Introduction
Australia is made up of lots of different groups, and each group has it’s own set of beliefs, values and practices. Then what are Australian beliefs, values and practices? What does it mean to be Australian?
Multiculturalism
Multiculturalism is a big word for a really big idea. It basically means that Australian culture is a combination of many cutures. So no matter what groups you belong to, what you look like, what you believe in, what you care about or what you do, every other Australian accepts you.
In other words, we’re all very different, and being different is being Australian. Do you think multiculturalism is important? why?
In other words, we’re all very different, and being different is being Australian. Do you think multiculturalism is important? why?
Values
There are a number of important things that we care about as Australians. We believe that everybody should be treated fairly. Australia is a safe place to live because everyone is treated equally.
Australians value freedom, this includes freedom of speech, freedom of expression and freedom of religion. This means that if you are Australian, you are free to share your opinion, express your point of view and practice (or not practice) any religion you choose. Everyone in Australia has a voice. We are a democratic nation which means the people of Australia vote to decide on how we govern ourselves. |
Indigenous Australians
As Australians we have a history that stretches back 60,000 years. Our Indigenous people have a rich history and a deep understanding of this land that includes a whole set of beliefs, values and practices that are completely uniqur to Australia.
The traditional owners of Australia had distinct regions that were the territories of specific tribes. The different tribes each had their own languages and customs.
The traditional owners of Australia had distinct regions that were the territories of specific tribes. The different tribes each had their own languages and customs.
The Union Jack represents
Australia’s ties with Great
Britain.It was the British who
colonised Australia in 1788
Australia’s ties with Great
Britain.It was the British who
colonised Australia in 1788
The Commonwealth Star or the Star of
Federation respresents the unified states
and territories of Australia. There are six
points representing each state, and one
point representing all of the territories.
Federation respresents the unified states
and territories of Australia. There are six
points representing each state, and one
point representing all of the territories.
The Southern Cross is a star
constellation that sailors used to
find their way to Australia.
constellation that sailors used to
find their way to Australia.
Activities
My Multicultural Classroom
You’ll have to walk and talk for this one. Take your copy of the ‘My Multicultural Classroom’ sheet around your class and try to find a person for each of the questions. Write their name in the box provided.
Download the worksheet here.
Download the worksheet here.
Traditional Owners
Use the internet, your library or ask an Indigenous community member about the traditional owners of your community.
Find out the name of the tribe, the language they speak and at least one custom they have.
Find out the name of the tribe, the language they speak and at least one custom they have.
Australia's Flag
Design a new flag for Australia that represents the many
different groups in our society.
Think about:
Culture
Religion
Gender
Multiculturalism and
Freedom
different groups in our society.
Think about:
Culture
Religion
Gender
Multiculturalism and
Freedom