Australian Federal Government

Question 1

The Senate - description

Answer 1

represents views of Australians; making laws; investigating national issues; examining the work of the government.

Question 2

The Senate - main roles

Answer 2

propose, debate, and vote on bills and amendments; scrutinise the work of the executive government; decide on matters of national interest

Question 3

The Senate - number of individuals

Answer 3

76

Question 4

The Senate - how are members elected?

Answer 4

12 members from each state, and 2 from each territory; elected by the citizens; serve a period of 6 years; half are re-elected every 3 years

Question 5

House of Representatives - description

Answer 5

House in which the government is formed; represents the views of the citizens; makes laws

Question 6

House of Representatives - main roles

Answer 6

form the government; represent the interests of the people in their electorates

Question 7

House of Representatives - number of individuals

Answer 7

151

Question 8

House of Representatives - how are members elected?

Answer 8

elected by citizens; 1 representative per electorate; elected at least every 3 years

Question 9

Governor-General - description

Answer 9

King’s representative in Australia; has some responsibility making sure the country is run according to the Constitution

Question 10

Governor-General - main roles

Answer 10

start process for federal elections; set meeting times for Parliament; act as commander-in-chief for the Australian Defence Force (ADF)

Question 11

Governor-General - how are they elected?

Answer 11

appointed by the King on the recommendation of the Prime Minister

Question 12

Ministers

Answer 12

the Prime Minister chooses experience government members to be ministers, and expects them to work together on behalf of the government.

Question 13

Cabinet

Answer 13

the most high-profile portfolios (e.g. Minister for Defence) become part of the Cabinet; they are the executive government