Parliamentary democracy
Australian citizenship test study notes, summarised from page 35 of Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, the official booklet the test is based on.
This is an Australian values topic. Every test includes 5 values questions, and you must get all 5 right to pass.
- Laws are made by parliaments elected by the people; government power comes from the people.
- Voting is compulsory, showing the importance of participating in elections.
Our Common Bond, p. 35
Sample practice questions
Try these, then check your answer. They’re our practice questions, not the real test questions.
1. In Australia, who determines our laws?
- The King, acting alone
- Parliaments elected by the people
- Government officials and public servants
Show answer
Answer: B. Parliaments elected by the people
Our laws are determined by parliaments elected by the people.
Our Common Bond, p. 35
2. Voting is compulsory in Australia. What does this show?
- That the government does not trust citizens
- That the government decides who citizens vote for
- That participating in elections is important
Show answer
Answer: C. That participating in elections is important
Voting is compulsory in Australia. This shows the importance of participating in elections.
Our Common Bond, p. 35
3. Which statement about parliamentary democracy is correct?
- Australian citizens are involved in how the country is governed
- The King decides how the country is governed through the Governor-General
- The government is chosen by judges and senior public servants
Show answer
Answer: A. Australian citizens are involved in how the country is governed
Parliamentary democracy means Australian citizens are involved in how the country is governed.
Our Common Bond, p. 35
Practise all 3 questions on this topic