Resource
Government Detective
Solve twelve illustrated clues about common government responsibilities.
Preview the student activity
Download printer-friendly student PDFCheck the preview, printing notes and licence before use.
What children do
Solve twelve illustrated clues about common government responsibilities.
Download
- Colour student PDF — 2 A4 pages.
- Printer-friendly student PDF — black outlines and white backgrounds.
- Separate answers and educator notes.
Age and preparation
Years 4–6 / ages 9–12. Allow around 25 minutes. A4 paper, pencils and optional colouring tools. Print at actual size.
Use the activity
Read the short instructions together. Model one example, then let children work alone or with a partner. Keep answers separate until they are ready to check.
Accept spoken answers, pointing or a partner scribe when writing is a barrier. For a challenge, ask learners to explain the clue behind an answer. Colour never determines a factual answer.
Scope and accuracy
Examples show usual main responsibilities; governments can share funding and responsibility. In the ACT, the territory government also handles local services. Imaginary designs are clearly marked and do not describe Australia’s actual arrangements.
Factual sources
Reviewed on 2 October 2026 against official Australian sources. Original wording and illustrations are used; official artwork and ballot designs are not reproduced.
