1. Australia’s Government

2. Types of Governments
Unitary- the central government holds the most power
Confederation-the local governments hold the most power and give some authority to the central government
Federal-the central and local governments share power

3. Confederate Governments
Example: Commonwealth of Nations- Australia is a member
The Commonwealth has no power to force any member to take action that it does not want to take.
Instead the Commonwealth works to promote trade and solutions to common problems among the members.

4. Federal Government Example – Australia
6 states and 2 territories that make up the Commonwealth of Australia
Each level of government has certain powers and duties

5. Federal Government
The Constitution of Australia is law of the land. It spells out rights, privileges, and duties given to each state and level of government.
The federal government is responsible for things such as education and state police.

6. Government Australia has a Parliamentary Democracy
Members of Parliament (MPs) are elected by the citizens of the country

7. Queen Elizabeth II - head of state for Australia
Monarch
Queen Elizabeth II - head of state for Australia

8. Prime Minister
Prime minister - head of the government (Chief Executive) and is chosen by the majority party in Parliament

9. Governor-general
The Queen chooses the Governor-general to perform duties as head of state and to represent Australia.
The PM recommends a governor-general to the Queen.

10. Citizen Rights and Responsibilities
Citizens have the following freedoms
Speech
press
Religion
to choose a job
travel
VOTE
People who are over 18 years of age must vote in an election every 4 years.
Failure to vote can result in a fine and a court hearing.