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JSK Year 6 - Making Democracy: House of Parliament

What is the House of Representatives?

What is the House of Representatives?

The House is made up of 151 members. Each member represents one of Australia's 151 electorates. There is approximately the same number of voters in each electorate.

The Australian Government is formed in the House by the party, or coalition of parties, with the support of the majority of members in the House.

In the House:

  • members represent the views of Australians and discuss matters of national and international importance
  • national laws are made and changed by debating and voting on bills – proposed laws. A bill must be agreed to in identical form in the House and the Senate, and given Royal Assent by the Governor-General. It then becomes a law
  • the work of the government is scrutinised – closely examined – especially in Question Time and through committees.

(information from PEO)

 

 

What's it like being a new Member of Parliament (MP)?

What is the Senate?

What is the Senate?

The Senate is made up of 76 senators. Twelve senators represent each state and 2 senators represent each territory.

In the Senate:

  • senators represent the views of Australians and discuss matters of national and international importance
  • national laws are made and changed, by debating and voting on bills – proposed laws. A bill must be agreed to in identical form in the House of Representatives and the Senate, and given Royal Assent by the Governor-General. It then becomes a law
  • the work of the government is scrutinised – closely examined – especially in Question Time and through committees.

(information from PEO)

 

Parliament House

Get to know Parliament House

Parliament House is located on Capital Hill in Canberra.

Members of parliament meet here to represent the Australian people and make decisions for the nation.

Parliament House is a unique building which has become an enduring symbol of Australia's democracy.

(information from PEO)