responsible government Flashcards
what is responsible government?
the principle that government should be responsible to the parliament, to ensure the government does not abuse its power
what system of government did Australia inherit?
Westminster system
what is the prime minister?
leader of the Australian government, does not exist in the constitution, solely by convention
what is federal executive council?
a cabinent of ministers appointed by the governor-general who decide on major policy and propose legislation
who holds executive power?
the crown, and it is exercised by the governor-general - however it is actually exercised by the prime minister and cabinet
what is parliamentary confidence?
the government must have the support of the house of representatives - this is the foundation of responsible government. the government can only exist for as long as it has support of the people.
what is minority government?
when no political party has a clear majority of seats and political parties will form government by negotiating with independents and smaller parties for support
what are the main roles of parliament?
- determines who forms government
- represents people of australia
- determines who forms opposition
- scrutinises the government’s actions
what are the main roles of the opposition?
- scrutinises the government’s actions
- examines the expenditure of government
- debates bills
- provides australia with alternative policy
- sits on committees that review legislation or policy
what section does establishes the governor-general?
section 2
what are the governor-general’s reserve powers?
- appoint times for holding sessions of parliament
- dissolve or refuse to dissolve the house of representatives
- issue writs for general elections of the house
- dissolve parliament or convene a joint sitting of both houses
- give assent to bills, withold the assent of a bill, or reserve bills for the king’s assent
- appoint or dismiss ministers
