It’s time to invest in a new way of doing civics education in Australia, argues Sarah Moulds.

At a time of increasing social unrest and racist attacks in Australia, where extremist views are gaining popularity, it is vital that we employ efforts to support our peaceful, inclusive, democratic way of life.

We know that while many Australians hold our democratic system of government in high regard, there is growing distrust in the people elected to make decisions on our behalf.

The Parliament of Australia’s Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters’ issued its From Classroom to Community Report this month on its inquiry into civics education, engagement, and participation in Australia.

Listen to Tom Rogers calls for national digital literacy campaign and more civics teaching on Politics with Michelle Grattan.

The Committee highlighted the need to invest in a more coordinated, holistic approach to civics education in Australia:

"“A healthy and stable democracy depends on the active participation of informed and engaged citizens. This requires at least a basic level of civic literacy to understand political discourse and legal frameworks that shape our society – skills built through quality lifelong civics education.”"

There is a strong link between education, civic participation and socially cohesive communities. Many of the contributors to the committee’s inquiry shared the view that democracy and responsible citizenship are noble aims and are also behaviours that we must practise and teach.

Civics education can no longer be........

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