What is the separation of powers?
The principle of the separation of powers distributes the power to govern between the Parliament, the Executive and the Judiciary.
The first 3 chapters of the Constitution define 3 mostly separate groups—the Parliament, the Executive and the Judiciary—and the roles they play in the governing of Australia.
The power to make and manage Australian law is divided between these 3 groups. This division is based on the principle of the 'separation of powers'.
Under this principle, the power to govern should be distributed between the Parliament, the Executive and the Judiciary to avoid any group having all the power.
Each group should work within defined areas of responsibility to keep a check on the actions of the others.
