Federation: A group of states with a central government they deal with their own internal affairs
Constitution: A set of rules created to enforce the powers of a government and the rights of its citizens
Referendum: A vote set out to change the constitution.
Australia became a federation on January 1st, 1901
Before federation: there were six colonies: Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania.
Australia has a federal system of government, which means it is divided into two levels of authority: the national (federal) government and the state governments. Each level of government has its own responsibilities and powers.
The federal government deals with issues that affect the whole country, like defense, immigration, and trade with other nations. It is based in Canberra, the capital city.
State governments handle matters that are more local, such as education, healthcare, and transport within their respective states like Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, etc.
The federal system helps in sharing the power and responsibilities between the national and state governments, allowing for better governance and representation of the diverse needs of the Australian people.
The Australian Constitution sets up three branches of government: the Parliament, the Executive, and the Judiciary. This is known as the separation of powers.
Rights in the Constitution: Right to vote
Rights in the Constitution: Protection against acquisition of property on unjust terms
Rights in the Constitution: The right to a trial by jury
Rights in the constitution: Freedom of religion
Rights in the Constitution: Prohibition of discrimination on the basis of State of residency.
Legislature
The legislative branch of government, responsible for making laws
Separation of powers
A system where the powers of government are divided among three branches: Parliament, the Executive, and the Judiciary
Parliament
The whole institution that comprises the Legislature, the Executive, and the Judiciary in Australia