australia, individuals, living in rural Australia
have a lower quality of education which results in literacy rates to also be low.
Individuals, especially Aboriginals or Torres Strait Islanders living in regional
or rural areas are unable to finish university or get a job due to their low level
of literacy, people living in rural areas are unable to have a stable income, due
to their lower employment opportunities, impacting wealth in Australia and the
countries’ overall wellbeing.
Literacy rates can also impact Australia’s wellbeing of health. By individuals
having low levels of literacy and a weaker education and cannot find
employment, they are unable to buy resources such as goods and services to
have healthy lifestyle. They are also unable to get quality health care, making
them perceptible to diseases. This can increase Australia’s death rate and have
a negative impact on Australia’s wellbeing of health.
GLOBALISATION
Chapter 12 - 12.1 + 12.2
12.1 - Twentieth Century Technological Advancements: The 20th century
brought major technological breakthroughs, from the first airplane flight and
industrialization to penicillin's discovery and advancements in theoretical physics
leading to the nuclear age. It also marked achievements in space exploration,
medical progress, disease eradication, and the birth of the internet.
Globalisation: Positive Impacts
Economic Growth: Globalization helps businesses grow by allowing them to
sell their products to people all around the world. This creates more jobs,
encourages new ideas, and makes businesses more efficient. It also helps countries
get things they can't make themselves, which is good for their economies.
Cultural Exchange and Diversity: Globalization lets people from different places
share their cultures, languages, and traditions. This makes the world a more
interesting and connected place. It also helps people understand and work better
together.
Trade between countries:
Example From textbook: The century made travel more accessible with the rise of
affordable cars and improved roads, although concerns about pollution and
congestion followed. Air travel in Australia began in the 1920s, with jet planes
further enabling domestic and international travel. Shipping saw major shifts, with
larger ships and containerization reducing transport costs.
Access to Information and Technology: Thanks to globalization, we can easily
access information and connect with others, no matter where they are. This is great
for learning, healthcare, and making life better. It also makes it easier for people
and groups to work together on global issues.
Example From Textbook:
Communication Revolution: In the early 20th century, communication relied on
mail and telegrams. The late 20th century brought a communication revolution with
the microchip, introducing mobile phones, computers, and the internet. Emails
and SMS messages have now surpassed enabling real-time worldwide
communication and exchange of ideas on a global scale. (Health, Education,
social media – connected people across the world)
Globalisation: Negative Impacts
Job Loss: Globalization can lead to companies moving jobs to countries with lower
labour costs, which can result in job losses in high-cost countries.
Income Inequality: Globalization can increase the income gap between the rich and
the poor (lower wagers that LEDCS get from MNCS) - impacting health and wealth of
the country.
Negative Impact from the Environment: - (From Textbook: Urbanization and
industrialization have led to environmental challenges, such as pollution and
resource depletion. Environmental movements, including the Gaia hypothesis and
sustainability concepts, emerged. - Greenhouse gases
(trade and travelling) =
GLOBAL WARMING
Dispute between countries – Land border e.g., Ukraine and Russia over Donetsk
and Luhansk regions.
Spread of diseases – Easier spread of viruses due to trade and multiculturalism
across the world – e.g. (COVID-19)
Business Cycle
The business cycle: depicts the rise and fall in output (production of goods and
services), over time.
There are four main stages in a business cycle.
1. Expansion 2. Peak
3. Contraction (Recession) 4. Trough
Ideal GDP: between 2 - 3% The GDP growth rate measures how healthy the
economy is.
Number positive = Economy is growing
Number negative = Economy is contracting
EXPANSION: The economy experiences relatively rapid growth
Economic growth indicators (tend to show upwards trends): Employment &
wages, cooperate profits and output, aggregate demand and supply of goods and
services. The increase in money supply may spur inflation during the economic
growth phase
Characteristics: Located between the bottom and the top,employment rises, real
Production increases, Inflation will occur, National output rises
PEAK - When expansion/growth hits its maximum rate Peak growth typically
creates some imbalances in the economy - Businesses may start to revaluate their
budgets and spending when they believe that the economic cycle has reached its
peak
Characteristics: It is the peak of the expansion phase
Employment, real production, deflation, GDP are at a high value.
