Gang-Gang the Cockatoo is in a flap. His home town of Canberra is all a-flutter over something called 'a referendum' - and it's interfering with his berry-eating regime.
Luckily, Stephanie Smith from the Museum of Australian Democracy (MOAD) is on hand to explain.
Join Steph and Squiz Kids host, Bryce Corbett as they give Gang-Gang the lowdown on what referendums are, how they work and why they're a really important part of Australia's democracy.
Bryce and Steph come across Gang-Gang in the bush near Parliament House in Canberra. He's most disturbed at all the fuss and bother in his home town over this thing called 'a referendum'.
Steph explains what the Constitution is, why it's so important, and why it needs a referendum to change it. Plus she gives a short history of Australian referendums to date.
WORKSHEETS FOR EPISODE ONE_ WHAT'S A REFERENDUM?
For the full episode transcript, click here.
Gang-Gang can't believe that out of the 44 referendums held in the history of modern Australia, only eight have passed.
Steph explains that making a change to the Constitution requires a majority of votes in a majority of states. It's a bit confusing for a bird brain - but ultimately Gang-Gang gets it. Then flies off to eat more berries.
WORKSHEET FOR EPISODE TWO_ HOW DO REFERENDUMS WORK?
For the full episode transcript, click here.
Referendum: The Board Game
So, now you know how referendums work, it's time to roll the dice with this fun classroom resource!
Advance through the stages of a referendum as the country ponders the question of whether or not to change its name.
A fun, educational tool to teach kids about how our electoral system works.
Download the worksheets here:
