Australia's Government: Past to Present

From Colony to Democracy Understanding Our System of Government Year 5 Civics and Citizenship

Before Federation: Colonial Beginnings

Australia was made up of six separate colonies Each colony had its own government and laws British governors ruled each colony Different rules made trade and travel difficult

Path to Federation Timeline

Federation: Birth of Modern Australia

January 1, 1901 - Commonwealth of Australia was born Six colonies became six states Created our Constitution and federal government Edmund Barton became our first Prime Minister

Think About This

Why do you think the colonies decided to join together? What problems might they have faced as separate colonies? How would life be different if they had stayed separate?

The Prime Minister: Leader of Government

Head of the Australian Government Leader of the political party with most seats Makes important decisions for the country Represents Australia to other countries

Prime Minister's Key Responsibilities

{"left":"Leading the government and making policy decisions\nRepresenting Australia in international meetings\nWorking with other political parties","right":"Appointing ministers to run different departments\nSpeaking for Australia during important events\nMaking sure laws are properly implemented"}

How Prime Ministers Shape Our Democracy

They must answer questions in Parliament Can be voted out by their own party Must win elections to stay in power Work with the Senate to pass laws

The Monarch: Australia's Head of State

Currently King Charles III Australia's official Head of State Lives in the United Kingdom Role is mostly ceremonial and traditional

The Monarch's Role in Australia

{"left":"Gives royal assent to new laws\nOpens each new Parliament\nAwards honors to deserving Australians","right":"Represents tradition and stability\nAppoints the Governor-General\nSymbol of our constitutional monarchy system"}

The Governor-General: The Crown's Representative

Represents the King/Queen in Australia Lives at Government House in Canberra Appointed by the Prime Minister Performs ceremonial duties for Australia

Governor-General's Important Duties

{"left":"Signs laws passed by Parliament\nSwears in new Prime Ministers\nOpens Parliament each year","right":"Presents awards and honors\nVisits communities around Australia\nRepresents Australia at special events"}