Political parties
Identify two major political parties in Australia
Labor & Liberal
What is the rule of law?
This democratic principle means everyone, including governments and leaders, must obey the law.
What is the Australian Constitution?
This document sets out the rules for how Australia is governed.
What are the two houses of the Federal parliament
House of Representatives and the Senate
What is freedom of religion?
Section 116 of the Australian Constitution provides protections relating to this freedom.
What is a secret ballot?
Voting is conducted this way so other people cannot know how an individual voted.
What is representative democracy?
A system where citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf.
What is a referendum?
A proposed change to the Australian Constitution must be approved through this national vote.
Explain the role of the Governor-General
After both houses agree to a bill, this person gives it Royal Assent. Represents the King in Australia
What is freedom of association?
This freedom allows Australians to join groups, organisations and political parties.
What is the main role of a political party in an election?
To present candidates and policies to voters and seek to form government.
Why are regular elections important in a democracy?
They allow citizens to choose representatives and hold governments accountable.
What is the purpose of the Australian Constitution?
To establish Australia's system of government and divide powers between the Commonwealth and states.
What is a bill?
A proposed law introduced into Parliament.
What is freedom of speech/expression?
This freedom allows Australians to express their opinions and ideas.
What is the role of the Opposition in Parliament?
To scrutinise the government, debate its decisions and present alternatives.
What does it mean for an election to be “free and fair”?
People can vote freely and the election is conducted impartially and according to established rules.
What is a double majority in a referendum?
A majority of voters nationally and a majority of voters in at least four of the six states.
What happens during the Second Reading of a bill?
The purpose and main ideas of the bill are explained and debated.
Why is freedom of speech important in a democracy?
It allows citizens to express views, debate issues and criticise government.
Explain how political parties help represent the views of Australians.
They develop policies based on different views and interests and represent these through elections and Parliament.
Explain how the rule of law helps protect Australian democracy.
It limits the misuse of power by requiring governments and citizens to follow the law.
What are residual powers?
Powers left to the states because they are not given to the Commonwealth are called these.
Put these stages in order: Third Reading, Royal Assent, First Reading, Second Reading.
First Reading → Second Reading → Third Reading → Royal Assent.
Explain why rights and freedoms are not unlimited in Australia.
They can be limited by laws to protect the rights, safety and wellbeing of others.