Poverty in Australia Is More Disastrous Than You Realize: An Essay

On the surface, Australia is a wealthy country; rich, prosperous, full of educational and career opportunities, excelling in sport and the arts, and with a phenomenal standard of health. However, many of us fail to understand how deeply our country has been affected by the poverty epidemic. Studies in 2016 found that 739,000 children are living below the poverty line (Australian Council of Social Service, n.d.). These children make up 17.3% of our population – 17.3% of young Australians who are struggling just to meet their daily needs.

The dignity of the human person can be defined by the statement: every human being has been made in God’s image and likeness, and therefore deserves to be treated with respect and grace, not having their freedom or quality of life compromised due to their race, gender, age, or ability (Caritas Australia, 2019). Dignity is upheld when a person is able to live comfortably, with the ability to have everything they need for day-to-day life. The common good is simply the basis of human rights; all people merit equal opportunities and are justified to receive the same treatment, access, and honor (Australian Catholic University, 2019). The common good is based around communities; it cannot be reached until everyone is included and receiving the benefits.

Children in schools who don’t receive breakfast, can’t afford to pay for their textbooks, and don’t have access to a personal device such as a laptop or tablet, are experiencing compromised dignity. They may feel as though they aren’t good enough, don’t belong in school, are disadvantaged due to their lack of resources, and become unmotivated. In Australia, the trend is growing upwards. More and more children are going to school with an empty stomach. In 2013, 14.8% of children reported that they did not eat anything for breakfast (Australian Breakfast Cereal Manufacturers Forum, 2017).

Correspondingly, the dropout rate of students is also on the rise. Children living in poverty may not have adequate access to hygiene products and therefore come to school sick, dirty, or affected by head lice, etc. These children will feel ostracized and excluded, as most kids would not want to sit with them or be friends with them, and this leads to the children having a negative mindset regarding school. As a result, only one in four Australians is leaving high school with a year 12 certificate, and only 60% of kids from low socioeconomic backgrounds are completing their schooling (Longbottom, 2015).

As a future teacher, I strongly believe that it is crucially important for children to receive as much education as is available to them and graduating year 12 is something every child should be able to achieve. However, as more kids are struggling academically due to their hunger and lack of nutrition, and as they seek to find work to help support themselves and their families, many are making the devasting choice to sacrifice their education in order to survive.

The poverty epidemic is something which should never have spread so drastically in Australia, and something that we must take responsibility for. The principles of participation, the preferential option for the poor, the common good, and dignity of the human person, require the global community to contribute to making a difference (Catholic Social Teaching, 2019). There are many small ways in which we can help to eradicate poverty, particularly in our schools.

Providing a free breakfast a few times a week, or even daily, is a great way to enable all children to receive the same learning opportunities. Going to school with nutritious food in our kids’ bellies makes a world of difference in their ability to concentrate, understand, and retain knowledge.

Textbook and device scholarships is another massive way that will engage and empower our kids to thrive in school. If every family enrolled contributed a small percentage, it would easily cover the costs and enable all children to receive the same opportunities for success.

Education is the key to our future. Kath Boyle stated that we must protect the dignity of all people, to maintain our own, “when we see some people whose human dignity is compromised by poverty, by inequality, by oppression, somehow all humans are diminished if one person’s dignity is diminished” (Australian Catholic University, 2019).

Our goal should be that every child has the ability to complete their schooling, graduating year 12, enabling them to make a choice to go on for further study or enter the workforce. We must break the poverty cycle, and it starts in our schools, with our kids. The success of the future is in our hands.

Migration-Related Racism in Australia and the Fight Against It

Migration-related violence is when people seeking for a better future are mistreated physically and emotionally by other people. Further, the issues discussed earlier usually affect immigrants, people of different races. Up to this day, this topic is extremely important because even though it’s not as divided as in the 1900, there are still large amounts of people being discriminated against for being different from the others.

“In 2019, there were over 7.5 million migrants living in Australia” (‘Australia’s Population by Country of Birth’). This mainly shows how numerous people seek for a better life but unfortunately, some of them encounter racism when arriving in Australia. This problem affects both regionally and globally. Globally it usually happens when people are looked at differently because of their skin color by other people often in places where it’s hard to find dark skinned people. Regionally, this problem also affects those who don’t fit a specific standard in society. Most specifically a beauty standard. Female Australians are usually stereotyped to be really tall, skinny, light eyes, and light clear skin (Amanda Montell). To continue, in the 14th century which was the era of colonization. Since Europeans began colonizing other places where people were ‘different’, they got the idea that they were superior to them for colonizing them. Those discriminated, worked for those who colonized. However, the United Nations had some resolutions and events to try to end these events. From August 31 to September 8 of 2001, a conference was hosted by Durban, in South Africa, to include all races of people onto the human rights they were not able to have. This was in order for them to have a better quality of life and feel safer. In addition, a challenge that countries face regarding these topics is that people are not treated equally. And when they are not treated equally those treated unequally are not treated with respect. Furthermore, when people are discriminated against, they are being disrespected which is something that can later implement people getting angry, or offended. Also, some opportunities that countries face regarding racism and discrimination is that a world without these problems would be largely united. It would also help to hear other perspectives in terms of topics, because many people fear of being attacked when it comes to sharing their opinion. As a result, the delegation of Australia hopes all countries are willing to minimize the amount or racial discrimination in all countries in order for a more united community.

Australia has done many changes in laws in order to prevent any type of racial discrimination, beginning by enforcing the laws. “Racism creates a divide. Australia is one country but it doesn’t feel like it”, said a survey respondent to the National Anti-Racism Strategy consultation. Australia has had some actions done about the racism in their country. An example is when more than 160 organizations came together on a public campaign to make Australians reflect on what is going on in their society, to inspire them on educating those who don’t respect and include others (Australian Human Rights Commission). To continue, according to Australian Human Rights Commission, “In the course of 30 years the government of Australia has introduced laws to protect people from discrimination and harassment”. When those laws are not followed, there are some consequences that include: police caution, family group conference, and a court session (‘Consequences of Breaking the Law’). Shokoofeh Azar is an Iranian refugee who went from Iran to Australia by an Australian Navy vessel on October 1, 2010. Currently, there are many refugees like Shokoofeh Azar moving to Australia seeking a better life of peacefulness, safeness, and happiness. She described that while arriving at the processing center for asylum seekers, she saw a white banner next to the gate that said ‘Refugees are welcome in Australia!’. “Her first impression was that safety and warmth were injected into my cold veins” (‘Why Iranians Continue to Seek Refuge in Australia’). Just like Shokoofeh Azar, there are many refugees moving to Australia seeking a better life. And citizens, political parties, media, and interest groups all play a part of it. Citizens play a part of it by making them feel welcomed and make them feel like they belong where they are. Political parties, and interest groups, also take a part by showing their opinion and keeping others informed on ways to help by showing real news. And lastly, the media shows specific types of news that influence Australians. For example, SBS News said: “The federal government has announced a priority skill list to lure back temporary visa holders who have been stranded overseas by the coronavirus pandemic”. This shows how the media is talking about migration because they are giving all necessary information for a safe trip of those who are returning due to work with jobs such as doctors, and nurses. “Australia is one of the many countries involved with the United Nations. An example of an involvement Australia had was on the World Conference Against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance, was hosted by Durban, in South Africa. Australia welcomed the conclusion to the conference, by saying: “Australia is unequivocal in its opposition to racism in all its forms. We join with the World Conference in condemning the scourge of racism and supporting strong action at all levels to combat it, both domestically and internationally” (‘Australia Welcomes Conclusion of World Conference Against Racism’). “Racism is cruel and unjust. It cuts deep and lingers long in individual and community memories. And it is not a thing from the past… We all have a duty to do what we can to turn this around”, said William Deane.

