Question

Difficulty: MediumLiving Peacefully

In Australia, the principle of 'Living Peacefully' guides how individuals and groups should act when they want to change a government decision or a law. If a group of citizens strongly disagrees with a new local council policy, what is the appropriate way for them to seek change?

  1. By using peaceful persuasion, such as writing letters to the media, organizing a petition, or discussing the issue with their local representative.Answer
  2. B
    By using physical force and intimidation against council members to ensure the policy is immediately withdrawn.
  3. C
    By declaring that they are no longer required to follow any other local laws until the council reverses its decision.

Answer

The appropriate way to seek change is by using peaceful persuasion, such as writing letters to the media, organizing a petition, or discussing the issue with a local representative.
The correct answer identifies 'peaceful persuasion'—including petitions and discussions with representatives—as the proper way to influence government decisions. This aligns with the Australian value of maintaining a stable and free society through non-violent democratic processes.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the core Australian value being tested.
The value is 'Living Peacefully' within a democratic society.
This value dictates how disagreements and desires for change are handled in Australia.
2
Evaluate the acceptable methods for seeking change in Australia.
Acceptable methods include discussion, peaceful persuasion, and using legal democratic channels.
Australia is a stable democracy where violence and intimidation are rejected as tools for political or social change.
3
Differentiate between peaceful persuasion and unlawful behavior.
Peaceful persuasion (petitions, meetings) is encouraged, while violence or breaking the law (civil disobedience) is not the correct path for 'Living Peacefully'.
The rule of law ensures everyone is equal under the law and must obey it while seeking change through approved means.

Key Concept

Change in Australian society must be sought through peaceful, democratic channels such as discussion and persuasion.

Hints

1
Think about the difference between 'peaceful' actions and 'violent' actions.
2
In a democracy like Australia, how do citizens usually express their opinions to the government without breaking the law?
3
The concept of 'Living Peacefully' emphasizes using discussion and persuasion rather than force or law-breaking to achieve goals.

Practice More

Review the section on 'The Rule of Law' to understand why everyone must obey even the laws they want to change.
Estimated Time:45s
Rate this question