How laws are made
Australian citizenship test study notes, summarised from page 30 of Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, the official booklet the test is based on.
- A proposal for a new or changed law is called a Bill.
- Both the House of Representatives and the Senate consider, debate and vote on it. If a majority in each House agrees, it goes to the Governor-General.
- The Governor-General signs it into law — Royal Assent.
- State and territory parliaments make laws in a similar way.
Our Common Bond, p. 30
Sample practice questions
Try these, then check your answer. They’re our practice questions, not the real test questions.
1. What is a proposal to make a new law or change an existing law called?
- A referendum
- A portfolio
- A Bill
Show answer
Answer: C. A Bill
A proposal to introduce a new law or change an existing one is called a ‘Bill’.
Our Common Bond, p. 30
2. Who has the power to make or change laws for Australia?
- The Australian Federal Police
- The Australian Parliament
- The Governor of each state
Show answer
Answer: B. The Australian Parliament
The Australian Parliament has the power to make or change laws in Australia.
Our Common Bond, p. 30
3. How do state and territory parliaments make their own laws?
- In a similar way to the Australian Parliament
- By a referendum of voters in that state or territory
- By a decision of the Premier or Chief Minister
Show answer
Answer: A. In a similar way to the Australian Parliament
State and territory parliaments make their own laws in a similar way.
Our Common Bond, p. 30
Practise all 5 questions on this topic