Politics and law revision

Democracy

A system of government where power belongs to the people and citizens participate in decision making.

Representative Democracy

A system where citizens elect representatives to make decisions and laws on their behalf.
it allows citizens to have a say in government through voting

Constitutional Monarchy

A system where a monarch is the Head of State, but their powers are limited by the Constitution and laws.

Head of State

The official symbolic leader of a country.
Australia:
King Charles III

australias democracy

Australia is both a representative democracy and a constituional monarchy

Head of Government

The political leader responsible for running the country and government.

australia: anthony albanese

Westminster System

Australia's parliamentary system based on the British model, where the government is formed by the party with the majority of seats in the lower house.

Separation of Powers

The division of government power into three branches to prevent any one group from becoming too powerful.

legislative

The branch of government that makes laws.

Australia:Parliament

Executive

The branch of government that administers and enforces laws.
Australia: Prime Minister, ministers, and government departments.

Judicial

The branch of government that interprets laws and settles legal disputes.
Australia: Courts and Judges

Constitution

The set of fundamental rules that establishes how Australia is governed and divides powers between governments.

Federalism

A system where power is shared between the federal government and state governments.

Division of Powers

The allocation of responsibilities between federal and state governments under the Constitution.

Bicameral Parliament

A parliament with two houses.
Australia: House of reps (150 members)
Senate (76 members)

Free and Fair Elections

Elections where citizens can vote freely without intimidation, corruption, or unfair influence.

Right to Dissent

The right of citizens to peacefully disagree with government decisions and express different opinions.

Rule of Law

The principle that everyone, including government officials, must obey the law.

High Court

Australia's highest court, responsible for interpreting the Constitution and resolving major legal disputes.

Dispute Resolution Process

The legal process used by courts to resolve disagreements between individuals, organisations, or governments.

Safeguards

Systems, laws, and principles that protect democracy and prevent abuse of power.

Examples:

- Rule of law

• Separation of powers

• Free and fair elections

• Constitution

• Right to dissent

Threats to Democracy

refers to any action, condition, or ideology that undermines the core principles of democratic rule

Distrust

A lack of confidence in government, politicians, or institutions.
threat:Can reduce participation in democracy.

Terrorism

The use of violence and fear to achieve political or ideological goals.
Threat:Can undermine security and democratic freedoms.

Digitisation of Media

The spread of information through digital platforms and social media.
threat:Can spread misinformation and fake news.

Indifference (Apathy)

A lack of interest or concern about politics and public issues.
threat:people may stop participating in democratic processes.

Vested Interests

Groups or individuals who seek to influence government decisions for their own benefit.

threat:Can give some groups unfair influence.

Foreign Interference

Attempts by other countries to influence Australia's political decisions or democratic processes.
threat:Can undermine national sovereignty and democratic decision-making.