The Prime Minister
The Prime Minister is the head of the Australian government. The Prime Minister is usually the leader of the political party that has the majority of seats in the House of Representatives.
The Prime Minister leads the government, sets national priorities, and represents Australia internationally.
Ministers and the Cabinet
Ministers are members of parliament chosen by the Prime Minister. Each minister is responsible for a government department, such as health, education, defence or immigration.
Senior ministers form the Cabinet, which is the main decision-making body of the government. Cabinet discusses policies and makes major national decisions.
The Australian Parliament
Parliament makes and changes laws. It consists of two houses: the House of Representatives and the Senate.
House of Representatives
Members of the House of Representatives represent Australian electorates. The party or coalition with the majority forms government.
The Senate
The Senate represents the states and territories. It reviews and debates laws proposed by the House of Representatives and can reject or amend them.
Passing a law
A proposed law, called a bill, must be debated and approved by both houses of parliament. Once passed, it is formally approved and becomes law.
Accountability and checks
Parliament holds the government accountable. Ministers must answer questions, explain decisions and justify government actions.
What you must know for the test
- the role of the Prime Minister
- what ministers and the Cabinet do
- the structure of parliament
- the difference between the House of Representatives and the Senate
- how laws are made