Parliamentary Debate
In parliamentary debates there are usually two teams of three speakers who take turns to argue a case for a particular viewpoint on an issue or topic. 
A speaker for the Affirmative Team begins, introducing the topic and outlining the issues. The first speaker for the Negative Team then does the same. The debate proceeds with alternate speakers from each team developing their case and rebutting the opposition’s arguments. The final speakers on each team sum up their team’s case at the end of the debate.
The debate may be adjudicated by a single person, a panel or the rest of the class on the basis of matter, method and manner. The team who argue the most convincing case may be declared the winners.
What is multiculturalism?
Australia is made up of people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Multiculturalism seeks to recognise and celebrate this diversity, and to address the challenges and opportunities arising from it.
Multiculturalism is a policy based on rights and responsibilities. The important overriding principles of multiculturalism can be summarised as follows:
loyalty to Australia: all Australians should have an overriding and unifying commitment to Australia’s interests and future, first and foremost;
acceptance of the Australian system: all Australians are required to accept the basic structures and principals of Australian society- the Constitution, Australia’s laws, parliamentary democracy, tolerance, equality, democracy, freedom of speech and religion, English as the national language and equality of the sexes; and
mutual respect: all Australians have the right to express their culture and beliefs within the law, and this involves a reciprocal responsibility to accept the right of others to express their views and values.
Multiculturalism is about the inclusion and recognition of all Australians. It recognises the right of all Australians to enjoy their ethnic identity and cultural heritage (including language and religion) and the right to equal treatment and opportunities regardless of their backgrounds. Multiculturalism also aims to ensure the diverse skills and talents of all Australians are developed and used to produce economic, social and cultural benefits.
Face the Facts (Section 1 Migrants, Immigration and Multiculturalism)
Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission 2001
http://www.hreoc.gov.au/racial_discrimination/face_facts