No further growth.
CONTRACTION - also known as recession - > may spread to depression
A contraction occurs when growth slows, employment falls and prices stagnate
Characteristics: Located between top and bottom
Decreasing employment
Decreasing real production
Deflation situation arises + GDP declines
TROUGH -When economy slows down to its lowest point
Relatively low level of overall economic activity - Employment levels and national
income - declined and a maximum - no more recession
Characteristics:
It is the peak of the recession. (Bottom of the cycle)
Employment
Real production + Inflation, GDP are at the lowest level. Will not decline further.
Extreme phases of the Business Cycle
Boom: Period of strong economic expansion - businesses operate at full or above
full capacity ⇒ high production levels ⇒ rapid growth in prices
Recession: Output (GDP) has fallen for a period of time ⇒ employment rate
increases
Depression: A very severe recession (longer than 1 year)
⇒ Large contraction in the economy
⇒ Unemployment rate = very high level
Question: Explain how consumers spending can indicate which part of the
business cycle an economy is in?
When consumer spending is high, it indicates that the economy is in the expansion
and that businesses are growing and people are buying goods at ticket prices e.g.,
cars, houses.
When consumer spending is reaching an all-time high, above the expected
standard, it can cause a peak in the business cycle, the economy can reach
inflation and goods can becomes expensive.
If consumer levels are decreasing, the aim is to discourage discretionary spending.
The business cycle is at a contraction phase and unemployment as well as business
hiring/wage freezes may occur.
When consumer spending is at an all-time low, it represents a trough. Employment
and GDP is at the lowest and the cycle will start the recovery period to gradually
return to the expansion phase.
How does the 4 different stages of business cycle impact the wellbeing of
people:
During the expansion stage, interest rates are lower, and more jobs are available
which improves economic levels as employment rates are high. Due to the
increased levels of consumer confidence and spending, demand for goods is at a
higher rate which allows more goods to be sold and bought and overall improves
the economy’s values and the wellbeing of people.
In the peak stage, consumer spending is at an all-time high, and prices of goods
and services start to increase, leading to higher levels of inflation above the normal.
Loans fees and interest rates may also increase resulting in consumer confidence to
decrease as people want to save their money because goods and becoming too
expensive. This can impact people’s wellbeing, as people aren’t able to buy as many
goods as they could before.
When the economy is the contraction phase, job opportunities decrease and
unemployment and financial stress rise. Job losses result in people reserving their
spending, contracting the economy’s ability to grow. In the contraction phase,
people’s wellbeing is impacted as incomes can be stalled, restricting individuals
from being able to purchase goods and services.
In the trough stage, the economy is in its toughest time. People’s wellbeing is
impacted as there is extremely high unemployment and people that still have a job
face income struggle. Loans in this phase are difficult to borrow and government
services may be limited as economic conditions are staggered, resulting in people
not having basic access to infrastructure and support services.
CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT:
Indigenous Civil Rights – polices that were discriminatory. 11.2
Key Definitions:
Assimilation: When a minority group adopts the language and customers of a
dominant population
Segregation: The government policy and practice of separating ATSIS
Stolen Generation: The children of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
descent who were forcibly removed from their families by government officials
and church Missions in Australia and raised by white Australians.
Reserves: Settlements established to move Aboriginal people away from
European Occupied areas
Missions: Settlements established to assimilate ATSIS into European culture
and beliefs
Introduction:
In 1788, the British colonized Australia's east coast (New South Wales), unable to
understand the Aboriginal culture and found no signs of permanent residence or
evidence of farming. They proclaimed Australia Terra Nullius, meaning
'nobody's land', without negotiating treaties or farming evidence. Governor Sir
Richard Bourke implemented this doctrine in 1835.
British explorers' Eurocentric worldview failed to appreciate the unique way of
life of Aboriginal peoples, leading to negative effects on their culture.
European settlements destroyed traditional ways of life, leading to violence and
disease.
By 1901, European settlements dominated Australia, and Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander cultures were not officially recognized.
Public policy focused on segregation and assimilation.
