5. Politics Flashcards
What is an electorate?
An electorate is a geographical area of Australia represented by a member of parliament elected to the House of Representatives.
How many are there?
Australia is currently divided into 151 electoral divisions, each represented by one member.
Why are the electorates larger in country areas?
Electorates are larger in country areas because they cover more land to include enough people for balanced representation, as rural populations are spread out over wider spaces than in urban areas.
Name the upper and lower house of Federal Parliament
House of Reps
Senate
Name the upper and lower house of State Parliament.
Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council
What is a coalition?
When parties work together it is called a coalition.
Eg. Liberal Party and Nationals
What does bi-cameral mean?
“Bi-cameral” refers to a legislative system with two separate houses, typically an upper house and a lower house
What is the constitution and how can it be changed?
the Constitution itself can only be changed through a vote by the Australian people - a referendum.
How many senators are there in total? How many from each state and territory?
The Senate is made up of 76 senators. Twelve senators represent each state and 2 senators represent each territory.
List the 3 levels of government and give 3 responsibilities at each level.
Federal Government
State Government
Local Government
Federal Government
Defense and national security
Immigration and citizenship
Trade and foreign affairs
State Government
Education (schools and curriculum)
Health services (hospitals and clinics)
Transport infrastructure (roads and public transport)
Local Government
Waste collection and management
Local roads and community infrastructure
Public amenities (parks, libraries, community centers)
Where does each level of government obtain its revenue?
federal
- income tax
- company tax
State
- GST
- Stamp duty
Local
- Receipts from rates
What is the difference between preferential voting and first past the post voting?
In preferential voting, voters rank candidates in order of preference (1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc.)
In first past the post voting, voters select only one candidate