The delegation of Australia is against all types of racial racism. Three solutions Australia is proposing in order to reduce racial racism are the following. More education on equity, civil rights, and migration. By having people teach more about these topics in school kids and adults can become more educated on the topic. To continue, another example is to force families to do at least 2 hours of community service in low processing centers. By forcing families to do at least 2 hours of community service on those low processing centers migrants are at, they get a glance of what they are going through, what they need, and how they are living in their starting by where they sleep, the quality of food they eat, and the types of activities that are there for them to use. Lastly, another solution is to Invite Australians to interact with migrants. By interacting with migrants, the community can create strong bonds with the migrants which elevates the possibilities of the community making big changes on the migrant’s lifestyle for the better. The delegation of Australia is willing to give migrants access to free healthcare, give them access to accessible education, and lastly, access to quality jobs for a better future. Free health care will be guaranteed for migrants as an exchange for their background information about where they come from and who they are as a person. Accessible education will also be offered by using a percentage of what the Australian community pays for taxes, for all to come together and give some children an accessible education. And lastly, quality jobs will be a requirement and they will be offered upon their arrival to Australia. This will make migrants create a large quantity of money to sustain them. Australia will agree to improve processing centers in order for immigrants to feel more welcomed and also feel more comfort when arriving. And lastly, Australia will benefit from this solution because when people are welcomed, they are more likely to stay there. In this example immigrants would be more likely to stay in Australia. Immigrants in Australia can have a positive impact because people from around the world will learn more about the country, they are in. However, others meaning citizens will also benefit from this solution because more cultures arrive, and more ways of working.

Different ways of working can be really helpful when it comes to implementing new ideas and also on teamwork on projects. To conclude, the delegation of Australia is willing to make changes in their habits, in order for immigrants to feel welcomed upon their arrival.

Openness to Global Changes of the Generations of Vietnam and Australia

How can people be free? These were the words of the originator of the conflict theory, Karl Marx who based an entire theory on this question, where he describes the theory where he believed that people, by nature, are free, creative beings who have the potential to transform the world. But he observed that the modern, technologically developed world is apparently beyond our control. Technological change is a major driver of social change and the dominant source of economic growth. Due to the rapid technological advances, the world is facing, Vietnam is unable to keep up but the younger generation is wanting a more westernized way of life and the newer technologies to be brought in so they can stay up with the times, this is contradictory to the older generation within Vietnam that has maintained their economic and social group where they have been known significantly for their sole focus on filial piety (respect towards elders and especially towards older family members) and longevity. In contrast to Vietnam, to a first-world country like Australia where we are a technologically advanced nation and following the core values of Australia are built on camaraderie, friendship and freedom. The development of technology has flourished in recent years and has played a major role in globalization throughout the world. The key benefit of globalization is that it stimulates the spread of knowledge and technology, which helps spread growth potential across countries.

Vietnam is a traditional country filled with so much history alike us Australians. The only evident difference between us is only that we as different nations have different histories. Vietnam’s history is filled with oppression and nationalistic tendencies that have created conflict against oppressors due to Vietnam wanting social change for their country. Call for social change, like how the younger generation is challenging the older generation for newer technologies and a more westernized way of life, usually is done to destroy an old tradition to usually replace with a better replacement which may not always be the case. An example of the only comprehensive set of socio-economic and political reforms made in Vietnam in their past is the introduction of Doi Moi, prior to the introduction of Doi Moi, Vietnam faced an economic crisis. The introduction of the Doi Moi policy has helped Vietnam create a socialist-orientated market economy by pursuing openness in economic relations in order to provide the necessary conditions to achieve modernization. Additionally, the introduction of the policy was meant to create a positive impact, there were some negative impacts that affected individuals in Vietnam. One impact of the introduction of the policy was the increasing number of landless people. Due to Vietnam being the second largest coffee exporter, many entrepreneurs intruded on land cultivated by ethnic minorities in the 1990s which influenced the significant growth of coffee acreage which limits the people who are able to have sufficient living. Following the conflict theory, we as people by nature are free, creative beings who have the potential to transform the world. In this case, being Vietnam and being able to triumph over adversity as a nation.

Globalization is the process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influences or start operating on an international scale. Basically, the integration of all the countries coming together as one big global economy to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of international trade. As mentioned before, the key benefit of globalization is that it stimulates the spread of knowledge and technology, which helps spread growth potential across countries. As any other country would, Vietnam benefits greatly from globalization as it is known from the beginning as a traditional country. The Vietnamese can enjoy goods and services with high quality and competitive prices as many foreign companies join the market. As Vietnamese people are not only receiving off the benefits of globalization but the giving of Vietnamese culture to the rest of the wide world benefits all our individual countries as well, as we get to get to explore the culture of any means. One of the only negative threats of globalization to Vietnam is the dominance of foreign culture in their country. As their country is well known for their strong traditional values and heritage, globalization may cause them to lose their culture by causing them to neglect their native language, dress codes and attempt to copy mass-market fashion. Most countries’ native languages around the world are threatened by other languages, especially English. Globalization is not the only factor that’s threatening Vietnamese culture but also westernization which is the influence any western cultural tradition had while occupying a diverse nation other than Western. The biggest Western influences, Vietnam has, are from the Portuguese and the French. At first, the Portuguese were the first to arrive only later to be joined by the French. While the French occupied Vietnam, their main and only goal was to create profit. The influence they left behind on Vietnam was to create French elements in the Vietnamese culture as the French heavily oppressed the Vietnamese during the time. The growth of modernity and westernization, the younger generation of Vietnam are slowly transforming to fit into an everyday lifestyle which has created a divide between generations. With the technological advances, Vietnam are enduring, the younger generation has access to ongoing trends in a variety of areas whether it’s fashion trends or music. This influences their lifestyle from their parents or elders as the globalization and westernization have let the younger generation be liberated from older traditions and is seen as a mark of independence.

Australia is known for being a technologically advanced nation as we adopt new technologies at a faster rate than most other countries in the world. It is a far from perfect country but as a country, we’ve done well in a world filled with turmoil. As Australians, we enhance individual liberty and by gaining confidence as our nation has been given the freedom to do so. Australia is one of the most multicultural countries in the world where 27% of the population were born outside its borders. Our national identity values are reflected through our attitudes towards one another. Australia as a country does not regard national identity by reference to a common race, ethnicity, religion or cultural background like Vietnam does. Our national identity is defined by a common commitment to Australian civic values of democracy, the rule of law, respect for the rights of individual men and women, a healthy skepticism for authority and a deep intuitive sense of a fair go. Rather than having one cultural identity, our approach represents cultural diversity rather than cultural assimilation. The diversity of people in Australia has enriched us as a country which has helped us to face the country that we’ve become today. The global economy has never been as huge and technologies have never given individuals a voice before until this day and age. The gradual technological development in Australia has sustained our security, cultural, democratic, social and economic systems in many ways. Unlike Vietnam, we rely on technology on a day-to-day basis where Vietnam prefer a more traditional way of life than we do. Technological change in Australia has allowed us to invent and innovate from existing technologies, including the skills required to create and use them. Luckily as a nation, the younger generation is heavily susceptible by technology and can easily adapt and learn more from technology as it’s an important part of the younger generation of Australia’s culture. Technology has additionally increased an individual’s power to communicate. The only threat to using newer technologies is the stubborn resistance to the inherent unpredictable technology. Technology changes the way we act, think, learn and socialize.

