Government and the law in Australia
official source:pdf (page 17-22)
Government and the law in Australia
Citizens pledge to uphold and obey Australian laws.
Australia’s system of government is a parliamentary democracy.
How do I have my say?
Voting is compulsory for citizens 18+ in federal, state, and territory elections.
Voting is by secret ballot and ensures freedom and safety.
Citizens can contact representatives to raise concerns or suggest changes to laws.
How did we establish our system of Government?
Australia federated on 1st January 1901, uniting six colonies.
The Australian Constitution sets the basic rules for governance.
The High Court interprets and applies laws; changes to the Constitution require a referendum.
How is the power of Government controlled?
Power is divided into legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
Legislative: Makes laws (Parliament).
Executive: Implements laws (Prime Minister, ministers, Governor-General).
Judicial: Interprets laws (independent courts).
Who is Australia's Head of State?
King Charles III is the Head of State, represented by the Governor-General.
Australia is a constitutional monarchy; the Governor-General performs ceremonial and legal duties.
How is Australia governed?
The Australian Parliament has two houses: the House of Representatives and the Senate.
States and territories have their own parliaments and leaders (Premiers/Chief Ministers).
Local councils manage local services like roads, parks, and libraries.
What do the three levels of government do?
Federal: Manages taxation, defence, immigration, and foreign affairs.
State/Territory: Handles health, education, transport, and police.
Local: Oversees community services like parks, waste, and libraries.
How is the Australian Government formed?
The government is formed by the party/coalition with the majority in the House of Representatives.
The Prime Minister leads the government; ministers manage specific areas.
How are laws made?
Laws start as Bills proposed in Parliament.
Both Houses debate and vote on Bills.
The Governor-General gives Royal Assent for a Bill to become law.
How are laws enforced?
Courts are independent and decide penalties for lawbreakers.
Judges and magistrates ensure fair trials; juries may decide guilt in some cases.
Police maintain peace, enforce laws, and handle criminal offences.
Criminal offences in Australia
Violence, theft, assault, drug possession, and fraud are serious crimes.
Domestic violence is illegal and a serious offence.
Breaking traffic laws can result in fines or imprisonment.