Australian Democracy

-difference between parliament and government

The political party that has the most number of seats in parliament is the government.

GOVERNMENT:

-Federal, state and local government responsibilities.

FEDERAL:

• Taxation

• Education

• Development

• Antarctica

• Foreign affairs

• Aboriginal welfare

• Defence

• Social security

• Health

• Trade

• Communication

• Transport

• Immigration

• State government

STATE:

• Education

• Law and order

• Development

• Environment protection

• Aboriginal welfare

• Services

• Housing

• Local government

• Health

• Transport

LOCAL:

• Minor roads

• Parks

• Sporting ovals

• Rubbish collection

• Swimming pools

• Street lighting

• Baby health centres

AUSTRALIAN DEMOCRACY:

-Voting system used in Australia

We use a preferential voting system. There are a number of parties on a piece of paper and the voters label them, 1 being first preference, 2 being second, and so on.

-Arguments for and against compulsory voting

FOR:

▪ Right and duty

▪ Parties don’t have to concentrate on and spend money on persuading people to vote, and can concentrate on other issues.

▪ If not everyone votes then the government is not best representative of the people.

AGAINST:

▪ Infringement of civil liberties.

▪ People are forced to vote regardless of their own understanding.

▪ Increases difficulties for smaller parties or independents against established parties.

LAW:

-Difference between criminal and civil law

CRIMINAL LAW:

▪ Involves an individual committing an offence against another individual which impacts on the welfare of society.

▪ Criminal proceedings are brought by the crown (prosecution) against the accused (the defendant).

▪ The standard of proof is beyond a reasonable doubt.

▪ The burden of proof lies with the prosecution.

▪ Examples include murder and assault.

CIVIL LAW:

▪ Involves an individual bringing...