The Australian Constitution states that the 'legislative power' of the Commonwealth is vested in the Federal Parliament. To ensure that new laws are properly considered for the whole nation, how does the Constitution require the different parts of the Parliament to work together?
- A proposed law must be passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate, and then receive Royal Assent from the Governor-General.Answer
- BThe Prime Minister and the Cabinet must draft and sign the law, which then automatically becomes effective for all Australian states.
- CThe High Court must create the proposed law and then send it to the Senate for a final vote to ensure it is fair for everyone.
Answer
A proposed law (Bill) must be passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate, and then be approved by the Governor-General (Royal Assent).
The correct answer accurately reflects the constitutional process where the 'legislative power' is exercised by the House of Representatives, the Senate, and the Governor-General (representing the King) working in sequence to pass and approve a Bill.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
The exercise of legislative power involves the cooperation of both houses of Parliament and the Head of State's representative.
Hints
1
Remember that legislative power is the power to make laws, and it involves more than just the Prime Minister.
2
Think about the three parts of the Federal Parliament: the King (represented by the Governor-General), the Senate, and the House of Representatives.
3
A new law is called a 'Bill' until it passes both houses of Parliament and receives final approval from the Governor-General.
Practice More
Review the 'Separation of Powers' to see how legislative power differs from executive and judicial powers.
Estimated Time:1m 15s