Aboriginal Protection Boards:
Before Federation in 1901, Aboriginal Protection Boards were established to manage
Aboriginal populations in Australia.
After Federation, state governments took over, removing children from families
was the core work of these boards.
Chief Protectors oversee the Aboriginal people, while Aboriginal Reserves and
Missions were established for assimilation.
These institutions led to segregation (keep black people away from white
people), isolation, and loss of culture, identity, and control for many Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The Situation at Federation:
During the federation of Australian colonies in 1901, Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander peoples were politically and legally marginalized.
They were denied rights such as voting, basic wage, pensions, travel
restrictions, military training, and the 'baby bonus'.
After Federation: State governments and religious organizations dominated
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander policy, focusing on assimilation through
Christian Missions and removing mixed-race children from families.
Segregation
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia faced 'colour bars', bans
which restricted their participation in society.
They were not allowed enter clubs, pubs, restaurants, swimming pools and to
work in certain jobs and where they were expected to earn less.
Segregation continued across Australia until the 1960s, with separate sections
in theatres, hospitals, and denial of school enrolment.
Controlled by Colour - The Assimilation policy.
In 1937, the Aboriginal Welfare Conference adopted the 'assimilation policy',
aiming to assimilate mixed-race Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
into white society.
This policy was a new form of control, as Aboriginal peoples were not simply
going to "die out".
New powers were given to welfare officials to assess whether children were
"processing", and traditional Aboriginal camps were demolished, and
additional assistance was given to Missions to ‘do the job’.
Question: Outline the impact of the Assimilation policy on the present-day
wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders People.
One of the impacts of the Assimilation policy on present-day ASTI would be
their loss of culture. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders people heavily rely
on culture to connect them to each other as well them to the land of Australia.
Culture is an integral part of their lives but when the government’s decided to
administer the assimilation policy, the Stolen Generation occurred from the
early 1800s – 1970 where ASTI children were removed from their families to be
raised in “white” communities and adopt “white” values and believes. Due to
the assimilation policy and the Stolen Generation, it caused ASTI people to face
intergenerational trauma and face psychological and emotional scars from the
separation of their families and cultures. Current ASTI still face the loss of
identity as the assimilation policy stripped away the language and traditions of
ASTIs that current-day ASTIs can no longer celebrate, severely impacting the
cultural wellbeing of present-day Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders People.
Stolen Generation
From the late 1800s to the 1970s, thousands of Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander children were forcibly removed from their families, known as the
Stolen Generations.
The belief was that raising mixed-race Aboriginal children in a 'white'
community would help overcome their Aboriginality. - This was the result of the
Assimilation policies
However, these children often faced rejection from both Aboriginal and European
communities. Full-blooded Aboriginal children were also removed from their
families and placed in state-run institutions, such as the Cootamundra Girls' Home
in New South Wales.
⇒ The Bringing Them Home Report
In 1997, the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission released a
report titled Bringing Them Home, detailing the suffering experienced by the
Stolen Generations in Australia. (Trying to justify)
The report argued that the policies of separating mixed-raced Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander children from their families were justified by:
⇒ Non-Indigenous society, such as child protection
⇒Belief in the death of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
⇒Desire to civilise them through assimilation into white society.
However, the report also highlighted that the main motive behind the removal
was the desire of European settlers to civilise or "breed out" Aboriginality.
(True reason)
Dr. Cecil Cook, Chief Protector of the Northern Territory, was a controversial figure
involved in the removal of Aboriginal children.
1967 referendum – what was it, what was achieved and what wasn’t achieved
by the referendum. – 11.9
- What occurred at the event:
- A referendum was held in 1967 to seek authority to count Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander (ATSI) people in the Australian census and to enable the
Commonwealth parliament to legislate for ATSI peoples.
- When and where it occurred.
- The referendum took place in 1967 nationwide, with campaigns and public
actions across various cities, and it passed successfully.
- Who was the driving force?
- Major political parties, the Federal Council for the Advancement of Aborigines
and Torres Strait Islanders (FCAATSI), and supporters from various sectors,
including churches.
