Flashcards: Understanding Australia's Democratic System — 24 cards

Australian democracy — key features?

Citizens vote, leaders accountable, laws apply equally.

Law-making steps — sequence?

Introduction, debate, voting, Royal Assent.

Australian Parliament — chambers?

House of Representatives and Senate.

Bicameral — function?

Two chambers review and pass laws.

Political parties — examples?

Labor, Liberal, Greens.

Prime Minister — role?

Leads government, leader of majority party.

Governor-General — function?

Approves laws via Royal Assent.

Australian Constitution — purpose?

Defines governance, powers, and structure.

Referendum — change?

Requires double majority to amend Constitution.

Global citizenship — Australia’s approach?

Multilateral cooperation, diplomacy, trade, peacekeeping.

UN — main goal?

Maintain peace, resolve conflicts, promote cooperation.

UN Security Council — role?

Maintain peace, decide on sanctions and peacekeeping.

Veto power — holders?

US, China, Russia, France, UK.

Veto — impact?

Can block UN decisions, causing deadlock.

Australia — role as middle power?

Influences via diplomacy, aid, security alliances.

Cultural diversity — in Australia?

Multicultural society, diaspora communities contribute.

Diaspora — contribution?

Culture, business, politics, social enrichment.

Cultural hybridity — meaning?

Blending of cultures creating shared traditions.

Threats to democracy — examples?

Power imbalances, social division, misinformation.

Social division — effect?

Weakens social cohesion and democratic trust.

Discrimination — impact?

Marginalizes groups, undermines inclusion.

Misinformation — danger?

Distorts public opinion, affects voting.

Media influence — dual role?

Informs or spreads bias, affecting democracy.

Australia’s global role — key?

Diplomacy, aid, peacekeeping, multilateralism.