Politics and Law Revision Exam

Separation of Powers

The division of government into Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches

Legislative Power

The branch of government responsible for making laws through Parliament

Executive Power

The branch responsible for administering and enforcing laws through the Prime Minister, Cabinet, and public service

Judicial Power

The branch responsible for interpreting laws and resolving legal disputes through the courts

Division of Powers

The allocation of powers between Federal and State governments as exclusive, concurrent, or residual

Exclusive Powers

Powers held only by the Federal Government, such as defence and immigration

Concurrent Powers

Powers shared between Federal and State Governments, such as health and education

Residual Powers

Powers held only by State Governments, such as transport and local government matters

Rule of Law

The principle that all people and governments are subject to and equal before the law

Independent Judiciary

A safeguard ensuring courts operate free from political pressure and can invalidate unconstitutional laws

Democratic Participation

Ways citizens engage in democracy including voting, protesting, joining parties, and contacting representatives

Right to Dissent

The democratic freedom to disagree with government decisions and express opposition peacefully

Populism

A political approach using "us versus them" rhetoric and claiming to represent ordinary people against elites

Terrorism

The use of violence or fear to achieve political objectives

Digitisation of Media

The growth of online information that increases risks of misinformation, disinformation, and echo chambers

Vested Interests

Groups that seek to influence government decisions for private benefit through lobbying or donations

Foreign Influence

Attempts by foreign governments or actors to influence political processes, public opinion, or national security