- Why it occurred. (What lead to this event)
Due to the exclusion of the Aboriginals – it led to state polices which were
termed “assimilationist” and laws that resulted in Aboriginal peoples’
dispossession, oppression, and alienation.
When “assimilationist” polices failed, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal activists drew
attention to the denial of civil rights and discrimination that these policies entailed –
Federal Council for the Advancement of Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders
(FCAATSI) led a petition for a referendum to be run to amend the Constitution.
The bill was then sent to Parliament – legislation passed unanimously. – Only
yes vote – 90% support
- What it meant for society/ How it changed ATSI lives.
- Helped eliminate inconsistencies in state laws and promote equal recognition
of ATSI people – No in Queensland, yes in Victoria.
Gave Aboriginals to vote in the census and allowed the Parliament to make
laws in respect to the Aboriginal communities in Australia.
What was achieved through the 1967 Referendum:
1. Main achievement of the Referendum was to raise the expectations of
Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people regarding Aboriginal rights and
welfare.
2. The Referendum removed the discriminatory words and limitations to
Aboriginal people in the Constitution.
3. The Referendum signaled a general shift in the way that Australian
governments approached Indigenous issues, away from assimilationist
policies towards policies based around self-determination, reconciliation
and, more recently, ‘closing the gap’.
What was not achieved through the 1967 Referendum:
•
•
•
•
Grant any extra legal or political rights.
cover land rights.
lessen discrimination.
improve health, housing, or education services.
Question: Explain what was and wasn’t achieved by the 1967 Referendum? 6
marks
Breakdown:
1. Introduce what the 1967 referendum was – when and where it happened –
people and what they intended to do.
2. One thing it achieved.
3. Second thing it achieved.
4. One thing it didn’t achieve.
5. Another thing it didn’t achieve.
6. Conclude the overall impact on Aboriginals.
Answer:
The 1967 referendum was held in 1967 by the Parliament to seek authority for
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) people. The bill was asked for by the
Federal Council for the Advancement of Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders
(FCAATSI), requesting to improve the civil rights for Aboriginals and Torres Strait
islanders after the “assimilationist” polices set by the state government began to
weaken.
One of the accomplishments of the 1967 Referendum were that ASTI were able to
be a part of the 5-year census run in Australia. This achievement demonstrated that
“white” Australians were finally recognising ASTI as people from Australia and not
people that were meant to be “bred” out through assimilation polices set previously.
Another achievement of the 1967 Referendum was that it enabled the
Commonwealth parliament to legislate for ATSI peoples. Before the referendum,
majority of the power was controlled by the state governments for the living and
working conditions. Due to their control, ASTI received extremely low wages, were
discriminated upon, and kept on reserves, away from European settlers. The 1967
referendum allowed for parliament to make decisions on behalf of the ASTI, which
helped Australia move away from assimilationist policies towards policies based
around self-determination, reconciliation and, more recently, ‘closing the gap’.
One thing that the 1967 referendum didn’t achieve was giving Aboriginals and
Torres Strait Islanders to earn land rights. ASTI were still not able to earn profit
from their lands and had no control over the land they worked or lived on.
Another thing that 1967 referendum didn’t achieve was giving the ability for ASTI to
have the right to vote. It is a misconception that the 1967 referendum gave ASTI the
ability vote but, in reality, ASTI were able to vote since 1961.
Though the 1967 referendum it was a significant moment for Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islanders, giving ASTI the ability to be a part of Australia’s census and allow
the Commonwealth parliament to legislate for ASTIs, there was still numerous
aspects that still restricted ASTI such as having land titles, freedom of speech and
unlawful discrimination against them, which wasn’t achieved by the 1967
referendum.
Question: How did the 1967 referendum impact ATSI peoples? 4 marks
-
Explain what the 1967 referendum was.
One thing it did to impact them and explain.
Second thing it did to impact them and explain.
The 1967 Referendum was a significant moment in the lives of Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islanders (ASTI). Held in 1967, it was a nationwide referendum by the
Parliament which was intended to improve the civil rights of ASTI in Australia. The
1967 referendum was one of the highest “yes” voted referendum in Australia’s
history and had a massive impact on the lives of ASTI.