In conclusion, people are free by having the potential within themselves to transform the world around them which creates social change within society. Relating to the conflict theory, the growth of modernity and westernization, the younger generation of Vietnam are slowly transforming to fit into an everyday lifestyle which has created a divide between generations on their initial traditional values. Globalization brings the spread of knowledge and technology, which helps spread growth potential across countries like Vietnam and Australia. In Australia, the younger generation is heavily susceptible by technology and can easily adapt and learn more from technology as it’s an important part of the younger generation of Australia’s culture.

Should the Catholic Church in Australia Follow National Laws Regarding Same-Sex Marriage: Persuasive Essay

The concept of same-sex marriage has only been regulated through the law. The expansion of legal rights and protections afforded to same-sex couples in Australia is well developed at both federal and state level. For example, legislation now exists in New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, Queensland, and the Australian Capital Territory that provides for the legal recognition of relationships, including same-sex unions. The Catholic Church has exceptionally strong views about marriage and strictly supports only the right of traditional marriage between a male and female. After conducting interviews and analyzing a number of secondary sources, there are many answers and opinions the prolonged question. There is speculation between many parties, whether the Catholic Church should finally follow national laws regarding same-sex marriage.

The Law in Australia

At the federal level, in 2008 and 2009, there was a wide-ranging suite of reforms to provide equal entitlements and responsibilities for same-sex couples in areas such as social security, employment, taxation and superannuation. However, at one point, there remained one significant area of difference between the treatment of same-sex and heterosexual relationships, and that is in relation to the institution of marriage. Undoubtedly, for some in the society, the concept of same-sex marriage is complex and controversial. Issues like social, religious, moral and political questions were raised causing uproar throughout the community. The Catholic Church and the majority of members did not agree with the change. Years and years after the debate on the law, a member of parliament finally stood up for the people. After Malcom Turnbull in September of 2017 raised the bill and demanded for change in the laws, same-sex marriage in Australia has been legal since 9 December 2017. Legislation to allow same-sex marriage, the Marriage Amendment (Definition and Religious Freedoms) Act 2017, passed the Australian Parliament on 7 December 2017 and received royal assent from the Governor-General the following day.

The Church’s View

The Church views marriage as a unique relationship between a woman and a man. Marriage is also a fundamental institution for all societies because of its importance in uniting spouses as potential parents and in providing for the upbringing of their children. It has therefore been understood as the union of a man and a woman in all cultures and religions until very recent times, and is still so defined in international law and the law of most nations. The recognition that marriage is between a man and a woman is not the assertion of prejudice, religious view or irrational tradition, but a recognition of the natural form of human ecology. Homosexual unions contradict nature. They imitate, but they do not complement, and that is key. The same-sex inclination is objectively disordered. It does not prohibit persons of the same-sex entering into other legal relationships. To insist that marriage is a relationship between a man and a woman is not a criticism of other kinds of relationships. By recognizing this particular type of relationship our community and its marriage laws do not unjustly discriminate against other relationships: rather, our community and its laws recognize the essential connections between male-female bonding and child-bearing, and between children and their natural parents. Redefining marriage would deliberately create motherless or fatherless families, which would deprive children of at least one of their biological parents and would put the preferences or interests of adults before the right and interests of children. After discussing with Father Stan, a parish priest of St. Ignatius Church, the views the Church have on same-sex marriage, it was said that it’s not necessarily considered a ‘marriage’ as such. If a same-sex couple were to ask to be wedded, Father Stan “would have to refuse, and only proceed to give the couple a blessing”.

Consequences of Change

The Church recognizes that same-sex marriage would have flow-on consequences, where essential roles like motherhood and fatherhood would likely be erased from the law to the detriment of children. A child will have to be brought up with two parents of the same-sex. Faith-based schools, with a responsibility to pass on the faith, may be affected when teaching that marriage is only between a woman and a man. People of faith will be affected as religious organizations and agencies are unable to freely bid for government contracts or other funding without being forced to endorse same-sex marriage. Each of these freedoms have been challenged overseas, where the definition of marriage has changed. In Australia, Hobart Archbishop Julian Porteous has taken to the state anti-discrimination commission for distributing a booklet explaining the long held Christian view of marriage, upon which societies through the ages have been built. Although there are a number of negatives, as Father Stan said during his interview, one of the main positives to allowing same-sex marriage in the Church will allow equality between all people. This will increase the number of weddings performed in Churches and a boosted number of happy couples. As simple as it may seem, the consequences of changing marriage are very real and upfront.

Conclusion

Although the law in Australia changed in 2017 to finally legalize and allow same-sex marriage, currently the Catholic Church hasn’t followed in the same footsteps. The strong views of traditional marriage that have lasted for centuries seem to be sticking. There are negative impacts, but the positive seem to outshine as equality is such an important part to society in this day and age. The Catholic Church should follow in the Federal Government’s tracks, finally jump on board and allow same-sex marriage in their churches, which will create a great deal of happiness and equality to communities all over Australia.

References

  1. Encyclopedia Britannica. 2019. Same-Sex Marriage| History, Status Around the World, & Facts| Britannica.com. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.britannica.com/topic/same-sex-marriage
  2. Same-Sex Marriage – Parliament of Australia. 2019. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Parliamentary_Departments/Parliamentary_Library/pubs/BriefingBook44p/Marriage
  3. Wikipedia. 2019. Same-Sex Marriage in Australia – Wikipedia. [ONLINE] Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Same-sex_marriage_in_Australia
  4. ABC News. 2019. Thousands of Couples Have Tied the Knot Since Australia Legalised Same-Sex Marriage – ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation). [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-12-09/thousands-of-same-sex-couples-tie-the-knot-in-australia/10598058
  5. Homosexuality| Catholics Come Home. 2019. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.catholicscomehome.org/your-questions/moral-issues/homosexuality/
  6. Catholic Action for Faith and Family. 2019. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.catholicaction.org/same_sex_marriage.
  7. Business Insider Australia. 2019. Here’s Where Australian Churches Stand on Same-Sex Marriage| Business Insider. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.businessinsider.com.au/heres-where-australian-churches-stand-on-same-sex-marriage-2017-9 [Accessed 02 September 2019].

The Ineffectiveness Of Australian Privacy Laws

In the current world, technology is used so widely and by so many. It assists in a variety of daily tasks such as communication, work and even education. It interconnects our world with the click of a button allowing information to be sent around the world instantaneously. Although allowing the ability for connection, the thousands of terabytes of private information on individuals held by technology and different companies raises the dangerous issue of privacy. While Australian privacy laws cover certain aspects of privacy they have had little effect in protecting an individual’s rights in relation to it. This is because laws are becoming outdated due to technological advancements, the people creating these laws don’t have a suitable understanding of these advancements to create protective laws, private information is being hacked and abused by companies, and some legislation created has breached the rights of individuals.

