Civics and Citizenship in WA

The Office of Multicultural Interests (OMI) Strategic Plan 2014–18 identifies promotion of active citizenship and representation in the democratic process as one of the main strategies in facilitating full participation by culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) communities in social, economic, cultural and civic activities.

OMI supports programs that build the capacity of CaLD communities, increase empowerment and knowledge, and advance participation in civic institutions and activities.

Key objectives of Civics and Citizenship in WA

The following list can be used as a guide by stakeholders to understand the different roles and responsibilities across government and the community organisations and programs in the area.
(Please note: most organisations operate across more than one key objective area)

Inclusion

Celebrate WA

Celebrate WA presents the Western Australian of the Year Awards in recognition of excellence and outstanding contribution to Western Australia; and delivers the WA Day Festival engaging tens of thousands of Western Australians across the state, in celebration of all Western Australians, recognising our Aboriginal history and the many people from all cultures who have made, and continue to make, Western Australia their home.

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Auspire - the Australia Day Council WA

Auspire presents the WA Australian of the Year Awards —WA Australian of the Year, WA Young Australian of the year, WA Senior Australian of the Year and WA Local Hero - and the Citizen of the Year Awards through Local Government. Auspire also deliver the Aussie of the Month program which is a primary school based civics and citizenship program to recognise and celebrate active citizenship in our schools. Auspire also undertakes engagement and capacity building programs.

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WA Local Government

Since the early 1950s successive Commonwealth Governments have accorded local government the role of conferral of Australian Citizenship at Citizenship ceremonies. Citizenship ceremonies provide councils with an opportunity to welcome new citizens as formal members of the Australian community and in particular as members of their local community.

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Knowledge

The Constitutional Centre of Western Australia

The Constitutional Centre of Western Australia provides information and a program of exhibitions, seminars and events that support Western Australians to learn about our political system State and Commonwealth Government, and current issues. If you are interested in learning more or attending these programs please contact the Constitutional Centre via the link below.

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The Western Australian School Curriculum and Standards Authority

SCSA is responsible for Kindergarten to Year 12 curriculum, assessment, standards and reporting. In Civics and Citizenship the key concepts are democracy, democratic values, the Westminster system, justice and participation.

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The Australian Curriculum Reporting and Assement Authority
ACRAA sets consistent national standards to improve learning outcomes for all young Australians. The Years 3–10 Civics and Citizenship curriculum is organised into two interrelated strands: Civics and Citizenship Knowledge and Understanding, and Civics and Citizenship Skills.

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Participation

The McCusker Centre for Citizenship (UWA)

The centre undertakes education, participation and youth-based projects to enable active citizenship in collaboration with UWA students, not-for-profit and community organisations, government and business.

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The Commonwealth Department of Social Services

The Australian Government Department of Settlement and Social Services works to improve the wellbeing of migrants and refugees settling in Australia by responding to their needs, encouraging their independence and participation in the Australian community.

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Democratic Governance

WA Electoral Commission

Promotes enrolment and participation of CaLD communities in elections and reduction of informal voting.

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Australian Electoral Commission

Promotes enrolment and participation of CaLD communities in elections and reduction of informal voting.

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WA Parlimenary Education Office

PEO manages the promotion, knowledge and understanding of the history, role and functions of the WA Parliament. The office delivers parliamentary education programs for the general public and schools programs that are in accordance with the WA Curriculum and Assessment Outline.

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Citizenship

Department of Home Affairs
This Australian Government department is responsible for issuing Australian citizenship and is strengthening the Test for Australian Citizenship that includes introducing an English language test and a requirement for applicants to demonstrate their integration into the Australian community.

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