Australian Citizenship Quiz
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Australia's democratic beliefs, rights and liberties

Australian Democracy

Short answer

Australia is a parliamentary democracy: people elect representatives, government power comes from the people, and laws and governments change through lawful and peaceful processes.

Last reviewed 2026-06-19

Power comes from the people

In a parliamentary democracy, eligible people vote for representatives. The government does not receive unlimited power; it works through elected institutions and the law.

Peaceful change is a democratic value

Australians can disagree with governments and campaign for change. Laws are normally changed through Parliament and democratic processes, not through violence or intimidation.

After a federal election

The party or coalition that can command a majority in the House of Representatives generally forms the Australian Government. This is why elections, representation and Parliament are closely linked.

Key facts

  • Australia is a parliamentary democracy.
  • Government power ultimately comes from the people.
  • Laws normally change through peaceful democratic processes.
  • A party or coalition generally forms government after winning sufficient House support.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing Parliament with the government of the day.
  • Assuming criticism of government is undemocratic.
  • Thinking elections alone remove all legal limits on government power.

Important vocabulary

representative
A person elected to speak and act in Parliament for voters.
Example: Voters elect representatives at an election.
coalition
Political parties working together to form government.
Example: A coalition may form the Australian Government.
majority
More than half of the relevant votes or seats.
Example: A government generally needs majority support in the House.

Practice questions

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Practice by topic
Question 1
In Australia’s parliamentary democracy, where does government power ultimately come from?
Question 2
How should changes to laws normally occur in Australia?
Question 3
Which party or coalition generally forms the Australian Government after a federal election?
Voting in Australia Eligible Australian citizens must enrol before voting and are generally required to vote in federal, state and territory elections. Federal elections and referendums are conducted by the Australian Electoral Commission using a secret ballot. Australian Parliament The Australian Parliament has two Houses: the House of Representatives and the Senate. The House represents electorates, while the Senate is the House of Review and represents states equally. The Rule of Law in Australia The rule of law means that everyone in Australia must follow the law. No person, group or government is above the law, and laws should be applied fairly.

Official sources