With technology constantly changing, reforming laws becomes difficult as the law is reactive to changes, meaning that Australian laws have often been highly ineffective. As technology upgrades, there is a lag between laws as the features and uses cannot be fully understood until the actual technology and its social implications are fully understood. The constant advancement of the internet allows more and more information to be shared around the globe no matter your location, which opens up a wide gate for online attackers. This ability has become a growing problem due to online communication apps and online trolls interfering with people’s lives in a way the law refuses to admit. This can be seen through the statistics of suicide rates due to cyberbullying, with one in five Australian children now victims of online abuse, and an average of eight young Australians taking their lives from it each week. The law implicates a punishment for it, yet it is still a growing problem. From the time of introduction of these applications, the lag time for legislation is fatal, pushing for reform to implement effective laws. The loopholes and extensive mass of this problem is something that suppresses the effectiveness of Australian law in protecting these individuals from privacy breaches of this sort.

The ease of access presented by the abyss that is the internet also opens up the ability to commit fraud over a person’s identity. Privacy laws already state that this is a crime, but due to the technological advancements of the internet have fallen behind in how to effectively handle it. A woman named Julie had her identity stolen from her driver’s licence in 2017 resulting in thousands of dollars of loans being taken out by someone else. As the case got brought to court it was stated that even though the banks had teams dedicated to fraud, the money was leant without adequate proof of identity, just a driver’s licence number. The Australian Federal Police said each year people lost hundreds of millions of dollars through ID fraud proving that regulations put in place are not effective in protecting these individual’s private information.

Those who create laws are professionals in legislation. Due to this, a comprehensive understanding of the complicity held within technology is inapplicable, making laws to protect individual’s privacy from the capability of technology impossible and ineffective. There have been multiple cases where information has been abused under the radar from this lack of understanding such as the hacking of the Australian national university. An individual gained unauthorised access to 19 years’ worth of student and teacher information in 2018 with approximately 200,000 people being affected. It went undetected from the end of 2018 to May 2019, after the public was assured no data had been stolen, only to be detected when trying to fix the system that allowed the attack to occur. It is found that this level of uncertainty and detection time is not an unusual occurrence. A study conducted in 2018 found that cyber intruders go an average of 196 days without being detected resulting in attackers having around half a year to collect data, monitor an organisations operation, as well as cover their tracks. In addition to this, it takes a further 70 days to respond to the threat putting an enormous strain on thousands of individuals private information. This case resulted in the enforcement of the rule that companies had to inform those whose information was involved as soon as a breach is detected. Privacy laws could not account for the correct protection of this information or the serious nature of the hacking therefore have not been able to effectively protect the privacy of individuals.

A further reason why laws have not been effective in protecting individual’s rights is that private businesses have been accessing individuals’ private information for commercial purposes, without their full consent, and laws have not always been reactive. Many businesses are now collecting people’s personal information using seemingly harmless techniques in order to gain more money for their company by selling individuals privacy information or presenting personalised advertisements. Gathering this information is done in ways that seem safe or classified such as surveys, cookies or log on information. This information gathering goes directly against the Privacy Acts regulations of information storage. The current privacy laws for Australia are shown within the reformed Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) which constructs the process of handling an individual’s information such as their name, address, telephone number, date of birth, medical records, bank account details and other classified information.

Although the Act accounts for the safe handling of information, it does not account for unauthorised access or use of this information. The case of misuse is shown through the lawsuit Lloyd v Google LLC [2018], presented to Google by a company named ‘google you owe us’. In this case, it was presented that Google was collecting location information and many other forms of private information over a course of time and then selling it. Google faced claims that it bypassed privacy settings on Apple iPhones, collecting data on iPhone users despite the fact that the default privacy settings on those devices should have forbidden the company from tracking them. This case was dismissed by the high court as it did not cause damage to the individuals regardless of the fact, the right rights of these individuals had been violated. Therefore, it is clearly seen once more that Australian laws have not been effective in protecting an individual’s rights.

Technological advancements don’t just affect an individual’s privacy through computers. Day to day activities can also breach individuals’ rights from ineffective and invasive privacy laws. Another example where the law has failed to protect an individual’s privacy is through legislation that has been introduced to give the government the power to access private communications between individuals. In December 2018, Australia’s parliament introduced a new bill to bypass encrypted messaging services to inquire upon criminal activity such as terrorists, paedophiles and organised criminals said to be using these services to share information. The (Assistance and Access) Bill 2018 enhances the obligation of businesses to provide information, that would otherwise be encrypted, to be accessed by law enforcement agencies. To do this, the bill creates computer access warrants which allow police and other law enforcement agencies to access devices such as laptops, mobile phones and USBs covertly to investigate crimes, all whilst concealing from the owner that the device has been accessed. Although this legislation can come as a benefit for law enforcers to find criminals using these encrypted systems, it directly breaches the rights of innocent individuals. This bill intrudes the right to privacy an individual has, as well as the right to freedom of speech and data sharing.

Although the law has attempted to stay up to date with the advancements in technology, Australian privacy laws have proved to continuously be ineffective in protecting individuals’ rights in relation to privacy issues. The laws that have been put in place are brushed off by most people unless the law is implemented in a much harsher way, and there are consequences due to this behaviour. The law and penalties brought upon by wrongdoings become inexistent in people’s minds resulting in these laws being unenforceable. Australia’s laws on privacy have seen so little of actual stopping or protecting information from large amounts of privacy issues and continue to make irrelevant or ineffective legislature around the usage of technology and the handling of information. The ineffectiveness of Australian privacy laws in protecting an individual’s rights is as a result of outdated laws still being used, a lack of understanding of different aspects for those who are creating the bills to create safe laws, private information being misused and hacked by companies and different forms of legislature being made to help the government.

Influence Of The American Civil Rights Movement On The Australian Civil Rights Movement

The prejudice and misrepresentation of Aboriginal peoples in state and federal law has existed in Australia ever since the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788. The American Civil Rights Movement (1955 – 1968) was lead by Martin Luther King and encouraged by the people. This significantly affected the Australian people in realising the inequality in their country. One man that was greatly influenced by the social leader in America was Charles Perkins, an Aboriginal activist that was a huge part of the civil rights movement in Australia. Aboriginal peoples now have the same rights, but still face many challenges to this day.

One of the most memorable events in US history was the Washington March, held on August 28, 1963, and consisted of around two hundred thousand people of all nationalities rallied in a protest defending those of colour and trying to bring attention to racism they faced every single day. This march encouraged activists to gain the courage to fight for equal rights, step by step. The march was lead by Martin Luther King, who presented his famous speech ‘I Have a Dream’, which referenced the inequality they face since the emancipation proclamation and demands for the debt of injustice paid. The emancipation proclamation was signed by Abraham Lincoln on the first of January, 1863 and stated that all slaves in the states that were engaged in rebellion against the union “shall be then, thenceforth, and forever freed.” Luther King’s speech brought American’s to realise the injustices the black persons have experienced, therefore causing change at an international level.

The Australian Civil Rights movement was influenced heavily by the American Civil Rights movement. The Freedom Rides (February 12, 1965) – inspired by the American Freedom Rides (1961) – was put together by a group of students from the University of Sydney, and was lead by Charles Perkins. This was also the start of the Australian Civil Rights movement. The Freedom Rides toured New South Wales’ country towns, exhibiting Australia’s racism to the entirety of the nation. ‘A Bastard Like Me’ written by Charles Perkins, stated that “it was also a reaction to what was being done in America at that time… [the students] all put their sixpence worth in, saying what should happen and what should not happen.”. It stated that the Freedom Rides were heavily influenced by Martin Luther King and the civil rights movement in America. The Australian Civil Rights movement would not have existed without the American Civil Rights movement.

