Australian Government and Democracy: Year 6 Study Guide
Australia is a democracy where citizens choose their leaders and have rights and responsibilities.
Australia has three levels of government. Local government (councils) looks after local roads, parks, rubbish and libraries. State and territory governments run schools, hospitals, police and public transport. The federal (Commonwealth) government in Canberra handles defence, immigration, trade, taxes and national programs.
Australia is a federation and a constitutional monarchy, where the Constitution sets out how power is shared. Federal Parliament has two houses, the House of Representatives and the Senate. The Prime Minister leads the government.
Levels of government
| Level | Looks after | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Local | community services | parks, bins, local roads |
| State and territory | health, education, police | public schools, hospitals |
| Federal | national matters | defence, Medicare, immigration |
How a law is made
A proposed law is called a bill. It is introduced in one house, debated and voted on, then goes to the other house. If both houses pass it, the Governor-General gives royal assent and it becomes an Act. Committees check bills in detail, and citizens can write to their MP or sign petitions.
In the House or Senate.
Members discuss changes.
Passes or amends.
It becomes law.
Voting and citizenship
Australian citizens aged 18 and over must enrol and vote in federal elections. Voting is compulsory, using a secret ballot. Elections use preferential voting in the House of Representatives. Citizens have rights (freedom of speech, equality before the law) and responsibilities (obeying laws, voting, jury duty). Young people can take part by joining student councils, writing to MPs and learning about issues.
Worked example and common mistakes
Example: A pothole on your street is a council matter; a new public school building is a state matter; a national pension change is federal. Common mistakes: mixing up the levels of government, thinking the Prime Minister is elected directly and forgetting that the Senate also reviews laws. Match each issue to the level responsible.
Check your understanding: model answers
1. State and territory governments. 2. A proposed law. 3. For example, voting or obeying the law.
✨ Key Takeaways
- Three levels: local, state and federal.
- A bill becomes law after both houses agree.
- Voting is compulsory for adults.
- Citizens have rights and responsibilities.
💬 Questions for Discussion & Reflection
- Which level of government runs public schools?
- What is a bill?
- Name one responsibility of a citizen.
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