The Australian House of Representatives is often called the 'People's House' because of its unique system of representation. Which of the following best explains how the use of electoral divisions ensures that this chamber represents the interests of all Australians fairly?
- By dividing Australia into areas that each contain approximately the same number of voters, ensuring each member represents a similar number of people.Answer
- BBy ensuring that every state has the same number of electoral divisions, regardless of how many people live in that state.
- CBy allowing the political party in power to create new electoral divisions in areas where the population is growing most rapidly.
Answer
The House of Representatives ensures fair representation by dividing Australia into 151 electoral divisions that each contain approximately the same number of voters.
The House of Representatives is structured to provide representation based on population. By dividing the nation into 151 electoral divisions where each contains roughly the same number of voters, the system ensures that every person's vote has approximately the same value in choosing the 'People's House.' This is why more populous states have more members than less populous ones.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Proportional Representation via Electoral Divisions
Hints
1
Think about why the House is called the 'People's House' versus why the Senate represents the states.
2
Consider the role of the 151 electoral divisions and how many voters should be in each one.
3
The system aims for 'one vote, one value,' meaning each representative should speak for a similar number of citizens.
Practice More
Research how the number of members in the House of Representatives relates to the number of Senators in the Federal Parliament.
Estimated Time:1m 30s