Australia’s civil equality had a massive turning point when Charles Perkins lead the Freedom Rides in 1965, which brilliantly explored the racism Aboriginals faced outside the city limits. Charles Perkins and his team from the University of Sydney attempted to reach every TV screen in Australia and got large amounts of attention from both the news that they managed to get to broadcast their trip. The Freedom Ride showcased the racism that Aboriginals faced in every town where they were pushed around, discriminated against, could not mingle with everyone else, and showed their horrible living conditions. Freedom Rider Ann Cuthoy describes their living conditions as “had to use filthy water, tin shacks with mud floors, overcrowded.”. Australians were appalled by the footage, pressuring the Australian Government to make a change and help the Aboriginals.

Rites of Passage among Native People of America and Australia: Analytical Essay

Primal Traditions are the first traditions of humankind. They have been handed down from generation to generation through stories, songs or specific rites of passage in their tradition. These primal traditions are generally from non-literate people which indicates that they do not depend on scriptures or written teachings (oral) instead, trees and plants, water bodies, cliffs and mountains are believed to have spirits or be deities. The roots of these traditions are so distant that accurately detecting them can be difficult. In this, primal traditions are diverse. It is therefore crucial that we avoid making sweeping generalizations about them. There is three separate, unique ancestral tradition now remaining on three continents scattered across the world, including North America, Africa and Australia.

Based on the primal traditions, we are going to comprehend two factors that influence these primal traditions. Those two are rites of passage and ancestor veneration. Rites of passage are where, ceremonies that reflect significant stages of change in a person’s life which is from infancy, puberty, getting married, having children and death. These rituals are done through certain activities primarily conducted by the shaman or a messenger who can make contact with the deceased among other abilities. Ancestor veneration refers a common practice in primal traditions of a memorial of one’s departed ancestors by various rituals such as an offering of sacrifices. Besides that, the people believe that the deceased still exists in a subtle form and can either help or trouble the living. Thus much effort had been taken to pay honour to the departed for various purposes, such as to benefit the living and to prevent them from harming the living.

The first primal tradition that I would like to discuss is the Native American experience. The indigenous peoples of the Americas are the pre-Columbian inhabitants of the Americas, their descendants, and other ethnic groups who identify with those peoples. They are also known as ‘Native Americans’ or ‘American Indians,’ although such terms are broadly implemented to those tribes who inhabit what is now, the United States. The term ‘Indian’ was a creation by Christopher Columbus, who mistakenly thought that he had landed in the East Indies. The misnomer was then persisted and has helped to envision a sort of racial or spiritual harmony for the American indigenous people. The ‘Indians’ unitary action wasn’t one embraced by most indigenous peoples, who saw themselves as varied. The ‘Indian’ then provided Europeans with a defined individual that could be identified as ‘primitive’ or ‘heathen’, as a granted a legal category. Therefore, the word ‘Indian’ provided Europeans with a potent colonizing tool for Europeans. Not only that, most of the indigenous people today have accepted ‘Indian’ as an imagined spiritual, ethnic and cultural unity.

The Native American has three fundamental beliefs, which are Polytheism, Monotheism and Monism. These three principles carry the sense where it is possible to reduce everything in the world to one basic thing. The mind, God and energy can be an example for those beliefs. Most of the indigenous tribes are animistic, where they assume that all the nature that includes plants, animals, and objects is alive in the spirit. Those spirits have the power to help or harm people. The Native Americans claim that abusing nature can be abusing oneself and they also hold the belief that it can be irreligious to waste resources. Not only that, the indigenous of Americans think of the High God or the Great Spirit as their personal God, while others see the High God as more abstract.

Besides that, Native Americans have one of the oldest and most common forms of religion that emphasize their relationship with nature, the world of spirit and personal religious experience. If we look into their tradition, their rites of passage will be the “Vision Quest” and “Sun Dance” is their ancestor veneration which is still practised today.

The ‘Vision Quest,’ is a rite of passage to adulthood where it is started by a group that makes interactions that lead the spirits to acquire special powers. This ritual may be conducted as a practice before significant events such as marriage, battle and hunting take place. For an instance, children that have reached their puberty are sent away from their families to wilderness to endure fasting and wait for a vision from a spirit that often comes in the form of an animal, who then becomes a special guardian for the children. Not only that, the reason children takes fasting is to appear respectful to the spirits.

The ‘Sun Dance’ on the other hand, is a ceremony that revives the bond between the spirit world and human beings which allows them to make contact with the spirit world and works as preparation during a specific occasion. In that way, the Native American religions encourage to have personal contact with the spirit world.

According to (Britannica, 2018), the ‘Sun Dance’ is an ancestor veneration of The Native American, where it is a worldwide common religious custom of the Native American people seeking power or getting inspiration from the supernatural powers. The development of community-wide involvement in this ritual is guided by tribal and religious leaders. The main reason for this ceremony is to increase the devotees during the prayers and offerings from the devotees that indicate how this ritual served the religious interests in a tribe. Sun Dance will usually take place in a large camp or near a village and those who wish to pledge to dance are required to undergo training for a year. Besides that, usually, the spiritual leaders of the pledges and extended families were mostly involved in this ritual, as they were obliged to provide most of the supplies needed like gifts or payment for the ceremony. Those who vowed to endure the Sun Dance usually did so in upholding a vow to seek spiritual power or wisdom. The tribe will then start dancing at a preferred hour and will continue for several days and nights. During this period, those indigenous will not consume food or drink. For instance, some of the tribes will go beyond fasting and exertion to undergo sacrifice like self-sacrificing or self-mortification where the piercing is done on the supplicant’s skin. Only the most dedicated people will undergo piercing, and as with the rest of the ceremony, it was done to ensure tribal well-being and fulfil the unique vow of the tribal people.

The second primal religion that I would like to discuss is the Australian Aboriginal experience. The Australian Aboriginals prefer to refer to themselves as Koori or Anangu, which means human being or person. There are also variations of this word, including Noongar and Murri, depending on the area from which the tribes originated. Besides that, Australia’s indigenous culture is the earth’s oldest continuous civilization. The tribes are deeply spiritual and have continuously remained attached to nature and land, adapting and adjusting amazingly to their climate and environment over the centuries. For them, the term ‘spirit’ brings various meaning, such as the immaterial part of a human being (or soul), representing human or animal attributes, or referring to supernatural good entities and evil manifestations, such as ghosts.

According to (Encylopaedia Britannica, 2016), The Dreaming is a mythological time that had a beginning but no expected end, during which the actions of mythic beings influenced and humanized the natural environment. Many of these beings took human or animal form of a totem and others changed their forms. For instance, an unborn child becomes “animated” by a particular ancestor. The dreaming then regulates all the rules of the culture and in reality any facet of life that their oral history or ‘songlines’ kept alive. The songlines (yiri) convey stories of the ancestral beings ‘ travels, especially the creation of sacred sites, which are left behind as records of certain events.

The rites of passage for the Australian Aborigines will be Dot Paintings on the tribe’s body which was the part of the involvement of their ancestor beings. The involved dots create symbolic patterns to explain various stories and legends. Not only that, another important part of many rituals is the decoration of the body using ancestral designs. One of the main themes the tribe draw is the cycle of birth, life and death, symbolized by the morning star and signifying a transition for spiritual transformation from one level of existence to another. For instance, an unborn child becomes animated by a particular Ancestor when the mother or another relative makes some form of contact with a sacred site. Usually this animation involves a ritual that draws the Ancestor’s spiritual essence into the unborn child.

