Which of the following contributed most to the increase in the numbers of adherents to religious traditions other than Christianity in Australia? A - HSC - SSCE Studies of Religion - Question 7 - 2018 - Paper 1

The most significant factor contributing to the increase in adherents to religious traditions other than Christianity in Australia is D. The abolition of the White Australia Policy.

The White Australia Policy was a set of historical policies that severely restricted non-European immigration, thus limiting cultural and religious diversity in the nation. With its abolition in the mid-20th century, Australia gradually became a more multicultural society.

This increased immigration from various countries brought diverse religious practices, including Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, and other New Age religions, leading to a notable rise in the number of practitioners from these traditions. The influx of new communities has profoundly changed the religious landscape of Australia, contributing to the growth of non-Christian adherence.

In contrast, options A (Growing sectarianism), B (Attraction to New Age religions), and C (Initiatives promoting religious tolerance) have played roles but are secondary to the significant demographic changes brought about by the abolition of the White Australia Policy.