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Civics and citizenship - Coggle Diagram
Civics and citizenship
constitution
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Changes to constitution
1967 Referendum
The 1967 referendum was to change the constitution to give indigenous Australians the same rights as other Australians and be considered citizens of their own land.
Changing the constitution isn't easy as it is the most important legal document in the whole country it sets out how Austrlia works, which includes how the government works, how the states work and what the government can and can't do.
To change the constitution there has to be a referendum which is where everyone over 18 votes yes or no to the changes. To get the government to even hold a referendum campaigners set out to get signatures on a petition.
6 Concepts
Democratic Values
Values are the beliefs and ideals that are by our society as a democracy. Such values include respect, equality, fairness and freedom.
The Westminster system
is a form of parliamentary government originated from the United Kingdom. It is named after the area of London where the British parliament is located.
Justice
Is an Australian concept that encourages people to treat each other in a manner that is fair, balanced and just in all parts of society.
Democracy
Is a system of government run by the people and for the people. In most democratic societies citizens are involved in the running of society by electing people into government to represent them.
Participation
Refers to the good way citizens contribute or take part in society. In Australia we contribute to society in a number of ways these include, voting in federal elections or referendum, taking place in a jury and paying taxes.
Rights and responsibilities: Refers to our entitlements and duties. These rights ensure we are able to have a say in the way our country is run and treated fairly in the process. Our civics responsibilities ensure we contribute to society in order to keep it going as a strong democracy.
1967 Referendum
Aboriginal rights
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1965: Indigenous workers stood up against unfair working conditions and aboriginal land rights. University students protested against racism and poor living conditions around country new south Wales. Around this time activists had also set their sights on a really big goal which involves the whole nation. They wanted to change aspects of the country's constitution, which discriminated.
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Court Room
Clerk
The job of the clerk is to call people and announce cases. They have the responsibility to swear witnesses in (oath). They are also in charge of escorting jury members into the courtroom.
Coat of arms
The coat of arms is located at the highest point in the court room as it symbolises a fair legal system and that no one is above the law not even the judge.
Magistrate
The judge is located above everybody else in the court room to make sure they can see everyone, also to show they have power but they're not above the law as they are under the coat of arms. When you talk to the judge you must address them as your honour.
Witness Box
The witness box is where the witness is located. The witness must tell the truth as they are sworn in if they fail to do so they can receive a fine and a de-train by the judge. This affects the defendant as they can be punished and sent to jail for a crime they didn't commit. This ensures a fare trial and leads to a fair legal system.
Jury
People who's name appear on an electoral vote are selected for a jury team. The jury's job is to listen to all the evidence provided for the case, then they must determine whether or not the defendant is guilty or not. Jurors are selected for both Civil and criminal cases to ensure a 'trial by peers'. To come to a conclusion of the case the jury must come to a decision unanimously or in majority, if they cannot decide they are considered a 'hung jury' and a new jury will be selected to replace the previous jury.
Prosecutor
The prosecutor is assigned to create a case against the defendant to prove they are guilty and get them charged. They must stand up when addressing the judge, questioning a witness and when objecting. They represent the crown and the person who brought the case up to court. Solicitors gather up materials to support the prosecutor however they do not speak in court.
Defense Barrister
The defense barrister is responsible for representing why the defendant is not guilty and shouldn't be charged. They represent the interests of the defendant. They must stand up when addressing the judge, questioning a witness and when objecting. Solicitors prepare supporting aids to support the defendant's case, however they do not speak in court.
Defendant/Accused
In a criminal trial the person who has been charged with an offense is considered the accused. In a civil case however, the parties are called the plaintiff and the defendant. The plaintiff is the person bringing the action or suing the person to court. The defendant is the person being accused or sued and defending themself. These parties are the reason the court is "In session".
Public
Most court trials are open to the public so they can see the court proceedings and how it works. They are expecting to watch the trial silently and without interrupting. The trial being open to the public ensures that the justice system is fair, and no bribing or injustice is occurring.
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