Overview of referendums
What is the only way to change the wording of the Constitution in Australia?
the only way to change the wording of the Constitution in Australia is through a Referendum - under section 128 of the Australian Constitution
When was the first national referendum held in Australia?
1911
Who can initiate a referendum in Australia?
Why is the difficulty of achieving a constitutional change a safeguard to our democracy?
Because an effective democracy shouldn't be easily changed. The Constitution should be protected against arbitrary powers of the government
How many states voted “Yes” in the 2023 Referendum for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament?
Zero states met the majority requirement.
Is it compulsory to vote in a referendum?
Yes, it is compulsory if you are over 18 and are enrolled to vote
How many referendums have been held in Australia to date?
45
What are the campaigns called during this process?
YES and NO campaigns
Why do governments seek to pass referendums?
To expand / limit power of Constitutional branches of government
To update or modernise the Constitution
What was the most recent referendum proposal that was unsuccessful? When was this?
1999 Republic debate
In Australia, who is responsible for conducting referendums?
The AEC
How many referendums were successful?
8
Are territories counted in the state majority?
No. The territories' residents only count towards the national component
What are the common characteristics of a successful referendum?
Minimal change
Less power to the govt
More power to the people
What was the most recent plebiscite vote about?
Marriage Equality 2017
To propose a referendum in Australia, a bill must be passed by ...
Both houses of the Federal Parliament - HOR and Senate
What was the most popular referendum in Australian history? (Name the % of double majority votes received)
1967, 91%
What is the requirement for a successful referendum to pass?
A referendum must receive a "double majority," which means it must be supported by a majority of voters in a majority of states and territories.
What was the most impactful referendum?
1967
Has a referendum ever been held on climate change in Australia?
No, a referendum has never been held on climate change in Australia.
What is the difference between a plebiscite and a referendum?
Referendum is legally binding, whereas a plebiscite is advisory only
What were the two changes made to the Constitution following the 1967 referendum?
1. Indigenous population was counted in the census
2. Allowed Federal Parliament to make laws on the Indigenous issues
Which section of the Australian Constitution sets out the rules for holding referendums?
128
How many questions can be put to voters in a single referendum?
There is no limit to the number of questions that can be put to voters in a single referendum.
What was the main function of the proposed Voice to Parliament?