During a federal election, millions of Australians go to polling booths to cast their votes for candidates in their local area. This action is a fundamental part of the nation's parliamentary democracy. What is the primary outcome of this voting process?
- It results in the selection of members of parliament who debate and pass laws for the entire community.Answer
- BIt gives every citizen the right to vote directly on the specific wording of every new piece of legislation.
- CIt ensures that only the wealthiest citizens are chosen to lead the country and manage the economy.
Answer
The primary outcome of the voting process is the selection of members of parliament who debate and pass laws for the entire community.
The correct answer is correct because Australia is a representative democracy. Since it is not practical for every citizen to meet and decide on every law, they elect members of parliament to represent their interests and make those decisions for the community.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Representative Governance
Hints
1
Think about why we vote for people (candidates) rather than voting for a list of laws.
2
Consider what the 'representatives' do once they are elected and go to Canberra.
3
Parliamentary democracy is a system of representation where the 'will of the people' is expressed through the people they choose to speak for them.
Practice More
Review the differences between the House of Representatives and the Senate to understand how representation works in both chambers.
Estimated Time:45s