Political Involvement

Question 1

Actions you can take on political issues?

Answer 1

taking individual action

joining a political party

becoming an activist in an interest group

contacting the media

Question 2

What are examples of individual action?

Answer 2

parliament

write a letter to a newspaper

phone a talkback radio program

engage in direct action (protests and
demonstrations, such as sit-ins), but must be
careful not to break any laws.

Voting

Importantly every Australian citizen has the
right to stand for election

Question 3

What is a political party?

Answer 3

an organisation of people with
similar ideas or philosophies. To develop policies that align with the values and
beliefs of the party that will appeal to voters.

Question 4

What is a lobby Group?

Answer 4

They are composed of people who unite in an attempt to change government policy on a
particular issue for example, a lobby group may form to preserve an area of bush land or to
stop a new airport being built at Badgery’s Creek.
E.g Youth advisory council

Question 5

Different forms of media that spreads political information?

Answer 5

Print media – newspapers & magazines

Electronic media –radio & tv

Internet – as an interactive form of media

Media can reach local, state or national or
international audiences

Question 6

What step

Answer 6

Any proposed change to the Constitution must first be approved by a majority of members of
both houses of the federal parliament.

Within six months of being approved by the parliament, the proposed change must be put to
the people to vote in a referendum. All registered voters are entitled to have a say.