Governor-General Flashcards

Flashcards about the Governor-General's role and powers based on lecture notes.

Governor-General

Sovereign representative and de facto Head of State, appointed on the advice of the Prime Minister.

Ceremonial Function

Opening parliament, a ceremonial role of the Governor-General.

Constitutional Role

Appointing the PM, assenting to bills, and helping the Government function.

Community Role

Representing national values.

Prerogative powers

Powers derived from the Crown, including appointing ministers and acting as commander in chief.

Statutory powers

Powers allowing them to appoint judges.

Ministerial advice

To ensure democratic legitimacy they exercise their powers on ministerial advice.

Reserve powers

Rare and independent powers, such as appointing and dismissing a prime minister if they cannot undertake their duties.

Rule of law

Ensures decisions are made and applied correctly.

Parliamentary Sovereignty

The sovereign is a part of parliament. The Governor-General thus plays a risk in the democratic creation of laws

Royal Assent

The Governor-General can refuse to sign a bill; however, due to conventions this rarely ever happens and is a symbolic process