civics and citizenship Flashcards
(27 cards)
What is Direct Democracy?
Citizens vote on laws and policies directly.
Example: Referendums (e.g. 1967 Indigenous Referendum)
What is Representative Democracy?
Citizens elect representatives to make decisions and pass laws on their behalf.
Example: Australian Federal Parliament
What are the key features of a democracy?
- Free and fair elections
- Universal suffrage
- Rule of law
- Separation of powers
- Protection of rights and freedoms
- Majority rule with respect for minority rights
- Accountable and transparent government
When did the Australian Constitution come into effect?
1st January 1901
It unified six colonies into the Commonwealth of Australia.
What is required to change the Australian Constitution?
Referendum (double majority required).
What influence did Britain have on Australia’s Constitution?
Westminster system (Parliament, constitutional monarchy).
What influence did the USA have on Australia’s Constitution?
Written constitution, separation of powers, federalism.
What are the three branches of government in the separation of powers?
- Legislature
- Executive
- Judiciary
What is the role of the Legislature?
Makes laws (Parliament: House of Representatives & Senate).
Example: Passing new bills.
What is the role of the Executive?
Enforces laws (Prime Minister, Cabinet, Governor-General).
Example: Administering government departments.
What is the role of the Judiciary?
Interprets laws (High Court and other courts).
Example: Ruling on constitutional cases.
What are Exclusive Powers?
Powers only the federal government can use.
Example: Defence, immigration.
What are Concurrent Powers?
Powers shared by federal and state governments.
Example: Taxation, marriage laws.
What are Residual Powers?
Powers left to the states.
Example: Education, health, transport.
What was the proposal of the 2023 referendum regarding Voice to Parliament?
Constitutionally enshrine an Indigenous Voice to advise Parliament.
What was the result of the 2023 Voice to Parliament referendum?
Rejected by majority of Australians and states.
What is the High Court’s role?
Interprets the Constitution and can invalidate laws inconsistent with the Constitution.
What is the definition of an Autocratic Government?
Power held by one leader or party; no free elections.
What are some features of an Autocratic Government?
- Censorship of media
- Suppression of political opposition
- Controlled judiciary and legislature
- Restricted personal freedoms
Who is the head of state in China?
President (currently Xi Jinping).
What is the structure of the Chinese Government?
One-party state (CCP controls all levels of government).
How does the election process differ between Australia and China?
- Australia: Free, fair, multi-party elections.
- China: One-party elections, no real choice.
What is the status of Freedom of Speech in Australia compared to China?
- Australia: Protected.
- China: Limited, censored media.
What is the Rule of Law in Australia compared to China?
- Australia: Independent judiciary.
- China: Judiciary influenced by the CCP.