An example that will relate the ancestor veneration through initiation ritual is by Wilyaru. This ritual will take place when the tribe stood close with the boy’s eyes as men take turns to cut their forearm until he gets covered with dried blood. Then, the neck and back of the boy had been riddled with wounds intended to leave scars, yet another sign of death. Such rites of initiation were followed by a period of months during which the boy lived alone in the forest until his wounds healed and his skin shed off the blood. As he returned to his tribe, he will be celebrated with full of joy because the tribe believes that the boy had become a man once he completed his initiation rites.

Religious Discrimination Legislation in Australia: Critical Essay

As the values, attitudes, and beliefs of the Australian population change, the laws and government must evolve accordingly to reflect this, extending to the country’s Church-State relationship. New religious discrimination legislation was proposed off the back of the same-sex marriage plebiscite, which, amongst many other issues, runs the risk of prioritizing freedom of religious expression over other recognized human rights. Regulating the extremely complicated Religion-State relationship historically has been embedded in Australia’s Constitution with a goal to ensure peace and justice between all members of society. However, religious recognition, privilege, or law, as well as the institutional establishment in the Constitution poses a potential threat to the rights of religious minorities and people without religion. A proposed new bill, the Religious Discrimination Bill, potentially forces both religious and state officials to prioritize certain human rights over others. The bill would impact traditionally state issues such as healthcare and education that are grounded in religion. Resultantly, the Church-State relationship in Australia would become increasingly strained, necessitating some compromise to ensure religious freedom as well as equal access to human rights.

Since settlement, the Religion-State relationship in Australia has remained complicated due to the vague parameters contained in current legislation. Christianity has traditionally been the most common major religion, with 97% of Australians identifying as Christians at the time of federation in 1901. The Constitution reflects this stating in its preamble “humbly relying on the blessing of Almighty God” (The Australian Constitution, 1901). Conversely, another reference to religion in Section 116 of the Constitution prevents the establishment of a national church or the favoring of one church over another (The Australian Constitution, 1901), promoting secularism. Canadian philosopher Charles Taylor defines secularism as the “presence of religion in the public sphere as one voice among many, including those with no religion” (Taylor, 2007). Therefore, by definition, Australia is a secular democracy, despite the preamble of the Constitution reflecting a Christian-based perspective. Census data has seen a prominent shift towards secularism, with a 29.3% increase in the number of people identifying as a-religious since 1966 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2007). As the population grapples with a changing social landscape and fewer Australians consider themselves religious, the Church-State relationship faces immense change. Consequently, religious groups and organizations that represent less of the population are experiencing diminished power and influence over legislation.

Inevitably, as religious organizations lose their influence over traditional state issues (i.e., healthcare, education, and marriage), some have advocated for the passing of the Religious Discrimination Bill. Proposed in 2019, the bill would see state protection for religious entities to flout state laws on religious grounds and would enable direct and indirect discrimination for actions grounded in theological belief. This draft bill was introduced following the passing of the same-sex marriage plebiscite, which brought to the forefront the issue of religious freedom which can be disputed by state law in situations involving the tension between a religious conviction and discrimination. Some state groups emphasize the necessity for a law to introduce important protections for Australia’s religiously diverse population. However, most government authorities share the opinion of the Law Council of Australia that this bill could potentially trump the right not to be discriminated against on the grounds of race, sex, sexual orientation, disability, or age, as well as the right to healthcare. This creates an impossible divide between Church and State. Opposing such a bill could lead to the denial of religious freedom – a basic human right outlined in the Constitution of Australia. Supporting it would mean prioritizing religious freedom over other human rights such as healthcare, condoning unjustified protection for people to express harmful discriminatory views, and overriding state and territory protections that ensure fair treatment. Despite being a secular society, the Church and the State are undeniably interconnected. The proposed Religious Discrimination Bill may go some way to clarify issues, but may also introduce further complications as a result of the changing relationship as more Australians move away from religious affiliation.

Many issues which have become more prominent in the 21st century such as same-sex marriage, terrorism, immigration, abortion, and vaccinations have an inherently religious angle that necessitates the interconnection of the Church and the State. There is an endless conflict between the requirements of Australia’s secular democracy to support religious freedom while also supporting equal opportunity and treatment for all Australians. One example, the vaccination debate has raged between certain religious entities who oppose mandatory vaccination programs due to religious beliefs and state requirements. One such vaccine, Gardasil, which protects from HPV, has polarized religious groups as it arguably condones sexual activity before marriage. While many Christians are in support of the vaccine, with a 99% protection rate, a study by the Journal of Religion and Health (December 2013) found that Protestant Christians were the most likely denomination to refuse HPV vaccinations (2.01%). Reportedly, even the most liberal Protestant churches profess that all sex outside of marriage is the sin of fornication, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 6:18: “Don’t be immoral in matters of sex. That is a sin against your body in a way that no other sin is”. Orthodox Protestant schools have also discouraged students from partaking in the government-issued vaccination program. Removal of this right to healthcare has put students (including reporter, Stevie Troy) at risk of endangerment to themselves and others.

Currently in Australia, the enclaves of religious-based objections are not as prominent as we see in some other countries, and therefore non-medical exemptions from vaccines including religion, are not accepted. The introduction of the Religious Discrimination Bill would change this. Furthermore, many vaccines, including Gardasil, provide not only direct individual protection but also generate herd immunity, benefitting the broader population when threshold levels of coverage are reached. The passing of the proposed Religious Discrimination Bill would prioritize freedom of religion over national laws surrounding religious discrimination in schools, medical centers, workplaces, and mandatory health care programs. Consequently, Australia would fall further below the threshold of herd immunity, placing the entire population at risk of contracting HPV and associated diseases. As a result of the changing religious demographic and the Religion-State relationship in Australia, it is clear that a small percentage of traditionalist Australians do not feel represented in current legislation and are advocating for a new Religious Discrimination Bill. However, if passed, it has the potential to endanger the health of Australians by prioritizing religious freedom. The Gardasil vaccine debate is just one example implicated by the Religion and State conflict that would require clarification.

In a recent court summary, Chief Justice Latham observed almost any matter of state may become an element in religious belief or religious conduct. As a secular society with freedom of religion and no state church, and as religious influence over the Australian population is at an all-time low, the democratic laws and government must reflect the evolution of the population. Recently, however, certain issues such as same-sex marriage have seen this right to freedom of religion threatened to prioritize other human rights (i.e., freedom of choice). This has led to the proposal of the Religious Discrimination Bill, requesting state protection for religious groups to discriminate on the basis of their beliefs. One impact of this bill can be observed within healthcare relating to vaccines. As a secular democracy, Australia advocates for religious freedom as well as equal access to healthcare and impartiality in schools and workplaces. The Constitution mandates this. The conflict between the Church and the State arises when an advance for one of these rights hinders people’s access to the other. In a changing social and religious landscape, the stakeholders must be mindful of the implications for all to ensure a satisfactory outcome.

