The main difference between the three levels of government is that, although some responsibilities may overlap, generally each level of government provides different services.
What role do political parties play in the way Australia is governed?
A political party is a group of people who share similar ideas about how a country should be governed. They work together to have the party’s ideas turned into laws. The main political parties in Australia are the Liberal Party of Australia, the Australian Labor Party, the Nationals and the Australian Greens.
Most parliamentarians belong to political parties. Some do not belong to any political party, and they are called ‘independents’.
In Australia, people are free to join a political party if they choose.
How is the Australian Government formed?
After a federal election, the Australian Government is generally formed by the party or coalition of parties with the majority of members in the Houses of Representatives. The leader of this party becomes the leader of the Australian Government: the Prime Minister.
After a federal election, the party or coalition of parties with the second largest number of members in the House of Representatives forms the Opposition. Its leader is called the Leader of the Opposition.
The Prime Minister recommends members of the House of Representatives or Senators to become ministers in the Australian Government. The Governor-General approves the appointment of the Prime Minister and ministers.
Government ministers are responsible for an area of government (called a portfolio), such as employment, Indigenous Affairs or the Treasury. Ministers with the most important portfolios make up the Cabinet, which is the key decision making body of government.
