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: The features of the Australian Constitution
Discussion 1:
You have been given the task of writing the rules for a new country. What laws, systems, or safeguards would you include to:
maintain a peaceful society
protect people’s rights
prevent any one person from gaining too much power (becoming a dictator)?
Discussion 2:
The Australian Constitution was designed so that ultimate power rests with the people, rather than with politicians or judges.
In what ways could a judge or a politician use too much power?
Which features or sections of the Australian Constitution help prevent this from happening?
Discussion 3:
The Australian Constitution does not include a formal Bill of Rights listing all the rights people have. This is different from the United States Constitution, which includes rights such as freedom of speech and the right to bear arms.
When drafting the Constitution, Australian founders considered the US model but chose not to include a similar Bill of Rights.
Why do you think the Australian Constitution’s drafters decided not to include a full Bill of Rights?
What rights or protections were included in the Constitution, and why do you think these were seen as necessary?
Activity:
Summarise what you know about the Australian Constitution on the blank playing card:
Related Resources
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An overview of the key features of the Australian Constitution, including its role as the highest source of law, its democratic structure, and its deliberate division and separation of powers. It explains federalism, the responsibilities of the Parliament, Executive and Judiciary, the High Court’s constitutional role, and the Constitution’s reliance on the rule of law and responsible government rather than a full Bill of Rights.
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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.
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.