Australia's Federal Government System Explained
Understanding Our Democracy Year 6 Civics and Citizenship The Westminster System in Australia
What is the Westminster System?
Based on the British parliamentary system Named after the Palace of Westminster in London Features a constitutional monarchy Has two houses of parliament Used by many countries including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand
Australia's Constitutional Monarchy
Australia is a constitutional monarchy King Charles III is our Head of State The King doesn't live in Australia He is represented by the Governor-General The King has limited powers under our Constitution
The Governor-General: The King's Representative
Represents King Charles III in Australia Appointed by the King on advice of the Prime Minister Lives at Government House in Canberra Opens Parliament and gives royal assent to laws Current Governor-General is David Hurley
Think About It
Why do you think Australia kept the King as Head of State when we became independent? What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a monarch who lives in another country?
Federal Parliament: Two Houses
Australia has a bicameral parliament This means we have two houses The House of Representatives (Lower House) The Senate (Upper House) Both houses must agree for a law to be passed
How Parliament Works
The House of Representatives
Also called the 'Lower House' Has 151 members called MPs (Members of Parliament) Members represent local areas called electorates Elections held every 3 years The political party with the most seats forms government
The Senate
Also called the 'Upper House' Has 76 senators Each state elects 12 senators Each territory elects 2 senators Senators serve 6-year terms Often called the 'house of review'
House of Representatives vs Senate
{"left":"151 members\nRepresents local electorates\n3-year terms\nForms government\nGreen chamber","right":"76 members\nRepresents states and territories\n6-year terms\nReviews legislation\nRed chamber"}
Class Parliament Activity
Form two groups: House of Reps and Senate Choose a simple issue to debate (e.g., school uniform policy) House of Reps group creates a 'bill' Senate group reviews and suggests changes Both groups must agree on final version
Key Takeaways
Australia uses the Westminster system inherited from Britain King Charles III is our Head of State, represented by the Governor-General Federal Parliament has two houses that work together The House of Representatives represents local areas The Senate represents states and provides review Both houses must agree for laws to pass