Week 2 - Law and government in Australia Flashcards
Who is referred to as the fourth estate?
The media - because of the role it plays in holding the government accountable
How often are elections held for HoR?
Every 3 years
What is preferential voting?
Used in HoR and based on candidates winning 50% majority of
What is an electorate?
A defined geographical area the elects one member to the HoR
Who conducts elections?
The Australian Electoral Commission
Is voting compulsory in Australia?
Yes
How many senators from each state and territory?
12 from each state and 2 from territory
What voting system is used to elect senators?
Proportional voting
What is representative democracy?
A system of government where politicians are elected by the people and make decisions of their behalf
What is direct democracy?
A hypothetical system of government in which the people contribute to every decision
What does double dissolution mean?
A special election in which both houses of parliament are dissolved - meaning all dismissed and re-elected
What is Proportional voting?
Voting system used on the senate and is based on candidates reaching a quota or larger percentage
What are the three branches of government?
- Judiciary (Courts)
- Legislature (Parliament)
- Executive (Government)
What does collective responsibility in government mean?
A principle that states all member of cabinet must publicly support the policy position reached even if they personally disagree
What is responsible government?
Requires ministers to sit in parliament and therefore directly accountable to the Australian people
