Australia's Westminster System Explained
Understanding How Our Government Works Year 6 Social Sciences WALT: Explore the Westminster System of governance
What Do You Know About Government?
Think about these questions: Who makes the rules in Australia? How do people become leaders? Why do we need different types of government roles?
What is the Westminster System?
A way of running a country that Australia uses Named after Westminster Palace in London, England Shares power between different groups Keeps government fair and balanced Has been Australia's system since Federation in 1901
Key Players in Our Westminster System
{"left":"Governor-General: Represents the King/Queen\nPrime Minister: Leads the government team","right":"Parliament: Makes the laws for Australia\nOpposition: Checks the government's work"}
How Does Parliament Work?
Parliament has two houses: House of Representatives and Senate Members are elected by Australian citizens They debate and vote on new laws Government must explain their decisions to Parliament This is called 'responsible government'
Role Play: Mock Parliament Session
Groups will represent different roles Topic: Should schools have longer lunch breaks? Government group: Argues FOR the idea Opposition group: Argues AGAINST or asks questions Governor-General: Keeps order and fairness Parliament members: Listen and vote
Why the Westminster System Matters
'Democracy is not just about voting - it's about making sure power is shared fairly and leaders are accountable to the people.'
What Have We Learned?
The Westminster System shares power between different groups Australia's government has key players with different jobs Parliament makes laws and the government must explain their actions This system helps keep our democracy fair and balanced Australian citizens elect representatives to speak for them