One way the 1967 referendum impacted the ASTI was allowing them to be a part of
the 5-year census held in Australia. By being a part of the census, it displayed the
first symbolic moment for acknowledging the First Nations rights in their long-time
struggle since colonisation. Furthermore, by ASTI being a part of the census, it also
demonstrated Australia’s movement away from “assimilation polices” intended to be
“bred” out ASTI and instead proving that Australia is moving closer towards “closing
the gap” between colonisers and ASTI and considering them as apart of Australia,
instead of being “bred” out to create a white Australia.
Another way the 1967 referendum impacted ASTI was allowing the Commonwealth
Parliament to legislate for Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders. Previously,
majority of the control of the lives and working conditions for ASTI was held by the
state governments which segregated ASTI from european settlers through reserves.
In terms of working conditions, ASTI were paid severely under the minimum wages
and were often not paid at all for their work. In addition, the states had extremely
strict laws for ASTI in terms of voting freely, marrying freely and having control of
their own children not being allowed in all states apart from New South Wales.
Through the 1967 referendum and allowing the Commonwealth Parliament to
legislate for Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders, it helped eliminate
inconsistencies in state laws such as what could not be done in Queensland, for
example, could be done by ASTI in New South Wales. By creating a more stable set
of laws, the 1967 referendum promoted promote equal recognition of ATSI people.
Question: Choose one of the following events and discuss how the event
promoted better wellbeing outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people.
The 1967 referendum was held in 1967 and was a nation-wide referendum
intended to give recognition and improve the lives of Aboriginal and Torres
Strait islander people. 1967 referendum.
The 1967 referendum in Australia improved the well-being of Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander people in health, wealth, and education.
It removed constitutional barriers, allowing better access to healthcare and
government services, leading to improved health outcomes.
It also increased economic opportunities and financial support to ASTI,
reducing the gap between the wealth of white Australians and ASTI.
In terms of education, the 1967 referendum, lead to more inclusive and
educational resources, providing better educational opportunities to ASTI.
CIVICS:
Threats to Australia’s democratic society
Influence of those with vested interests:
Having a vested interest means that a person or organisation may support an
individual member of parliament or political party to make a personal gain (for
example, to increase their own financial wealth or power). Over recent years, there
has been an increasing concern that a small number of very wealthy individuals and
large corporations have been able to have a disproportionate amount of influence
over government policy in Australia by making large donations to political
parties that benefit their interests.
Example: Clive Palmer, the owner of a number of Australian mining companies,
spent $83 million funding his own political party – Clive Palmer’s United Australia
Party – in the 2019 federal election. Although Palmer’s party failed to win any seats,
he spent millions of dollars on mostly ‘anti-Labor’ advertising, which may have
indirectly persuaded some people to vote for the Liberal–National Coalition.
Media bias and voting:
It is important to remember that the media is generally not impartial. Many media
organisations and forums that distribute news and information to the public –
including political parties, special interest (or pressure) groups and businesses –
have a perceived bias or political leaning. This can shape public perception based
on their biases.
Example: Crikey.com is often: viewed as being a ‘left-leaning’ organisation,
meaning it has less-conservative views.
An Ageing Population
Australia's aging population, with a growing percentage of people over 65, is
expected to have political consequences. The elderly may seek policies that cater to
their needs, like increased pensions and healthcare services. This could lead to a
political gap between younger and older voters, impacting issues like housing
prices, taxes, and climate change, potentially threatening social cohesion.
The increasingly ageing population of Australia may sway policymaking away from
the priorities of younger voters.
Responsible Government: 22.2
1. Governments must protect the rights and freedoms of individuals.
Our system of government is also often referred to as a liberal democracy. This
means it aims to protect a range of basic human rights, freedoms and values that
advance the wellbeing of individuals.
-
Place limits on the level of government control or interference.
Parliaments have the power to make laws that regulate the behaviour of
people – but should not overuse their power.
-
We have laws that protect freedom of speech, assembler and prevent
offensive behaviour.
2. Governments must make laws that reflect the views and values of the
people.
