Australian and Indonesian Political Systems and the Separation of Powers

This set of vocabulary flashcards compares the Australian and Indonesian political systems, explains the separation of powers in Australia, and identifies methods of sustaining democracy and international cooperation.

Constitutional Monarchy

Australia's system of government where executive power is theoretically exercised by the Governor-General on behalf of the King.

Governor-General

The official who serves a 5-year term in Australia and exercises executive power on behalf of the King.

Head of Government (Australia)

The Prime Minister, who alongside the Cabinet, exercises executive power in practice due to convention.

Head of State (Australia)

The King.

Compulsory Voting

An electoral requirement practiced in Australia but not in Indonesia.

Republic (Indonesia)

A system where the President is elected directly by the people for a five-year fixed term, with a two-term maximum.

Head of State and Government (Indonesia)

The President, who holds executive power and a central role in the law-making process according to the Indonesian Constitution.

Double Majority

The requirement for a referendum vote by the people to pass an amendment to the Australian Constitution after it is passed by parliament.

1901

The year of federation in Australia; since then, the Constitution has only been amended 8 times.

People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR)

The Indonesian body responsible for constitutional amendments; it requires one-third of members to propose an amendment and an absolute majority to agree.

Separation of Powers

A system that divides law-making powers between three branches to ensure no single body holds absolute power and to minimize corruption.

Legislative Arm

The branch consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate which has the power to make and change legislation.

Executive Arm

The branch consisting of the Prime Minister and Cabinet ministers who have the power to administer laws and put them into action.

Judicial Arm

The branch consisting of the High Court which has the power to make determinations on the law.

Separation of Powers Overlap

The practical reality in Australia where the Prime Minister belongs to the Cabinet (Executive) but also sits in the House of Representatives (Legislative).

Public Debate and Media

Strategies used to persuade electoral choices and sustain democracy.

International Participation Types

Activities including exchange programs, peacekeeping, election monitoring, health programs, and disaster management.