For a proposed change to the Australian Constitution to be successful, it must be approved in a referendum by a "double majority." What are the two components required to reach this double majority?
- A majority of voters in a majority of states (at least four out of six) and a majority of voters across the whole of Australia.Answer
- BA simple majority of the total national vote, without any specific requirement for a majority in individual states.
- CA majority of votes from members of the Federal Parliament followed by a simple majority of the national vote.
Answer
The double majority requires a majority of voters across the whole of Australia and a majority of voters in a majority of states (at least four out of six).
The correct answer accurately describes the two-tiered requirement of Section 128 of the Australian Constitution: a national majority (total 'Yes' votes) and a federal majority (a 'Yes' vote in at least 4 of the 6 states).
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
The Double Majority Requirement
Hints
1
Think about why the word 'double' is used. It means two different types of majorities must be met at the same time.
2
One majority is calculated by looking at every single vote in Australia. The other is calculated by looking at the results in each state individually.
3
To pass, you need more than 50% of the whole country to say yes, and you also need at least 4 out of the 6 states to have a 'Yes' majority.
Practice More
Research why only 8 out of 44 referendums in Australian history have been successful, and how the double majority rule played a role.
Estimated Time:45s