-
Australia uses representative government. (Commonwealth, state, and
territory parliaments consist of members who are elected by the people to
make laws on their behalf.
-
Regular elections are held + Elected members must listen to the voters
(represent the views, values and moral standards of voters) or risk not
getting re-elected.
-
Federal elections are every three years, state/territory elections every four
years. + Voting is compulsory for citizens over 18, and not voting can result
in fines.
3. Governments must be accountable to the people.
-
Responsible government: Being accountable to the people means that
governments must be able to justify their actions and decisions to the voters.
-
Parliamentary Question Time: where all members of parliament are given
the opportunity to question the government on its policies and actions.
-
Emailing or visiting their local member’s office to directly question them.
-
The principle of responsible government also ensures our governments are
accountable by stating that any member of the government who acts in a
dishonourable or irresponsible manner has a duty to resign from their
position.
4. Governments must not abuse their power – “Separation of Powers”.
Separation of powers - the principle of government that ensures no single
group in the parliamentary system can administer the law, make the law, and
interpret and apply the law.
-
The principle of the separation of powers prevents our governments
from abusing their power, or making laws beyond their power, by
ensuring that no single group or body within our parliamentary system
holds more than one of the three main powers of government.
-
Executive power – the power to administer or implement the law, held by
the government; at federal level – Governor-General, Prime Minister
-
Legislative power – the power to make the law, held by parliament.
-
Judicial power – the power to interpret and apply the law, held by the
courts; this allows the courts to enforce the law and settle disputes.
Judiciary kept independent - means the courts can act as a check on parliament, and
make sure that parliaments do not make any laws beyond their power.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Question: Describe the principle of the Separation of Powers and explain how it
ensures that the Australian government doesn’t abuse its power
The Separation of Powers the principle of government that ensures no single
group in the parliamentary system can administer the law, make the law, and
interpret and apply the law. The Separation of Powers is made up of the
executive power that administers or implements the law, held by the federal
government, the legislative power that makes the law held by the parliament
and the judiciary power which interprets and applies the laws, held by the
courts. The principle of the separation of powers prevents our governments
from abusing their power as the separtion of powers ensure no single group or
body within the parliamentary systems holds more than one of the three main
powers. This protects Australia from individuals/groups within the
government from gaining too much control which can lead to bais and
corruption in Australia.
Question: Explain the term ‘representative’ parliament as it relates to
Australian democracy. In your response, provide one reason for the existence
of this in Australia.
“Representative” parliament is when the parliament is formed by a group of
representatives that have been elected by the people to make the laws on their
behalf. By people electing these representatives, it ensures these
representatives have the people of Australia’s best interest at heart and are not
a part of the parliament for their own political agenda, ensuring the
safeguarding of Australia’s democracy. One of the reasons why Australia has a
“representative parliament” to make laws and alter existing laws so that they
reflect the views and values of the majority of society.
Other reasons why Australia has a “representative parliament” 1. Discussing and debating matters that affect the community.
2. Examining problems that exist within society.
3. Reviewing perceived injustices in the law.
SAFEGUARD TO AUSTRALIAN DEMOCRACY
Democracy is based on the fact that:
• the people elect the government.
• elections are free and fair.
• government upholds basic human rights.
Elections are free and fair:
• Voting is done in a secret to reduce the risk of voters being intimidated or
forced into voting for a person or party against their will.
• Each citizen may only vote once.
• Voting can take place on election day at venues or polling booths.
• AEC must check that votes are honestly counted.
Government upholds basic human rights:
• Not be discriminated against
• Board freedom of speech, assembly and protest which enables citizens to
debate political issues and openly express their views without fear of being
punished.
• Fair trial and freedom of torture
• Life, liberty and security of person
• Work and live in a healthy environment.
• Basic health care and education
REFERENDUM PROCESS/SUCCESS
Since federation 44 proposals to change the constitution have been put to the
Australian Voters at referendums, but only 8 were successful.
Reason behind failed referendums is:
• Voters may vote against a proposal to change the constitution if they do not
understand the proposal or are not interested in it.
•
Proposals doe change is unlikely to succeed if both major political parties do
not support the change, because many people vote in accordance with the
views of their chosen political party.