Bibliography

  1. Aernout J, N. (2012, January 1). State and Religion, a Multidimensional Relationship: Some Comparative Law Remarks. Oxford Academic. Retrieved October 2019, from https://academic.oup.com/icon/article/10/1/153/689919
  2. Ahmed, D. (2017). Religion State Relations. Retrieved October 2019, from International IDEA Constitution Building Primer: https://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/religion-state-relations-primer.pdf
  3. Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2007, January 24). Religious Affiliation. Retrieved from Australian Bureau of Statistics: https://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/bb8db737e2af84b8ca2571780015701e/bfdda1ca506d6cfaca2570de0014496e!OpenDocument
  4. Baines, C. (2019). Secularisation and the Church and State Relationship. Retrieved October 2019, from TASA – The Australian Sociological Association: https://tasa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/71.pdf
  5. Barker, R. (2015, May 14). Is Australia a Secular Country? Retrieved October 2019, from The Conversation: https://theconversation.com/is-australia-a-secular-country-it-depends-what-you-mean-38222
  6. Barker, R. (2017, July 5). (R. a. Unbelief, Producer) Retrieved October 2019, from ABC Religion and Ethics: https://www.abc.net.au/religion/religion-and-the-census-australias-unique-relationship-to-faith-/10095652
  7. BBC. (2019). What Does Christianity Say About Sexual Relationships? Retrieved October 2019, from BBC Bitesize: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zqd7sbk/revision/4
  8. Beard, F. H. (2017, May 15). No Jab, No Pay and Vaccine Refusal in Australia: The Jury Is Out. Retrieved October 2019, from Medical Journal of Australia: https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2017/206/9/no-jab-no-pay-and-vaccine-refusal-australia-jury-out
  9. De Kreutser, H. (2019, October 10). Religious Discrimination Bill Threatens Healthcare, School Students and Encroaches on Other Human Rights. Retrieved October 2019, from Lawyers Weekly: https://www.lawyersweekly.com.au/politics/26687-religious-discrimination-bill-threatens-healthcare-school-students-and-encroaches-on-other-human-rights
  10. Emerson, J. (2019, October 9). Religious Discrimination Bill Encroaches Too Heavily on Other Human Rights. Retrieved October 2019, from The Law Council of Australia: https://www.lawcouncil.asn.au/media/media-releases/religious-discrimination-bill-encroaches-too-heavily-on-other-human-rights
  11. Grimes, D. R. (2016, Jan 12). We Know It’s Effective. So Why Is There Opposition to the HPV Vaccine? Retrieved October 2019, from The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/science/blog/2016/jan/11/why-is-there-opposition-hpv-vaccine-cervical-cancer
  12. Izadi, E. (2015, April 21). Religious Vaccination Exemptions Will Completely End in Australia. Retrieved October 2019, from The Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2015/04/20/religious-vaccination-exemptions-will-completely-end-in-australia/
  13. Karp, P. (2019, October 15). Religious Discrimination Bill Condemned by State and Territory Commissions. Retrieved October 2019, from The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/oct/15/coalitions-religious-discrimination-bill-condemned-by-state-and-territory-commissions
  14. Pisani, A. (2013, August 20). Why Some Parents Are Refusing HPV Vaccine for Their Children. Retrieved October 2019, from Shot of Protection: https://shotofprevention.com/2013/08/20/why-some-parents-are-refusing-hpv-vaccine-for-their-children/
  15. Poskanzer, J. (2011). Human Sexuality. Retrieved October 2019, from Religious Tolerance: http://www.religioustolerance.org/sex_chur.htm
  16. Sidoti, C. (1998). Article 18 – Freedom of Religion and Belief. Retrieved October 2019, from Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Committee: https://www.humanrights.gov.au/sites/default/files/content/pdf/human_rights/religion/article_18_religious_freedom.pdf
  17. The Australian. (2015, April 19). Religious Vaccination Loophole Closed. Retrieved from The Australian: https://www.theaustralian.com.au/subscribe/news/1/?sourceCode=TAWEB_WRE170_a&dest=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theaustralian.com.au%2Fnation%2Fhealth%2Freligious-vaccination-loophole-closed%2Fnews-story%2Fdcacd730b224b4ff14ad9d2b9914b797&memtype=anonymous&mode=premi
  18. The Australian Constitution. (1901). Retrieved October 2019, from Parliament of Australia: https://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Senate/Powers_practice_n_procedures/Constitution.aspx
  19. The House of Representatives. (2019, August 29). Religious Discrimination Bill. Retrieved October 2019, from The Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia: https://www.ag.gov.au/Consultations/Documents/religious-freedom-bills/exposure-draft-religious-discrimination-bill.pdf
  20. Troy, S. (2019, August 13). Religious Freedom Can’t Trump Student Health. Retrieved October 2019, from Eureka Street: https://www.eurekastreet.com.au/article/religious-freedom-can-t-trump-student-health

Illegal Immigration: Should it be Legal?

Trump has strong opinions on illegal immigration, should Australia follow… or not?

There has been a recent spark in the public interest of the subject of illegal immigration, most attribute it to the said radical views of the President of the US: Donald J. Trump. There is a lot of controversy especially on his proposal to build a giant wall along the US-Mexico border to “keep out the illegal aliens”. Who allegedly “cost the Americans upwards of $200 billion per year”. This makes us wonder, what is illegal immigration, what are some views on it and what is its impact on a country.

Some questions which might be asked could include: ‘Is all immigration good?’, ‘Should there be restrictions on immigration?’ and ‘Should there be no immigration?’ all of which will need a great deal of insight to form an expert opinion. And for an expert opinion, experts need to be asked. “We’re all human beings, we’re all mammals, we’re all rocks, plants, rivers” – Shane MacGowan

Shane MacGowan, an English-born Irish vocalist said that, “People are talking about immigration, emigration and the rest of the f***ing thing. It’s all f***ing crap. We’re all human beings, we’re all mammals, we’re all rocks, plants, rivers. F***ing borders are just such a pain in the f***ing a**e.” Obviously being very vocal about the issue shows his opinion to be suggesting that he thinks that countries shouldn’t have borders as he claims they just cause problems. George Lincoln Rockwell

George Lincoln Rockwell an American neo-Nazi who also had definite views at an interview about Alex Haley said, “A leopard doesn’t change his spots just because you bring him in from the jungle and try to housebreak him and turn him into a pet. He may learn to sheathe his claws in order to beg a few scraps off the dinner table, and you may teach him to be a beast of burden, but it doesn’t pay to forget that he’ll always be what he was born: a wild animal.” His strong opinion says to everyone that he is totally against immigration of any kind for at least people coming from jungles to America, he also states that, “Evolution shows that in the long run, if the superior mixes with the inferior, the product is halfway between, and inferior to what you started with in the original superior group – in other words, mongrelized.” Hinting fervently that races should not mix, enforcing his opinion that people should not immigrate.

Contrary to that Reni Eddo-Lodge (British journalist and author) acknowledges, in her book ‘Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race’ about her personal experience, that “Being constantly looked at like an alien in the country you were born in requires true tolerance.” And that the problem that is within her country is caused by immigration’s policies in Britain. Some might argue against her pointing out that the title of her book rules out white people and not helping the separation. “(Mass immigration is a) threat to the character of the country.” – Jared Taylor

More moderate Jared Taylor (American editor) explains in depth in his own book ‘White Identity: Racial Consciousness in the 21st Century’ explains his views on immigration, “Prosperous non-white nations such as Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea… would quickly be filled with foreigners.” “… if those countries opened their borders… “ He goes on to give different examples of if different countries did let in many people it would not be the same as is can’t with different. Taylor then follows up with (Israel) mentioning, “In 2010, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved tough measures to deport illegal immigrants, calling them a “threat to the character of the country.” Reinstating that the country cannot be the same with different people. Taylor reinforces the statement about Israel with Japan demonstrating that it does not have as large problems with race as it has, “… no Civil Rights Commission or Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. It has no Equal Housing Act or Voting Rights Act. No one worries about drawing up voting districts to make sure minorities are elected.” Just to name a few that are showcased in the book. This goes to express thoroughly his belief on how much immigration western countries should allow. Some individuals do call his sentiments racist and the words in this book can give off that type of feel. “Street movements began to talk of all arrivals into Europe as ‘rapefugees’.” – Douglas Murray

