Australian Legal System, International Law, and Civics

Flashcards based on lecture notes about the Australian Legal System, International law, and Civics.

Rule of Law

A political ideal that all people and institutions are accountable to the same laws, ensuring no one is above the law.

Democracy

Rule by the people, where citizens have the power to participate in decision-making, often through voting.

Compulsory Voting

A system where all eligible citizens are legally required to vote in elections, with potential fines for non-compliance without a valid reason.

Civil Law (China)

A legal system based on written laws and codes, with courts under the control of the Communist Party and limited judicial independence.

Common Law (India)

A legal system influenced by British law, featuring an independent judiciary with the Supreme Court as the highest authority.

Mixed Legal System (Indonesia)

A mixed legal system combining civil law, Islamic law, and customary law, with Sharia applied in some provinces.

Legislative Branch

The branch of government that makes the laws (e.g., Parliament or Congress).

Executive Branch

The branch of government that enforces the laws (e.g., Prime Minister, President, Government).

Judicial Branch

The branch of government that interprets the laws (e.g., courts and Judges).

Representative Democracy

Australians vote for members of parliament to make laws on their behalf.

Constitutional Monarchy

The king is Australia’s head of state but does not have absolute power.

Federation of States

The Commonwealth of Australia is a federation of six states and two self-governing territories.

Responsibility of the Magistrate

They hear evidence and determine guilt in criminal cases, impose penalties within statutory limits, evaluate arguments in civil matters, and are responsible for issuing court orders.

Responsibility of the Supreme Court

Ensuring government policies and actions comply with the law and that citizens' legal rights are protected.

Responsibility of the District Court

They provide services and facilities fairly, sustainably, and advocating for the welfare of the community.

High Court of Australia

The highest court and final court of appeal in Australia, interprets and applies Australian law.

High Court of the Mabo Decision

Established native title in Australian common law, acknowledging the traditional rights of Indigenous people to their land.

Australian Constitution

A set of rules by which Australia is run, describing the structure, role, and powers of the Australian Parliament.

Foreign Aid

The international transfer of capital, goods, or services for the benefit of a recipient country or its population.

Global Citizenship

The idea that one’s identity transcends geographical borders, with responsibilities derived from membership in a broader global class of humanity.

International Peacekeeping

Deployment of forces to help control and resolve armed conflicts, protect civilians, and strengthen security.

Australia's involvement with the UN

A member of the united nations working with countries to keep peace, security, human rights, and development.

Australia's international legal obligations

Obligations to follow international laws and agreements.