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Is Australia a democratic nation or is it in a dictatorship?
Australia has a democratic system of government called a parliamentary democracy.
What is the name of Australia’s national parliament?
The Parliament of Australia, also called the Federal Parliament or Commonwealth Parliament.
What does “democracy” mean?
Democracy means the people have the power to choose their leaders through elections.
Where does the Australian Parliament meet?
In Canberra, at a building called Parliament House.
Who can vote in Australian elections?
All Australian citizens aged 18 or over must vote. Voting is compulsory.
Who is the leader of the Australian Government?
The Prime Minister is the leader of the government.
Who is Australia’s Head of State?
The King of Australia, currently King Charles III, is the Head of State, represented by the Governor-General.
What does the Governor-General do?
The Governor-General represents the King and gives royal approval (called Royal Assent) to new laws.
How is the Prime Minister chosen?
The Prime Minister is the leader of the political party that has the most seats in the House of Representatives.
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What is the difference between state and federal laws?
What are the three levels of government in Australia?
Federal (whole country)
State/Territory (like NSW, Victoria, etc.)
Local (city or town councils)
What is the Constitution of Australia?
The Constitution is the set of rules that outlines how Australia’s government works.
What is a political party?
A political party is a group of people who share similar ideas and work together to get elected and form government.
What are the two houses of Federal Parliament?
The House of Representatives (Lower House) and the Senate (Upper House).
What is the difference between state and federal laws?
Federal laws apply to the whole country, while state laws only apply in that particular state or territory.
What is an election?
An election is when people vote to choose their leaders, such as members of parliament.
How often are federal elections held in Australia?
Every three years.
What is a Member of Parliament (MP)?
An MP is a person elected to represent a part of Australia in the House of Representatives.
What is a bill?
A bill is a proposal for a new law or a change to an existing law.
What is the Cabinet?
The Cabinet is a group of senior government ministers who help make important decisions.
What does “compulsory voting” mean?
It means that voting is required by law, and people must vote in elections.
What is the role of the Senate?
The Senate represents the states and territories, and reviews laws passed by the House of Representatives.
What is the main role of the House of Representatives?
To make laws and represent the people of Australia.
How many members are in the House of Representatives?
There are 151 members in the House of Representatives.
How does a bill become a law?
A bill must be voted on and passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate, then approved by the Governor-General.