Australian Referendums Constitutional Process

Name:

Date:

Australian Constitution and voting illustration

📊 Part 1: Multiple Choice Questions

Success Criteria: Identify key constitutional requirements and processes for Australian referendums

1. Which section of the Australian Constitution outlines the referendum process?

Section 51

Section 109

Section 128

Section 116

2. What is required for a referendum to succeed under the "double majority" rule?

Majority of voters in a majority of states only

Overall majority of voters nationally only

Both an overall majority nationally AND a majority of voters in at least 4 states

Unanimous agreement from all states

3. Which organisation is responsible for conducting referendums in Australia?

Australian Electoral Commission (AEC)

High Court of Australia

Parliament House

Australian Bureau of Statistics

4. The 1967 Aboriginal Referendum was significant because it: (Select all that apply)

Allowed Aboriginal people to be counted in the national census

Gave the Commonwealth power to make laws for Aboriginal people

Granted immediate voting rights to all Aboriginal people

Achieved over 90% support nationally

✍️ Part 2: Short Answer Questions

Success Criteria: Explain constitutional processes using appropriate legal terminology and demonstrate understanding of the 1967 referendum case study

5. Explain why the "double majority" requirement makes it difficult to change the Australian Constitution.

Differentiation Support: Consider both the national vote AND the state-by-state requirements

6. Describe the role of the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) in the referendum process.

Extension Challenge: Include at least three specific responsibilities

7. Analyse why the 1967 Aboriginal Referendum was so successful compared to most other Australian referendums.

Key terms to use: bipartisan support, public awareness, social context

🤔 Part 3: Critical Thinking

Success Criteria: Evaluate the effectiveness of Australia's referendum process and propose evidence-based recommendations

8. Case Study Analysis: The 1967 Aboriginal Referendum

Background: On 27th May 1967, Australians voted in a referendum to change two sections of the Constitution relating to Aboriginal people. The referendum achieved 90.77% support nationally and passed in all six states.

Your Task: Evaluate whether Australia's referendum process is too difficult or appropriately challenging for constitutional change. Use the 1967 referendum as evidence to support your argument.

Differentiation Options:

• Foundation Level: List 3 reasons why the process might be too difficult and 2 reasons why it's appropriate

• Advanced Level: Compare with other countries' constitutional change processes and recommend improvements

9. Reflection: In your opinion, should the referendum process be made easier or remain as it is? Justify your answer with specific examples.