Politics

Question 1

Democracy

Answer 1

Power rests with the people, who may exercise it directly or indirectly through elected representatives. Democratic systems allow for citizen participation in decision-making through voting and representation

Question 2

Autocracy

Answer 2

Power is concentrated in a single person or a small group and citizen involvement is limited

Question 3

Constitutional monarchy

Answer 3

A system where a monarch acts as the head of state within a constitution

Question 4

Republic

Answer 4

A state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president rather than a monarch.

Question 5

Australia’s system of power

Answer 5

Representative democracy, constitutional monarchy and a federation

Question 6

Separation of power

Answer 6

The division of governmental responsibilities (judiciary, executive and parliament) into distinct branches to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

The judiciary makes judgements on law. The executive government puts law into action. The parliament makes and changs law.

It ensures a system of checks and balances, fostering accountability and preventing tyranny

Question 7

Westminster/bicameral system

Answer 7

Australia’s Parliament consists of two houses: the House of Representatives and the Senate. The Westminster system features a fusion of powers between the executive and legislative branches

Question 8

Government

Answer 8

Holds executive power and is responsible for administering the country

Question 9

Opposition

Answer 9

Holds the government accountable and provides an alternative viewpoint

Question 10

Prime Minister

Answer 10

The head of government, appointed from the majority party in the House of Representatives

Question 11

Crown

Answer 11

Represents the formal embodiment of state power

Question 12

Cabinet

Answer 12

Comprises senior government ministers responsible for decision-making. Appointed by the Prime Minister

Question 13

Political parties

Answer 13

Groups that represent various ideologies and compete for political power through elections

Question 14

Voting systems

Answer 14

Preferential voting
Proportional voting

Question 15

How can citizens influence change in the law?

Answer 15

Lobbying, voting, demonstrations, media campaigns, referendums (directly vote on proposed changes to the constitution)