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Question

Difficulty: MediumThe Concept of Separation of Powers

In Australia, the Constitution ensures that no single group has absolute control by separating the power to govern into three independent branches. Which of the following correctly identifies these three branches?

  1. The Parliament, the Executive, and the JudiciaryAnswer
  2. B
    The Federal government, the State governments, and Local councils
  3. C
    The Prime Minister, the Cabinet, and the Opposition

Answer

The three branches are the Parliament, the Executive, and the Judiciary.
The correct answer identifies the three branches established by the Australian Constitution: the Parliament (which makes the laws), the Executive (which puts the laws into action), and the Judiciary (which interprets and applies the laws). This system ensures a balance of power.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the constitutional requirement for power distribution.
The Australian Constitution mandates that the power to govern is not held by a single body.
This prevents any one person or group from having total control over the country.
2
Differentiate between 'separation' and 'division' of powers.
Separation of powers refers to the functional branches (Legislative, Executive, Judicial), while division of powers refers to levels (Federal, State, Local).
Many students confuse these two terms; the question specifically asks for the branches.
3
List the specific branches responsible for making, executing, and interpreting the law.
Parliament (Legislative), Executive, and Judiciary.
These are the three specific categories established by the Constitution.

Key Concept

The Separation of Powers

Hints

1
Think about the three main functions of government: making laws, carrying them out, and interpreting them in court.
2
The system is called the 'separation of powers' because it separates these functions into different groups.

Practice More

Review the specific roles of the Parliament, Executive, and Judiciary to understand how they check and balance each other.
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

The Concept of Separation of Powers

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