Australia: Making a Nation
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Discussion Questions: Factors that contributed to the development of democracy in Australia
Discussion Questions: Differing perspectives and key developments leading to federation in Australia
Discussion Questions: Passing of the War Precautions Act 1914
Discussion Questions: Continuity and change of NSW governance structures
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Classroom activities: Describe significant events and people that led to Australia becoming a federated nation on 1 January 1901, using sources as evidence
Classroom activities: Identify the purpose of Australia's Constitution
Classroom activities: Describe how and why symbols and emblems connected to Australian identity have changed over time since Federation
Classroom activities: Research and describe the work of individuals who have made a significant contribution to the Commonwealth of Australia since Federation
Discussion Questions: Differing perspectives and key developments leading to federation in Australia
Discussion 1:
The development and approval of the Australian Constitution was unique because it involved significant peaceful debate, discussion, and public participation. It was deliberately framed and accepted as a document created by the people.
What are some examples that show how the Constitution reflected the will of the people?
How do ideas such as Dr John Quick’s proposal at the Corowa Convention, or the decision about the name of the new nation, demonstrate this?
Discussion 2:
Scenario A:
You are a farmer in New South Wales in 1898, and you have just voted ‘NO’ in the first referendum on federation. What are some possible reasons for your decision to vote no?
Scenario B:
You are a shop owner in Tasmania in 1898, and you have just voted ‘YES’ in the first referendum on federation. What are some possible reasons for your decision to vote yes?
Activity:
Summarise what you know about active and informed citizens on the blank playing card:
Related Resources
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A summary of the key arguments for and against Federation in Australia, including support for unified defence, emerging nationalist ideas, immigration control, and economic disagreements. It also outlines major developments from the 1880s to 1901, from the Federal Council and Tenterfield Oration to the Conventions, referendums, and final passage of the Constitution.
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An overview of the major factors that shaped the development of democracy in Australia, including egalitarian legal ideals shown in cases like Kable v Sinclair, the introduction of checks and balances through institutions such as the Supreme Court and a free press, the influence of immigration and political activism including Chartism and the Eureka Stockade, and the constitutional debates that led the colonies to design their own representative systems of government.
Explore Related Topics
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Federation of Australia
Explore resources on Federation in 1901, outlining how Australia became a nation, divided powers, and established the constitutional structures and institutions that govern today.
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Democracy
Explore resources on democracy, highlighting how accountability and representative institutions ensure power is exercised fairly and transparently through open processes, civic engagement and responsible governance.
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Human Rights
Explore resources on human rights and freedoms, outlining the key protections, legal frameworks, that support rights, and explore how rights and responsibilities are balanced against government power in Australia.