How Australia is Governed
A government is elected to represent us and they meet at a place called parliament where laws are passed.
What is a parliamentary democracy?
The leader of the party (or coalition) with the majority of votes at an election.
Who is the Prime Minister?
76/150
How many seats are needed in the House of Representatives to form a majority?
The lower house of Commonwealth Parliament, where politicians represent the views of the people.
What is the House of Representatives?
A way of determining who has the power and responsibility for making decisions about important matters.
What is a political system?
The leader of the party (or coalition) who received the second highest number of votes in an election.
Who is the leader of the opposition?
If neither party can get 76 seats for a majority.
What is a hung parliament?
The upper house of Commonwealth Parliament that was set up to protect the interests of each state.
What is the Senate?
A document that sets out how Australia will be governed, how power will be shared, and how laws will be created or changed.
What is the Constitution?
A group of political parties that join together to form government.
What is a coalition?
When a major party negotiates with minor parties or independents to gain enough seats in the House of Representatives to form government.
What is a minority government?
The King or Queen's representative in Australia, appointed by the Prime Minister. Their job includes appointing High Court judges and approves laws that have been passed by parliament.
Who is the Governor General?