The Australian Democracy Quick Notes/Definitions Flashcards
Define democracy
A system of government where
the people
either directly vote on laws
or elect representatives on their behalf
Define elections
A formal and organised coin to vote of a person for a political office or other position
Define Governor General
The King’s representative in Australia
Define Federal Government
Is Australia’s government in which the constitution gives certain powers to federal government where some are shared among the state and local levels
Define State Government
Is the government that controls a subdivision of a country in the federal form of government
Define Local Government
The government of a town or city. The lowest level of Government
Define Citizens
A legally recognised subject or national of a state or commonwealth, either native or naturalised
Define Rights
A moral or legal entitlement to have or do something
Define Constitutional Monarchy
A system of government in which a monarch shares power with a constitutionally organised government
Define Representative Democracy
A political system in which citizens of a country or other political entity vote for representatives to handle legislation and otherwise rule that entity on their behalf
Define the Three Levels of Government
Federal, State and Local
What is a direct democracy?
A direct democracy is where the people directly vote on the laws passed without representatives.
What is a representative democracy?
A representative democracy is where the people elect representatives to represent their views in parliament.
What is the difference between a direct democracy and a representative democracy?
The difference is that in a direct democracy, the people directly vote on laws and in a representative democracy, representatives chosen by th people vote on laws
What are the names of the two houses of parliament at Commonwealth level?
The two houses are the Senate and the House of Representatives
What is meant by a constitutional monarchy?
A constitutional monarchy is when the country is not ruled by the Monarch but rather the constitution however they hold a ceremonial role. It helps to protect from a corrupt government
Who represents the King in Australia?
The Governor General, Sam Mostyn
What is the name of the Prime Minister?
Anthony Albanese of the Labour Party
What is the name of the Premier of Victoria?
Jacinta Allan of the Labour Party
In which house is government formed?
House of Representatives
How many members are in the House of Representatives and the Senate?
151 in House of Reps and 76 in Senate
What colour is each house?
Green for House of Reps and Red for Senate
Who can vote in Australia?
- Any Australian citizen over the age of 18 without an exemption
- Exemptions include if you are mentally incapacitated, have a criminal conviction or are physically incapable
