Government and the Law Flashcards

To prevent any single group from holding all the power, the Australian system of government is divided into three different branches. Which of the following correctly lists these three branches?

Answer: The Legislature, the Executive, and the Judiciary

Australia's government is based on the principle of the 'separation of powers'. The three branches are: the Legislature (Parliament), which has the power to make and change laws; the Executive (the Prime Minister, ministers, and government departments), which puts the laws into action; and the Judiciary (the courts and judges), which makes judgements on laws.

A bill has been passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives. What is the final step required for it to become an Australian law?

Answer: Royal Assent from the Governor-General

After a proposed law, known as a bill, is passed by both houses of Parliament, it must be presented to the Governor-General for Royal Assent. The Governor-General, representing the Monarch, signs the bill, which is the final step for it to become an Act of Parliament (a law).

For a change to be made to the Australian Constitution, a referendum must be held. What is the specific requirement, known as a 'double majority', for the referendum to be successful?

Answer: A majority of voters in at least four of the six states, and a majority of voters nationwide.

To alter the Australian Constitution, a 'double majority' is required in a national referendum. This means the change must be approved by a national majority of voters across Australia AND a majority of voters in a majority of the states (at least four out of six).

Liam is concerned about the maintenance of a local park and the schedule for rubbish collection on his street. Which level of government is primarily responsible for these services?

Answer: Local Government (Council)

There are three levels of government in Australia. Local governments, often called councils or shires, are responsible for community services such as local roads, parks, libraries, and waste collection.

Which of the following is the key role of the House of Representatives in the Australian Parliament?

Answer: To determine the Government of the day.

The Australian Government is formed in the House of Representatives by the political party (or coalition of parties) that has the support of the majority of its members. The leader of this party becomes the Prime Minister.

In the Australian system of government, who is the King's representative at the federal level?

Answer: The Governor-General

Australia is a constitutional monarchy, and the Head of State is the King of Australia. The King is represented at the federal level by the Governor-General, who is appointed on the advice of the Australian Prime Minister.