Citizenship education in established democracies is challenged by declining youth participation in democracy. Youth disenchantment and disengagement in democracy is primarily evident in formal political behaviour, especially through voting, declining membership of political parties, assisting at elections, contacting politicians, and the like. If…

Discusses the historical context of civics and citizenship education in Australia. Addresses the report by the Civics Expert Group, the government's response to the report, and the Discovering Democracy program and policy. Characterizes civics and citizenship education in Australia and considers its future. (CMK)

Charts the rebirth of civics and citizenship education in Australia. Discusses the decline of interest in citizenship education during the 1960s and the educational and social influences leading to its renaissance. Examines the educational model proposed by the Civics Expert Group and extends this treatment to include more egalitarian concepts.…

Describes the recent revitalization of civics education in Australian schools. This approach incorporates traditional citizenship education into a new curriculum that addresses environmental and multicultural issues. Delineates the guidelines and goals of this new curriculum. (MJP)