Australia, coming from the Latin “terra australis incognita” which means “the unknown south land” has its origins way before colonization began as a thread around the world. The history of the Commonwealth of Australia begins around 40,000 to 70,000 years ago with the Aboriginal Australians. British Men, declared the new territory possession of the British Crown in 1770, though previously having contact with European nations such as the Portuguese and the very own British. Around 1825 European population was equivalent to nearly 50,000 and it’s biggest demographic shift occurred around 1860 when the general population surpassed 1,100,000 settlers. The colonies decided to form a Federation in the year 1901 by a democratic referendum, giving…show more content… Once again stating that Australia has made strong commitments to the idea of collectivity and diversity. However divisions, though mild, find its ways towards the public opinion arising especially from social disagreements in race, ethnicity, social class, and gender. In its majority, the British heritage dominates the most institutional aspects of society, such as the legal, public and healthcare…show more content… As many other western nations such as the United States of America, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, equality under the law are all embedded within the day to day life. Even foreigners seeking a permanent, provisional and occasionally temporary visas are required to read and sign the “Australian Values Statement”.
Below the Australian Values Statement is shown as it would to a foreigner applying for a visa or citizenship: I confirm that I have read, or had explained to me, information provided by the Australian Government on Australian society and values.
I understand:
Australian society values respect for the freedom and dignity of the individual, freedom of religion, commitment to the rule of law, Parliamentary democracy, equality of men and women and a spirit of egalitarianism that embraces mutual respect, tolerance, fair play and compassion for those in need and pursuit of the public good
Australian society values equality of opportunity for individuals, regardless of their race, religion or ethnic background the English language, as the national language, is an important unifying element of Australian society.
I undertake to respect these values of Australian society during my stay in Australia and to obey the laws of Australia.
I understand that, if I should seek to become an Australian