•
Double majority provision is very difficult to achieve particularly the
requirement for residents of at least four states to support the change.
•
for convenience and to reduce costs, referendums are usually held at the
same time as federal elections and people are more concerned about voting
for the government rather than the proposal for constitutional change.
Exam – Style Question: Extended Response (10 marks)
"Media poses the most significant threat to Australia's democracy". To what
extent do you agree with this statement?
Now write a response to this question using this this marking scheme
1. (1 mark) = clear introduction ✅
2. (1 mark) = statement about extent to which they agree ✅
3. (3 marks) = student identifies the characteristics of Australian
democracy that are threatened by the media. ✅
4. (2 marks) = students provide examples of the ways that media
threatens democracy in Australia. ✅
5. (2 marks) = student discusses other factors that might threaten
democracy ✅
6. (1 mark) = conclusion that links to question ✅
Teacher gave it: /10.
Australia’s democracy’s most significant threat to Australia’s democracy is the
media. Media poses as a severe threat to Australia’s democracy as it can create bias
votes from Australians through media channels, spread false propaganda, but
however, can also encourage more Australians to be concerned about voting and
Australia’s political and overall wellbeing.
Media poses as a threat to Australia’s democracy as media channels can be often
“left-leaning: or “right-leaning” promoting the parties that media outlets support
while ostracizing parties that they are against. For instance, Crikey.com is often
viewed as being a ‘left-leaning’ organisation, meaning it has less-conservative views
and shows backing towards parties that are more “left-leaning.” Viewers of these
media channels are more likely to show favouritism towards these certain parties
and believing that the “bad actions” displayed by “right-leaning” medias, are the
representation of the parties’ values and beliefs rather than also considering the
good actions also being done by “right-leaning” parties. Through biased media
outlets, it creates biased votes by Australians during election times and therefore
threatens Australia’s democracy.
Furthermore, Australia’s democracy can also be threatened by the media through
the spreading of false propaganda against political parties. Media companies may
have dubious headlines or “questionable” photos taken off party leaders which can
spark rumours or allow the spread of false information. This can result in
Australian’s having dislikes towards certain parties just because of false or
“rumoured” articles, behaviour rather than Australian’s having an open mind to all
political parties and acquiring information from credible unbiased media sources.
Through false information provided by unreliable evidence of political parties from
media sources, it can lead to incorrect information to spread, threatening
Australia’s democracy.
On the other hand, media can allow Australians to share more content about voting
during election period, displaying voting as important and should be cared about
rather than just a compulsory task to be completed by voters. For example, media
channels such as the ABC, that has millions of viewers, frequently exhibits voting
data, indicating to Australian’s the millions that have voted, encouraging individuals
who have not voted yet to join the bandwagon and vote, creating a “fairer” vote as
more Australians are interested in voting and which parties, they are choosing to
represent Australia. Another example would be advertisements by the government
demonstrating voting as a “enjoyable experience” that Australians should partake
in, it also creates meaning within people to care about their politicians and
consequently strengthens Australia’s democracy and Australia’s wellbeing.
Media serves as significant threat to Australia’s democracy as voters can be
influenced by biased by certain media channels or be influenced by false
propaganda said about political parties. However, media can also help Australian’s
become more concerned about voting and choosing appropriate parties to speak on
behalf of Australians, improving Australia’s democracy.
Other Tools I need to know
Describe how Indigenous people were viewed by Joseph Lycett. Would this be
representative of all European settlers?
Describe how Indigenous people were viewed by Joseph Lycett.
Joseph Lycett: was a convict and artist who lived in Australia during the early 19th
century.
The Aboriginals were viewed as hunters that engaged in traditional activities, using
tools and techniques to catch the waterbirds in the wetlands of Australia.
The artwork captures aspects of indigenous life and demonstrates the curiosity of
Lycett but also enforced stereotypes about the indigenous people.
Would this be representative of all European settlers?
It would mostly likely not represent all European settlers
- Settlers may have prejudiced (taking way food resources)
- Settlers may not understand indigenous lifestyle
- Settlers may be against the Indigenous for taking up land even though it was
originally theres
-