How the Constitution protects our freedoms The Constitution helps protect freedoms by setting up democratic institutions, dividing government powers, creating independent courts and protecting some rights directly. 12.7.3 Our democratic freedoms Australia’s democracy is built on important freedoms that let people participate in society and express their ideas and their views. These include the freedoms listed in TABLE1 .
TABLE1 Examples of democratic freedoms Freedomof speech Freedomof association Share information Join groups or organisations
Freedomof assembly
Freedomof religion
Freedomof movement
Meet peacefully
Practise any religion
Travel within Australia
Express opinions freely
Form political parties
Organise protests Choose no religion Choose where to live
Debate ideas openly Criticise government decisions
Create community groups Work with others
Hold public meetings
Choose religious beliefs
Cross state borders
Gather for events Express religious views
Leave and return to Australia
12.7.4 How institutions protect our freedoms Different institutions work together to protect these freedoms. Each has an important role in making sure our democratic values are maintained.
TABLE2 How institutions protect our freedoms Institution
How it protects our freedoms • Making laws that protect rights • Debating freedoms issues • Reviewing existing laws • Responding to community needs • Interpreting laws fairly • Protecting individual rights • Checking government power • Resolving disputes
Parliament
Courts
When parliaments and courts work together, they help ensure our freedoms are protected while maintaining public safety and order. 12.7.5 Other important institutions Several other organisations work alongside the parliament and the courts to protect our freedoms.
The Australian Human Rights Commission The Australian Human Rights Commission is an independent organisation that: • investigates complaints about discrimination and human rights breaches • provides advice to the government about human rights
466 Jacaranda Humanities Alive 7 Victorian Curriculum Third Edition
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