Cool-headed Douglas Murray (British author) finds examples and experiences in his own life that could support either worldview and tends to balance them in his book ‘The Strange Death of Europe: Immigration, Identity, Islam’, he recounts his experience, “In the wake of Cologne and other similar attacks one could hear the language deteriorate around the fringes. Street movements began to talk of all arrivals into Europe as ‘rapefugees’. In Paris I met an elected official who referred to all migrants as ‘refu-jihadists’.” He describes is feeling towards this by continuing with, “These were unamusing as well as insulting terms for anybody who knew first hand that some at least of the people who had come were fleeing rape or escaping jihad.” This proves he indeed has empathy for the immigrants. In the same book he warns that, “A continent which imports the world’s peoples will also import the world’s problems.” Implying that it would not be good for anyone for a country to have open borders receiving an unknown population of people. “In Paris I met an elected official who referred to all migrants as ‘refu-jihadists’.” – Douglas Murray

The Australian situation with illegal immigration can relate to much with what Murray has said in his book and the immigration could be viewed as too much or too little. According to the ABS (Australia Bureau of Statistics) the majority of illegals in Australia were visa overstays contrary to popular belief, 53 900 estimated as of 30 June 2010 (0.2% of the population). Although it is to be noted that Australia is surrounded by sea, making it much more difficult to cross its border opposite to countries connected by land who are vulnerable to land crossings. With a large portion less for other entrants –13 770 Refugee and Humanitarian entrants per year. On a broader scale is US illegal immigrants in 2016 is estimated to have 10.7 million (3.3% of the population) making it a greater worry to US citizens and legal immigrants as well as illegal. 0.2% of Australia’s population are visa overstays

Immigrants can have a very positive impact on the economy of a country, for example immigrants in America are 15% more likely to work unusual hours than US born workers and also more likely to be employed in dangerous jobs. This can be looked at as positive as it relieves the US born workers from working at times and conditions they would not like to work at. Excluding legal immigrants, immigrants are more likely to work for less making it easier for their boss to progress financially with their business as well as providing better services for the customer and chance to use the money more liberally.

Illegal immigration can be a negative impact on the economy, workers fine with working for less will put other workers out of work and can lower wages of people who needed the previous wage to keep themselves going. Vast amounts of immigration can indicate great negative impacts on a country. A tremendous flow of people can increase of scarcity of resources and the infrastructure becomes overburdened. It also results in a negative impact on the individual, including unemployment and shortage of affordable housing. Mass immigration needs to house much more people which increases environmental degradation in a specific area, using up earth’s resources completely in one area. This gives no chance to the flora and fauna to bear the globalisation burden easily.

A lot of people would argue that it is morally right to let whoever wants to come into the country to do so. There has been many a story about a family with children or just children fleeing from a conflict such as a devastating war or abusive relatives. The family gets to a border of a country that they have heard is much safer and also wealthier, but they are unable to escape their pain because the border security of that country will not let them in as they are trying to enter illegally. This is particularly heart wrenching when the children get separated from their parents.

But people also argue the other way, saying there should be restricted access to a country. Many compared it to home with walls and a lockable door and the reason for having a wall is to stop unwanted visitors, like robbers, kidnappers and even murderers. The owner of the house decides who they will let into the house or not and if they choose to let anyone into their house, they will suffer the consequences. But most people choose the people they want to let in are only their friends and family.

Either way could go, letting everyone into a country or keeping everyone out of a country, or even somewhere in between, like letting only people who are known to be representing what the countries values are.

The Issue Of Domestic Violence In Australia

Today we will be discussing a very serious topic that affects more people than you would expect, domestic violence. So far today police in Australia would have dealt with on average 641 domestic violence matters. Family, domestic and sexual violence is a major national health and welfare issue that can have lifelong impacts for victims and perpetrators. Domestic violence is characterised as “violent or aggressive behaviour within the home, typically involving the violent abuse of a spouse or partner.” (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2019) Domestic violence affects people of all ages and from all backgrounds, but it predominantly affects women and children. Domestic violence is a horrible subject to talk about, but it needs to be discussed in order to put an end to this terrible issue that surrounds society today.

When discussing domestic violence, comments such as Why didn’t she leave? Why did she marry him? She must have done something to provoke him, are made about the victim in question. At the point when video broke of NFL player Ray Rice, hitting and taking out his then-sweetheart Janay, those were the types of questions that erupted on social media. Rather, the inquiry ought to have been, ‘For what reason did he hit her?’, ‘Why didn’t he show any feeling or regret?’ ‘What’s going on with him?’ This is known as victim blaming, and it is sadly all too prevalent in our society today. These negative comments about the victim are part of what’s wrong with society today. Domestic violence has been a serious issue for many years now and is only getting worse. Statistics are going up and the population is going down. The number of reported incidents in Queensland during 2011-2012 was 58,000. In 2013-2014 that number went up to 66,000. This is not a number we want to be hearing in related to domestic violence. We need to address this serious issue and take a stand against domestic violence perpetrators. The victim is only that, the person in question. They shouldn’t be accused for the actions of another and that should be the focal point of these brutal undertakings.

At the point when the Ray Rice story broke, there was a lot of discussion about what should be done by the NFL to punish him for his actions. He was eventually suspended and cut from his NRL team, the Ravens. Domestic violence abusers aren’t punished enough for their actions in order to teach them a lesson for the treachery they have inflicted onto others. Offenders are only sentenced to 5 years maximum in jail and repeat offenders are only sentenced to three. Domestic violence has lifelong consequences and can scar anyone who has to be put through such torture. A maximum of 5 years isn’t going to teach perpetrators of the pain they have caused and isn’t sufficient to show the genuine negative effects domestic violence can have on someone. What’s more, if our law requirement and courts don’t pay attention to it, in what capacity can any other person? This lack of consistency helps to foster the victim blaming mentality.

The ramifications of domestic violence can be detrimental to victims. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics in a survey conducted in 2016, “2.2 million Australians have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from a partner and 3.6 million Australians have experience emotional abuse from a partner. About 2.2 million Australians have experienced sexual violence since the age of 15” (unknown,2019). These are not numbers we want to see surrounding domestic violence. A teacher at Lake Macquarie High School in NSW claims that if the man is held accountable for abuse/rape then the woman should also be to blame for her choice of clothing. Students at the school claim the same teacher told a class, ‘all men have to fight their urges every day not to sexually assault or abuse [women]’. (Lily Mayers, 2019) This kind of mentality is not at all acceptable as it’s putting false information into young students’ heads, making them think domestic abuse is okay. The best response to the topic of how to stop aggressive behaviour at home, is to end the cycles of control and mistreatment in relationships. This should be taught to children from a young age so that they grow up knowing the right thing and not disrespecting their partners, friends, family members, etc. So next time one of your friends or family member is acting different, just check up on them to make sure they are okay as you never know what could be happening behind closed doors.

So why do some men/women think that domestic violence is acceptable at any time? Maybe they were raised thinking it was okay for some crazy reason. The effects of domestic abuse can scar people for life and even take lives in serious cases of domestic violence. This has to be put to an end as people cannot keep living in fear of what could happen to them or their children. Overall domestic violence is a terrible issue to discuss but it must be put to an end immediately.