Politics Flashcards
What must there be for referendum to succeed?
A double majority
What does a double majority mean?
That more than half the voters from all states and territories vote yes, and a majority of voters form at least 4 of the 6 states vote yes
How many referenda have been successful in Australia, and what percentage is this of all referenda put forward?
8 successful referenda, 18% successful
Give an example of one successful referendum?
The 1967 referendum to include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in the census
Give an example of one unsuccessful referendum?
The 1999 referendum introducing a preamble to the constitution
What are the requirements to be elected to the local council?
Must be an Australian citizen of 18 years and be enrolled as a voter in the municipal district in which they are standing
What is the local government responsible for broadly?
Parks, recreation, emergency services and public transport
What is the state government responsible for broadly?
Schools, hospitals, railways, sport and recreation
What is the national government responsible for broadly?
Establishing laws, maintaining security, military and international policy
What is the legislative assembly responsible for?
Considering the government’s requests for money
What is the legislative council responsible for?
Representing the people, legislating and scrutinising the executive government
What is the main function of the house of representatives?
To make laws and introduce the majority of bills
Describe the powers of the Senate?
It is democratically elected and holds full legislative power, making it an extremely powerful legislative upper chamber
What is the primary role of the Senate?
To protect the interests of the less populous states by giving equal representation to all states
What is the Westminster system of government?
A bi-cameral system whereby a sovereign or head of state, such as Queen Elizabeth, functions as the constitutional holder of executive power
