Parliament and Elections Flashcards
7 cards from real CITIZENSHIP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Parliament and Elections flashcards as text
Is voting compulsory for eligible Australian citizens in federal elections?
Answer: Yes, voting is compulsory
Voting is compulsory for all eligible Australian citizens aged 18 and over in federal elections, and failure to vote without a valid reason can result in a fine.
What type of voting system is used to elect members of the House of Representatives?
Answer: Preferential voting
Australia uses preferential voting for the House of Representatives, where voters rank candidates in order of preference rather than selecting just one.
At what minimum age can Australian citizens vote in federal elections?
Answer: 18
Australian citizens must be at least 18 years old and enrolled on the electoral roll to vote in federal elections.
Which independent body is responsible for conducting federal elections in Australia?
Answer: The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC)
The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) is the independent federal agency responsible for conducting federal elections, by-elections, and referendums.
What does preferential voting allow voters to do?
Answer: Rank candidates in order of preference
Preferential voting allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference, so that if no candidate wins an outright majority, preferences are distributed until one does.
How long is a typical term for an Australian senator?
Answer: 6 years
Australian senators serve six-year terms, with roughly half the Senate facing election every three years at a regular half-Senate election.
What can happen to an eligible Australian citizen who fails to vote in a federal election without a valid reason?
Answer: A fine
Eligible Australians who fail to vote in a federal election without a valid reason can receive a fine, as voting is compulsory under Australian law.