This fact sheet introduces the idea of democracy and explores the key principles of Australia’s democratic system of government. These include individual freedoms, justice, tolerance of opposing ideas and representative government. Show Democracy means rule by the people. The word comes from the ancient Greek words ‘demos’ (the people) and ‘kratos’ (to rule). A democratic country has a system of government in which the people have the power to participate in decision-making. Each democracy is unique and works in different ways. In some democracies citizens help make decisions directly by voting on laws and policy proposals (direct democracy). In others, like Australia, citizens choose representatives to make decisions on their behalf (representative democracy). Democratic societyA democracy relies on the participation of citizens. They participate not just by voting, but by getting involved in their community. This might be by joining a charity, a political party or an environmental or community group. A democratic society is one that works towards the ideals of democracy:
Australian democracyAustralia’s democracy is supported by 4 key ideas: Democracy key ideas. Parliamentary Education Office (peo.gov.au) Parliamentary Education Office (peo.gov.au) This diagram illustrates the 4 key ideas of Australian democracy:
Key principles
What are the benefits of democracy?
Parliamentary Education Office (peo.gov.au)
This diagram illustrates the 4 key ideas of Australian democracy:
Parliamentary Education Office
Parliamentary Education Office
Parliamentary Education Office
Parliamentary Education Office
Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House Top Australia is a representative democracy. In this political system, eligible people vote for candidates to carry out the business of governing on their behalf. Australia’s system of government—its institutions and practices—reflect British and North American traditions combined in a way that is uniquely Australian. For further reading, see Australia’s System of Government fact sheet. The Australian democracy has at its heart, the following core defining values:
PrinciplesAustralian democracy has at its heart, the following core defining principles:
FeaturesAustralian democracy has at its heart, the following core defining features: The Australian Constitution
The Australian Federation
Australian parliamentsThere is a total of 9 parliaments across Australia. One federal (or national) parliament, located in Canberra and six state parliaments and two territory legislative assemblies, located in the capital cities of each state or territory. Representatives at each level are selected through regular and frequent popular elections. Most Australian parliaments are bicameral. Composition of the Federal parliamentThe federal House of Representatives has single-member representation—a system designed to elect major parties and support efficient government; while the Senate has multi-member representation. This system elects 12 senators to each state and two to each self-governing territory. It is designed to protect the interests of the states. Members and senators divide their time between electorate duties and parliamentary duties.
The Judicature
FactsAustralian democracy has at its heart, the following key defining facts:
Further reading |