If you’re finding yourself a little left in the dark when it comes to the world of politics, here’s a sneaky way to learn more about how our own government operates – right from your smartphone. These courses, apps and podcasts will have you involved – and informed – in no time.
Australian Government course
Created by Victoria’s Keilor Views Primary School, this course aims to teach Year Five and Six students about Australian government, and how rules and laws are made. So if you need to start at very the beginning, this is pretty much the easiest way to do it.
This app makes learning how government works in Australia fun and easy to understand. Covering lots of content without requiring a tonne of reading, the app uses fun illustrations, animation, photos and videos to explore the Australian system of government.
News-O-Matic app
Okay, so this one is more for the kids – but is still a great resource. Covering relevant news of the day in an engaging way, this app explores the news through images, maps, videos, and games. Whether your interest is sports, science, world news, or wacky events, News-O-Matic delivers what’s making the news.
Run That Town app
Have you ever thought your local area could be run better? Run That Town puts you in charge of any neighbourhood in Australia, using real Census data to discover who’s who in your area, and make decisions that will sway popular opinion in your favour. A strategy game with a twist – what kind of leader will you be?
ABC Splash app
This educational app by the ABC is more geared at the high school aged bracket, and features over 4,000 videos, games and resources covering big subjects – such as Rights and Freedoms, Population Growth and Management and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures.
Global Politics podcast
Now it’s time for the heavier stuff. This series of talks by Melbourne’s La Trobe University focuses on issues of world politics. Recent episodes include The World is Trumped, Australian Foreign Policy and Asia and A Health Check for China.
Politics and International Relations podcast
Oxford University’s Department of Politics and International relations hosts this podcast, covering everything from emotional diplomacy to feminism in international relations, and the Nobel Peace Price to free speech in the connected world.
Politics with Michelle Grattan podcast
One of Australia’s most respected and awarded political journalists, Michelle Grattan AO has been a member of the Canberra parliamentary press gallery for more than 40 years. In this podcast, Grattan talks politics with politicians and experts, direct from Capital Hill.