Why the education minister fears young Australians are taking democracy for granted

The federal minister for education fears too many young Australians are taking democracy for granted.

And he says it could have repercussions down the track.

Alan Tudge told Tom Elliott a recent global survey found some 40 per cent of people aged 19 to 28 were indifferent or opposed to democracy as a form of government.

“It is a really disturbing figure, that 40 per cent of those people don’t think democracy is the best form of government, or are indifferent to it,” he said.

And he worries students are being taught to focus on negative aspects of Australia’s history.

“If you’re not taught to be proud of your country and understand the deep liberal, democratic, origins of it and what makes this country great, then you may be less willing to defend it compared to previous generations,” Mr Tudge said.

Press PLAY below to hear Alan Tudge voice his concerns