Australia's Three Levels of Government

Understanding how democracy works in Australia Federal, State and Local Government Year 6 Civics and Citizenship

What is Government?

A group of people who make decisions for a country They create laws and rules to keep us safe They provide services like schools, hospitals, and roads In Australia, we choose our government by voting

Think About This...

Who decides if a new park should be built in your neighbourhood? Who makes the laws about wearing seatbelts in cars? Who runs your local library?

Federal Government - The National Level

Led by the Prime Minister Makes laws for the whole country Responsible for defence, immigration, and money Parliament House is in Canberra

State Government - The State Level

Each state has its own government Led by a Premier Responsible for schools, hospitals, and police Makes laws that apply within each state

Local Government - The Community Level

Also called councils or shires Led by a Mayor Responsible for parks, libraries, and rubbish collection Makes decisions about local community needs

Comparing the Three Levels

{"left":"Federal Government: Whole country, Prime Minister, Defence and immigration\nState Government: One state, Premier, Schools and hospitals","right":"Local Government: Local area, Mayor, Parks and libraries"}

Government Services Match-Up

Match each service to the correct level of government: Building new roads between states Running your local swimming pool Providing funding for your school Collecting household rubbish

How the Three Levels Work Together

Democracy in Action

"In a democracy, the people are the most important. Government exists to serve the people, and the people choose their government through voting."