Humanities short answer rev Flashcards
(21 cards)
What is the ‘Division of Powers’ in Australia’s government?
The Division of Powers refers to the separation of law-making responsibilities between the federal, state, and local governments.
What is the role of political parties in Australia’s system of government?
Political parties represent different ideologies and policies, nominate candidates for elections, and aim to form government to implement their policies.
What is the role of independents in Australia’s government?
Independents are politicians who do not belong to a political party. They can introduce legislation, vote on issues independently, and may hold the balance of power in a hung parliament.
How can a political party form government in Australia?
A political party must win a majority of seats (at least 76 out of 151) in the House of Representatives to form government.
What are the key principles of Australia’s electoral system
Australia’s electoral system is based on universal suffrage, secret ballot, compulsory voting, and a preferential voting system.
What is a Representative Government?
A system where elected officials represent the interests of the people
What is an Independent in politics?
A politician who does not belong to a political party.
What is Universal Suffrage?
The right of all eligible citizens to vote in elections.
What is a Secret Ballot?
A voting method where a voter’s choices remain confidential.
What is Compulsory Voting?
A system where all eligible citizens are legally required to vote in elections.
What is an Electorate?
A geographical area represented by a member of parliament.
What is an Opinion Poll?
A survey used to measure public opinion on political issues or candidates.
How does preferential voting work?
Voters rank candidates in order of preference. If no candidate gets an absolute majority (50% +1), the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, and their votes are redistributed until a candidate reaches a majority.
What is proportional representation?
A voting system used in the Senate where candidates must reach a quota of votes to be elected, ensuring seats are distributed in proportion to votes received.
What is the role of a scrutineer?
A person appointed by a candidate to observe vote counting and ensure fairness.
What is a quota in elections?
The number of votes a candidate needs to be elected in a proportional representation system.
What is the difference between formal and informal votes?
A formal vote is correctly completed and counted, while an informal vote is incorrectly filled out and not counted.
How are citizens’ choices shaped at election time?
Through media coverage, political advertising, debates, campaign policies, personal values, and social media influence.
What role does social media play in elections?
Social media influences voters by spreading political messages, campaign ads, misinformation, and public opinions quickly and widely.
What steps are involved in creating a political party?
Choosing a party name, developing policies, registering with the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), and gaining members.
What is the purpose of political advertising?
To persuade voters to support a party or candidate by promoting policies and discrediting opponents.
