State, territory and local government
Australian citizenship test study notes, summarised from page 28 of Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, the official booklet the test is based on.
- Each state has its own parliament and constitution, based in its capital. A Governor represents the King in each state.
- In the Northern Territory, an Administrator appointed by the Governor-General has a role similar to a Governor.
- States have rights recognised by the Constitution; territories do not. States can pass laws in their own right; self-governing territory laws can be altered or revoked by the Australian Government at any time.
- States and the NT are divided into local government areas — cities, shires, towns or municipalities — each with a local council. Citizens elect local councillors.
Our Common Bond, p. 28
Sample practice questions
Try these, then check your answer. They’re our practice questions, not the real test questions.
1. What does each state government have?
- Its own defence force and embassies
- Its own parliament and constitution
- Its own Head of State and Prime Minister
Show answer
Answer: B. Its own parliament and constitution
Each state government has its own parliament and constitution.
Our Common Bond, p. 28
2. What may local government areas be called?
- Cities, shires, towns or municipalities
- Electorates, divisions, seats or districts
- States, territories, regions or provinces
Show answer
Answer: A. Cities, shires, towns or municipalities
Local government areas may be called cities, shires, towns or municipalities.
Our Common Bond, p. 28
3. In state and territory elections, what do Australian citizens vote for?
- The Premier or Chief Minister, who is elected directly by voters
- A representative for their area in the state or territory parliament
- A senator to represent their state in the Australian Parliament
Show answer
Answer: B. A representative for their area in the state or territory parliament
In state and territory elections, Australian citizens vote to elect a representative for their area. These representatives become members of the relevant state or territory parliament.
Our Common Bond, p. 28
Practise all 10 questions on this topic