Source Analysis: The Role of the Constitution in Australia

What is the primary role of the Australian Constitution?

• To provide a list of laws for citizens to follow.

• To outline the principles and structures of the government.

• To create new laws each year.

• To decide on government spending.

The Commonwealth refers to:

• The federal government of Australia.

• The national army.

• The states and territories of Australia.

• The political parties in Australia.

Which of the following best defines the division of powers in Australia?

• The federal government controls everything.

• The state governments have no role in decision-making.

• Responsibilities are shared between the federal government and the state governments.

• The states control foreign affairs and defense.

What does the principle of separation of powers aim to achieve?

• To ensure the federal government controls all matters of law.

• To prevent one branch of government from becoming too powerful.

• To centralize power in one branch of government.

• To allow the judiciary to create laws.

The Legislature in Australia is responsible for:

• Interpreting laws.

• Making laws.

• Enforcing laws.

• Voting on constitutional changes.

What is the main role of the Judiciary in the Australian government?

• To make new laws.

• To interpret the laws passed by Parliament.

Which of the following is a function of the Executive branch in Australia?

• To make laws.

• To interpret laws.

• To enforce laws.

• To oversee elections.

What is required for a referendum to pass in Australia?

• A majority vote from the Prime Minister.

• A majority vote from both the people and the states.

• Approval from the Governor-General.

• The agreement of Parliament.

What is one key purpose of the separation of powers in Australia?

• To create a strong central government.

• To ensure fairness by keeping government branches independent of each other.

• To allow one branch of government to control the others.

• To encourage political parties to work together.

The Prime Minister and Cabinet make up which branch of government in Australia?

• The Legislature.

• The Executive.

• The Judiciary.

• The Parliament.