Humanities Law revision

Composition of Parliament

Consists of two houses - the House of Representatives and the Senate, and the Monarch

Function of Parliament

Makes and passes laws. It represents the people, debates policies, and scrutinizes the Government's actions

Members of Parliament

Includes all elected representatives (Members of Parliament or MPs) from both houses.

Composition of Government

Formed by the political party (or coalition) that has the majority in the House of Representatives.

Function of Government

Executes and enforces laws. It is responsible for running the country and implementing policies.

Members of Government

Includes the Prime Minister and other ministers who are appointed from the elected MPs.

Members of Lower House/H.O.R

151 members, each representing an electoral division.

Role of Lower House/H.O.R

Initiates and passes legislation, represents the people, and forms the Government.

Elections of Lower House/H.O.R

Members are elected every three years using a preferential voting system.

Members of Upper House/Senate

76 senators, with 12 from each state and 2 from each territory.

Role of Upper House/Senate

Reviews and amends legislation proposed by the House of Representatives, represents the states and territories, and acts as a check on the Government.

Elections of Upper House/Senate

Senators are elected every six years using a proportional representation voting system, with half the Senate elected every three years.

Representative Democracy

Citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. Federal elections are held approximately every three years.

Constitutional Monarchy

Australia recognizes a monarch as the head of state, currently King Charles III, but the monarch's powers are limited by the constitution. The Governor-General acts on behalf of the King in Australia.

Federation of States

Australia is a federation, meaning it consists of multiple states that have joined together to form a single country. Each state has its own government, but there is also a federal government that handles national matters.

Separation of Powers

The Australian Constitution divides the power to make and manage laws among three branches: the Parliament (legislative), the Executive, and the Judiciary. This ensures a system of checks and balances.

Active and Engaged Citizens

Citizens are encouraged to participate in the democratic process through voting, joining community groups, and engaging with their representatives.

Inclusive and Equitable Society

Australian democracy promotes freedom of speech, association, movement, and belief. It aims to create a society where everyone is respected and supported to reach their full potential.

Compulsory voting

it requires eligible citizens to participate in elections.

Rule of Law

Everyone, including lawmakers, is subject to the law. Laws are designed to be fair, clear, and protect the rights of individuals.

Statutory Law

Refers to laws that are written and enacted by a legislative body, such as a parliament or congress.

Common Law

Also known as case law or judge-made law, is a legal system primarily based on judicial decisions and precedents rather than written statutes.

Independent Judiciary

Crucial for maintaining the rule of law and ensuring that justice is administered impartially. It means that judges and courts can perform their duties free from influence or control by other branches of government or private interests

Australian Labour Party (ALP)

A center-left party that focuses on social justice, workers' rights, and progressive policies.

Liberal Party of Australia

A center-right party that advocates for free-market policies, individual liberties, and conservative social values.

National Party of Australia

Traditionally representing rural and regional interests, it often forms a coalition with the Liberal Party.

Australian Greens

A progressive party that emphasizes environmental sustainability, social justice, and grassroots democracy.

One Nation

A right-wing populist party known for its nationalist and anti-immigration policies.

Representation

Political parties aim to get their members elected to the Australian Parliament so they can represent the views and interests of their constituents.

Policy Department

Parties develop policies that reflect their values and goals. These policies are presented to the public during election campaigns.

Government Formation

The party (or coalition of parties) that wins the majority of seats in the House of Representatives forms the government. The leader of this party becomes the Prime Minister.

Opposition

The party with the second-largest number of seats forms the opposition. The opposition scrutinizes the government's actions and proposes alternative policies.

Legislation

Political parties play a significant role in the legislative process. Members of the same party generally work as a team and vote together on bills and issues.

Public Engagement

Parties engage with the public to gather support, raise awareness about issues, and encourage political participation.

Organizational Support

Parties provide organizational support to their members, including resources for election campaigns and policy research.

Print Media

This includes newspapers, magazines, and journals. ___ media has been a traditional source of political news and analysis, providing in-depth coverage and editorial opinions.

Broadcast Media

This category covers television and radio. ________ media reaches a wide audience and includes news programs, talk shows, and political debates.

Digital Media

With the rise of the internet, ______ media has become a significant source of political information. This includes online news websites, blogs, and social media platforms.

Social Media

Platforms like X (Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram allow for real-time updates and direct interaction between politicians and the public. ______ media is also a space for political campaigns and grassroots movements.

Alternative Media

These are non-mainstream media outlets that often provide alternative perspectives on political issues. They can include independent websites, podcasts, and community radio stations.

Public Broadcasting

Funded by the government or public donations, __________ like the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) provide unbiased and comprehensive political coverage.

Right Wing Bias

Ideas and policies that support businesses, lower taxes, and less government involvement in people's lives. Political parties like the Liberal Party and the National Party are often considered _____-wing.

Left Wing Bias

Ideas and policies that support social equality, government help for people who need it, and protecting the environment. Political parties like the Labor Party and the Greens are often considered ____-wing.

Bias

when someone has a preference or prejudice for or against something or someone, often in a way that is unfair. In politics, it is prejudice towards certain political parties.

Compulsory voting in Australia

All eligible citizens must vote in federal, state, and local elections.

Preferential Voting

Voters rank candidates in order of preference. This system is used for the House of Representatives.

Proportional Representation

Used for Senate elections, this system ensures that seats are allocated in proportion to the votes received.

Secret Ballot

Voting is conducted in private to ensure voter confidentiality.

Independent Electoral Commission

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) administers elections impartially (equally).