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Difficulty: MediumVoting in Referendums

In Australia, a referendum is a vote to decide whether to change the Australian Constitution. Which of the following statements correctly describes the responsibility of an Australian citizen regarding a referendum?

  1. It is compulsory for all Australian citizens aged 18 years or over to vote in a referendum.Answer
  2. B
    Voting in a referendum is optional for citizens, as it specifically concerns changes to the Constitution.
  3. C
    Both Australian citizens and permanent residents are legally required to vote in a referendum.

Answer

It is compulsory for all Australian citizens aged 18 years or over to vote in a referendum.
The correct answer reflects the legal requirement in Australia where all citizens aged 18 and over are mandated to participate in the democratic process by voting in both federal elections and referendums.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the nature of a referendum in the Australian context.
A referendum is a formal vote to propose a change to the Australian Constitution.
Understanding the definition helps categorize it as a national electoral event.
2
Determine the legal requirement for participating in national votes.
Voting in Australia for citizens aged 18 and over is compulsory.
Australian law mandates participation in federal elections and referendums as a civic responsibility.
3
Distinguish between the rights of citizens and permanent residents.
Only Australian citizens have the right and responsibility to vote.
Voting is a core privilege and duty of citizenship that does not extend to non-citizens, including permanent residents.

Key Concept

Compulsory Voting in Referendums

Hints

1
Think about whether voting in Australia is a choice or a requirement for citizens.
2
Referendums follow the same rules as federal elections regarding who must participate.
3
Only citizens aged 18 and over are listed on the electoral roll, making them the only group required to vote.

Practice More

Review the requirements for a referendum to be successful (the double majority rule) to understand how these votes change the Constitution.
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Voting in Referendums

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