CULT1022 Working with Cultural Differences
Assignment 1: Short Essay

Team/Individual task: Individual

Word/time limit: 800 words (+/- 10%)

Weighting: 20%

Due date: 5pm AEDT Monday 6 October 2025 (Week 6)

After you have read this information, go to the Assignment 1 Q&A discussion board to ask any questions and see what your peers are saying about this assignment.

Assignment overview

To pass this subject of study, you must achieve an aggregated grade of at least 50%. Although this assignment is not a mandatory submission, completing this assignment will give you the best chance of achieving this minimum requirement.

The history of the White Australia Policy is important in articulating current cultural configurations, identity, power, and privilege. In this assessment, students will be required to conduct research and read about the 'White Australia Policy' which came into effect in 1901 and was renounced in 1973. Given that it's over 60 years since the policy was renounced, let us reflect on whether Australia has made progress in its contemporary constructions of culture and cultural differences.

In your short essay, use the structure provided below and attempt the questions that follow. Please avoid bullet points.

This assignment supports Subject learning outcomes 1, 2, and 5.

Assignment details

Read through the following information to understand and meet the requirements of this assignment:

In your short essay, use the structure provided below and attempt the questions that follow. Please avoid bullet points.

Overview (200 words)

Briefly describe what the key aspects/agenda of the White Australia Policy were. For example, what sort of 'Australia was imagined or envisioned' (national identity) in this policy and why/how was it going to be achieved? (5 marks)

Body/Main text (500 words)

How was the Australian culture conceptualised in the White Australia Policy (think about cultural values and traits, and who was considered Australian)? What were the cultural fears, intentions, or arguments posed by the framers of this policy? (4 marks)

There are arguments in the wider society that the White Australia Policy has continued to shape the current observed patterns of cultural differences, identity, and power in Australia. Do you agree/disagree with this perspective? Research and present evidence to support your position (focus on First Nations people). (8 marks)

Conclusion (100 words)

Overall, what is the one key lesson you have learned from this policy, and how does it contribute to your understanding of the subject "Working with cultural differences? Elaborate on your response. (3 marks)

References

Include a minimum of THREE scholarly references (including at least two recommended readings for this assessment-refer to the supporting resources section).

Note: The reference list is not included in the word count.

Assignment tip

View the marking guide under 'Assignment criteria' to see a detailed breakdown of how your work will be assessed. This is an excellent place to start your preparations for this assignment.

Refer back to the marking guide frequently to make sure you are meeting the requirements.