U4 4.1.1 - The role of the Crown and the Houses of Parliament

Question 1

What is the structure of the victorian parliament?

Answer 1

Crown: Governor
Upper: Legislative Council
Lower: Legislative Assembly

Question 2

What is the structure of the commonwealth parliament?

Answer 2

Crown: Governor General
Upper: Senate
Lower: House of Representatives

Question 3

What are the roles of the Crown? (governor and governor general)

Answer 3

-Granting Royal assent; they are required to sign/approve of all bills
-Exercise reserve powers; appoint the leader of the government, can dismiss the government, dissolve both houses or parliament before an election
-ceremonial duties

Question 4

What are the roles of the Upper House? (Legislative Council, Senate)

Answer 4

-Act as a house of review; scrutinise/review/debate bills that are passed by the lower house, reject or amend bills or suggest change
-Initiate bills; they can introduce legislation except for bills about money or spending (appropriation bills)
- Act as the ‘states’ house, equal representation from each state; represent the interest of the states in law making (THIS ONE ONLY APPLYS FOR SENATE)

Question 5

What are the roles of the Lower House? (Legislative Assembly, House of Representatives)

Answer 5

-Initiate bills; this can be done by any member of parliament but is usually by the government)
-Form government
-Represent the people (THIS ONE ONLY APPLYS FOR HOUSE OF REPS)